The Supreme Court on Tuesday appeared ready to support a free speech challenge to Colorado’s 2019 ban on conversion therapy for minors. The case, brought by Christian therapist Kaley Chiles, argues the law violates her First Amendment rights. More than 20 states have similar bans that could be affected. Justices questioned whether the law restricts speech or medical conduct. (Story URL)

One week into the federal government shutdown, rising air traffic controller sick calls are disrupting flights nationwide. The Department of Transportation says 13,294 controllers are working without pay under the shutdown plan. The FAA reported staffing shortages in Philadelphia, Denver, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Phoenix, causing hundreds of delays. (Story URL)

Federal officials are warning consumers not to eat certain HelloFresh meal kits that may contain spinach contaminated with listeria. The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a public health alert Monday for meals made by FreshRealm of San Clemente, California. The affected products include 10.1-ounce HelloFresh Cheesy Pulled Pork Pepper Pasta and 10-ounce Unstuffed Peppers with Ground Turkey. (Story URL)

Attorney General Pam Bondi faced sharp criticism Wednesday after refusing to answer several questions during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Lawmakers asked about the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, firings of Justice Department attorneys tied to Jan. 6 cases, and her handling of matters involving President Trump’s allies. (Story URL)

Gold prices reached $4,000 per ounce for the first time Tuesday, with futures trading at $4,006 around 11 a.m. EDT before fluctuating. The precious metal has gained 50% this year as investors pursue stability amid economic uncertainty. The Federal Reserve’s September interest rate cut, the first this year, reduced appeal of Treasury bills and boosted gold demand. (Story URL)