NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of March 19, 2025, 4PM EDT Episode

Host: Lakshmi Singh
Producer: NPR
Release Date: March 19, 2025

1. Social Security Administration Implements Stricter Identity Verification

[00:12]
Lakshmi Singh opens the episode by addressing significant changes within the Social Security Administration (SSA). The agency has announced new protocols requiring individuals to verify their identities in person when seeking certain services. This shift comes amid ongoing staff reductions and the closure of numerous local offices.

[00:33]
Ashley Lopez provides an in-depth look at the SSA's decision. Agency officials plan to transition over the next two weeks to a process aimed at "strengthening the identity proofing procedures for people seeking Social Security benefit claims and direct deposit changes." Previously, these verifications could be completed online using the agency's digital system. However, the new mandate necessitates personal visits to local SSA offices.

The rationale behind this move is to combat fraud. Despite these intentions, critics argue that the changes will pose substantial challenges for Americans attempting to access their benefits. Advocates highlight that the requirement forces seniors and individuals with disabilities to travel to SSA offices, which is particularly problematic as the agency continues to shut down local branches and reduce its workforce.

Quote:
"This is an effort to prevent fraud. But advocates say these changes will make it harder for Americans to collect their earned benefits and force seniors and people with disabilities to travel in person," – Ashley Lopez, NPR News.

2. Legal Battle Over Deportation Flights Under Historic Law

[01:15]
The episode shifts focus to a contentious legal issue involving recent deportation flights executed under an 18th-century wartime law. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg has set a new deadline for the administration to provide detailed explanations regarding these deportations. Previously, he ordered the return of planes carrying alleged Venezuelan gang members removed from U.S. soil.

[01:38]
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt responds forcefully to Judge Boasberg's ruling. She states, "We don't have any flights planned specifically, but we will continue with the mass deportations." Levitt further criticizes the judge, asserting, "This judge does not have that authority. It is the opinion of this, of this White House and of this administration, and that's why we're fighting this in court." Her remarks underscore the administration's stance that the President retains executive authority over deportations, despite the judge's challenges.

[02:05]
Adding to the complexity, calls for the impeachment of Judge Boasberg have emerged. U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts counters these calls by emphasizing that disagreements with judicial rulings should be pursued through the appeals process rather than impeachment.

3. U.S.-Ukraine Relations and the Controversy Over Abducted Children

[02:05]
In international news, President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have engaged in a phone conversation following Trump's recent discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During this call, Trump pledged assistance to Ukraine in recovering children abducted by Russia amid the ongoing conflict.

However, controversy arises as the Trump administration has terminated an aid program previously dedicated to compiling information on over 30,000 Ukrainian children believed to have been taken to Russia during the war. This decision has sparked concern among lawmakers.

[02:42]
Michelle Kellerman reports on the backlash from lawmakers who have written to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing their worries about the aid cut. Ohio Democrat Greg Landsman highlighted the issue, stating, "The database he had been searching disappeared."

[02:57]
Tammy Bruce, a spokesperson for the State Department, clarifies the situation by asserting, "It's a lot of demographic data and a lot of satellite information that we now can't find." She further assures that the information concerning abducted children has not been deleted but is simply not housed within the State Department's current databases.

[03:12]
This development raises questions about the administration's commitment to addressing the plight of Ukrainian children amidst the broader geopolitical tensions.

4. Surge in ADHD Prescription Use and Misuse Among Adults

[03:12]
Transitioning to health news, Lakshmi Singh introduces a study published in JAMA Psychiatry highlighting a dramatic increase in ADHD prescriptions among adults, coupled with a rise in medication misuse.

[03:29]
Katie Ruddell delves into the study's findings, noting that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant uptick in adults taking stimulant medications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Researchers observed that while the majority of individuals use these medications safely and effectively, over 25% of adults with prescriptions reported misuse. Misuse includes taking higher doses than prescribed, using the medication more frequently, or other unauthorized methods of consumption.

The study underscores the correlation between this misuse and the development of other substance use disorders, which poses substantial health risks. Consequently, researchers advocate for vigilant monitoring of individuals prescribed these medications to mitigate potential abuse.

Quote:
"More than 25% of adults with a prescription reported misuse. This kind of behavior is correlated with substance use disorder of other kinds that can be quite dangerous," – Katie Ruddell, NPR News.

5. Pentagon Removes Diversity Content, Sparking Debate

[04:10]
Lakshmi Singh reports on a significant policy shift within the Pentagon. The military's official website has excised the story of Jackie Robinson, the famed athlete who served as a second lieutenant in the army before breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier. This removal is part of a broader, government-wide initiative to purge Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) content and programs intended to support the fair treatment of historically marginalized groups.

Critics argue that such DEI initiatives undermine individual merit and introduce discriminatory practices. Supporters, however, have long advocated for DEI as essential for fostering an inclusive and equitable environment within government institutions.

The removal of Jackie Robinson's story not only erases a pivotal moment in both military and sports history but also signals a larger trend of diminishing support for DEI efforts across federal agencies.

6. Stock Market Update

[04:10]
Concluding the episode, Lakshmi Singh provides a brief financial update. U.S. stocks closed higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average gaining 383 points, an increase of nearly 1%, reaching 41,964. This positive performance reflects investor confidence amidst the day's political and economic news.

Final Note:
This episode of NPR News Now comprehensively covered pivotal issues ranging from policy changes in the Social Security Administration and legal battles over deportations to international relations concerning Ukraine, health trends in ADHD medication use, governmental shifts in DEI policies, and a snapshot of the stock market's performance. By integrating detailed reports and direct quotes from key figures, the episode offers listeners a thorough understanding of the day's most pressing news.