by Derek Major

February 6, 2024

National Labor Relations Board Rules Dartmouth College Men’s Basketball Team Can Unionize

A National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) regional director has ruled the Dartmouth men’s basketball team can hold a union election.

The Washington Post reports NLRB Director Laura A. Sacks determined the athletes are employees of Dartmouth College.

“Because Dartmouth has the right to control the work performed by the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the players perform that work in exchange for compensation, I find that the petitioned-for basketball players are employees within the meaning of the [National Labor Relations] Act,” Sacks wrote in her ruling.

According to a Dartmouth spokesperson, the ruling has sent shockwaves through college basketball, and the school is planning to appeal the decision. The appeal will set off a lengthy process.

This isn’t the NLRB’s first determination of a college sports team’s attempt to unionize. In 2015, an NLRB regional director ruled the Northwestern University football team could hold a union election but eventually rejected its petition.

The ruling eventually led to college athletes profiting off their name, image, and likeness (NIL) through brand deals or de facto salaries from donor-funded groups called collectives. However, NIL has created a whole new set of issues, and the University of Tennessee has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA over the legality of NIL guidelines.

The Dartmouth situation began last September when all 15 men’s basketball team members filed a petition to unionize.

In addition to Dartmouth, the NLRB is currently in a trial that will decide whether the University of Southern California’s football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball players are employees of the school and the Pac-12 Conference.

“There are a couple of key things in the environment that support this effort that weren’t in place during the Northwestern push,” Ramogi Huma, the executive director of the National College Players Association, told The Post. “A big one is NIL pay. When the full board decided not to assert jurisdiction in the Northwestern case, they claimed this is a system that typically needs common rules. They talked about keeping a level playing field. NIL makes it very clear that you don’t need common rules.”

The Dartmouth team election is expected to be held within the next few weeks, but no date has been selected. Even with the school appealing, the players can still hold a vote, which will let the NLRB know the player’s feelings.

If the athletes vote and agree to unionize, the presidential election this fall could have a huge impact on the situation. The NLRB board has five members, with the majority typically in the same party as the sitting president. If former President Donald Trump wins the election, the makeup of the court would certainly change.

Any ruling on an appeal in the case would need three board members to agree, which could take months. Additionally, any decision could be appealed through the courts up to the Supreme Court, leaving the case in limbo for more than a year.

by Rafael Pena

February 6, 2024

Georgia Officers Indicted For Using Excessive Force On A Female Inmate

Two Bibb County Deputies who were arrested in June 2023 for the alleged abuse of a female inmate, have now been formally indicted.

WSBTV2 reports that two Georgia deputies, Frederick Ogletree and Quency Barnes, who were arrested in June 2023 for the alleged abuse of a female inmate, have now been formally indicted. The charges stem from an incident reported by WGXA last summer, where the deputies, then working with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, were accused of employing excessive force in attempting to restrain the inmate.

The incident came to light when the female inmate reportedly failed to comply with instructions, prompting the deputies to allegedly use excessive force. They are charged with violation of oath by a public official, aggravated assault, and battery.

According to reporting, Barnes has been employed with the sheriff’s office since Nov. 2017, and Ogletree has been with the sheriff’s office since Aug. 2005. Barnes and Ogletree both resigned from the department.

In December 2023, another Georgia officer faced trouble with the law stemming from charges of child pornography in Alabama, according to USA Today. Corey Joseph Brand was booked into the Russell County Jail with charges including possession with the intent to disseminate child pornography, according to a Facebook post by the Russell County Sheriff’s Department.

Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman expressed his strong condemnation of the alleged actions, stating, “This type of criminal behavior is absolutely unacceptable.” Sheriff Countryman further asserted their commitment to collaboration with federal and local partners in addressing the case, though the Facebook post did not provide additional details, such as the number of alleged child victims or their origins. Sheriff Countryman emphasized that the case remains under investigation, and more criminal charges are pending.

In the wake of these incidents involving Georgia law enforcement officers facing allegations of excessive force and corrupt behavior, concerns about accountability, transparency, and the need for systemic reforms within the state’s law enforcement agencies have come to the forefront.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 6, 2024

Four $5 Movies Playing At AMC Theatres For Black History Month

Several movies will be available for $5 in February at 175 AMC Theatres.

AMC Theatres is offering moviegoers to see their favorite Black films for $5 during Black History Month.

According to USA Today, the movie chain, like last year, is running a promotion for people who want to see movies created and featuring Black filmmakers, writers, and actors through February.

“Black filmmakers and actors have given the world some of the most inspiring and captivating cinematic experiences, and that tradition has continued over the past few years with some amazing films that span multiple genres,” AMC said in a written statement.

The promotion will allow you to view four different releases, one each week, at one of 175 AMC movie theaters.

“Through the Black History Month $5 Fan Faves program, AMC Theatres is honoring those ongoing contributions by giving moviegoers the opportunity to revisit a curated selection of recent beloved films starring or created by exceptional Black film producers and actors, including Denzel Washington, Oprah Winfrey, Shameik Moore and Daveed Diggs.”

The films specifically selected by AMC Theatres this year are:

The Equalizer 3, February 2-8: The third installment of the popular trilogy stars Denzel Washington and is directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Magnificent Seven).

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, February 9-15: The animated film (another sequel) features voice work from Shameik Alti Moore, who played Raekwon in Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga.

The Color Purple, February 16-22: The recently released, acclaimed musical remake of the beloved Alice Walker novel (and Broadway play) stars Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, and Danielle Brooks.

Soul, February 23-February 29: This 2020 Pixar animated feature stars the vocal talents of Jamie Foxx, Diggs, and Angela Bassett.

Tickets to all four movies and the locations and times can be found at amctheatres.com.

Each film will be shown twice a day at the various movie theaters listed.

by Kandiss Edwards

February 6, 2024

How To Leverage A Bestselling Book In A Saturated Market

Learn three reasons why publishing a book should be a part of your strategic plan and how it positions you as a trusted source amongst your target audience.

Originally Published March 16, 2017

Every entrepreneur wants to know which strategies, methods, and best practices can improve their business. A consistent theme in my articles has been how publishing a book is one of those strategies. At my company, I train authors on how to take one step further and leverage their “bestseller” status.

A “bestseller simply means a certain book has produced more sales than others in a given category, under a specific time frame, through retail stores (online or brick-and-mortar locations). That could be over a few hours, days, weeks, months, or even years. Even with having a quality book in the marketplace, it can still get lost in the “noise and do very little to support your business growth if not leveraged correctly. However, obtaining that “bestseller “status can position you as a trusted source among your target audience and drastically increase your success.

Here’s why:

You Can Reposition Your Brand

In my book, Think Like a Bookpreneur, I mention that “writing and publishing a book is one of the fastest ways to establish credibility as a thought leader or expert in your field.”

Adding bestseller status to your book can be the difference between being an entrepreneur who seeks speaking opportunities, using your book as a pitch angle, and one who is sought after due to publishing a bestselling book. The status supports you in becoming the trusted source or thought leader in your field thus it sets you apart from your competition. It signals to your audience that you should be paid for your voice, perspective, and expertise.

You Can Leverage Your Accomplishment

Your audience’s acknowledgment that you are, indeed, a respected expert in your niche allows you to leverage your book for even more opportunities, catapulting you into new arenas.

Luvvie Ajayi is the New York Times bestselling author of I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manual and is currently in the process of creating a cable-TV comedy series based on the success of her popular book. She successfully leveraged the accomplishment of her book to increase and expand her brand into more lucrative opportunities.

While the New York Times Bestseller List is the ultimate goal for most authors, other book lists–like those for Publisher’s Weekly, USA Today, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon–shouldn’t be discredited. Award-winning research scientist and author Colletta Orr leveraged her status from her bestselling book, Cancer Doesn’t Always Win, while at a local book signing and was offered the position of Adjunct Professor in Biology by a faculty member from the University of the District of Columbia, only four months after her initial book release. The opportunities are endless.

You Can Increase Your Fees

Speaking of lucrative opportunities, being sought after means you can command more for your business. The more visibility and trustworthiness in your work, the more you, your work, or your product become in demand. When that happens, you’re in a prominent position as an entrepreneur, and you’ll be able to meet that demand and ask for what you want.

A well-written book containing quality content combined with a solid strategy for leveraging it for your business—by way of obtaining bestseller status—opens and expands the doors of possibility for entrepreneurs to stand out in what are often saturated marketplaces.

This article was written by The BOSS Network Influencer, Tieshena Davis.

RELATED CONTENT: 6 Books To Help Build A Business You Can Bank On

THE HAITIAN REVOLUTION WASN’T THE ONLY REVOLT OF ENSLAVED PEOPLE

by Lauren Nutall

February 6, 2024

THE HAITIAN REVOLUTION WASN’T THE ONLY REVOLT OF ENSLAVED PEOPLE

Here are seven memorable slave rebellions that took place in the United States.

The Haitian Revolution was a pivotal moment in world history and is considered one of the most successful revolts featuring enslaved people in the world. However, it is not the only one. Below is a list of seven revolts and their lasting impacts.

1. The Stono Rebellion of 1739

The Stono Rebellion of 1739 has largely been overlooked when discussing Black Americans’ fight for liberation throughout history. Still, it is one of the most forceful displays of resistance in the United States known to date. On Sept. 9, 1739, near Charleston, SC, roughly 20 enslaved people raided a store known as Hutchisons, killing its white owners and placing their heads outside of the establishment for passersby to witness, according to PBS. Trained from their varied experiences either in their native homes or as soldiers during the Yamasee War, this band of abolitionists burned houses into ash while fighting. As their march along King’s Highway continued, the group grew to around 100 fighters. This battle against the English continued for more than a week before a majority of the participants were killed or subdued. Despite this outcome, the Stono Revolt inspired over 50 slave insurrections the next year.

2. The Zanj Rebellion of 869 A.D.

The Zanj Revolt of 869 A.D. arose when the Zanj people and revolutionary leader Ali bin Muhammad fought against the Abbasid Caliphate in the Middle East, according to History.com. Capturing supplies in the thick of the night, other rebels joined the cause, eventually exceeding 500,000 people. They even managed to commandeer a navy and gain control of at least six cities in what is now known as Iraq. The rebellion only concluded after 15 years when the Abbasid army defeated the rebel capital. Though Ali bin Muhammad was killed in combat, many of the Zanj people survived and were offered spaces in the Abbasid army.

3. The German Coast Uprising of 1811

Orchestrated by Charles Deslondes, this insurrection involved approximately 25 enslaved people who attacked the owner of the Andry plantation as well as his family. Though the abolitionists successfully killed one of the plantation owner’s sons, the owner was allowed to live. The enslaved then took over the plantation, which was equipped with military weapons. Now armed, they marched toward New Orleans with plans to capture the city. Soon after, however, they were met with military forces. Two days into the battle, the rebels ran out of ammunition. The rebellion was crushed and, while some insurgents escaped, others were arrested and executed to deter future revolts.

4. Nat Turner’s Rebellion

One of history’s most well-known slave rebellions took place Aug. 21, 1831 in Southampton, VA, and led to the deaths of over 50 white Americans as well as Turner’s execution. Propelled by what he believed to be God’s will, Turner, along with a group of about 70 enslaved people, sought to abolish slavery through force, using weapons such as knives and muskets. Though Turner’s Rebellion was quashed before he could achieve his goal, it had lasting ramifications. An additional 200 enslaved people were killed by vengeful white mobs and Black people were subsequently banned from learning how to read as slave owners feared a repeat of Turner’s actions. Nat Turner’s uprising marked a turning point for slaves across the United States, as white Americans grew fearful of what enslaved people could achieve if they gained access to resources.

5. The Amistad Mutiny of 1839

The Amistad Mutiny of 1839 took place after a group of enslaved Africans transported to Cuba during the height of the sugar trade on the Amistad commandeered the boat on which they were captured. This came after the United States and Great Britain had banned the international slave trade in 1807. The enslaved people managed to kill the ship’s captain as well as a crew member before directing the surviving captors to steer the vessel back toward Africa. Throughout the day, the crew members obliged, leading the ship toward Africa. However, when night fell, they would reverse directions, instead leading the enslaved people back to the United States. Eventually, after two months of travel, the ship landed on U.S. shores. There, the slaves were imprisoned while the slave trading crew members were freed. The two remaining Cuban crew members demanded the return of their “Cuban-born” captors whereas the Spanish government wanted them extradited to Cuba to stand trial for murder and piracy. Abolitionists in the United States also became involved, calling for the slaves to be released and returned to Africa. A lengthy trial ensued until, finally on March 9, 1841, the Supreme Court found that the rebels had been illegally enslaved and were exercising their right to fight for freedom. In a momentous win, the Amistad rebels returned home, with financial help from their allies.

6. Harpers Ferry Raid

On Oct. 16 in 1859, a group of abolitionists marched on Harpers Ferry in Virginia, according to Brittnanica. Spearheaded by John Brown, the band planned to stage a rebellion and establish a haven for freed slaves across Virginia and Maryland. This integrated group encompassed 16 white people and five Black people, who took over the armory during nightfall on Oct. 16. Two days of fighting ensued; state and federal troops were eventually deployed to suppress the movement. Though the battle was short-lived and its participants were either killed in action or hanged for treason, it invigorated the anti-slavery movement in the South while sowing fear into the hearts of white slave owners. John Brown was also hailed as a symbol of martyrdom.

7. The New York Slave Revolt of 1712

While New York City was being built into what would become the most influential metropolis in the United States, enslaved people were left to bear its responsibilities. Finally, having grown tired of years of mistreatment and abuse, a group of over two dozen joined together to kill their masters on April 6, 1712. Armed with weapons, the insurrectionists killed 9 slaveowners and injured an additional six before fleeing to the north, where they were tailed by military forces. Eventually, they were caught and publicly executed for their actions but the New York Slave Revolt challenged the dominant existence of the active slave trade in the country’s most socially advanced city.

FDA, relaxer, salon, chemical, deadline, formaldehyde

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

February 6, 2024

Will The FDA’s Possible Ban On Chemical Relaxers Affect Hair Salons And Further Research?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering banning certain chemicals in hair straighteners.

Written by Jordan Jarrett

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been considering banning certain chemicals in hair straighteners. In March, Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley and Shontel Brown urged the agency to investigate the health risks posed by chemicals in relaxers. The FDA proposed a ruling to ban hair straightener products containing formaldehyde.

According to NPR, the target date for the ban is April 2024.

In the Black Women’s Healthy Study, a prospective cohort study of over 59,000 African American women, researchers found that 44,798 postmenopausal Black women who used chemical relaxers, either previously or currently, had a higher risk of uterine cancer.

“The risks were nearly 50% or higher in the group that reported using hair relaxers for five or more years at least two to three times a year,” says the study’s lead author, Kimberly Bertrand, ScD, associate professor of medicine at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.

The BWHS found that even though uterine cancer is rare, Black women are disproportionately more exposed to these health risks. “A very small percentage of women will develop these cancers from relaxers, but because the use of relaxers is so widespread, even that small percentage would be a high number,” says Stephanie Johnson, the founder and CEO of the Hair Care Company.

But are there safer alternatives? “I never want to tell somebody how to wear their hair, and I want women to have safe choices, but I have not been made aware of any chemical hair relaxer products that are 100% safe. Even if the ingredient is not listed on the product, certain chemicals combined can be harmful,” says Bertrand.

Bertrand states that even products that claim to be formaldehyde-free could still contain “methylene glycol,” which, when heated, can still release formaldehyde gas. Essentially, the formaldehyde gas could potentially cause illness, such as higher cancer rates, nausea, vomiting, itching, and headaches. So, finding safe alternative chemical relaxers has been difficult in her studies.

We spoke with an experienced hair salon owner to hear more about how hair salons have changed since the FDA’s proposed ban.

Stephanie Johnson is a Senior cosmetologist, hair care brand owner, and author. She doesn’t think this ban will affect hair relaxers specifically.

“I think it is a good thing for the FDA, but presently, most relaxers do not contain formaldehyde; those are mostly in keratin treatments.”

Johnson states that many products with formaldehyde are not popular among Black women. “When you look at a list of the top products with formaldehyde, none of them are chemical hair relaxers as women of African descent use them; they’re all keratin treatments. So, I am curious to see how the FDA plans on banning chemical hair relaxers specifically.”

However, Johnson states that many Black women today have moved to natural or protective styles, especially since COVID-19. “Many have not come back since COVID; relaxers are not as popular anymore, and a lot of clients are doing their hair at home.”

Many who come into the shop are unaware of or questioning the FDA’s new ruling. “I have two clients that have specifically said they want to stop using chemical hair straighteners due to the proposed ban from the FDA, but the majority are not fazed by the ban.”

Johnson states that one way hair stylists can play a role in advocating for client safety and awareness is to educate their clients and themselves.

“Hairstylists have to shift their thinking from trying to make the client only look good and focus on the health of their hair. In the hair care industry, we need to bring it back to being a profession and start to educate ourselves.” Johnson explains that her goal is to return to the level of respect and professionalism the hair care industry used to have and teach the importance of holistic hair styling.

But how can this proposal change innovation in the hair care industry?

Johnson states that this possible ban on hair straightener products with formaldehyde could lead to the hair care beauty industry finding alternatives. “I anticipate this ban could lead to safer and more effective alternatives. One of my goals is to let women of African descent know there are other options than a chemical straightener, from natural hair to protective styles.”

What is next? We asked researcher and co-lead author Bertrand if the Black Women’s Health Study plans to develop its study further in the future.

“We plan on researching whether the use of hair relaxers could lead to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. We did not include that initially in the study because ovarian cancer is rare, and we needed a larger pool of participants,” says Bertrand.

“In the next few months, we plan to release our first questionnaire since 1997 on hair relaxers to our next pool of participants, which will include questions on whether the participant had stopped using relaxers and how old they were when they stopped using them”. Bertrand explains that, hopefully, this questionnaire will lead to further research from the BWHS to understand better the effect duration could have on increased health risks from hair relaxers.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

February 6, 2024

Kenan Thompson’s Old Accountant Stole $1.5M From Him During His Nickelodeon Days

Kenan Thompson says he started his adult acting career broke, thanks to "a bad accountant."

Kenan Thompson has enjoyed a consistent Hollywood success since his start as a child star on Nickelodeon. But he remembers being “broke” at the start of his adult acting career thanks to a shady accountant who he said stole his money.

The comedian appeared on The Breakfast Club on Friday, February 2 where he relived parts of his 30-year career, which includes starring on Nickelodeon comedy shows in the 90s like All That and Kenan and Kel before becoming the longest-tenured cast member in Saturday Night Live history.

Despite his success, Thompson’s Hollywood career hasn’t always been smooth sailing. He recalled starting his adult acting career with no money.

“I had a bad accountant,” Thompson explained. “And it came to the light around ’99, around 2000. Which was really bad timing because that’s right when I left my consistent gig… when I went into being an adult actor for hire, and that is very hit and miss.”

Thompson admits to being “broke” at the time and while he was getting work, the funds were “just money enough for rent kind of thing,” he shared. Despite the hard lesson learned at the hands of a “dirty accountant,” Thompson didn’t let it bring him down.

“I ended up not letting that be the end all be all of what my life is going to be,” he said.

Thompson said the accountant stole $1.5 million from Thompson after his family trusted him.

“We gave him power of attorney when we shouldn’t have,” Thompson recalled. “I was a kid and my mom was trying to protect me…He had helped her out of her tax situation, so she thought she could trust him. But she could trust him with, like, the $30 to $50 grand issues kind of thing.

“But, when it’s like a million dollars on the table, you never know what people gonna turn into and apparently he turned into a demon,” he added.

Thompson didn’t learn about the shady business dealings until the IRS came after him for unpaid taxes. Even after suing the accountant, Thompson knew he would never get the money back. The amount stolen he says totaled most of his earnings throughout his Nickelodeon career.

However, the Good Burger star bounced back in a big way, using the experience as motivation to continue his acting career. Just three years after leaving Nickelodeon, Thompson joined SNL in 2003 where he remains. He starred on the NBC sitcom Kenan ” from 2021 to 2022.

“If it wasn’t for that I don’t know if my track would be the same. Because I was ready to settle into Atlanta. You know what I mean? Like I was ready to just be like, ‘Nah, I’m good’ and ‘three and a half hours to LA so if they need me, they can call me’ kind of thing,” he said. “But I don’t think I would have been as hungry… or as dedicated, necessarily.”

SBA, small black business, training program, young, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, tips

by Kandiss Edwards

February 6, 2024

Don’t Be A Relic: How To Maintain A Relevant Business

Here are four key tools to keep your business fresh and appealing during changing times.

Originally Published March 21, 2017

With emerging businesses developing each day, it’s imperative for entrepreneurs to maintain relevancy within the market space. Those who are reluctant to adapt often become relics within their field, but those who do rise to the top.

Below are four key tools to keep your business fresh and appealing during changing times.

Listen to your customers

One of the biggest mistakes most entrepreneurs make is ignoring current and future customers’ demands. Sharing a periodic survey with your clients allows you to collect data on your services, products, packaging, and more. The data can then be used to increase customer satisfaction and make the necessary improvements to meet the client’s needs better.

Rebrand

Out of fear, many companies believe that rebranding may damage brand loyalty when, in fact, it builds excitement and allows most businesses to re-engage with customers whom they’ve lost and also introduce the product to new clientele. Making slight changes to your website, staff uniforms, and packaging can potentially increase revenue.

Stay Personable

Social media engagement is essential to maintaining an active digital footprint; however, nothing replaces real-life interaction. Engaging in face-to-face communication with your clients is key to building true relationships and maintaining a relevant business.

Build Partnerships

Building relationships in business is key to longevity. Try nurturing relationships with mutually beneficial organizations to foster partnerships that could help you achieve success. Consider co-sponsoring events or cross-promoting businesses to increase visibility and earnings.

Do you have other suggestions for maintaining business relevance? We’d like to hear them. Please add all suggestions in the comments below.

by Rafael Pena

February 6, 2024

Diddy Breaks Silence, Returns To Instagram To Promote ‘The Love Album’ Before Grammys

Music mogul Diddy took to the platform on Feb. 4 to showcase his latest project, "The Love Album: Off The Grid," after a hiatus following a series of serious sexual misconduct allegations.

In a surprising return to Instagram, music mogul Diddy took to the platform on Feb. 4 to showcase his latest project, The Love Album: Off The Grid, after a hiatus following a series of serious sexual misconduct allegations, according to HotNewHipHop.

The album was nominated for Best Progressive R&B Album at this year’s Grammys.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LOVE (@diddy)

Diddy’s Instagram post featured a video where he explained the creative process behind the album. In the clip, he expressed gratitude for the collaborators and thanked his dedicated fans.

Notably, comments on the post were disabled.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LOVE (@diddy)

This marks Diddy’s first substantive post since December, which was prompted by multiple sexual misconduct allegations. The legal battle started with a lawsuit filed by Cassie in November, accusing him of rape, sex trafficking, and physical abuse. Although the case was settled within a day, additional women subsequently emerged with similar allegations.

Addressing the accusations on Instagram, he declared, “Enough is enough. For the last couple of weeks, I have sat silently and watched people try to assassinate my character, destroy my reputation and my legacy.”

He vehemently denied the allegations, attributing them to individuals seeking financial gain. “Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family, and for the truth.”

The music industry titan’s decision to use his platform to promote The Love Album: Off The Grid amidst ongoing legal turmoil raises questions about the delicate balance artists face when addressing personal controversies. While Diddy’s return to Instagram signifies a strategic move to redirect attention to his creative endeavors, the disabled comments section suggests a conscious effort to shield the post from potential backlash or further discussion on the allegations.

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A post shared by LOVE (@diddy)

Diddy’s previous post came five weeks ago celebrating his first son’s Justin’s 30th birthday.

by Derek Major

February 6, 2024

Mississippi Auditor Continues Push To Make Former NFL Quarterback Brett Favre Repay Welfare Money

The Mississippi state auditor filed court papers Monday renewing his effort to force former Green Bay Packers and New York Jets quarterback Brett Favre to repay more than $700,000 that was improperly spent on projects backed by the retired NFL quarterback.

The Huffington Post reports Mississippi auditor Shad White’s request that Favre pay back $730,000 is another chapter in a long-running legal battle over state funds allocated to assist residents in one of the poorest states in the nation.

According to White, the Super Bowl-winning quarterback improperly received $1.1 million in speaking fees from a nonprofit organization that allegedly spent welfare funds with the approval of the state Department of Human Services.

The money from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program went toward a volleyball arena at the University of Southern Mississippi, where Favre’s daughter started playing on the volleyball team in 2017.

“Brett Favre had no legal right to the possession or control of this $1.1 million,” White’s attorneys wrote in the court filing Monday.

According to NerdWallet, Mississippi has the lowest household median income at $48,610.

Favre, who threw an NFL career-high 336 interceptions during his 20-year career, repaid $500,000 to Mississippi in 2020 and $600,000 in 2021. However, according to White, Favre still owes the state $729,790 due to interest on the original amount he owed.

“It boggles the mind that Mr. Brett Favre could imagine he is entitled to the equivalent of an interest-free loan of $1.1 million in taxpayer money, especially money intended for the benefit of the poor,” White said in a release Monday.

White’s lawsuit is a counterclaim to Favre’s defamation suit against White, which is still pending. Favre has tried to fight back against the claims by filing defamation suits against former NFL players and current podcast hosts Shannon Sharpe and Pat McAfee, but both suits were dismissed.

A lawsuit filed by the Mississippi Department of Human Services in 2022 said TANF money was improperly spent, including $5 million for the volleyball arena and another $1.7 million for the development of a concussion treatment drug.

Favre has not been criminally charged. However, a former human services department director of the state’s welfare agency and a mother and son who ran a nonprofit group and an education company in Mississippi pleaded guilty to state charges of misusing public money.