1 Alec Baldwin Formally Charged In The Killing Of Halyna Hutchins
Alec Baldwin has been formally charged with involuntary manslaughter in the deadly 2021 shooting on the film set of "Rust" in New Mexico. Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot and killed when Baldwin fired a prop gun loaded with a real bullet. Armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the person in charge of prop guns on the movie set, is also facing the same charges as Baldwin. The charge includes two different standards and sanctions: The first version would require proof of negligence, which is punishable by up to a year and a half in jail and a $5,000 fine. The other alternative is for reckless disregard of safety “without due caution and circumspection,” which could carry with it a five-year prison sentence since the offense was committed with a firearm.
2 Polar Vortex Causing Ice Storm Warnings, Canceled Flights
More than 1,800 flights were canceled and many more delayed yesterday, thanks to the ice storm which is pummeling parts of the South and Midwest. Along with the 1,800 flights being canceled nationally, almost 4,000 were delayed as of 6 pm last night. Texas airports are suffering the brunt of the burden as at least 40% of the flights originating from or going to both Dallas airports and the airport in Austin were canceled. Both cities have been dealing with winter weather that's moving through their cities. The state could see up to three-quarters of an inch of ice through tomorrow. It’s not just Texas though. A blast of arctic air is set to slam the Northeast later this week with cold, heavy rain headed toward Arkansas and Louisiana as well.
3 Biden Will End Covid Emergency Measures In May
President Joe Biden says he wants to end Covid-19 as a health emergency on May 11th. Biden said in a statement, “This wind down would align with the Administration’s previous commitments to give at least 60 days’ notice prior to termination of the (public health emergency).” By considering Covid a public health emergency, it has allowed the government to provide free tests, vaccines, and treatments as well as other programs that helped Americans cope with the pandemic. How is this likely to affect people? Those with private insurance could end up being charged for lab tests, even they’re doctor orders it. However, vaccinations will continue to be free, but only for those with private insurance who go to in-network providers. Going to an out-of-network provider could end up costing patients.