Vanguard’s Updated Settlement on Mutual Fund Tax Bills Gains Judicial Green Light

A federal judge in Philadelphia has given the green light to a revised settlement proposed by Vanguard Group concerning tax liabilities linked to its mutual fund operations. The settlement addresses potential tax implications and will affect millions of dollars in capital gains distributions that investors may encounter when determining their tax obligations. The original class-action lawsuit emerged when investors raised concerns about Vanguard’s handling of mutual fund taxes. They alleged that the company failed to properly communicate the tax consequences of capital gains distributions, leaving many at risk for unanticipated tax liabilities. This led to … Read more

Harris County Judge Proposes Controversial Penny Tax to Fund Child Care Program Amid Budget Concerns

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is set to present a proposal for a tax increase to the county commissioners during Thursday’s meeting at Commissioners Court. The plan, referred to as a penny tax, would impose an additional charge of $10 annually for every $100,000 of residential property value. Hidalgo noted that this increase aims to secure ongoing funding for the Early REACH program, which provides free child care for eligible children aged four and under, previously supported by federal COVID-19 relief funds. With those resources dwindling, Hidalgo indicated that alternative funding … Read more

Investors with Losses in Easterly ROCMuni Fund Urged to Join Class Action Lawsuit Before September Deadline

SAN DIEGO — A class action lawsuit has been filed involving the Easterly ROCMuni High Income Municipal Bond Fund, which was previously known as the Principal Street High Income Municipal Fund. Investors who purchased shares of this fund between May 5, 2023, and June 12, 2025, can apply to be lead plaintiffs in the case until September 22, 2025. The suit, titled Victorson v. James Alpha Funds Trust d/b/a Easterly Funds Trust, alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933 by the fund, as well as its investment adviser, Easterly Investment Partners LLC, and … Read more

Oregon Law Schools Set to Expand Criminal Defense Clinics with New $3.4M Fund

EUGENE, Ore. — A new initiative promises to bolster criminal defense clinics at law schools across Oregon, reflecting a growing commitment to legal representation for vulnerable populations. This funding effort comes in response to the pressing need for public defenders in the state, where thousands of individuals lack legal counsel. The Oregon legislature has recently authorized a significant allocation of $3.4 million to enhance these programs, following a prior one-time funding of $2.1 million in 2024. With this backing, law schools in Salem, Portland, and Eugene anticipate expanding their clinical offerings, designed to provide hands-on … Read more