Canada’s Governor General’s office network breached

The Office of the Secretary to Canada’s Governor General (OSGG) has reported unauthorized access to its internal network and is working with the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security on the investigation. “The OSGG is continuing its work with experts and pursuing further network improvements as needed,” the office’s statement said. The OSGG also discussed the breach with the Privy Council Office, reiterating that protecting personal information of the many Canadians who work and interact with the office is a priority. 

Supporters say licensing bill will lure military investments

Legislation presented by Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker aims to make occupational licensing processes smoother for military families transferring into the state but could also help convince the federal government to base its newest F-35 fighter jets in Westfield, according to supporters. Read more at the State House News Service. 

Report claims Louisiana’s occupational licensing laws discourage job opportunities

Louisiana’s occupational licensing laws are some of America’s most cumbersome and discourage low-to-moderate income earners from getting jobs, according to a new Pelican Institute report. When the Entrepreneurs Go Marching Out suggests minimum education and training standards for entering job fields provide consumer benefits when regulating certain professions like those in the medical field but also apply to low-risk professions like florists, alarm installers, and interior designers. Notably, retail florists in Louisiana need a license from the state’s Horticulture Commission. Read more at The Center Square. 

SHCNC lands new legal counsel

A new attorney has joined the Safety and Health Council of North Carolina (SHCNC) Board of Directors. Justin Hill will serve as legal counsel for the board, which consists of volunteers representing industry, individuals, and government that help determine the organization’s policies and procedures. SHCNC is a non-profit, non-governmental public service that seeks to improve North Carolina residents’ safety and health through education and training. Hill specializes in labor and employment and is a member of his firm’s Professional Licensing group where he defends licensed professionals before North Carolina’s professional and occupational licensing boards. 

Buckeye Institute wants Ohio to rein in government overreach

The Buckeye Institute has asked Ohio’s Supreme Court to hear a case challenging a lower court ruling directing courts to defer to the State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Surveyors’ interpretation of a law on engineering certifications. It wants the court to effectively “end the practice of judicial deference to government agencies’ interpretation of law.” Read more at The Buckeye Institute. 

Also noteworthy: 

• How the rise in cyberattacks affects consumer behavior. (Security Intelligence)  
• Utah ranks 20th on Cato Institute’s “freedom index” while New Hampshire and Florida top the list. 
• How diplomacy can (and can’t) solve the world’s cybercrime crisis. (Fortune)

Got a news tip? Write us at editor@ascend.thentia.com.