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  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 72

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 0072
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0641 PM CST Thu Feb 06 2025

    Areas affected…Parts of middle/eastern TN into southeast KY and
    far southwest VA

    Concerning…Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4…

    Valid 070041Z – 070215Z

    The severe weather threat for Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4 continues.

    SUMMARY…Some threat for a tornado or two, hail, and damaging wind
    will continue through the evening.

    DISCUSSION…A supercell has gradually matured over the last 1-2
    hours to the northeast of Nashville, while other cells continue to
    develop and intensify near and just north of a surface boundary
    across southeast KY. Some increase in low-level flow/shear was noted
    earlier from the KOHX VWP, with short-term guidance suggesting that
    low-level flow will continue to increase this evening as ongoing
    convection spreads eastward into eastern TN and far southeast
    KY/southwest VA. With nocturnal cooling/stabilization expected to be
    only gradual through the evening, MLCAPE will likely remain in the
    500-1000 J/kg range in advance of the ongoing convection, with
    favorable deep-layer shear continuing to support supercell
    structures and potentially one or more semi-organized clusters.

    With only a slow increase in MLCINH expected, ongoing supercells may
    persist through much of the evening, with some potential tendency
    toward modest upscale growth with time. While low-level flow remains
    rather veered, effective SRH in excess of 200 m2/s2 will support
    some tornado threat with any persistent right-moving supercells.
    Otherwise, isolated large hail will be possible, especially with any
    left-moving supercells, while damaging wind could accompany any
    stronger supercells or organized clusters.

    ..Dean.. 02/07/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…RLX…GSP…MRX…JKL…LMK…OHX…

    LAT…LON 37188239 36728210 36528206 36028259 35718317 35648440
    35698527 35888546 36518537 36898492 37048449 37268346
    37278306 37188239

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Watch 4 Status Reports

    Watch 4 Status Message has not been issued yet.

    Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 4/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

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    NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: February 07, 2025
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 4
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    730 PM EST Thu Feb 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Kentucky
    Northeast Tennessee
    Extreme Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Thursday night from 730 PM until Midnight EST.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered intense storms will track southeastward across
    the watch area for the next few hours, capable of hail and damaging
    winds. A tornado or two is also possible.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 45
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles northwest of
    Knoxville TN to 30 miles north northeast of Hot Springs NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27030.

    …Hart

    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 4
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    730 PM EST Thu Feb 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Kentucky
    Northeast Tennessee
    Extreme Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Thursday night from 730 PM until Midnight EST.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered intense storms will track southeastward across
    the watch area for the next few hours, capable of hail and damaging
    winds. A tornado or two is also possible.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 45
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles northwest of
    Knoxville TN to 30 miles north northeast of Hot Springs NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 4 SEVERE TSTM KY TN VA 070030Z – 070500Z
    AXIS..45 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50NW TYS/KNOXVILLE TN/ – 30NNE HSS/HOT SPRINGS NC/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 40NM N/S /44NW VXV – 25WSW HMV/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27030.

    LAT…LON 36988464 36958261 35658261 35688464

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 4 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (5%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (80%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Strong Winter Storms Expected Through Sunday

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to use caution as two strong winter storms are expected to impact areas throughout the State Friday through Sunday. The first storm will arrive on Friday and impact Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. The second storm that will occur Saturday through Sunday will be more widespread, affecting much of the State. Snowfall rates of up to two inches per hour on Friday and one inch per hour on Saturday in the heaviest bands may create hazardous travel conditions. People should monitor their local forecasts closely and take precautions when travelling in impacted areas.

    “Wind and snow is expected to impact most of the State starting tomorrow, and I have mobilized State resources to respond and assist our local partners in keeping New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is no stranger to winter weather, but I encourage everyone to make sure you and your family are prepared, exercise caution if traveling and continue to monitor your local forecast.”

    During the first storm, winds of up to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph will impact most of the State through Friday evening. Starting early Friday morning, snow will begin to impact areas from Herkimer to Oswego County and they can expect four inches of snow, with peak accumulations up to a foot in some areas. Peak snowfall rates of up to 2” per hour can be expected and may impact commutes in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.

    The second storm will begin on Saturday afternoon and continue through Sunday afternoon. Widespread snow will fall across the State with the potential for moderate to heavy accumulations from Central New York to the Capital Region. A widespread four to eight inches of snow is possible in those areas. A widespread three to six inches is expected north of the Thruway. Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour. Wind gusts are expected to remain below 35 mph with isolated gusts of up to 40 mph. Snow may change to a mix of rain and snow across New York City and Long Island, Saturday through Sunday morning.

    Lake Effect Snow warnings are in effect for Northern Erie and Genesee counties through Tuesday morning, in Oswego, Lewis and Jefferson counties through Wednesday afternoon and Southern Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties through next Thursday morning with significant accumulations possible east of Lakes Ontario and Erie.

    For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

    Agency Preparations

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
    The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely. Winter preparedness tips can be found here.

    New York State Department of Transportation
    The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,701 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. All available response equipment is ready to deploy and all residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors, and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 1,639 large plow trucks
    • 350 large loaders
    • 158 medium duty plows
    • 52 tow plows
    • 34 snow blowers
    • 19 graders

    The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event.

    For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.

    Thruway Authority
    The Thruway Authority is monitoring the forecast and ready to respond with 689 operators and supervisors available. Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:

    • 347 large and medium duty plow trucks
    • 9 tow plows
    • 65 loaders
    • 98,000+ tons of salt on hand

    Variable Message Signs and social media (X and Facebook) are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

    New this snow and ice season, all of the Thruway’s more than 250 heavy-duty plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights, complementing the standard amber hazard lights. Green lights are intended to improve visibility and enhance safety during winter operations, particularly in low-light conditions and poor weather. Drivers are reminded that Thruway snowplows travel at about 35 miles per hour — which in many cases is slower than the posted speed limit — in order to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. The safest place for motorists is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and treated.

    The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

    New York State Department of Public Service
    New York’s utilities have about 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    New York State Police
    State Police have instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles, including Utility Terrain Vehicles and snowmobiles, are staged and ready for deployment.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
    DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor the developing situation and weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow.

    DEC reminds those responsible for the removal and disposal of snow to follow best management practices to help prevent flooding and reduce the potential for pollutants like salt, sand, oils, trash and other debris from affecting water quality. Disposal of snow in local creeks and streams can create ice dams, which may cause flooding. Public and private snow removal operators should be aware of these safety issues during and after winter storms. Additional information is available at Division of Water Technical and Operational Guidance Series: Snow Disposal.

    Unpredictable winter weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas, can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and the cold to ensure a safe winter experience. Snow depths range greatly throughout the Adirondacks, with the deepest snow at higher elevations in the High Peaks region and other mountains over 3,000 feet. Most lower elevation trails are frozen, including many trails in the Catskill Mountains.

    While some waterways are currently frozen, DEC advises outdoor enthusiasts to review ice safety guidelines before heading out.

    Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

    Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

    Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Arrives Worldwide

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the global availability of the new Galaxy S25 series. Together with One UI 7, Gemini is officially available at launch in 46 languages,1 making it easier than ever to perform seamless interactions across Samsung and Google apps.
     
    ▲ New York 500 Broadway, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    “The Galaxy S25 series is a fundamental shift in how we interact with our phones,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are thrilled to see how our users will enjoy this true AI companion that offers seamless and intuitive solutions in their daily lives.”
     
    ▲ Dubai The Bay Festival City Mall, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    On the Galaxy S25 series, AI agents with multimodal capabilities are integrated within the One UI 72 platform to perform complex tasks seamlessly across apps and enable natural user interactions through speech, text, videos and images. Now Brief3 provides tailored suggestions to guide through the day and Now Bar4 offers a new hub for ongoing activities. From enhanced productivity with Writing Assist to limitless creativity unleashed by Drawing Assist,5 the expanded capabilities of Galaxy AI6 continue to empower users in every aspect of their daily lives.
     
    Interactions with the Galaxy S25 series are also more intuitive. With just a single command, Gemini7 can effortlessly find a user’s favorite sports team’s schedule and add it to Samsung Calendar. Additionally, Google’s enhanced Circle to Search8 now gives users more helpful information with AI Overviews and one-tap actions.
     
    ▲ Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City, Galaxy AI Sai Gon Terminal
     
    The Galaxy S25 series further refines and enhances the core capabilities that define the Galaxy experience. Powering the Galaxy S25 series globally, the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy fuels on-device processing for more responsive AI experiences. With unique customizations for Galaxy, including ProScaler9 and Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe), the Galaxy S25 series boasts enhanced AI image processing and display power efficiency. The newly introduced 50MP ultrawide camera sensor for the Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers epic shots from every range in exceptional clarity, while professional grade controls like Virtual Aperture and Samsung Log turn any photo or video into the ultimate visual experience.

     
    ▲ Indonesia Jakarta Kota Kasablanka, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    The Galaxy S25 series is the industry’s first smartphone lineup to support Content Credentials, based on the open technical standard from the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA). Samsung has also joined the C2PA as a member, alongside industry leaders including Adobe, Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, Publicis Groupe and more, all collaborating to establish Content Credentials as the universal standard for digital content provenance. In line with its commitment to responsible mobile AI innovation, Samsung adopted this standard to enhance transparency for content created and edited with generative AI.
     
    Starting February 7, the Galaxy S25 series will be widely available through carriers and retailers and on Samsung.com. Galaxy S25 Ultra is available in Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Black, Titanium Whitesilver and Titanium Gray. Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ come in Navy, Silver Shadow, Icyblue and Mint. More unique color options are also available exclusively at Samsung.com,10 including Titanium Pinkgold, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Jadegreen for Galaxy S25 Ultra as well as Blueblack, Coralred and Pinkgold for Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25.
     
    All Galaxy S25 devices will come with six months of Gemini Advanced and 2TB of cloud storage at no extra cost. Gemini Advanced comes with Samsung’s most capable AI models and priority access to the newest features like Gems, custom AI experts for any topic, and Deep Research, which acts as a personal AI research assistant.
     
    For more information about Galaxy S25 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsungmobilepress.com and Samsung.com.
     
    ▲ Mexico City Santa Fe Mall, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    ▲ Brazil Sao Paulo, Galaxy S25 launch event
     
    ▲ Germany Berlin, Galaxy Experience Space
     
     
    1 Supported languages include Arabic, Bengali, Bulgarian, Chinese (Simplified / Traditional), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Farsi, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Gujarati, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Kannada, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Malayalam, Marathi, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swahili, Swedish, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu and Vietnamese.2 The official One UI 7 release will commence with the latest Galaxy S series devices. The update is expected to gradually roll out to other Galaxy devices.3 Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model, or apps. Some features may require a network connection.4 Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.5 Drawing Assist feature requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.6 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain Samsung AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region / country, OS / One UI version, device model and phone carrier. Some function availability may vary by device model. Galaxy AI service may be limited for minors in certain regions with age restrictions over AI usage. Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties.7 Gemini Extensions feature availability varies based on content. Internet connection, Android device, and set up required. Language availability varies. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Check responses for accuracy.8 Sequences shortened and simulated. Results for illustrative purposes only. Service availability may vary by country, language, or device model. Requires internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.9 ProScaler feature is supported on Galaxy S25+ and Ultra models. Image quality can be enhanced up to QHD+, depending on the screen resolution setting of the device.10 Availability of colors may vary by market and network provider.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Found Guilty of Federal Civil Rights Violation for Using Excessive Force Against Woman

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy was found guilty by a jury today of using excessive force when he assaulted and pepper-sprayed a woman outside a supermarket in Lancaster in June 2023.

    Trevor James Kirk, 32, of Santa Clarita, was found guilty of one felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law. 

    According to evidence presented at a three-day trial, on June 24, 2023, Kirk and another deputy were responding to a possible robbery at a WinCo Foods supermarket by a man and a woman. Kirk and the other deputy arrived on scene and handcuffed and detained a man matching the description of the male suspect, while the victim, identified in court documents as “J.H.” – who matched the description of the female suspect – recorded the deputies on her cellphone. While recording, J.H. told Kirk that he had a legal obligation to inform the man of the basis for his detention and that she was broadcasting his actions on social media.

    Kirk then approached J.H. and, without giving any commands, attempted to grab her phone. J.H. turned away, at which point Kirk grabbed J.H. by her arm, hooked his left hand behind her neck, and violently threw her face first to the ground. While on the ground, Kirk yelled at J.H. to “get on the ground,” and she told him that “It’s already on YouTube Live,” implying her video of Kirk and the other deputy handcuffing D.B. had already been shared on social media.

    Kirk then placed his knee on J.H.’s shoulder and, when J.H. yelled for Kirk to “stop,” Kirk cocked his right arm back with a clenched fist and said, “Stop or you’re gonna get punched in the face.” Kirk then pressed his knee into J.H.’s neck, and she said, “Get your neck [sic] off my… off my… I can’t breathe.” While on top of J.H., Kirk used his LASD radio to give a misleading report that he was in a “fight.”

    Without giving any additional commands to J.H., Kirk pepper-sprayed her twice in the face. While Kirk pepper sprayed J.H., her hands were holding only prescription sunglasses and a cloth surgical mask. J.H. received medical attention for her injuries sustained from the pepper spray and from being thrown to the ground. J.H. was treated for blunt-force head trauma and injuries to her head, arms, and wrist. 

    United States District Judge Stephen V. Wilson scheduled an April 21, sentencing hearing, at which point Kirk will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

    The FBI investigated this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Eli A. Alcaraz, Brian R. Faerstein and Michael J. Morse of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section prosecuted this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Lake Tahoe Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Prison for Impersonating Federal Officers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Anton Andreyevich Iagounov, 38, of South Lake Tahoe, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to two years and three months in prison for four counts of impersonating a federal officer, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, and evidence presented at a three-day trial in July 2024, Iagounov pretended to be a federal law enforcement agent by creating and sending counterfeit investigative documents, which he signed in the name of a fictional federal agent, seeking highly protected information from the Department of Defense.

    “The defendant impersonated federal officers and tried multiple times to obtain protected information using fake court documents,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “Many federal agencies including NASA have devoted law enforcement officers, and we will not tolerate federal officers being illegally impersonated.”

    “Mr. Iagounov’s attempt to undermine public trust in order to obtain sensitive government information posed a significant risk, potentially endangering national security and the integrity of NASA and government operations,” said Michael Graham, Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations. “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of NASA OIG, the USAO, and our law enforcement partners to safeguarding Federal assets and holding accountable those who undermine justice.”

    “The defendant impersonated a federal law enforcement officer and took advantage of the trust that exists between federal agencies,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz of the FBI Las Vegas Division. “All officers carry badges and credentials that are used to verify their identity. If you believe someone is impersonating an officer, you may ask their agency to confirm their official business. This sentencing demonstrates the excellent work achievable through partnerships.”

    On July 5, 2022, Iagounov sent a search warrant he had created to the U.S. Capitol Police, falsely claiming it was signed by a Special Agent of NASA Office of Inspector General (NASA‑OIG) and appearing to be authorized by a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Columbia. The Capitol Police investigated the document, determined it was fake, and referred it to NASA-OIG for further investigation.

    On July 11, 2022, Iagounov again pretended to be the same fictional NASA-OIG agent and sent the warrant to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. This time, he sent it without a judge’s signature, indicating it was for an “emergency filing” and required a judge’s signature. He sent it from an email address designed to look like it was from a United States government agency, but which Iagounov owned and had named to look like a government agency’s internet domain.

    On July 18, 2022, Iagounov again sent the fake search warrant, purporting to be signed by the same fictitious NASA-OIG agent. He sent it to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Georgia, again indicating that it was for an emergency filing and needed a judge’s signature immediately.

    Finally, on July 24, 2022, Iagounov faxed a letter, under the name of a real NASA-OIG supervising agent, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. In that letter, he claimed to be following up on the warrant, stating that an “exigent circumstance” required a judge’s signature immediately. The faxed letter included an anonymous email address for the agent that actually belonged to Iagounov. Several days earlier, on July 15, Iagounov had sent his warrant to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida but had received no response.

    In each case, given the apparently sensitive nature of the materials Iagounov’s warrant sought, the receiving personnel for the Courts referred the matter to NASA-OIG for review and investigation.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and NASA Office of Inspector General, with assistance by the South Lake Tahoe Police Department and the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Conolly and Audrey Hemesath prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento and Fairfield Residents Indicted for Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. At the core of PSN is setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announces the following indictments in federal PSN cases.

    Marcus Anderson, 26, of Sacramento, was indicted today and charged with nine counts of firearms trafficking, unlicensed firearms dealing, and other firearms charges. According to court documents, from February 2022 to March 2023, Anderson unlawfully trafficked and possessed multiple firearms, and engaged in the business of unlawful firearms dealing in the Sacramento area. Anderson is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he has multiple state felony convictions. This case is the product of an investigation by the ATF with the assistance of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Special Service Unit, the Placer County Special Investigations Unit, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.

    Armond Bass, 39, of Fairfield, was indicted on Jan. 23, 2025, and charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to court documents, in October 2024, Bass was found to have possessed a Colt .22‑caliber semi-automatic rifle and ammunition. Bass is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he has previous felony convictions for domestic violence, possession of a stolen vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance. This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI and the Vacaville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Campbell is prosecuting the case.

    If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition, the defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Anderson also faces up to five years in prison, if convicted for unlicensed firearms dealing. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Eliminate Tax on Social Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    Nearly 143,000 Alabamians received Social Security in 2024

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act to stop the unjust double tax on Social Security benefits. The legislation follows Senator Tuberville’s recent announcement that he will serve on the Senate Committee on Aging in the 119th Congress.

    “Seniors work the majority of their adult lives so that they can spend their retirement comfortably,” said Senator Tuberville. “In a day and age where the cost of living has skyrocketed, our seniors should not experience a second tax on their Social Security, when they’ve already paid income tax on their paychecks. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Aging Committee, I’ll continue to fight for our seniors to enjoy their hard-earned Social Security benefits.”

    U.S. Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 

    “Although seniors have already paid tax on their Social Security contributions via the payroll tax, they are still required to list these benefits as taxable income on their tax returns,” said Rep. Massie. “This is simply a way for Congress to obtain more revenue for the federal government at the expense of seniors who have already paid into Social Security. My bill would exempt Social Security retirement benefits from taxation and boost the retirement income of millions of older Americans.”

    Read the bill here.

    BACKGROUND:

    As the Congressional Research Service reports, “Before 1984, Social Security benefits were exempt from the federal income tax. Congress then enacted legislation to tax a portion of those benefits, with the share gradually increasing as a person’s income rose above a specified income threshold.”

    The Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to terminate the inclusion of tier I railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits in an individual’s gross income. As this legislation takes effect, seniors will notice their tax liability is significantly reduced and will no longer deal with the ‘double tax’ on their federally earned benefits.

    MORE:

    Tuberville Rails Against Double Taxing Americans on Social Security

    Tuberville Calls Out Joe Biden for Voting to Tax Social Security

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Wiregrass Peanut Farmer at Senate Ag Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) introduced Garrett Moore from Chancellor, Alabama, at a U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ag) hearing. Today’s hearing is the first in a series titled, “Perspectives from the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy.”

    In yesterday’s hearing, Senator Tuberville also spoke with American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall about how President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 helped bolster the agriculture community and the need to eliminate the “death tax” to help preserve family farms. Senator Tuberville has been, and will continue to be, a staunch advocate to eliminate the death tax. 

    Earlier this year, it was announced that Senator Tuberville will remain on the Senate Ag Committee where he will continue to be a voice for Alabama’s farmers, foresters, and producers as the Senate prepares to draft a Farm Bill.

    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s remarks can be found below, and his full remarks can be found on YouTube or Rumble. 

    INTRODUCTION OF GARRETT MORE OF CHANCELLOR

    “Today, I’m proud to introduce Mr. Garrett Moore from Chancellor, Alabama. Garrett’s a proud fourth-generation farmer in Alabama’s Wiregrass region, which is the Southeastern part of the state. He is also a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, having served as an infantryman for four years, some of that overseas in Japan and near the DMZ of South Korea. After completing his military service, Garrett wanted to return to his roots and farm in LA – that’s Lower Alabama. He currently farms nearly 1,500 acres of peanuts, cotton, corn, and cattle with his father across Southeast Alabama. Garrett is Chairman of the Coffee County Young Farmers Association, “Alabama Row Crop Farmer of the Year” recipient, and part of the Southern Peanut Farmers’ Leadership Academy. I am grateful for the hard work Garrett has done to produce food and fiber for Alabama and advocate for our young farmers, and also being an Auburn Tiger fan—War Eagle. Garrett, thanks for being here today.”

    OPENING REMARKS

    “Thank you Mr. Chairman, for holding this hearing. As everyone in this room knows, the state of the agriculture economy is in dire straits. We’re in trouble, and it’s not getting much better. Our farmers are struggling. Producers have lost over $40 billion in net farm income since 2022, and the current agriculture trade deficit is $45.5 billion. We cannot stay on that same track. Producers in my state of Alabama and across the country are producing bumper crops, but they can’t break even, much less make a profit due to low commodity prices and high input costs, interest rates, and inflation. It’s been 13 years since reference prices for Title 1 commodities have been updated. Yet, the costs of production are not what they were 13 years ago – in fact, they are 30 to 40% higher. Our farmers need a new Farm Bill with a strong and reliable farm safety net to support producers amidst fluctuating market conditions, natural disasters, and skyrocketing production costs. The $10 billion in economic assistance Congress passed in December was a crucial lifeline to keep some producers afloat – and we need to ensure it is implemented quickly.”

    ON HOW PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TCJA HELPS FARMERS

    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Duvall—In your testimony, you discuss the importance of extending the expiring provisions of President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act(TCJA) to keep farmers in business. Can you discuss the tax provisions that our producers rely upon the most?”

    DUVALL: “Yes sir, I can. One, it provided for a reduced tax rate. Most of our farmers—98% of them—are operating under pass-through entities, and that’s important to them. Section 199A is important to them very much because it preserves that 20%business income deduction. Section 179 also needs to be continued—it’s called ‘bonus depreciation.’ It allows our farmers to reinvest in their business so they can meet the goals that our country has for us, whether it be conservation, climate, whatever it might be—soil health. But we have to have that bonus depreciation. And then of course, the last one we spoke about—young farmers and beginning farmers—estate taxes. Estate taxes—itneeds to be eliminated—so that we can continue to pass our farms on for generations to come and make sure we bring stability to our system—our food system. This is something people sweat blood from to pay for. This is their land, their home, and they want to keep it in production. And there’s so many pressures on that land staying in production—it’s just unreal and this pressure makes it unbelievable when a family person dies and you have to sell part of the farm to pay the taxes and what does that do? It takes it out of production, puts it into houses or solar panels or whatever and it never comes back to agriculture .”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Bonus depreciation, estate taxes—my phone rings off the wall. And we need to listen to it. And I’m sure the rest of the senators are the same. Mr. Duvall, the agriculture trade deficit, as I just said, is $45.5 billion. This is shameful. America has the best farmers and producers in the world. What suggestions do you have to improve ag trade and close the gap?”

    DUVALL: “We’ve got to have new agreements. We got to open up the markets. We can compete with anybody in the world as long as we’re allowed to use innovation and the research that has come into our farms that keeps us on cutting edge, and as long as our farmers are led by voluntary, market-based programs, we will do anything this country asks us to do if it’s led in that direction and we have proven that in conservation by putting over 140 million acres into conservation efforts over the last few decades—and that’s the size of California and New York state together.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Paul Introduce Legislation to Rein in Government, Hold Bureaucrats Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) to introduce theRegulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act to put power back in the people’s hands instead of the administrative state. This legislation would require Congressional approval for federal regulations that will have an annual economic impact of $100 million or more before the proposed rule can take effect.

    “D.C. bureaucrats need less power, not more,” said Senator Tuberville. “The Constitution clearly outlines that Congress, not unelected swamp creatures, are supposed to make our laws. This bill compliments the great work Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency are doing to cut wasteful spending and get the government working for the people again. It is vital that Congress reins in Big Government and gives the power back to the American taxpayers.” 

    U.S. Senators Tuberville and Paul were joined by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Jim Risch (R-ID), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring the legislation.

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    BACKGROUND:

    Under the REINS Act, once major rules are drafted, they must then be affirmatively approved by both chambers of Congress and then signed by the President, satisfying the bicameralism and presentment requirements of the Constitution. Currently, regulations ultimately take effect unless Congress specifically disapproves.

    The bill defines a “major” rule as one that the Office of Management and Budget determines may result in an economic impact of $100 million or greater each year; “a major increase in costs or prices” for American consumers, government agencies, regions, or industries; or “significant adverse effects” on the economy.

    The REINS Act also includes the following changes from the original bill, which was introduced in the past:

    • New Defense for Individuals: Individuals can argue that the average person would not have known their actions violated federal law if the statute did not clearly state it.
    • Right to Sue: People can sue to stop enforcement if an agency implements a major rule without getting congressional approval.
    • LIBERTY Act: Agency guidance with an economic impact of $100 million or more needs congressional approval just like major rules.
    • Deregulatory Actions Exempted: Agencies do not need congressional approval to withdraw costly or burdensome rules.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Leads Members of Massachusetts Delegation, Unions in Disavowing Trump’s Attempt to Dismantle Education Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (February 6, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and members of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation — Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09) — along with the Massachusetts Teachers Association, American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, Massachusetts Association of School Committees, and Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, released the following statement today after President Trump vowed to dismantle the Department of Education. 

    “President Trump’s vow to dismantle the Department of Education is an attack on the entire public school system, and it is an attack that we cannot accept. Every day, educators, students, administrators, and parents in Massachusetts demonstrate what a world class public education system can do: provide every child with the opportunity to thrive, strengthen our communities, and drive economic growth. Students, parents, educators, and communities deserve consistent leadership committed to improving education for all, not to be used as political pawns. 

    “We stand united in our determination to resist President Trump’s attacks on public education; united in our belief that a strong and well-funded public education system is crucial to the well-being of our country; and united in our determination to deliver the promise of education to every student in the Commonwealth and across the country.”

    In Fiscal Year 2024 in Massachusetts, the Department of Education provided more than $720 million to support 1,800 K-12 schools and more than 926,000 students, including:

    • $366 million in annual funding for 182,000 students with disabilities – reflecting 20% of Massachusetts’s student population;
    • $289 million in annual funding for schools enrolling 425,000 students from low-income backgrounds – reflecting 46% of Massachusetts’s student population; 
    • $20.5 million in annual funding for about 97,000 English learners – reflecting 10% of Massachusetts’s student population;  
    • $1.5 million in annual funding for students enrolled in rural schools; and 
    • $812,000 in annual funding to support children living on military bases or Native American reservations.

    President Trump’s nominee to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Education, Linda McMahon, is expected to appear before the HELP Committee on Thursday, February 13.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Cramer Introduce IRON DOME Act to Defend Against Chinese, Russian Missile Threats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    02.06.25
    Legislation Complements President Trump’s “Iron Dome” Executive Order
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today introduced the Increasing Response Options and Deterrence of Missile Engagements (IRON DOME) Act, legislation to strengthen and expand the U.S. missile defense system to protect the entire country from increasing nuclear missile threats posed by America’s adversaries. The IRON DOME Act will enhance domain awareness, the eyes and ears of missile defense architecture; bolster U.S. missile defense capacity to meet peer and near-peer threats; and accelerate the development of new capabilities to counter future threats. The legislation is intended to work in concert with President Trump’s executive order, “Iron Dome for America.”
    “For decades, American missile defense strategy has focused on protecting our country from ballistic missile threats posed by rogue nations or accidental launches from a peer nation,” said Sen. Sullivan. “We’ve made significant progress in recent years to strengthen this capability, notably through the implementation of my bipartisan 2017 Advancing America’s Missile Defense Act. But the proliferation of new hypersonic and cruise missile threats from our adversaries demands that we change this paradigm. Senator Cramer and I are introducing legislation to build a homeland missile defense system that can protect our country from the intensifying threats and growing arsenals of China and Russia. The IRON DOME Act dovetails with and reinforces President Trump’s historic ‘Iron Dome for America’ EO and builds upon a number of the recommendations from the 2022 Missile Defense Review. Specifically, our legislation invests billions of dollars to develop new capabilities, like space-based sensors and new intercept technologies, significantly expand and modernize existing infrastructure, like the ground-based missile interceptor fields at Alaska’s Fort Greely and North Dakota’s PARCS radar system, and integrate all aspects of U.S. missile defense, including Aegis. I urge my colleagues to join us in this initiative to meet the evolving missile threats on the horizon and deliver greater security for all Americans.”
    “Now more than ever, we have to ensure the United States is properly equipped to address the pressing threats that are posed by our very capable adversaries,” said Sen. Cramer. “Protecting the homeland is obviously our first Constitutional duty. The IRON DOME Act forces modernization of our missile defense systems from Alaska to North Dakota to Maine to Florida to California and back up to Alaska. This will ensure that we’re never caught off guard from a modern missile attack on our homeland.” 
    Among other provisions, the IRON DOME Act would authorize:
    $12 billion to expand missile interceptor fields at Fort Greely in Alaska with new Next Generation Interceptors
    $1.4 billion for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system
    $1.5 billion for PAC-2 and PAC-3 munitions and MM-104 Patriot batteries
    $1 billion to build Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense infrastructure in Alaska and on the East Coast
    $900 million to research and develop space-based missile defense
    $750 million to modernize terrestrial-based domain awareness radars
    $500 million to research and develop directed energy or missile interception capabilities across all military departments
    $250 million to complete and certify Hawaii’s Aegis Ashore system
    $100 million for the procurement and fielding of dirigibles
    $60 million to develop space-based satellite sensors
    $63.1 million to build a Missile Defense Complex and Fire Team Readiness Facility
    $25 million for Missile Defense Agency planning and design activities for an East Coast-based missile defense interceptor site at Fort Drum, New York
    Most of Sen. Sullivan’s 2017 legislation, the Advancing America’s Missile Defense Act, was included as an amendment to the FY 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which significantly bolstered America’s homeland missile defense system and became law in December 2017.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Colleagues Call for Quick Implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    02.06.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and 27 of his Senate colleagues sent a letter this week to the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration calling for the immediate implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act to provide full Social Security benefits for millions of public servants impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The Social Security Fairness Act, which fully repeals the two unfair Social Security provisions, WEP and GPO, was signed into law on January 5, 2025.

    “The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” wrote the senators.

    “The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, ‘SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits’ owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO,” continued the senators. 

    Senator Sullivan was joined by U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Hickenlooper (D-Co.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Dick Durbin (D-Il.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Min.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.).

    Read the full letter here or below:

    Dear Acting Commissioner King,

    We write to you concerning the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act (Public Law No: 118-273). This legislation passed Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis on December 21st, 2024 and was signed into law on January 5th, 2025. The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).

    The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, “SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits” owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO. In the interim, we request monthly updates and briefings regarding the status of the Social Security Administration’s progress towards implementing the Social Security Fairness Act. 

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.  We look forward to your response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Health leadership in disarray while Kiwis miss out

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Te Whatu Ora Chief Executive Margie Apa leaving her job four months early is another symptom of this government’s failure to deliver healthcare for New Zealanders.

    “Margie Apa was a team player who worked hard to build a modern health system designed to serve everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand. She cares deeply for health outcomes and was focused on that in her role,” Labour’s acting health spokesperson Peeni Henare said.

    “She helped put systems in place to close the gaps for Kiwis to access the healthcare they deserve. Whether it was mums-to-be in the furthest reaches of rural New Zealand, to those historically uncatered for in our cities. I want to thank Margie Apa for her work and wish her all the best in her next role.

    “Fourteen months in Christopher Luxon’s Government has brought in chaotic changes to leadership: firing his first Health Minister and the Health New Zealand board, and now seeing off the chief executive.

    “Soon he will run out of people to blame for his own failures in health.

    “Changing leadership while fundamental issues of resourcing are unaddressed is taking the health system backwards.

    “New Zealanders want to know they can access healthcare when they need it. This chaos at the top only shows the Prime Minister is failing to deliver that,” Peeni Henare said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway summer maintenance continues in Marlborough

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    People travelling between Nelson and Blenheim can expect to see road works on State Highway 6 into March as investment into the region’s highway infrastructure continues.

    These works are critical for ensuring the transport link between Blenheim and Nelson is kept safe and reliable for all road users.

    Work will be getting underway at Havelock and near Pelorus from next week.

    These works are critical for ensuring the transport link between Blenheim and Nelson is kept safe and reliable for all road users.

    SH6 Pelorus works

    From Monday 10 February, to Friday 21 March, Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm, contractors will rebuild a 1.6-kilometre section of the highway near Pelorus.

    They will remove the top layer of the road, lay new gravel, and then apply new chipseal on top. The end result is more stable and improved road surface.

    Drainage works will also be completed, and the shoulder of the state highway will be widened. Road users can expect delays of up to 10-minutes during work hours until this work completed.

    To ensure the chip-sealing is successful, this work must be done during the day when the weather is warmer.

    A 30 km/h temporary speed limit will be in place while the work is underway. All drivers must follow it – it is there to protect the road surface, keep drivers safe, and protect vehicles for stone chip damage.

    This work is deliberately planned to minimise disruption for drivers and has been timed to coincide with the State Highway 6 Whangamoa Saddle closure when there will be less traffic on the road.

    People travelling between Nelson and Blenheim are also reminded of the upcoming night closures of the Pelorus Bridge on Sunday 23 February.

    SH6 Havelock works

    From Wednesday 12 February, to Sunday 16 February, between 7pm to 7am, contractors will also carry out nighttime asphalting work on State Highway 6 through the Havelock township. Work will be underway from just north of Neil Street to Allied Petrol. Stop/go traffic management will be in place during work hours with delays of up to 10 minutes.

    Drivers are urged to check road conditions before they travel and plan their journeys accordingly. This is especially important for people with Picton ferry connections.

    Upcoming SH6 work schedules and locations

    SH6 Pelorus – Daytime road rebuilding

    • 10 February, to 21 March (no work on weekends), 7am – 6pm.
    • Stop/go and 30km/h temporary speed limit.
    • Delays of up to 10 minutes can be expected.
    • Reduced temporary speed limit will remain in place outside of work hours.
    • Work is subject to weather and other unforeseen circumstances. In the event of unsuitable conditions.

    SH6 Havelock – Nighttime asphalting

    • Wednesday, 12 February, to Sunday, 16 February, 7pm – 7am
    • Stop/go and 30km/h temporary speed limit.
    • Delays of up to 10 minutes can be expected.
    • Work is subject to weather and other unforeseen circumstances. In the event of unsuitable conditions, work will be rescheduled to the next suitable night.

    SH6 Whangamoa Saddle – night closures

    • 23 February to 13 March. Sunday to Thursday nights, 8pm – 5:30am.
    • SH6 CLOSED between Hira and Rai Valley.
    • Outside of work hours, the highway will be subject to traffic management and reduced temporary speed limits at work areas.
    • There will be one nightly opening of the road at 12:30am to allow vehicles through. Drivers must be at the closure points (at the weighbridge in Hira, and on the Rai Valley straight at Rai Engineering & Mechanical) by 12:30am.
    • The alternate route for drivers wanting to travel over night between Blenheim and Nelson during the SH6 Whangamoa Saddle closure is via State Highway 63 and St Arnaud. This a much longer route and adds significantly to travel times.
    • Bad weather may see works delayed or extended.

    SH6 Pelorus Bridge – works schedule and location

    • Sunday 23 February, Bridge CLOSED 8pm – 5:30am with one opening of the road at 12:30 am to allow vehicles to cross the bridge.
    • Drivers must be at the closure points at the Pelorus Bridge by 12:30am.
    • Drivers travelling from Nelson to Havelock/Blenheim must be at the Hira closure point at 12:30am to be allowed through the Whangamoa Saddle closure and the Pelorus Bridge site.
    • Drivers travelling in the opposite direction will need to be at the Pelorus Bridge closure point at 12:30am to be allowed through the Whangamoa Saddle closure.
    • Contractors will return to the site to complete maintenance work on SH6 Pelorus Bridge from 3 March to 6 March, 8pm – 5:30am. Expect delays of up to 10 minutes.
    • Bad weather may see works delayed or extended.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Mexico Rescinds Ban on Genetically-Engineered Corn Imports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    02.06.25

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after Mexico announced that it was rescinding its ban on the importation of genetically-engineered (GE) corn:

    “This is great news, not only for U.S. farmers, but for the people of Mexico who will continue to have access to a high-quality, safe and affordable food staple,” said Hoeven. “Mexico’s ban on the importation of GE corn flew in the face of years of scientific review and regulatory oversight, while creating yet another barrier for U.S. farmers trying to access the Mexican market. Rescinding this policy is the right call and will benefit both nations.”

    • This follows Hoeven and his colleagues calling on the U.S. Trade Representative and Agriculture Secretary to push back on Mexico’s policy.
    • The senators stressed that the ban undermines food security in Mexico, ignores the longstanding, science-based regulatory regime that had proven the safety of GE corn and would stifle future agricultural innovations.
    • Accordingly, the senators urged for Mexico to be held to its trade commitments and for the U.S. to pursue a dispute settlement through the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
      • Last month, a USMCA dispute settlement panel found that Mexico violated its obligations under the trade agreement and ruled in favor of American farmers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons leads Democratic colleagues in resolution reaffirming USAID’s role in safeguarding U.S. national security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a resolution reaffirming that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is essential for advancing the national security interests of the United States in the wake of President Trump’s efforts to halt U.S. foreign assistance operations and dismantle USAID. The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and 40 other members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. 

    Senator Coons went to the Senate floor Monday evening to introduce and ask for unanimous consent on the resolution; U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) objected. You can watch his full remarks here.

    “President Donald Trump’s unprecedented attacks on USAID and our entire foreign aid apparatus weaken our standing in the world, create power vacuums for our adversaries to fill, and put American lives in danger,” said Senator Coons. “For less than one percent of the federal budget, USAID and foreign aid stop pandemics before they reach America, prevent terrorism, human trafficking and organized crime from finding footholds, and prevent Chinese and Russian disinformation from spreading. Congress created USAID as an independent agency and only Congress can reverse that. I’m glad to see so many of my colleagues standing with me to defend the separation of powers and our foreign aid programs.”

    “There will be suffering all over the world because of Trump and Musk’s illegal steps to dismantle USAID,” said Senator Schatz, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. “Right now, families are waiting for medicine and food that’s already been paid for, including food produced by American farmers, and Musk just cut them off. The law is on our side, but in the meantime, the Trump administration is illegally fueling chaos that will lead to death across the world and make America less safe.”

    “For a small fraction of the overall U.S. budget, USAID promotes global health and stability, fights terrorism, and strengthens U.S. relationships abroad. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I want to be clear: The latest attempt by the Trump administration to freeze U.S.-funded foreign aid assistance and punish the men and women who are working at the agency is a gift to our adversaries that will make us less safe. No one is more delighted that the United States is retreating from its global leadership role than the Communist Party of China,” said Senator Warner.

    The resolution is a direct response to the efforts by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk to eliminate USAID and pause the vast majority of U.S. foreign assistance programs, including reports that President Trump would sign an executive order folding the agency into the State Department— moves that are illegal without congressional approval. Senator Coons and his Senate Democratic colleagues are demanding clarity amid purges of USAID’s top personnel, aid freezes, and chaos. 

    Accounting for less than one percent of the federal budget, our foreign assistance programs, many of which are led by USAID, play an indispensable role in promoting global stability and protecting our nation. Examples include the agency’s vital humanitarian assistance work during global conflicts, efforts to combat infectious diseases before they spread to the United States, to counter terrorism recruitment worldwide and to reduce the number of children pulled into gangs supporting organized crime and human trafficking.

    In addition to Senators Coons, Schatz, and Warner, this resolution is cosponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) Lisa Blunt Rochester, (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray, (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.).

    The full text of the resolution is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo: Greer Capable and Qualified to be USTR

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–At a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Jamieson Greer to be the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) praised Mr. Greer’s extensive trade experience and secured his commitment to expand global market access for American producers and manufacturers. 

    Chairman Crapo and Mr. Greer discussed agricultural exports, where Greer pledged to defend Idaho’s more-than 24,000 farms and ranches from unfair trade practices and grow global access for their products.  They also discussed U.S. digital trade leadership, and the need for transparency and timely communication between USTR and Congress.  Mr. Greer assured members of the Committee that he would “follow the law to a T,” adding that he is “convinced that American workers, farmers, ranchers and service providers can compete with anyone else in the world—in this market and beyond—so long as they have a level playing field.”

    Crapo concluded the hearing by telling the nominee, “I think you’ve done a phenomenally good job.  You have shown that you are completely capable and qualified for this job.  I look forward to working with you and making sure that we get your nomination confirmed as soon as possible.”

    Watch Chairman Crapo’s opening statement here, and the question-and-answer portion with Mr. Greer here.

    On agricultural exports:

    Crapo:

    Agriculture is important to many Committee members and members of the Senate as a whole.  Idaho’s 24,000 farms and ranches produce 185 commodities, and Idaho leads the nation in potato, barley and hay production and is the third largest producer of milk and cheese.  We have not opened up any new markets for our farmers in the last four years.  Farmers are also concerned that they may become the target of retaliation if we use tariffs to pressure other countries to change their ways.  How will you support the interests of America’s farmers and ranchers once you’re confirmed as our nation’s chief trade negotiator?

    Greer:

    . . . In my view, American agricultural producers are the most competitive in the world, and they need to have markets commensurate with that competitiveness.  To me, that means that we need to go and gain market access where things have been closed until now.  For many decades, we have had a trading system where the United States opens its market over and over again, and others do not.  In India, for example, their average bound tariff rate on agricultural products is 39 percent; in Turkey, it’s 39.8 percent.  These are markets where they need to open to the United States, and I think we need to use all the tools at our disposal to do so.

    On digital trade:

    Crapo:

    We lost ground during the last Administration because we turned our back on digital trade rules, including promoting data flows, combating forced technology transfer and promoting nondiscrimination.  A number of jurisdictions, including the European Union and South Korea, utilize that opportunity to advance measures that target U.S. technology companies with special requirements or taxes while accepting their domestic companies or even Chinese companies.  Do you agree that ensuring U.S. technological leadership means that we need to confront these types of measures?

    Greer:

    Yes, Chairman, I strongly believe that we need to do that.  Again, this is an area where the United States is very competitive, and I understand that we are having a domestic conversation about how to regulate digital trade and technology companies, etc.  My view is that is where the conversation should be happening.  We should not be outsourcing our regulation to the European Union or Brazil or anyone else, and they can’t discriminate against us and won’t it be tolerated.

    On Congressional oversight:

    Crapo:

    The law states that the USTR reports directly to the President and Congress, though my colleagues and I may disagree on policy, occasionally, we are united in defending this Committee’s jurisdiction.  If confirmed, do you commit to provide timely and thorough briefings on trade negotiations and to share proposals with this Committee in advance of sharing them with foreign governments?

    Greer:

    Chairman Crapo, we certainly expect to follow the law to the T with respect to consultations with Congress.  I agree with you exactly that the statute directs me to report directly to the President and to you, and that includes all of these consultation requirements, including before we approach foreign governments with serious offers that we need to come to you and talk about it so we can be on the same page.

    Crapo:

    Thank you, and will you also keep us apprised and consider our input with respect to USTR led investigations and reports in the January 20th America First Trade Policy Memorandum?

    Greer: Yes. 

    On reporting trade barriers:

    Crapo:

    Finally, with regard to trade reporting on trade barriers.  By law, the USTR is required to issue an annual report called the National Trade Estimate that identifies foreign barriers of U.S. exports of goods and service or services.  The last Administration decided it would not list a barrier if the Administration agreed with the foreign government’s ideology for enacting the barrier in the first place.  If confirmed, this year’s National Trade Estimate may be one of the very first things you review.  Do you agree that the USTR report should, as statutorily required, identify the full range of discriminatory barriers to U.S. trade, regardless of what agenda or excuse our trading partners may offer?

    Greer:

    I agree with that, Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Reintroduces Hearing Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) led a group of 28 additional Senate colleagues in reintroducing S. 364, the Hearing Protection Act (HPA).  The HPA would reclassify suppressors to regulate them like a regular firearm.

    “Federal red tape continues to follow the false Hollywood narrative that suppressors are silent, and ignores the reality that they serve a genuine purpose in protecting the hearing of law-abiding American citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Crapo.  “It is past time Congress removes the burdensome barriers to accessing this equipment for the safety of Idaho’s hunters and sportsmen.”

    Suppressors are currently subject to additional regulatory burdens under the National Firearms Act (NFA).  The HPA would remove suppressors from regulation under the NFA and replace the burdensome federal transfer process with an instantaneous National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check.  This would make the purchasing and transfer process for suppressors equal to the process for a rifle or shotgun.  Also, the HPA would put more funding into state wildlife conservation agencies by taxing suppressors under the Pittman-Robertson Act instead of the NFA. 

    Original co-sponsors of the HPA include Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Mike Rounds (R-North Dakota), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) and Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin).

    “Silencers and suppressors are non-lethal firearm accessories used by law abiding gun owners across America, and excessive federal regulation is a backdoor attack on the Second Amendment,” said Senator Lee.  “This bill will allow more Americans to protect their hearing and make it easier to exercise their Constitutional rights to keep and bear arms.”

    “Law-abiding Americans across the country use suppressors to protect their hearing during outdoor recreation activities, especially Nebraska’s hunters and sportsmen,” said Senator Fischer.  “The Hearing Protection Act will free us from overly burdensome regulations that infringe on our Second Amendment rights.”

    “Obstructing law-abiding Montanans’ right to use firearm suppressors threatens their health and freedoms,” said Senator Daines.  “We must cut these unnecessary regulations and protect Americans’ Second Amendment rights.”

    “Federal rules and regulations for suppressors don’t make sense and infringe upon the Second Amendment rights for law-abiding gun owners,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.  “The current regulations are overly restrictive, and as a result, too many hunters and their companions are being hurt.  The Hearing Protection Act would bring common sense to how suppressors are regulated, helping hunters and sport shooters in Mississippi and across the country avoid permanent hearing damage.”

    “Big government shouldn’t stand in the way of protecting lawful gun owners’ hearing,” said Senator Kennedy.  “I’m proud to help introduce this bill to make it easier for Louisianians and all Americans to practice their Second Amendment rights safely,” said Kennedy.”

    “Increasing access to hearing protection for sportsmen and hunters is common sense,” said Senator Boozman.  “Law-abiding, responsible gun owners should not have to fight burdensome regulations to enjoy their hobbies safely and with the accessories that can protect their hearing. I am proud to join my colleagues to update unreasonable limitations on suppressors and stand with shooting sports enthusiasts.”

    “Every law-abiding American must have the freedom to protect their hearing while exercising their Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Mullin. “Our bill removes suppressors from the National Firearms Act to cut wait times and stop the government from imposing a tax on Americans trying to protect themselves from hearing damage. The Second Amendment is crystal clear. I will do everything in my power to protect lawful gun ownership and eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles that infringe on our God-given rights.”

    “The Second Amendment is one of our most important freedoms, and law-abiding Tennesseans should not have to face unnecessary regulations to use their firearms safely without damaging their hearing,” said Senator Blackburn.  “This legislation would improve access to hearing protection equipment for recreational gun users, and I am pleased to join Senator Crapo in introducing this critical bill.”

    “Hunters and recreational shooters rely on suppressors to help protect their hearing while using firearms,” said Senator Moran.  “This legislation modernizes the process for purchasing suppressors by requiring the same background checks as for firearms, while ensuring that hunters, sportsmen and recreational shooters can legally obtain noise suppressors to help make their sport safer.”

    “Americans have a constitutionally guaranteed right to bear arms, and law-abiding citizens should have access to hearing protection equipment like suppressors, which are proven tools for reducing noise and preventing hearing loss,” said Senator Cramer.  “By removing unnecessary government red tape, this bill protects the rights and well-being of gun owners in North Dakota and across the country.”  

    “Burdensome regulations on firearm suppressors are doing more harm than good to sportsmen and women,” said Senator Cotton.  “Our legislation will ensure law-abiding gun owners can easily access hearing protection without having to navigate bureaucratic red tape or exorbitant taxes.”

    “The Hearing Protection Act is a commonsense bill that removes burdensome federal regulations for a firearm accessory that improves firearm safety for hunters and recreational sport shooters,” said Senator Rick Scott.  “I’m proud to protect Americans’ Second Amendment rights and work with my colleagues to pass this bill.”

    “I support the Second Amendment and the rights of law-abiding gun owners, and we should remove unnecessary barriers to safety devices that make recreational shooting safer,” said Senator Johnson.

    “Suppressors offer vital hearing protection for individuals who are hunting and target shooting,” said Senator Hoeven.  “Our legislation cuts red tape and helps responsible gun owners better access this tool to protect their hearing.”

    The Hearing Protection Act is supported by the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the American Suppressor Association (ASA), Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

    “The Hearing Protection Act will increase access to important hearing protection for millions of Americans,” said Amyn Amlani, Ph.D., President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology.  “While the use of conventional hearing protection tools, such as earplugs and earmuffs are fundamental for preventing noise induced hearing loss in firearm users, conventional hearing protection alone does not always offer adequate protection from noise exposure.  Firearm noise suppressors can be an effective supplement to traditional hearing protection.”

    “Senator Mike Crapo’s Hearing Protection Act will have the federal government recognize firearm suppressors as accessories to a firearm that make recreational shooting and hunting a safer experience,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “These safety devices reduce the report of a firearm to a level that won’t cause instant and permanent hearing damage.  Despite Hollywood’s depictions, they do not silence the sound of a firearm.  The focus should be on removing barriers to safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating resources to ensuring firearms are safeguarded from those who should never possess them.  Strict regulatory control of firearm accessories, and the parts of those accessories that have no bearing on the function of a firearm, is unnecessary and not the wisest use of federal resources.  NSSF thanks Senator Crapo for his leadership for ensuring safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating necessary resources where they are most needed.”

    “We are grateful to Senator Crapo for standing behind the millions of law-abiding gun owners with his reintroduction of the Hearing Protection Act,” said Knox Williams, President and Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association.  “It’s absurd that our unrestrained federal bureaucracy requires Americans to jump through hoops to buy simple hearing protection devices.  Momentum continues to grow for common sense reforms that would end the stranglehold of government on the rights of her people.  We look forward to working with Senator Crapo and his colleagues to ensure our Second Amendment rights remain a priority.”

    “Gun owners around the world are using suppressors to reduce the impact of noise and hearing loss while using their firearms.  Even in countries with the strictest firearms laws, suppressors are often unregulated products that anyone can buy over the counter.  However, outdated federal law makes it difficult for Americans to access these useful safety devices,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action.  “On behalf of our millions of members, the NRA thanks Senator Mike Crapo for introducing this important legislation to roll back the bureaucratic red tape on suppressor ownership in the United States.”

    Full bill text is available here.

    Background:

    On average, suppressors diminish the noise of a gunshot by 20-35 decibels, roughly the same sound reduction provided by earplugs or earmuffs.  The most effective suppressors on the market can only reduce the peak sound level of a gunshot to around 110-120 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to a jackhammer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Padilla, Sheehy, Daines Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create National Wildfire Intelligence Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    Interagency office would improve our wildfire responses, increase collaboration between federal agencies

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Alex Padilla, Tim Sheehy, and Steve Daines introduced their bipartisan Wildfire Intelligence Collaboration and Coordination Act of 2025 to improve how the federal government works together to respond to wildfires and handle wildfire recovery.

    “Wildfires don’t care about state lines or forest service boundaries,” said Hickenlooper. “A centralized wildfire intelligence center will speed our response to fires and promote cross-agency collaboration to tackle them.”

    At the federal level, various departments and agencies have their own fire management goals, firefighters, and jurisdictions that determine how they respond to fires. The current division of responsibilities is unnecessarily burdensome and leaves gaps for cross-department collaboration. A national Wildfire Intelligence Center would compile comprehensive information on wildfires to better inform and streamline wildfire responses and recovery by providing states with a central command within the federal government. The center would also enhance monitoring and imaging capabilities beyond what land management agencies can currently achieve.

    This center would be modeled after similar information sharing centers like the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Water Center, which coordinate information sharing to educate people, improve understanding, and foster collaboration among various federal, state, and academic units.

    Specifically, the Wildfire Intelligence Center would:

    • Establish a Wildfire Intelligence Center between the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, and Department of the Interior to study, plan, coordinate, and implement the federal wildfire response
    • Provide comprehensive assessment and modeling of wildfires to inform responses, land and fuels management, risk reduction, post-wildfire recovery, and rehabilitation
    • Improve emergency planning with enhanced evacuation plans, power shutoff strategies, and fire response tactics
    • Facilitate coordination and information sharing between departments and state, local, and tribal jurisdictions
    • Leverage cutting-edge technologies for wildfire mitigation and response

    “The devastating Southern California fires are the latest example of increasingly intense and frequent fires ravaging communities within both local jurisdictions and on federal land,” said Padilla. “Wildfires don’t distinguish between our boundaries, and we can’t afford to be siloed in our response. The scale of the wildfire crisis demands a singular, whole-of-government wildfire intelligence center to foster cross-agency collaboration and save lives.”

    “We can all agree that the federal government must do a better job protecting our people, property, public lands, and communities from wildfires, and this bill will go a long way in streamlining our wildland firefighting efforts and best leveraging all available resources to accomplish our shared mission. As the only aerial firefighter in the Senate, I’m proud to be working with folks on both sides of the aisle to deliver commonsense solutions to more effectively fight the devastating threat of wildfires and protect the American people,” said Sheehy.

    “As fire season rapidly approaches for Montana, we need all hands on deck to prevent catastrophic disasters. Sharing information and resources between agencies will undoubtedly help Montana communities take preventive measures and better combat fires and coordinate response efforts,” said Daines.

    “The Wildfire Intelligence Center established by this bill will harness cutting-edge technology to give decision-makers real-time insights across jurisdictions and landscapes, enhancing coordination at every stage of a fire. The tools to tackle the megafire crisis already exist — this bill brings us closer to putting them in the hands of firefighters and land managers where they can make a real impact,” said Matt Weiner, CEO of Megafire Action. “Senators Padilla and Sheehy understand the urgent need to modernize our wildfire management system, and we look forward to working with them to get this bill signed into law and turn that vision into reality.”

    “FAS applauds Senators Padilla and Sheehy for introducing this bill, which would take a crucial step forward in protecting our communities from increasingly severe wildfires. The Wildfire Intelligence Center would bring together expertise at all levels of government to give our firefighters and first responders access to cutting-edge tools and the decision support they need to confront this growing crisis,” said James Campbell, Wildfire Policy Specialist at the Federation of American Scientists.

    “APCIA supports the Wildfire Intelligence Collaboration and Coordination Act introduced by Senator Padilla (D-CA) and Senator Sheehy (R-MT). This bill reflects the bipartisan recommendations of the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission to create a joint interagency center to improve fire assessment and prediction in the wildland and built environment. With the risk of catastrophic wildfires increasing, Congress must take action to pass bills like this one that will lead to better land and fuels management, reduce risk to communities, and improve fire management and response,” said David A. Sampson, APCIA’s President and CEO.

    The Wildfire Intelligence Collaboration and Coordination Act is endorsed by Megafire Action, Federation of American Scientists, Association of FireTech Innovation, Alliance for Wildfire Resilience, Climate and Wildfire Institute, Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition, The Stewardship Project, Tall Timbers, Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, American Forests, Environmental Defense Fund, and American Property Casualty Insurance Association.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: USTR Nominee Greer Will Open New Markets for Wyoming Ag, Energy and Mining

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) discussed opening up new markets for Wyoming industries, specifically mining, energy production and agriculture, with Jamieson Greer, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee to be the United States Trade Representative.

    Senator Barrasso and Mr. Greer also discussed how the Trump administration will protect American energy producers from Mexico’s violations of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

    Mr. Greer’s confirmation hearing was held today by the Senate Committee on Finance.

    On Opening Up New Markets for Wyoming Producers:

    “Mr. Greer, thanks so much for being here, and thanks so much for taking the time to visit in my office.

    “As U.S. Trade Rep, you’re going to be the tip of the sphere in advancing President Trump’s pro-growth and pro-worker trade agenda. You’re going to be working to open up new markets for our nation, for our producers, including for Wyoming mining, Wyoming energy production, and for our farmers and ranchers. You’ll also be protecting America’s interests and fighting back against abusive trade practices from foreign adversaries that undermine U.S. industries and our critical supply chains.

    “You have a big task in front of you, as we discussed. We’re all counting on you. I have no doubt that, given your experience serving President Trump as Chief of Staff to the U.S. Trade Rep during his first term, that you’re ready and you’re equipped to lead the charge on behalf of the nation’s trade agenda for his second term.

    “In regard to market access, I know we all talk a lot about market access today. We also talked about market access when we met in my office.

    “I mentioned to you the importance of opening up new opportunities for the industries from my home state of Wyoming. We talked about how opening up markets in Japan for U.S. beef, that was a big win for Wyoming ranchers. I told you about how Wyoming is an energy powerhouse and the nation’s energy breadbasket. Wyoming also plays a major part in the world, providing abundant affordable energy to our allies around the world.

    “We also have huge mineral deposits in Wyoming – a mineral called trona – which is refined into soda ash, a basic chemical building block used in manufacturing lots and lots of products, including glass, detergent, pharmaceuticals.

    “Whether it’s oil, natural gas, coal, critical minerals, and agriculture. Wyoming’s economy, the U.S. economy is going to greatly benefit as we export resources to new markets.

    “As U.S. Trade Rep, what types of emphasis are you going to place on opening up new markets for U.S. exporters and certainly for Wyoming producers?”

    Follow Up:

    “Could you add to that in terms of how you would do it differently than what we saw the last four years under the Biden administration? I thought they fell way short in opening access to new markets.”

    Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks.

    On Protecting American Energy Producers from Hostile Mexico:

    “I want to talk about Mexico and USMCA commitments. So Mexico has repeatedly violated the historic United States-Mexico-Canada agreement. They were ruled by a dispute panel to be in violation of USMCA with respect to U.S. corn. Mexico has taken hostile actions towards seizing assets of U.S. companies.

    “An issue that I’ve weighed in on over the years has been Mexico’s hostility toward U.S. energy companies. Mexico’s previous president discriminated against U.S. energy producers, favoring the state-owned utilities and oil and gas companies.

    “The Biden administration, I think, fell well short of fully protecting U.S. energy producers. And Biden’s U.S. Trade Rep failed tremendously to make any meaningful progress. That’s left great uncertainty, jeopardized lots and lots of money in U.S. investment.

    “I’d like to enter into the record a bicameral letter that I led on the need to address this matter.

    “And so, the question is going forward under the Trump administration and with Mexico’s new president, who is now in office, how important is it going to be for you, as U.S. Trade Rep, to help protect U.S. energy companies and their investments.”

    Click here to watch Sen. Barrasso’s remarks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: Pace of Cabinet Confirmations Matches Urgency of the Moment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor to tout how Republicans are moving quickly to confirm President Donald J. Trump’s cabinet.

    With tonight’s confirmation of Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, the Republican-led Senate will have confirmed 13 cabinet officials in 18 days. In comparison, President Joe Biden had only 6 cabinet officials confirmed.

    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

    “Democrats last night filibustered another one of President Trump’s well-qualified nominees.

    “I sat in the presiding officer’s chair during the wee hours of the night listening to concerns by the Democrats.

    “The Democrats continue to want to slow things down. Republicans are not going to allow it to happen.

    “Republicans are pushing through their blockade.

    “Tonight, we will confirm the 13th member of President Trump’s cabinet.

    “We are confirming the cabinet twice as fast as Democrats confirmed President Biden’s cabinet in 2021.

    “This week, we will have confirmed 5 cabinet members in 4 days.

    “Tonight’s confirmation is for Russ Vought.

    “He will be the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

    “President Trump deserves to have his nominees in place swiftly.

    “Our pace has matched the urgency of the moment.

    “We will push forward and move deliberately to confirm more nominees.

    “That includes Robert Kennedy Jr to be the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. It also includes Tulsi Gabbard to be the Director of National Intelligence.

    “When necessary, we are voting late into the night, early in the morning, and on the weekend. That’s exactly what Republicans said we would do.

    “We are moving with a speed and commitment that we said because we know the president has a strong and active and bold agenda, and we’re part of it, and he needs his team in place and able to accomplish it.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: Our Support for Israel is Unwavering, Unbreakable, and Unequivocal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor about the path forward for peace and prosperity in the Middle East.

    Senator Barrasso’s remarks come after he met earlier today with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:

    “I just met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

    “Our meeting comes on the heels of incredibly good news for everyone.

    “Hostages are coming home.

    “Earlier this week, Keith Siegel – an American hostage – was released.

    “Keith is a 65-year-old American citizen. He currently lives in Israel. He is a father and a grandfather.

    “On October 7, 2023, he was abducted by Hamas and taken to their underground tunnels. His wife was also taken hostage.

    “He was held prisoner by terrorists for 484 days. The conditions were hellish.

    “Keith is finally free – reunited with his family and recovering in a hospital.

    “I look forward to more of these moments. They are the result of bold actions by President Donald Trump.

    “As Prime Minister Netanyahu said this week, President Trump is the ‘greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House.’

    “We celebrate this good news. We are also keeping an eye on alarming news. That news is the rise of anti-Semitism around the world.

    “A prime example is the International Criminal Court. This is a kangaroo court.

    “Last year, it issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials. One of those officials is Prime Minister Netanyahu.

    “The charges are bogus.

    “The Senate had an opportunity last week to fight back. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas introduced a bipartisan bill to impose severe sanctions on the ICC.

    “The House of Representatives passed that same bill last month. The vote was bipartisan.

    “Passing this bill in the Senate would have sent a strong message that America stands with Israel. That we won’t let our ally stand alone.

    “Democrats in the Senate filibustered it.

    “45 Democrat Senators voted to abandon our closest ally.

    “Two Democrat Senators voted for this same bill last year in the House.

    “Yet when given the opportunity last week to support Israel in the Senate, they voted no.

    “Democrats’ filibuster is the reason why the ICC is not facing crippling sanctions.

    “This very topic came up in our discussion with the Prime Minister of Israel.

    “We did point out the fact that the ICC is a kangaroo court, who refuses to point out the difference between right and wrong.

    “The vote of the Democrats to block this bill in the United States Senate was an affront to the people of Israel.

    “The Prime Minister specifically asked the Democrats to get this passed, to support this legislation.

    “It has united support by the Republicans and bipartisan support in the House.

    “It was held up in this body by a near unanimous vote of the Democrats to stop this legislation in its tracks and allow the so-called International Criminal Court to continue with their lack of justice.

    “So where do we go from here? What is the path forward for peace and prosperity in the Middle East?

    “This is what Prime Minister Netanyahu and I spoke about.

    “First, peace and prosperity in the Middle East begins with American support for Israel.

    “President Trump and Republicans in Congress stand with Israel. Our support is unwavering, unbreakable, and unequivocal.

    “Second, the biggest barrier to peace and prosperity in the Middle East is Iran.

    “As the largest state sponsor of terror in the world, Iran controls a vast, violent network of proxies. These Iranian terror proxies include Hamas, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen.

    “Iran funds its terror proxies by selling oil to Communist China.

    “Last year alone, the Iranian regime’s oil sales to China averaged 1.5 million barrels each and every day.

    “To break Iran’s chokehold on the Middle East, America must bring back Maximum Pressure.

    “President Trump is tough on Iran.

    “During his first administration, he imposed crippling sanctions and enforcement measures. It brought Iran to its knees.

    “He is back in the White House. So is his successful Maximum Pressure campaign.

    “This week, he restored sanctions on Iran. This comes after he relabeled the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization.

    “It is a strong start. We must do more.

    “In the Senate, stopping Iranian terror is a priority for this Republican majority.

    “Third, deterring Iran means restoring peace through strength.

    “Republicans are supporting our military. We are ready to make key investments that make our military the most lethal, most powerful force in the world.

    “Under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, we are already seeing morale return and recruiting numbers rise.

    “We are also working to bring back American energy dominance.

    “Energy is America’s most critical national security asset. We are an energy superpower with enormous natural resources.

    “Under this administration and this majority, we will unleash American energy.

    “A stronger America makes our allies stronger and the world safer. Strength deters our enemies. We will work with Israel every step of the way.

    “Together, America and Israel will bring a new era of peace and prosperity to the Middle East.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso, Bennet Introduce Bill to Keep Ski Fees Local

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) introduced the Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development (SHRED) Act. This bipartisan legislation will allow local National Forests to retain a portion of annual fees paid by ski areas operating on Forest Service lands.

    In exchange for using some of America’s most stunning forestlands, the 124 ski areas operating on Forest Service lands across the country pay fees to the Forest Service that average over $40 million annually. The SHRED Act would establish a framework for local National Forests to retain a portion of ski fees to offset increased recreational use and support local ski permit and program administration. The SHRED Act also provides the Forest Service with the flexibility to direct resources where they are needed the most.

    “Skiing plays an important role in Wyoming’s economy. Wyoming communities and ski areas deserve to reap the benefits of the money earned through ski fees,” said Senator Barrasso. “This money can be used for critical projects like facility and trailhead improvements. It can also be used to limit the impact of wildfires across Wyoming. This bill is a win for skiers, local economies, and the health of our national forests. Keeping ski area fees local will ensure we keep Washington out of the West.”

    “Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy depends on the strong partnership between ski areas, the U.S. Forest Service, and our mountain towns,” said Senator Bennet. “The SHRED Act will support Colorado’s iconic mountain communities and National Forests in maintaining their landscapes for millions of visitors each year. This bill has strong bipartisan support on the ground and in the House and the Senate. Congress should pass this legislation swiftly to support our ski areas and public land recreation management.”

    Co-sponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    This legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Reps. Blake Moore (R-Utah) and Joe Neguse (D-Colo.).

    “Utah is known for having the Greatest Snow on Earth, and skiing is a critical component of our local economy. Our local government knows how to responsibly steward our resources, and the SHRED Act will help us do just that. By allowing the annual fees paid by ski areas to be used for maintenance and improvements, we can ensure these funds directly benefit Utah and other western states,” said Rep. Moore.

    This legislation is supported by the National Ski Area Association and its 124-member ski areas operating on public lands, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Colorado Association of Ski Towns, America Outdoors Association, Vail Resorts, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

    “Ski areas across the country appreciate the leadership of Senator Barrasso and Senator Bennet and their unwavering support for outdoor recreation. Retaining ski area permit fees and reinvesting them locally to help the Forest Service keep pace with public recreation demand is key to boosting the agency’s capacity, improving visitor services and expanding access to our nation’s forests for all Americans.” – Michael Reitzell, President & CEO, National Ski Areas Association

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    Background:

    The SHRED Act would:

    • Keep Ski Fees Local: By establishing a Ski Area Fee Retention Account to retain the fees that ski areas pay to the Forest Service. For National Forests that generate ski fees, 80 percent of those fees are available for authorized uses at the local National Forest. The remaining 20 percent of those fees would be available to assist any National Forests with winter or broad recreation needs.
    • Support Winter Recreation: In each forest, 75 percent of the retained funds are directly available to support the Forest Service Ski Area Program and permitting needs, process proposals for ski area improvement projects, provide information for visitors and prepare for wildfire. Any excess funds can be directed to other National Forests with winter or broad recreation needs.
    • Address Broad Recreation Needs: In each forest, 25 percent of the retained funds are available to support a broad set of year-round local recreation management and community needs, including special use permit administration, visitor services, trailhead improvements, facility maintenance, search and rescue activities, avalanche information and education, habitat restoration at recreation sites and affordable workforce housing. This set-aside would dramatically increase some Forest Service unit’s budgets to meet the growing visitation and demand for outdoor recreation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast Issues Statement in Response to President Trump’s Executive Order Sanctioning the ICC

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast issued the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order sanctioning the International Criminal Court.

    “Thank you, President Trump, for standing with Israel despite Senate Democrats’ decision to side with terrorists and the globalist bureaucrats in the ICC. The ICC is fighting Israel who is fighting to bring American hostages home.”

    Chairman Mast and Rep. Chip Roy introduced legislation to sanction the International Criminal Court for its unwarranted targeting of Israel. The House passed H.R. 23, the illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, less than a week into the 119th Congress.

    The bill proposed sanctions against any individual working to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute American citizens or an official from an allied U.S. country, including Israel. 

    Democrats blocked final passage of the bill in the Senate.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta and Coalition of 13 Attorneys General Release Statement on DOGE Access to Sensitive Personal Information

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Thursday, February 6, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 13 attorneys general in releasing the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of the Treasury granting Elon Musk and his so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) staffers access to sensitive payment systems containing Americans’ personally identifiable information:

    “In the past week, the U.S. Department of the Treasury has given Elon Musk access to Americans’ personal private information, state bank account data, and other information that is some of our country’s most sensitive data.

    “As the richest man in the world, Elon Musk is not used to being told ‘no,’ but in our country, no one is above the law. The President does not have the power to give away our private information to anyone he chooses, and he cannot cut federal payments approved by Congress. 

    “This level of access for unauthorized individuals is unlawful, unprecedented, and unacceptable. DOGE has no authority to access this information, which they explicitly sought in order to block critical payments that millions of Americans rely on – payments that support health care, childcare, and other essential programs. 

    “In defense of our Constitution, our right to privacy, and the essential funding that individuals and communities nationwide are counting on, we will be filing a lawsuit to stop this injustice.”

    Joining Attorney General Bonta in releasing this statement are the attorneys general of New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICAC Task Force Executes Three Search Warrants in Treasure Valley this Week

    Source: US State of Idaho

    [BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador has announced investigators with his Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force served three residential search warrants this past week in the Treasure Valley.
    On Wednesday February 5th, 2025, Jacob Taylor (43) of Caldwell, was arrested for two (2) counts of possession of child sexual exploitation material. The Idaho State Police was the primary agency to assist the Idaho ICAC Task Force along with support from Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, Nampa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HIS), and the Caldwell Police Department.
    On Thursday February 6th, 2025, the Idaho ICAC Task Force Timothy Woods (52) from Boise for (1) count of possession of child sexual exploitation material after a search warrant was served at his residence. The Idaho ICAC Task Force was assisted by the Boise Police Department.
    “Our growing network of partnerships and agencies across the state is showing that, together, we are making a difference in protecting children,” said Attorney General Labrador.  “We are holding these predators accountable for their crimes and removing them from our communities.”
    Information regarding the third search warrant served on Tuesday February 4th is forthcoming with charges still pending.
    Anyone with information regarding the exploitation of children is encouraged to contact local police, the Attorney General’s ICAC Unit at 208-947-8700, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.
    The Attorney General’s ICAC Unit works with the Idaho ICAC Task Force, a coalition of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, to investigate and prosecute individuals who use the internet to criminally exploit children.
    Parents, educators, and law enforcement officials can find more information and helpful resources at the ICAC website, ICACIdaho.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Labrador Joins Coalition Probing Activity Regarding Chinese Investments

    Source: US State of Idaho

    [BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador joined a coalition of 17 attorneys general in demanding answers from the world’s top asset managers to determine if they are misrepresenting and omitting essential disclosures regarding Chinese investments.
    In a letter sent Thursday to BlackRock, StateStreet, Invesco, JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley, the attorneys general raise concerns that the asset managers appear to be misrepresenting and concealing the risks of Chinese investments to their investors. China is a foreign adversary of the United States and BlackRock and other asset managers imply investing in China has similar risks to investing in other countries.
    The misstatements and omissions about investments in China may violate components of the asset managers’ fiduciary duty of care to investigate the facts underlying an investment and implicate state laws on securities and on unfair and deceptive acts and practices.
    “Ignoring facts and misrepresenting risks to investors because of pressure or deception of a foreign adversary is completely unacceptable,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Asset managers have a legal fiduciary responsibility to protect the investments of their clients, including pension funds and retirement accounts for millions of Americans.  We deserve answers for those investors and for the national security of our country.”
    The attorneys general assert that either the asset manager misstatements and omissions are a result from a conflict of interest from the intense pressure China places on firms seeking access to Chinese investors or stem from an inability to investigate the facts accurately, given interference and distortion from the Chinese Communist Party. To aid in potential ongoing investigations, the coalition is demanding the asset managers answer questions regarding their Chinese investments by March 10.
    In addition to concealing the risks associated with investing in a foreign adversary of the U.S., BlackRock also fails to disclose China’s intention to invade Taiwan and when its funds rely on investments that could be ruled illegal at any time by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Additionally, BlackRock refers to China’s Uyghur forced labor and genocide as “religious and nationalist disputes” rather than call it was it is.
    The CCP is actively suppressing accurate information and has manipulated stocks. Instead of disclosing that information to shareholders, BlackRock implies that the quality of Chinese audits are simply not up to U.S. standards. Further, while China emits more CO2 emissions than the U.S., Europe, and Japan combined and engages in genocide of Uyghurs, BlackRock’s Environment, Social, Governance (ESG) letter grade for its all-China fund is surprisingly the same for its U.S. small-cap stocks fund.
    It appears the asset managers’ involvement with Chinese investments may conflict with their duty of loyalty to their clients, given the CCP’s interference with its markets and companies. For example, BlackRock began aggressively pushing Chinese investments to the world shortly after given permission from the CCP despite the fact China had been designated a foreign adversary by the U.S. only months before. BlackRock’s recommendations have since caused losses for investors and “may have breached BlackRock’s fiduciary duty of loyalty.”
    Attorneys general from Alabama, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming also joined the letter led by Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen.
    Click here to read the letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Convenes Trade Policy Roundtable

    Source: US State of New York

    Today, Governor Kathy Hochul convened a roundtable with business leaders from Western New York to discuss the potential impacts of trade tariffs on New York’s economy and consumers.

    B-ROLL of the Governor convening the roundtable with business leaders can be found on YouTube here and in TV quality (h.264, mp4) format here .

    PHOTOS of the event are available on the Governor’s Flickr page here.

    “I cannot emphasize enough how devastating tariffs would be for New Yorkers: the cost of most goods would spike, businesses would see massive disruption and our economic growth would be put at risk,” Governor Hochul said. “Today in Buffalo, I heard directly from Western New York business leaders about their concerns about tariffs. We all know the cost of living is too damn high — and that’s why New Yorkers can’t afford a backdoor tax disguised as a tariff.”

    Buffalo Niagara Partnership President & CEO Dottie Gallagher said, “Placing a heavy tariff on all imports from our largest trading partner will raise costs and drive inflation on employers and families across the Buffalo Niagara region. Canada has long been our closest trading partner and ally, and its recent $1.3 billion investment in border security proves that Canada remains committed to our mutually beneficial partnership. Our federal leaders must stick to trade policy that encourages growth and investment, and unlocks the power of our cross-border economy. We thank Governor Hochul for bringing employers to the table to understand the impacts tariffs would have on our regional economy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –