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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza: UN health agency urges rapid scale-up of medevacs as thousands remain in critical condition

    Source: United Nations 4

    Peace and Security

    More than 12,000 critically ill and injured patients, including at least 5,000 children, urgently need to be evacuated from Gaza, amid the crumbling health system, the UN World Health Organization (WHO)’s top official in the region said on Thursday.

    Speaking from Gaza, WHO Representative Rik Peeperkorn described a scene of widespread destruction, overwhelmed medical facilities and growing mental health needs, as the population in the enclave gradually returns to what is left of their homes after nearly 16 months of conflict.

    “Everyone in Gaza is affected…stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. It’s everywhere,” he said, highlighting the psychological toll on both residents and health workers.

    WHO Representative Peeperkorn speaking to the press via video link.

    Hospitals barely operational

    Before the war, Gaza had more than 3,500 hospital beds. Today, only 1,900 remain, and very few intensive care units (ICUs) and incubators for newborns, leaving medical staff struggling to treat critical cases.

    Even before the war, mental health services were limited, with just one psychiatric hospital, six community centres, and an NGO network providing support. Now, those facilities are either destroyed or non-functional.

    The situation is particularly concerning in northern Gaza, where only two psychiatrists remain. In addition, only one hospital remains partly functional in the region, and the remaining either destroyed or severely damaged.

    “Jabalya is like a wasteland. The destruction…is beyond belief,” he added.

    Evacuations painfully slow

    Dr. Peeperkorn further stated that medical evacuations of critically ill and injured patients have begun, with 35 to 40 patients transferred daily.

    “It is incredibly important that we expedite this and speed this up,” he said, emphasising that, according to WHO estimates, between 12,000 to 14,000 patients need to be evacuated from Gaza, including at least 5,000 children.

    Among the total estimated patients, about half suffer from trauma-related injuries while others need urgent treatment for chronic conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.

    Dr. Peeperkorn called for the urgent re-opening of additional medical corridors, especially the “traditional referral pathway” of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where facilities are ready to receive patients.

    UN News

    Critical infrastructure, including electricity networks, has suffered extensive damage across the Gaza Strip.

    Wider humanitarian situation

    Beyond the dire health crisis, the broader humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with severe shortages of clean water, food, and essential services.

    UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher visited the enclave on Thursday, as UN agencies and partners continue responding to immense needs, a UN spokesperson said.

    “In northern Gaza, Mr. Fletcher toured two hospitals – Al Shifa in Gaza City and Al Awda in Jabalya – where he met with patients, staff and management,” Farhan Haq, Deputy UN Spokesperson, told journalists at a news briefing in New York.

    “Leaving the Al Awda hospital, he spoke with survivors and returnees in Jabalya who are trying to rebuild their lives amid the rubble.”

    Acute shortages

    Mr. Haq further reported that water shortages remain particularly acute.  The only operational water well in north Gaza, run by the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), serves as a crucial lifeline for clean drinking water.

    However, widespread infrastructure destruction has left many residents without reliable access. Humanitarian partners are distributing 2,500 cubic metres of safe drinking water daily, reaching about 411,000 people, but this remains far below the actual needs.

    A partner organization is also providing cleaning and sanitation services at 17 displacement sites in northern Gaza, benefiting nearly 12,000 displaced individuals.

    “Water, sanitation and hygiene partners are carrying out assessments in locations across the Strip to repair water wells, install dosing pumps, and set up water filling points,” Mr. Haq said, adding: “while some repairs are already underway, further progress hinges on teams being able to clear debris and carry out assessments of explosive hazards.”

    Challenges in the West Bank

    Meanwhile in the West Bank, Israeli military operations have intensified in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas, severely restricting Palestinian access to essential aid, including water, food, medicine and supplies for infants.

    In Tubas governorate, Israeli forces have been operating in the El Far’a refugee camp for five consecutive days, Mr. Haq reported.

    “They have imposed a curfew, reportedly prohibiting residents from leaving their homes. They also bulldozed roads and damaged water networks, forcing residents to rely on collecting rainwater.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash: Wakefield Street, Auckland CBD

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are in attendance at a serious crash in central Auckland this morning.

    The crash involves a cyclist and pedestrian, and has occurred at the intersection of Wakefield and Rutland streets.

    It was reported to Police at around 9.45am.

    The pedestrian has been transported to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

    Road closures will be put in place around the intersection, with the Serious Crash Unit to attend the scene.

    A scene examination will be carried out.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Busy Auckland ED gets mental health peer support

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has officially marked the start of a new peer support service at Auckland City Hospital’s Adult Emergency Department today.
    Minister Doocey says the service will not only help better support people presenting in mental distress, but potentially improve wait times.
    “Sitting in an ED in times of mental distress can be a very challenging place for people. Having someone who has lived experience in the area and can understand what you are going through can be a huge comfort,” Mr Doocey says.
    “This is one of New Zealand’s busiest EDs and we know this initiative can have a big and positive impact on better patient outcomes.
    “Early feedback from people presenting at Middlemore Hospital’s ED, where the first trial of this initiative started more than four months ago, has been positive.
    In total, eight EDs across New Zealand will trial this initiative over two years, with Waikato, Wellington and Christchurch hospitals due to start their new services in coming months.
    “Since I’ve become New Zealand’s first Minister for Mental Health, I have heard from many in the sector who want to see Peer Support Specialists playing a greater role in helping to address some of the challenges faced by our mental health services.
    “One of my top priorities is addressing the significant mental health workforce shortages. Peer Support Specialists play a vital role within this workforce, and I believe the expertise and empathy Peers can bring to the workforce has been previously undervalued and underutilised.
    “This new workforce has people who have lived experience of mental distress or addiction, have experienced recovery and have been trained how to support others going through similar experiences on their journey to wellness.
    “This initiative aligns with the Government’s priorities of increasing access to mental health and addiction support for New Zealanders and growing the workforce.”  
    Note for editors:A $1 million workforce fund over two years has also been set up to provide Level 4 NZ Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Peer Support) training and specific training for working in emergency departments.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta and Coalition of 12 Attorneys General Release Statement on DOGE Access to Sensitive Personal Information

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, February 6, 2025

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

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 12 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, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yorkton — Man charged with attempted murder of child

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On February 1, 2025 at approximately 2:20 p.m., Yorkton RCMP received a report of a serious assault at a residence on Waterloo Road in Yorkton.

    Officers and EMS responded. Investigation determined an adult male assaulted a child, who is under the age of 6, who was transported to hospital with serious injuries. We are unable to provide an update on the child’s condition, due to privacy considerations.

    The adult male was arrested at the scene.

    As a result of continued investigation, 41-year-old Frederick Stewart from Saltcoats, SK is charged with:

    • – one count of attempted murder, Section 239(b), Criminal Code;
    • – one count, aggravated assault, Section 268(2), Criminal Code;
    • – one count, assault by choking, Section 267(c), Criminal Code; and
    • – one count, fail to comply with probation order, Section 733.1(1).

    He is scheduled to appear in Yorkton Provincial Court on February 7, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Fusion Fuel Announces Decision by Nasdaq Hearings Panel

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBLIN, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — Fusion Fuel Green PLC (Nasdaq: HTOO) (“Fusion Fuel” or the “Company”), a leading provider of comprehensive energy engineering, advisory, and supply solutions, today announced that the Nasdaq Hearings Panel has found the Company in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1), requiring minimum stockholders’ equity of $2,500,000, and granted the Company’s request for an exception to evidence compliance with other applicable criteria for continued listing on The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC.

    On or before June 29, 2025, the Company will be required to demonstrate compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5620(a) requiring the Company to hold an annual shareholder meeting. In addition, on or before July 28, 2025, the Company will be required to demonstrate compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) requiring the Company to have a minimum bid price of $1.00 (the “Minimum Bid Price Requirement”). To evidence compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement, the Company’s Class A Ordinary Shares must have a closing bid price at or above $1.00 per share for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days. The Nasdaq hearing on the matter was held on January 7, 2025.

    About Fusion Fuel Green plc

    Fusion Fuel Green PLC (NASDAQ: HTOO) is an emerging leader in the energy services sector, offering a comprehensive suite of energy engineering and advisory solutions through its Al Shola Gas and BrightHy brands. Al Shola Gas provides full-service industrial gas solutions, including the design, supply, and maintenance of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems, as well as the transport and distribution of LPG to a broad range of customers across commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. BrightHy, the Company’s newly launched hydrogen solutions platform, focuses on delivering innovative engineering and advisory services that enable decarbonization across hard-to-abate industries.

    Learn more about Fusion Fuel by visiting our website at https://www.fusion-fuel.eu and following us on LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target”, “may”, “intend”, “predict”, “should”, “would”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “future”, “outlook” or other similar expressions (or negative versions of such words or expressions) that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Company’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Fusion Fuel has based these forward-looking statements largely on its current expectations. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties (including those set forth in Fusion Fuel’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission) which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact

    ir@fusion-fuel.eu

    Wire Service Contact:
    IBN
    Austin, Texas
    www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
    512.354.7000 Office
    Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Southside Bancshares, Inc. Declares Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TYLER, Texas, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of Southside Bancshares, Inc., (NYSE:SBSI), parent company of Southside Bank, declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per common share. The cash dividend of $0.36 is scheduled for payment on March 6, 2025, to common stock shareholders of record on February 20, 2025.

    About Southside Bancshares, Inc.

    Southside Bancshares, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Tyler, Texas, with approximately $8.52 billion in assets as of December 31, 2024, that wholly-owns Southside Bank. Southside Bank currently operates 53 branches and a network of 72 ATMs/ITMs throughout East Texas, Southeast Texas and the greater Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin and Houston areas. Serving customers since 1960, Southside Bank is a community-focused financial institution that offers a full range of financial products and services to individuals and businesses. These products and services include consumer and commercial loans, mortgages, deposit accounts, safe deposit boxes, treasury management, wealth management, trust services, brokerage services and an array of online and mobile services.

    To learn more about Southside Bancshares, Inc., please visit our investor relations website at https://investors.southside.com. Our investor relations site provides a detailed overview of our activities, financial information and historical stock price data. To receive email notification of company news, events and stock activity, please register on the website under Resources and Investor Email Alerts. Questions or comments may be directed to Lindsey Bailes at (903) 630-7965, or lindsey.bailes@southside.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: H&R Block Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE: HRB) (the “Company”) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.375 cents per share, payable April 3, 2025, to shareholders of record as of March 4, 2025. H&R Block has paid quarterly dividends consecutively for over sixty years since the Company became public in 1962.

    Since 2016, the Company has grown the dividend 88%1 and has returned more than $4.4 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.

    About H&R Block
    H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE: HRB) provides help and inspires confidence in its clients and communities everywhere through global tax preparation services, financial products, and small-business solutions. The company blends digital innovation with human expertise and care as it helps people get the best outcome at tax time, and be better with money using its mobile banking app, Spruce. Through Block Advisors and Wave, the company helps small-business owners thrive with year-round bookkeeping, payroll, advisory, and payment processing solutions. For more information, visit H&R Block News.

    1 Dividend growth is calculated as percentage growth from the April 2016 dividend.

    For Further Information

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Demands Answers from Trump Administration After Funding Blocked for Wisconsin Head Start

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is demanding answers from the Trump Administration on why half of Wisconsin’s Head Start programs, which provide childcare and preschool education to children, were unable to access previously approved federal funding, forcing at least one program to shutter. After the Trump Administration illegally ordered a pause on previously Congressionally approved federal grants and loans, half of Wisconsin Head Start programs were locked out of systems they use to pay staff and keep operations running. 

    “Head Start is a critical lifeline for families,” wrote Senator Baldwin in a letter to the Acting Secretaries of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Head Start. “Disruptions in services impact entire communities – from the children who are unable to be in the classroom, to the parents who are unable to work due to the lack of childcare, and Head Start professionals who love their jobs but are unable to be in their classrooms. I am also deeply concerned about the impact this chaos will have on the recruitment and retention of staff at Head Start centers.”

    Last week, the Trump Administration sent a letter from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directing a pause on virtually all federal grants and loans, with minimal details on what programs would and would not be impacted. While the memo was later rescinded, eight Head Start programs around the state have continued to experience issues accessing their federal funding, forcing one Head Start Center in Waukesha to close last week and leaving more than 250 families without childcare.

    “It is clear that funding issues persisted even after the Administration attempted to backtrack on the OMB memo and clarify that it did not apply to Head Start programs and following federal court orders that blocked the implementation of the memo,” wrote Senator Baldwin. “I am still hearing from Head Start grantees in Wisconsin who are continuing to have problems accessing their funds. I request your immediate attention to resolve any outstanding issues for Head Start payment systems.”

    In her letter, Senator Baldwin asked Dorothy A. Fink, M.D., Acting Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, and Tala Hooban, Acting Director of the Office of Head Start, to immediately respond with the following: 

    • A full accounting of the directives your department and agency received from the Trump Administration regarding the initial freeze of federal funds in the OMB memo. 
    • A full accounting of the directives received from the Trump Administration regarding the disbursement of federal funds after the clarification that the freeze did not apply to Head Start programs and after federal court orders were issued blocking implementation of the OMB memo.
    • The number of Head Start grantees who were unable to access or experienced difficulties in accessing the Payment Management System – the system used to access their federal funding – on or after January 28 and the dates in which they were unable to access the system.
    • Detail the reasons as to why these users were unable to access the Payment Management System.
    • Information on what resources you need, funding or otherwise, to ensure these issues do not happen in the future.

    A full version of this letter is available here and below.

    Dear Acting Secretary Fink and Acting Director Hooban:

    I write to you out of concern for what is happening at Head Start programs in Wisconsin during the first few weeks of the Trump Administration.  After the Administration ordered a pause on federal grants and loans, half of Wisconsin Head Start programs were locked out of systems they use to pay staff and keep operations running.  A Head Start Center in Waukesha closed last week and left more than 250 families without childcare.  Still today, Head Start programs in Wisconsin are having problems accessing their funds, which raises continued uncertainty about their ability to keep their doors open.  This is unacceptable and requires your immediate attention.

    There has been a long bipartisan history of providing federal funding for Head Start.  For Fiscal Year 2024, as Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations subcommittee, I was proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to provide $12.3 billion for Head Start in the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 which was signed into law by President Biden on March 23, 2024.  This carefully negotiated and bipartisan appropriation was a $275 million increase over Fiscal Year 2023 levels, which was celebrated in both red and blue states.

    Despite this history of strong bipartisan support and a clear Congressional directive, on January 28th President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a memorandum (M-25-13) ordering a halt to all federal grants and loans. This memo caused widespread chaos and confusion across the federal government and impacted every state in our nation.  While I understand the Trump Administration sought to clarify that they did not intend for Head Start to be included in the funding freeze, the reality for Head Start across the country and in Wisconsin was an inability to access funding that had already been approved by Congress.

    In the wake of this chaos, I met with and heard from Head Start programs across Wisconsin about the devastating impact the unlawful federal funding freeze had on their individual programs and in our communities.  About half of the Head Start programs in Wisconsin experienced prolonged issues in accessing their funds.  When attempting to draw down these federal dollars, these programs were met with only a response that the funding was ‘pending.’

    Head Start is a critical lifeline for families.  Disruptions in services impact entire communities –

    from the children who are unable to be in the classroom, to the parents who are unable to work due to the lack of child care, and Head Start professionals who love their jobs but are unable to be in their classrooms.  I am also deeply concerned about the impact this chaos will have on the recruitment and retention of staff at Head Start centers.  Head Start programs have continued to endure staffing shortfalls which has resulted in a reduction in slots for children and the number of families being served.  Disruption and uncertainty only serves to compound staffing recruitment challenges. 

    The years before a child reaches kindergarten are among the most critical in their life.  Research has shown participating in early childhood education programs helps better prepare children for their future and can result in better grades, higher school completion rates, reduction in the criminal justice system, and greater economic self-sufficiency as adults.  This is why programs like Head Start enjoy broad bipartisan support and are so critical in ensuring that our youngest children will be prepared to succeed later in their educational careers.  We know these long-term benefits make early childhood education programs a cost-effective way to strengthen society as a whole.

    It is clear that funding issues persisted even after the Administration attempted to backtrack on the OMB memo and clarify that it did not apply to Head Start programs and following federal court orders that blocked the implementation of the memo. I am still hearing from Head Start grantees in Wisconsin who are continuing to have problems accessing their funds. I request your immediate attention to resolve any outstanding issues for Head Start payment systems.

    Additionally, I ask you to provide the following:

    • A full accounting of the directives your department and agency received from the Trump Administration regarding the initial freeze of federal funds in M-25-13 OMB memo. 
    • A full accounting of the directives received from the Trump Administration regarding the disbursement of federal funds after the clarification that the freeze did not apply to Head Start programs and after federal court orders were issued blocking implementation of the M-25-13 OMB memo.
    • The number of Head Start grantees who were unable to access or experienced difficulties in accessing the Payment Management System on or after January 28 and the dates in which they were unable to access the system.
    • Detail the reasons as to why these users were unable to access the Payment Management System.
    • Information on what resources you need, funding or otherwise, to ensure these issues do not happen in the future.

    I thank you for your attention to this matter.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Leads Colleagues on Bill to Close Tax Loophole and Make Wall Street Pay Its Fair Share

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) led thirteen of her colleagues in introducing the Carried Interest Fairness Act to eliminate a tax loophole that benefits wealthy money managers on Wall Street. The current carried interest loophole allows investment managers to often pay almost half the tax rate compared to most other Wisconsin workers.

    “Wall Street investors should not be paying less in taxes than Wisconsin firefighters, teachers, and small business owners. But right now, the wealthiest Americans are gaming our tax system to get out of paying their fair share, passing their tax burden onto working Wisconsinites,” said Senator Baldwin. “Closing the carried interest loophole will ensure super-wealthy Americans do their part, reducing the deficit and increasing fairness in our tax code. As President Trump has previously said, this loophole is ‘unfair to American workers’ and I look forward to working with him to finally close it.”

    The carried interest loophole allows investment managers to pay the lower 23.8 percent capital gains tax rate on income received as compensation, rather than the ordinary income tax rates of up to 40.8 percent that they would pay for the same amount of wage income. The Carried Interest Fairness Act requires carried interest income to be taxed at ordinary wage rates. According to the Treasury proposal, closing this loophole will raise $6.5 billion in revenue over 10 years.

    Despite President Donald Trump previously saying, “…we will eliminate the carried interest deduction and other special interest loopholes…”  during the 2016 election, his 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act “failed to eliminate [the] key deduction used by wealthy investment firms that Trump had vowed to kill,” leading PolitiFact to rate this a “Promise Broken.” Senate Republicans rejected an amendment to the tax bill by Senator Baldwin to close the loophole, which all Senate Democrats supported in 2017.

    The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Patty Murray (D-WA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI). Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03) also introduced this bill today in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    The legislation is endorsed by Communications Workers of America, Americans for Tax Fairness, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Public Citizen, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Alliance for Retired Americans, Americans for Financial Reform, Take on Wall Street, Patriotic Millionaires, 20/20 Vision, Main Street Alliance, American Federation of Government Employees, Small Business Minority, Economic Policy Institute, and the National Women’s Law Center.

    “The carried interest loophole is an expensive subsidy of the billionaire executives who are raiding the public purse right now to pay for their next private island,” said Porter McConnell, Senior Director of Take on Wall Street at Americans for Financial Reform. “We commend Senator Baldwin for her leadership on closing this egregious loophole so that working families can stop subsidizing ultra wealthy hedge fund and private equity executives.”

    “The carried interest loophole is an unfair Wall Street tax break that enriches billionaires who end up paying lower tax rates than teachers, nurses, and firefighters.” said Oscar Valdés Viera, research manager at Americans for Financial Reform. “We applaud Senator Baldwin for her unwavering leadership in introducing the Carried Interest Fairness Act and urge the Senate to swiftly move on this legislation.”

    “The carried interest loophole gives a class of the wealthy elite – hedge fund managers and executives – an enormous and unfair advantage by allowing them to pay a significantly lower tax rate on their compensation than working- and middle-class Americans. Senator Baldwin’s Carried Interest Fairness Act would work to close this loophole, enhancing tax fairness, narrowing the growing wealth gap, and providing crucial revenue for investments in the American people,” said Casey Conroy, Senior Fiscal Policy Analyst at 20/20 Vision.

    “Small business owners work hard every day to keep their doors open, staff on payroll and shelves stocked. Meanwhile, investment managers pay a lower tax rate than Main Street because of a ridiculous loophole. Main Street Alliance and our 30,000 members strongly support Senator Baldwin’s Carried Interest Fairness Act. Our tax code should focus on supporting the 20 million new small business owners who have started since 2020, not glitzy hedge funds,” said Richard Trent, Main Street Alliance Executive Director.

    “There are a lot of economically and morally unjustifiable tax loopholes that disproportionately benefit wealthy people like me, but the carried interest loophole may just take the cake. Ultra-wealthy hedge fund managers should not receive a tax break on the income they earn managing other people’s money, as the last time I checked, nurses don’t get a tax break on the money they make ‘managing’ people’s lives with their blood, sweat, and tears. It’s time for lawmakers to pass the Carried Interest Fairness Act and close this egregious loophole once and for all,” said Morris Pearl, Chair of the Patriotic Millionaires and a former Managing Director at BlackRock.

    “The carried interest tax loophole stands as one of the most glaring examples of how the ultra-wealthy exploit and rig our broken tax system to their advantage,” said David Kass, executive director of Americans for Tax Fairness. “It’s common sense—Wall Street hedge fund managers shouldn’t pay lower federal tax rates than nurses, teachers, and most working Americans. This change is long overdue and represents a critical step toward a fairer tax system that ensures these uber-wealthy individuals pay their fair share like everyone else.”

    “There is no reason that private equity managers, some of the wealthiest people in the country, should get away with paying lower tax rates than average families, especially as the care crisis continues to strain family budgets. Closing the carried interest loophole is an important step towards making sure the wealthiest are paying their fair share and that our tax code works for all of us, not just those at the top,” said Melissa Boteach, Vice President for Income Security and Child Care/Early Learning at the National Women’s Law Center.

    A one-pager on this legislation is available here. Bill text of this legislation is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Judiciary Democrats Condemn Trump’s Unfit Nominee for FBI Director Kash Patel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Judiciary Democrats Condemn Trump’s Unfit Nominee for FBI Director Kash Patel

    WATCH: Padilla urges Republicans to reject Patel based on alarming and radical record

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined his Democratic colleagues on the Committee in speaking out against Kash Patel’s dangerous nomination to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). During this morning’s Judiciary Committee business meeting, Padilla objected to Patel’s nomination and urged his Republican colleagues to do the same ahead of the Committee’s vote next week.

    Padilla raised significant concerns regarding Patel’s lack of judgement, independence, and preparedness — flaws made clear both during his nomination hearing and throughout his career. He highlighted Patel’s troubling record, including his publication of a political enemies list, threats to prosecute journalists, and his stated plan to “shut down the FBI Hoover Building on Day 1 and reopen it the next day as a museum of the ‘deep state.’”

    Padilla also denounced Patel’s reckless actions as Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council, where he put the lives of U.S. military personnel at risk by providing false information during a high-stakes hostage rescue operation. He also slammed Patel’s opposition to background checks and his apparent support for civilian ownership of machine guns.

    The Senators reiterated calls for an additional hearing to address Patel’s misleading testimony and his involvement in the removals and investigations of career FBI employees. During Patel’s nomination hearing last week, Senator Padilla raised serious concerns about his fitness to lead the FBI independently.

    Key Excerpts:

    • In addition to a lot of the specific concerns about Kash Patel and how he would be as an FBI director, I feel compelled to remind us of the moment that we are in right now in the first few weeks of the second Trump administration — the chaos that has been created.
    • In times of chaos and crisis like this, the public deserves to see trusted leaders in the most important positions of our federal government, trusted leaders who will stand up and say “no” to a president trying to blow through the very guardrails put in place by the Constitution. So it’s in that context that makes the nomination and potential confirmation of Kash Patel even more alarming.
    • When I asked him about his thoughts on what should be commonsense gun safety policies and protocols, what his position was on things like universal background checks, he either failed to answer or chose not to answer. Poor judgment, clear lack of preparation for the position of FBI director that oversees our background check system for a reason.
    • Let alone his lack of ability or lack of willingness to serve independently. It’s not just the Department of Justice. It’s been the FBI specifically that has performed at its best when it serves the people, when it honors the Constitution, and respects the rule of law. Clearly, Kash Patel puts that secondary to his loyalty to Donald Trump.
    • It’s up to the Senate to either confirm this nominee or not. It’s clear where Senate Democrats stand. I think my biggest question is, where are Senate Republicans going to stand at this important moment in history? Will they choose the rule of law? Will they choose the Constitution? Will they choose to stay loyal to the very oath of office they’ve taken and their important advice and consent role? Or will they choose loyalty to a reckless president?

    Video of Padilla’s remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Introduces Resolution to Declare Racism a Public Health Crisis

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced a Senate Resolution to declare racism a public health crisis. The resolution calls on Congress to establish a nationwide strategy to address health disparities and inequities across all sectors in society.

    “Racism and its compounding impacts have harmed the health and well-being of communities of color across America for generations,” said Senator Padilla. “Declaring racism as a public health crisis is an initial step to bring more attention to these deep-rooted inequities, but we have much more work to do to address these disparities and deliver justice for millions of Americans.”

    “This resolution is an important step toward recognizing that communities of color, particularly Black, Indigenous, and Latino communities, face disproportionate rates of chronic illness, shorter life expectancies, and increased barriers to quality health care,” said Senator Booker. “These disparities are not accidents. They are the direct result of decades of unjust policies and systems that determine whether your air or water is clean, or how close your family is to a toxic waste site. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to dismantle the systemic injustices that continue to impact the health outcomes of communities of color across America.” 

    “Racism is deadly for people of color, adversely impacting access to health care resources and disproportionately exacerbating health outcomes of marginalized communities including life expectancy, infant mortality, maternal morbidity, risk of cancer, and more,” said Senator Hirono. “The first step in addressing a crisis is naming it, which is why I am proud to reintroduce this resolution recognizing the impacts of systemic racism on the health of minority groups, and reaffirming our commitment to addressing health disparities and inequity across all communities.”

    The resolution acknowledges the history of racism and discrimination within health care and the systemic barriers that people of color continue to face when seeking care. It also highlights the effects of systemic racism on the health and wellness of communities of color, resulting in shorter life expectancy, worsened health outcomes, and increased exposure to harmful or dangerous environments. Additionally, the resolution encourages concrete action to address health disparities and inequity across all sectors in society.

    Additionally, the resolution calls on the United States Congress to: 

    • Dismantle systemic practices and policies that perpetuate racism. 
    • Advance reforms to address years of neglectful and apathetic policies that have led to poor health outcomes for members of racial and ethnic minority groups. 
    • Promote efforts to urgently address the social determinants of health for all racial and ethnic minority groups in the United States. 

    In addition to Padilla, Booker, and Hirono, the resolution was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) and Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.-03) introduced a companion resolution in the House. 

    Full text of the resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New legislation will accelerate B.C. renewable energy projects

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    To ensure rapid permitting and robust regulation of renewable energy projects, the Province will introduce legislation in spring 2025 allowing the regulation of renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar, to move under the authority of the BC Energy Regulator (BCER). Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, made the announcement in the presence of successful First Nations and clean-energy partners who gathered to celebrate the signing of their electricity purchase agreements (EPAs) with BC Hydro, which will generate between $5 billion and $6 billion in private capital spending throughout the province.

    The legislation will also enable the BCER to be the primary regulatory authority for authorizations associated with the construction of the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL) and other high-voltage electricity transmission projects. This will help accelerate the expansion of British Columbia’s electricity grid and meet the demand in growth arising from critical mineral and metal mining, port electrification, hydrogen and fuel processing, and shipping projects under consideration. 

    “Along with other natural resources projects, these critical projects have been identified by the Province as priorities that are ready to move forward, with the potential to generate significant employment to support our economy in the face of potential tariffs by the U.S. government,” said Dix. “Now, with electricity purchase agreements signed by all of the wind and solar projects selected in the recent BC Hydro Call for Power and the BC Energy Regulator poised to be regulator for permitting these projects, British Columbia is on a clear trajectory to deliver the clean, affordable and reliable power people and industry need, and meaningfully grow and diversify our economy.”

    This announcement builds on the Province’s intent to exempt all future wind projects from the environmental assessment process, including the nine wind projects that are now under signed electricity purchase agreements with BC Hydro. It will create a single-window permitting process for renewable energy projects. The BC Energy Regulator will take a staged approach, focusing initially on the North Coast Transmission Line and other prescribed high-voltage transmission lines, and the wind and solar projects.

    The new legislation, to be introduced by the Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions, will extend the BC Energy Regulator’s existing legal authorities and responsibilities to the new development activities relevant to the different energy projects.

    The BC Energy Regulator is an experienced organization that has demonstrated expertise at getting projects moving quickly, while providing robust regulatory oversight through the lifecycle of projects. This is a natural evolution of the BC Energy Regulator’s role, which initially focused on oil, gas and geothermal development, then expanded to include hydrogen, ammonia and methanol, and now to renewable energy. The BC Energy Regulator will bring its expertise and capacity to the province’s broader stewardship efforts for water, land and resources.

    “The BC Energy Regulator is committed to permitting efficiency and robust regulatory oversight of B.C.’s oil, gas and other energy resources,” said Michelle Carr, commissioner and chief executive officer, BC Energy Regulator. “With our single-window approach to permitting through the full lifecycle of development, commitment to operational excellence and stewardship in the public interest, commitment to First Nation consultation and management of land-owner interests, the BC Energy Regulator is well positioned to apply that expertise to renewables and to support the province’s transition to low-carbon energy.”

    The Province is committed to working in co-operation with First Nations partners, and is engaging with Nations across the province on the approach to the proposed legislation.

    “Designating the BCER as the single regulator for renewables helps ensure B.C. can meet its growing electricity demand and bring renewable energy projects online sooner,” said Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy Association of British Columbia. “In the 2024 Call for Power, 11 CEBC members, including First Nations and industry leaders, were selected as successful proponents for both wind and solar projects, demonstrating how meaningful partnerships drive major projects and deliver sustainable energy solutions. An effective regulatory framework must foster investment in these collaborations, uphold Indigenous rights and title, and maintain B.C.’s world-class environmental standards. We look forward to working alongside government, First Nations and industry to shape a clean-energy future that benefits all British Columbians.”

    The BC Energy Regulator has a team of more than 300 professionals in seven offices located throughout B.C. Subject-matter experts include biologists, engineers, hydrologists, agrologists, compliance and enforcement officers, First Nations liaison officers, heritage conservation officers and archeologists. The BC Energy Regulator will hire additional staff and subject-matter experts as authorities are added. 

    Quick Facts:

    • Under the Clean Energy Act, a renewable or clean resource means biomass, biogas, geothermal heat, hydro, solar, ocean, wind (small scale) or any other prescribed resource.
    • The new act would provide an enabling framework for government to extend the various powers and authorities of the BC Energy Regulator under the Energy Resource Activities Act through new regulations that would apply to specified transmission and generation projects. 
    • Government is not contemplating other changes to the environmental assessment triggers for renewable energy projects.
    • Environmental assessments will still be required for projects that exceed thresholds identified in the Reviewable Projects Regulation.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the BC Energy Regulator, visit: https://www.bc-er.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Outdoor fires to be restricted in Manawatū-Whanganui district

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a restricted fire season for parts of the Manawatū-Whanganui district from 8am on Friday 7 February until further notice.
    A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need to go to www.checkitsalright.nz to apply for a permit authorised by Fire and Emergency.
    Manawatū-Whanganui District Manager Nigel Dravitzki says the restrictions apply to Horowhenua, Manawatū/Palmerston North, Rangitikei, and Whanganui areas.
    The coastal area is already in a restricted season. The Ruapehu area remains unchanged for now, although conditions there are being closely monitored.
    “At this time of year, we do start to see more fires escaping from controlled burns, and starting large wildfires which can take days to put out,” Nigel Dravitzki says.
    “Most of the vegetation in this district is pasture grass, crops, commercial forests, or unused scrub, and fire can spread very quickly through this vegetation when it’s so dry.
    “As we’ve had very little rain, and hot, dry winds are continuing, the fire risk is much higher than usual right now.
    “That’s why we’re restricting the use of open-air fires, including burn piles for rubbish or slash.
    “If you’re thinking about lighting a fire, go to checkitsalright.nz, which tells you what the restrictions are for your location, and provides safety guidance to keep our people and property safe.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: The Taxpayer Data Protection Act will rein in Republican corruption

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    February 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar joined Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Representatives Sean Casten and Haley Stevens to introduce the Taxpayer Data Protection Act, which would prevent unelected billionaires from gaining unlawful access to the Department of Treasury payment system and from illegally cutting programs to help pay for their own tax cuts.

    CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Thank you, Whip Clark and Leader Jeffries, and I want to thank the leadership of Haley Stevens and Sean Casten for introducing this bill because House Democrats will not sit by as an unelected billionaire with controversial ties to China is given access to the most sensitive personal data about the American people—and to potentially use that data to illegally cut programs that are vital to our national security just to help pay for tax cuts to benefit his own bottom line. 

    We will not stay silent as House Republicans surrender Congress’ constitutional power in order to allow MAGA extremists and conspiracy theorists to continue. We know that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle are just as outraged as we are, but they have to keep quiet out of fear of retribution from the MAGA extremists. We only need three Republicans with the courage of their convictions to join our efforts to protect the American people from this extreme and illegal overreach. 

    Today, they’re illegally gutting USAID, which prevents China and adversaries from expanding their influence. But, tomorrow, it’s your health insurance. The next day, it’s your mother’s Social Security check. This is not what the American people voted for. 

    The Taxpayer Data Protection Act will rein in the corruption we’re seeing in the White House and put an end to the chaos. 

    Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

    ###



    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army breaks ground on state-of-the-art 6.8 mm ammunition production facility

    Source: United States Army

    INDEPENDENCE, Missouri – The U.S. Army’s Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments and Ammunition, along with the Joint Munitions Command, officially broke ground on a new 6.8 mm ammunition production facility in support of the Next Generation Squad Weapon Program at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The 6.8 mm family of ammunition, set to be produced at the new facility, will play a vital role in advancing the Army’s modernization priorities.

    The U.S. Army’s Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments and Ammunition, along with the Joint Munitions Command, officially broke ground on a new 6.8 mm ammunition production facility in support of the Next Generation Squad Weapon Program at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant on Wednesday, Feb. 5. The 6.8 mm family of ammunition, set to be produced at the new facility, will play a vital role in advancing the Army’s modernization priorities. (Photo Credit: Courtesy: Olin Corporation) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Developed collaboratively by the JPEO A&A, the U.S. Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Armaments Center, and the Army Research Laboratory, the 6.8 mm family of ammunition is specifically engineered to maximize the performance of the XM7 Rifle and the XM250 Automatic Rifle. When fired through these Next Generation Squad Weapons, 6.8 mm rounds deliver increased range, improved accuracy, and enhanced lethality, ensuring Soldiers maintain overmatch on the battlefield.

    “It is not lost on me that victory on the battlefield begins in our production facilities,” said Maj. Gen. John T. Reim, Joint Program Executive Officer for Armaments and Ammunition. “Lake City has been central to our nation’s ammunition production since 1941, and this new facility builds on that proud and historic legacy.”

    The cutting-edge facility, which will be operated by Olin Winchester, is the culmination of an 18-month design process led by JPEO A&A with support from a diverse team of U.S. government and commercial contractors.

    Spanning 450,000 square feet, the facility will feature modern manufacturing systems

    capable of producing all components of 6.8 mm ammunition. This includes cartridge case and projectile manufacturing, energetic operations for loading and charging ammunition, product packaging, process quality controls, testing laboratories, maintenance operations and administrative areas.

    With 90% of the work supported by industries in the Kansas City region and nearly 50 local businesses involved in the construction, the new facility will strengthen the defense industrial base, create well-paying jobs, and will drive economic growth in the local community.

    Once operational, the facility will have an annual production capacity of 385 million cases, 490 million projectiles and 385 million load-assemble-pack operations for 6.8 mm ammunition. This enhanced capacity will significantly bolster U.S. munitions production, ensuring the Army maintains its readiness and ability to serve as a credible deterrent to would-be adversaries.

    JPEO A&A and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Command Armaments Center are headquartered at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey. Together, they play a critical role in developing, procuring and fielding cutting-edge armaments and ammunition, ensuring the readiness and modernization of the U.S. Army and its international partners.

    For more information, please contact Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition’s Public Affairs Office at usarmy.pica.jpeo-aa.mbx.jpeo-aa-public-affairs@army.mil.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders on judge blocking White House Fork Directive: ‘This is a great first step’

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement after a federal judge granted AFSCME’s motion to temporarily block the Trump administration’s deferred resignation deadline for federal employees:

    “This is a great first step. We all depend on federal workers to keep our communities safe, healthy and strong, and politics should never get between them and the essential services they provide. They deserve to be treated with respect for their public service. We look forward to presenting our full case in the days to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ninth Air Force’s largest-ever RADR exercise executed by 379th ECES

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: Ninth Air Force’s largest-ever RADR exercise executed by 379th ECES

    The 379th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron executed the Ninth Air Force’s largest-ever no-notice Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery exercise, setting a benchmark across the branch. The multi-day RADR exercise played a part in the broader Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) directed operation Agile Spartan 25.1.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: $9.6M in Mental Health Support for Rural Areas of NYS

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $9.6 million in state funding is available to provide additional mental health assistance services for rural areas of the state, including a program dedicated to helping farmers, agribusiness workers and their families. The State Office of Mental Health is providing $7.6 million to establish four new Critical Time Intervention teams to support individuals living with mental illness in rural areas of the state during periods of transition and $2 million for the Farmers Supporting Farmers program to help those working in agriculture to navigate the stress often associated with the industry.

    “We have an obligation to bring mental health assistance to New York’s farmers and the rural areas of our state where these supports aren’t always readily available,” Governor Hochul said. “The combined impact of the Farmers Supporting Farmers program and Critical Time Intervention teams will help bring additional mental health resources to parts of our state where behavioral health services are much needed.”

    OMH is providing $7.6 million over five years to establish two new Critical Time Intervention teams to serve counties in Western New York, and two others to serve counties in the North Country. These teams will join three others awarded last year and expected to be operational later this year, with the unique flexibility to offer support services and care coordination in rural communities.

    Each team must have a well-defined working relationship with at least one community-based hospital and be involved in discharge planning so they can provide subsequent linkages to services. These teams will continue to work with individuals to ensure that their immediate needs are met and that they remain connected to community support.

    OMH is also providing $2 million over five years for a service provider to implement the Farmers Supporting Farmers program statewide, specifically in the 44 counties that support farms and agribusinesses. The state has roughly 43,000 square miles of rural land area with about 3.4 million New Yorkers — more than 17 percent of the state’s population — living in communities considered rural.

    Farmers Supporting Farmers was developed in response to the well-documented link between economic crises and the resulting stress that puts farm workers and their families at an increased risk for poor behavioral health outcomes. The funding will provide this population technical assistance to address their business and financial needs, along with wellness support to promote improved behavioral health outcomes.

    Approximately 20 percent of rural residents aged 55 or older live with a mental health issue, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Likewise, rural communities report significantly higher suicide rates than urban areas for both adults and youth.

    OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “Our effort to strengthen New York State’s mental health care system includes bringing services to traditionally underserved areas, which include many of our rural communities. These programs are providing critical supports to an at-risk segment of the population that might otherwise be disconnected from our system of care. Through investments like this, Governor Hochul is demonstrating her continued commitment to expanding mental health services to all New Yorkers, including traditionally underserved New Yorkers.”

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “From unpredictable weather to rising costs, farmers face many challenges that are specific to the industry and can take not only a financial toll but also an emotional toll. This new program, through the Office of Mental Health and supported by the Governor, will provide invaluable mental health resources to farmers and their families, helping New York’s agricultural industry manage and better cope with uncertainty and stress for their overall health and well-being.”

    State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “We need to ensure that gaps between need and access for mental health care are being actively addressed. Peer support in underserved areas can change lifelong outcomes for community members in crisis. Governor Hochul’s $9.6 million support for rural areas and OMH’s $7.6 million for CTI teams will support peer-driven, culturally competent responses to individuals with mental illness to keep our communities safe.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “Rural communities have long suffered from sparse or non-existent mental health services. Investing in access to mental health care in rural communities is desperately needed. This funding will allow us to investigate where the need is greatest and where the barriers to treatment have been so as to improve access to quality care. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for her commitment to strengthening mental health services throughout our state,”

    Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, OMH continues to invest funding and undertake initiatives focused on improving mental health in rural areas of the state. In 2023, the agency created the position of rural behavioral health coordinator to work with the upstate regional field offices, and the state Office of Rural Health and Office of Addiction Services and Supports to identify local, state, and federal resources to address the unique needs of our rural communities.

    Last year, OMH established a new Assertive Community Treatment or ‘ACT’ team so that New Yorkers living with serious mental illness in rural areas of the state can receive critical mental health services in their community, rather than a more restrictive hospital setting. The rural ACT team is now providing around-the-clock services to individuals who need it most, bringing a person-centered, recovery-based approach to their care.

    Under Governor Hochul’s direction, OMH also reconvened the Suicide Prevention Task Force with a goal of strengthening public health approaches, enhancing health system competencies, improving data surveillance methods, and infusing cultural competency in the state’s suicide prevention strategy. Specifically, this task force has a charge to look at special populations in New York, including rural communities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Slovakian Man Sentenced for $738,000 Pandemic Loan Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Thursday sentenced a man from the Slovak Republic who fraudulently obtained pandemic relief loans to 38 months in prison and ordered him to repay $738,118.

    While in the Slovak Republic, Mark Ethan Jermain submitted three false and fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications from April 26, 2020, to July 16, 2021. Jermain used his prior legal name, Arsene Millogo. The April 26, 2020, application sought $80,000 for Crazyeats LLC, which Jermain established in Missouri in 2017. On May 13, 2020, Jermain sought $325,275 for a company he’d set up called Unimentors LLC. After the loan was approved, Jermain submitted a Second Draw PPP loan application for $325,275 on Feb. 5, 2021.

    Jermain transferred the loan money to Slovakia. The PPP loans were intended to help struggling American businesses and jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jermain instead used the money for personal purchases and other unapproved purposes.

    “Mark Ethan Jermain fraudulently applied for and received PPP loans for businesses that didn’t exist anywhere but on paper. Furthermore, he used the identity of a former business partner, unbeknownst to the partner, to defraud the taxpayer funded program out of nearly three quarters of a million dollars,” said FBI St. Louis Special Agent in Charge Ashley Johnson. “Jermain is being held accountable in timely fashion after FBI special agents nabbed him at the airport in New York before he tried to fly out of the country.”

    Jermain returned to the U.S. on August 17, 2023. He was indicted on August 30 and arrested by FBI agents on September 7, the day he was scheduled to leave the country.

    Jermain, now 42, pleaded guilty in June to three counts of wire fraud.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwen Carroll prosecuted the case.

    Anyone with information about pandemic fraud should call the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or report via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hagerstown Man Faces Federal Indictment for Sexually Exploiting a Minor and Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury indicted William Foster Alger, 75, of Hagerstown, Maryland, charging him with seven counts of sexual exploitation of a child, three counts of coercion and enticement of a child, and five counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.

    Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Colonel Paul Joey Kifer, Chief of Police of the Hagerstown Police Department (HPD); and Washington County State’s Attorney Gina Cirincion.

    According to the indictment, between November 2023 and December 2024, the defendant persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced three minor females to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child sexual abuse material.  Additionally, Alger allegedly enticed the minors to engage in prohibited sexual conduct.  He also possessed child sexual abuse material in an internet-based account and on four digital devices.

    If convicted, Alger faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each of the seven counts of sexual exploitation of a minor; a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to a maximum of life imprisonment for each of the three counts of coercion and enticement of a child; and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison for each of the four counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.

    Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.   For more information about Internet safety education, click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

    U.S. Attorney Barron commended HSI, HPD, and the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who is prosecuting the federal case.

    For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owensboro Man Sentenced to Over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – An Evansville, Indiana, man was sentenced today to 13 years and 7 months in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Sheila G. Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division, and Chief Billy Bolin of the Henderson Police Department made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Austin Jenkins, 26, of Evansville was sentenced to 13 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.  The distribution resulted in the death of a 17-year-old in Henderson, Kentucky, on October 16, 2022.

    There is no parole in the federal system.   

    The case was investigated by the DEA and Henderson Police Department, with assistance from the Vanderburgh County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl prosecuted the case.

    ### 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Spirit Lake Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Second Degree Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Fargo – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that Austin Cody Littlewind, a/k/a Austin Cody Littlewind Jr., age 22, from Spirit Lake, appeared in United States District Court for the District of North Dakota in Fargo today and Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced him to serve 192 months (16 years) in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release during which time Littlewind will be required to abide by a number of conditions. Littlewind had previously pleaded guilty to Second-Degree Murder within Indian country. In November of 2023, Littlewind stabbed another man to death in Fort Totten, North Dakota, after Littlewind confronted the man over $40. As part of sentence, Littlewind was also ordered to pay restitution for funeral and related expenses.

    “This crime was both extremely violent and totally pointless,” Schneider said. “While there is no undoing the tragic loss of life that occurred, we hope this sentence provides a measure of justice and reassures the community that violent criminals will be pursued, prosecuted, and sent to federal prison for their crimes. Our career prosecutors and partners at the FBI deserve credit for their successful efforts on this case and their dedication to public safety in Indian country.”

    “Senseless acts of violence have no place in our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Today’s sentencing reaffirms that committing a violent crime carries serious consequences. The FBI, alongside our tribal and law enforcement partners, will continue to seek justice for victims and hold offenders accountable.”

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Lori H. Conroy.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Sanger Police Officer Indicted for Illegal Firearms Dealing, Obstruction Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Daniel Battenfield, 40, of Visalia, alleging the unlawful dealing of firearms without a license, making materially false statements to a federal agent, and lying on a federal firearms form.

    According to court documents, Battenfield has purchased and resold hundreds of firearms since at least 2016, purchasing the firearms below market price because of his law enforcement status and then reselling them for a profit. On at least one occasion, he placed an order directly for a customer, lying on a federal firearms form about purchasing the firearm for himself. When confronted by federal agents, he made false statements to them about his activities. Battenfield was placed on leave by the Sanger Police Department because of these activities in July 2024.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sanger Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Veneman-Hughes is prosecuting the case.

    If convicted of unlawful dealing in firearms or making false statement to a government agency, Battenfield faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of making materially false statement in purchase of firearms, he faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. 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 defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is 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 Security: Organizer of Nationwide Rental Car Theft Scheme Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Thursday sentenced a man who organized a nationwide scheme that stole $1.17 million worth of rental cars to 90 months in prison.

    Tyrell A. Oliver, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia, was also ordered to repay the money. Oliver hatched a scheme in which he reserved luxury rental vehicles using stolen credit card information and stolen identities.  Oliver and others then picked up the rental cars by assuming the stolen identities and presenting false driver’s licenses and counterfeit credit cards at the rental location.

    Oliver began the scheme in August of 2021 by trying to steal three rental vehicles, according to a sentencing memo filed in his case. On the third attempt, staff of the rental car company suspected fraud. Oliver fled and was arrested while trying to board a flight back to Atlanta.  That arrest did not dissuade Oliver. Instead, he expanded his operation, recruiting others “to do his dirty work,” the memo says. Oliver paid his co-conspirators to fly to airports around the country, including in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina, to steal cars on his behalf.

    In all, Oliver and his co-conspirators used the stolen identities of at least 23 victims to steal 19 rental vehicles, Oliver’s plea agreement says.

    Oliver, 40, pleaded guilty in October to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, three counts of wire fraud and three counts of aggravated identity theft. James E. McGhaney, 36, of New York, New York, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and three counts of wire fraud. McGhaney recruited and supervised some of the other participants in the scheme, his plea agreement says.  He is scheduled to be sentenced February 19.

    Steven B. Matthews, 40, of Atlanta, pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud. New York residents Shawnta B. Fonseca, 34, Reginald M. Glenn, 36, Marlique J. McGhaney, 35, and Daquasia M. Robinson, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Rashad Holder, 35, of New York, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

    Holder was sentenced to 65 months in prison in December and ordered to repay $581,711. Marlique McGhaney was sentenced to a year and a day in prison and ordered to pay restitution of $237,447. Matthews was sentenced to 24 months in prison and ordered to repay $107,072. Glenn was sentenced to 13 months in prison. Fonseca and Robinson are scheduled to be sentenced in March.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former credit union manager imprisoned for embezzling over $200,000 from elderly clients

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 58-year-old Prairie View woman has been sentenced for embezzlement by a federal credit union employee, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Gloria Hall pleaded guilty April 23, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge has now ordered Hall to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. Additionally, Hall will be required to make full restitution of $211,563.12 to her victims who were all clients of the Prairie View Federal Credit Union. At the hearing, the court heard additional forensic accounting evidence that detailed the depth and length of her fraudulent scheme. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the cultural and historical significance of the Prairie View Federal Credit Union that Hall destroyed with her theft.  

    “Protecting our most senior and vulnerable citizens from fraud is a vital mission of this office,” said Ganjei. “We cannot and will not let their life’s work fall prey to the greed and deceit of criminals.”

    “Gloria Hall’s crimes upended more than just her victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams of the FBI Houston Field Office. “Not only did Hall take advantage of her position to rob elderly bank customers of their life savings to enrich herself, but she also robbed the credit union of its 80-plus-years history when it was forced to merge with another institution as a direct result of her stealing. The small community she ingratiated herself in too was robbed of their life-long trust in the only bank they knew to safekeep their money.”

    Hall was employed at Prairie View Federal Credit Union (PVFCU). From 2017 through 2019, while acting as manager, she purposefully maintained an antiquated business practice which would not allow customers to access their accounts online. Hall admitted she was able to and did access at least two elderly customer accounts and misappropriated $211,563.12 of their funds for her own personal gain.

    PVFCU was one of the oldest continually operational federal credit unions a historically black college or university had established in the United States. It did not survive Hall’s embezzlement. PVFCU existed for approximately 85 years prior to its failure and merger with the Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union in early 2022.

    Hall was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The FBI – Bryan Resident Agency conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisville Man Sentenced to 3 Months Federal Incarceration and 3 Months Home Incarceration for Aiming a Laser at Police Helicopter

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOUISVILLE, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced this week to 3 months incarceration to be followed by 3 months home incarceration aiming the beam of laser at a Louisville Metropolitan Police Department.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    “This senseless act could easily have resulted in tragedy for the crew of the helicopter, other aircraft, and citizens on the ground,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively identify and charge anyone who engages in this type of criminal conduct. I commend the FBI and LMPD for their prompt investigative work in identifying and apprehending Mr. Freeman.”

    According to court documents, Justin E. Freeman, 33, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced 3 months incarceration and 3 months home incarceration, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for aiming the beam of a laser at an aircraft.   On or about September 30, 2023, Freeman directed the beam of a laser at an LMPD helicopter operating in Louisville, Kentucky.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd prosecuted the case.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Louisville Metro Police Department with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Janesville Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Cocaine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Taiwan Edwards, 29, Janesville, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 7 years in federal prison for possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine intended for distribution. Edwards pleaded guilty to this charge on October 28, 2024.

    In October 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a storage unit connected to Edwards. Officers recovered more than a kilogram of cocaine and $72,573. Officers also found six firearms, including two “ghost guns,” and ammunition. A “ghost gun” is a privately made firearm that does not have a serial number.

    At sentencing, Judge Peterson described the storage unit as a “mini armory,” and noted that Edwards had engaged in a “very substantial” amount of drug trafficking.

    The charge against Edwards was the result of an investigation conducted by the Janesville Police Department and the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Stelljes prosecuted this case. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laredo felon guilty in conspiracy to smuggle hundreds of aliens

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Second man also convicted in one underlying offense involving 101 people in locked trailer

    LAREDO, Texas – A 34-year-old Laredo man has admitted guilt in a multi-year conspiracy to smuggle aliens for financial gain, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Since March 2023, Danny Nunez operated and coordinated an organization in Laredo that smuggled and harbored hundreds of aliens.

    The investigation tied Nunez to coordinating numerous smuggling events such as one involving over 100 aliens Dec. 2, 2023. On that date, law enforcement observed several people being loading into a white trailer in a warehouse parking lot. A subsequent search resulted in the discovery of 101 aliens locked inside the trailer, including 12 unaccompanied children. Multiple people reported they had difficulty breathing and feared for their life due to the conditions in the trailer.

    Juan Manuel Aguirre, 49, Laredo, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to smuggle aliens in the United States, admitting his role in the transportation and smuggling of this group.

    At the time of Nunez’s arrest, authorities also conducted a search of his residence resulting in the seizure of cell phones and ledgers documenting the aliens Nunez and others had smuggled over the course of the conspiracy. They also found over $36,000 in resulting proceeds and two illegal aliens on the premises.

    “The road to a secure border runs through the Southern District of Texas,” said Ganjei. “Human smuggling is a terrible practice, one that the Department is focused on eradicating. My advice to those in the human smuggling business is to find a new line of work.”

    Both Nunez and Aguirre face up to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to smuggle aliens in the United States. They could also be ordered to pay up to $250,000 in fines. 

    They will remain in custody pending sentencing.

    Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety. and Border Patrol conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection, the Laredo Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration and Webb County Sheriff’s Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: IBEX Reports Record Quarterly Revenue and Strong EPS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Quarterly revenue grew 6.1% versus prior year quarter – highest growth in 9 quarters
    • Strong adjusted EBITDA margin expansion year-over-year – 10 out of the last 11 quarters
    • Adjusted EPS of $0.59 – an increase of 36% to prior year quarter
    • Raises guidance on revenue and lower end of EBITDA range
    • Repurchased approximately 3.6 million shares from TRGI during the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, representing 21% of our shares outstanding and eliminating controlled company status

    WASHINGTON, Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IBEX Limited (“ibex”), a leading provider in global business process outsourcing and end-to-end customer engagement technology solutions, today announced financial results for its second fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2024.

      Three months ended
    December 31,
      Six months ended
    December 31,
    ($ millions, except per share amounts)   2024       2023     Change     2024       2023     Change
    Revenue $ 140,682     $ 132,634     6.1 %   $ 270,399     $ 257,243     5.1 %
    Net income $ 9,268     $ 6,075     52.6 %   $ 16,799     $ 13,500     24.4 %
    Net income margin   6.6 %     4.6 %   200bps     6.2 %     5.2 %   100bps
    Adjusted net income (1) $ 9,615     $ 8,024     19.8 %   $ 18,647     $ 15,598     19.5 %
    Adjusted net income margin (1)   6.8 %     6.0 %   80bps     6.9 %     6.1 %   80bps
    Adjusted EBITDA (1) $ 16,537     $ 14,324     15.4 %   $ 32,125     $ 28,035     14.6 %
    Adjusted EBITDA margin (1)   11.8 %     10.8 %   100bps     11.9 %     10.9 %   100bps
    Earnings per share – diluted (2) $ 0.57     $ 0.33     73.6 %   $ 1.00     $ 0.72     38.0 %
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (1,2) $ 0.59     $ 0.44     36.3 %   $ 1.11     $ 0.84     32.5 %
                           
    (1)See accompanying Exhibits for the reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to its most directly comparable GAAP measure.
    (2)The current period percentages are calculated based on exact amounts, and therefore may not recalculate exactly using rounded numbers as presented.
     

    “Coming off an outstanding start to fiscal year 2025, I am thrilled to report another quarter of record financial results,” said Bob Dechant, ibex CEO. “Q2 saw our highest revenue growth for ibex in two years with revenues growing over 6%. Our growth continues to be driven by winning new clients and increasing market share within our embedded base clients. These key wins resulted in 14% revenue growth in our most profitable offshore regions. I am also excited to report that we have continued to add key AI opportunity wins that will be deployed in the second half of the year that are expected to drive accretive revenue and margin.”

    “Q2 fiscal year 2025 was a strong quarter on all profitability metrics as adjusted EPS grew 36%, adjusted EBITDA grew 15%, and adjusted net income increased 20%, compared to prior year quarter,” added Dechant. “Beyond this, over the last three months we completed a number of important strategic actions, highlighted by the $70 million share repurchase from The Resource Group International Limited (“TRGI”) in November, which has numerous benefits including removing our controlled company status, the additions of JJ Zhuang and Patrick McGinnis to our Board of Directors, and the most recent addition to our Board in January, Karen Batungbacal.”

    Second Quarter Financial Performance
    Revenue

    • Revenue of $140.7 million, an increase of 6.1% from $132.6 million in the prior year quarter. Growth in HealthTech (+31.2%), Travel, Transportation and Logistics (+16.7%), and Retail & E-commerce (+4.4%), was partially offset by declines in the FinTech vertical (-14.7%).

    Net Income and Earnings Per Share

    • Net income increased to $9.3 million compared to $6.1 million in the prior year quarter. Diluted earnings per share increased to $0.57 compared to $0.33 in the prior year quarter. The increases were primarily the result of the impact of revenue growth particularly in our higher margin offshore regions, improved gross margin performance, and fewer diluted shares outstanding compared to the prior year quarter.
    • Net income margin increased to 6.6% compared to 4.6% in the prior year quarter.
    • Non-GAAP adjusted net income increased to $9.6 million compared to $8.0 million in the prior year quarter (see Exhibit 1 for reconciliation).
    • Non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share increased to $0.59 compared to $0.44 in the prior year quarter (see Exhibit 1 for reconciliation). The increase per share was primarily attributable to the impact of higher revenue, improved operating margins and a lower share count.

    Non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA

    • Adjusted EBITDA increased to $16.5 million compared to $14.3 million in the prior year quarter (see Exhibit 2 for reconciliation).
    • Adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 11.8% compared to 10.8% in the prior year quarter (see Exhibit 2 for reconciliation).

    Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

    • Repurchased approximately 3.6 million shares from TRGI for an aggregate price of $70 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2025.
    • Capital expenditures were $4.3 million compared to $2.9 million in the prior year quarter. The increase in capital expenditures during this quarter was driven by capacity expansion to meet growing demand in our offshore and nearshore regions.
    • Cash flow from operating activities was $1.1 million compared to $(1.6) million in the prior year quarter. Free cash flow was $(3.2) million compared to $(4.5) million in the prior year quarter (see Exhibit 3 for reconciliation).
    • Net debt was $13.7 million compared to net cash of $61.2 million as of June 30, 2024 (see Exhibit 4 for reconciliation). The utilization of cash and debt is primarily attributable to the share repurchase from TRGI.

    “We achieved strong top and bottom line second quarter results. We accelerated our top-line momentum with over 6% revenue growth, driven by new client wins over the last year and continued expansion of our embedded client base made possible by our strong service delivery,” said Taylor Greenwald, CFO of ibex.

    “Our profitability continues to improve, where for 10 of the last 11 quarters we have delivered year-over-year adjusted EBITDA margin expansion, enabling strategic investments in AI capabilities and sales resources. These results instill continued confidence in the execution of our strategy throughout 2025, enabling us to raise our fiscal year guidance and continue to return value to shareholders.”

    Raised Fiscal Year 2025 Guidance

    • Revenue is expected to be in the range of $525 to $535 million versus a previous range of $515 to $525 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $68 to $69 million versus a previous range of $67 to $69 million.
    • Capital expenditures are expected to remain in the range of $15 to $20 million.

    Conference Call and Webcast Information
    IBEX Limited will host a conference call and live webcast to discuss its second quarter of fiscal year 2025 financial results at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time today, February 6, 2025. We will also post to this section of our website the earning slides, which will accompany our conference call and live webcast, and encourage you to review the information that we make available on our website.

    Live and archived webcasts can be accessed at: https://investors.ibex.co/.

    Financial Information
    This announcement does not contain sufficient information to constitute an interim financial report as defined in Financial Accounting Standards ASC 270, “Interim Reporting.” The financial information in this press release has not been audited.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    We present non-GAAP financial measures because we believe that they and other similar measures are widely used by certain investors, securities analysts and other interested parties as supplemental measures of performance and liquidity. We also use these measures internally to establish forecasts, budgets and operational goals to manage and monitor our business, as well as evaluate our underlying historical performance, as we believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide a more helpful depiction of our performance of the business by encompassing only relevant and manageable events, enabling us to evaluate and plan more effectively for the future. The non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies, have limitations as analytical tools, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our operating results as reported in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). Non-GAAP financial measures and ratios are not measurements of our performance, financial condition or liquidity under GAAP and should not be considered as alternatives to operating profit or net income / (loss) or as alternatives to cash flow from operating, investing or financing activities for the period, or any other performance measures, derived in accordance with GAAP.

    ibex is not providing a quantitative reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP measure because it is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the ultimate outcome of certain significant items without unreasonable effort. These items include, but are not limited to, non-recurring expenses, foreign currency gains and losses, and share-based compensation expense. These items are uncertain, depend on various factors, and could have a material impact on GAAP reported results for the guidance period.

    About ibex
    ibex helps the world’s preeminent brands more effectively engage their customers with services ranging from customer support, technical support, inbound/outbound sales, business intelligence and analytics, digital demand generation, and CX surveys and feedback analytics.

    Forward Looking Statements
    In addition to historical information, this press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “expect,” “predict,” “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our future financial and operating performance, including our outlook and guidance, and our strategies, priorities and business plans. Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize, and actual results in future periods are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Factors that could impact our actual results include: our ability to attract new business and retain key clients; our profitability based on our utilization, pricing and managing costs; the potential for our clients or potential clients to consolidate; our clients deciding to enter into or further expand their insourcing activities and current trends toward outsourcing services may reverse; general economic uncertainty in global markets and unfavorable economic conditions, including inflation, rising interest rates, recession, foreign exchange fluctuations and supply-chain issues; our ability to manage our international operations, particularly in the Philippines, Jamaica, Pakistan and Nicaragua; natural events, health epidemics, global geopolitical conditions, including developing or ongoing conflicts, widespread civil unrest, terrorist attacks and other attacks of violence involving any of the countries in which we or our clients operate; our ability to anticipate, develop and implement information technology solutions that keep pace with evolving industry standards and changing client demands, including the effective adoption of Artificial Intelligence into our offerings; our ability to recruit, engage, motivate, manage and retain our global workforce; our ability to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those regarding privacy, data protection and information security, employment and anti-corruption; the effect of cyberattacks or cybersecurity vulnerabilities on our information technology systems; our ability to realize the anticipated strategic and financial benefits of our relationship with Amazon; the impact of tax matters, including new legislation and actions by taxing authorities; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” described in our periodic reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and past filings on Form 20-F, and any other risk factors we include in subsequent filings with the SEC. Because of these uncertainties, you should not make any investment decisions based on our estimates and forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this press release whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    IR Contact:  Michael Darwal, EVP, Investor Relations, ibex, michael.darwal@ibex.co
    Media Contact:  Daniel Burris, VP, Marketing and Communication, ibex, daniel.burris@ibex.co

    IBEX LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Unaudited)
    (in thousands)

      December 31,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
    Assets      
    Current assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 20,206     $ 62,720  
    Accounts receivable, net   120,581       98,366  
    Prepaid expenses   6,905       7,712  
    Due from related parties   317       192  
    Tax advances and receivables   8,968       9,080  
    Other current assets   2,039       1,888  
    Total current assets   159,016       179,958  
           
    Non-current assets      
    Property and equipment, net   32,168       29,862  
    Operating lease assets   54,057       59,145  
    Goodwill   11,832       11,832  
    Deferred tax asset, net   5,052       4,285  
    Other non-current assets   10,373       8,822  
    Total non-current assets   113,482       113,946  
    Total assets $ 272,498     $ 293,904  
           
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity      
    Current liabilities      
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 19,924     $ 16,719  
    Accrued payroll and employee-related liabilities   33,278       30,674  
    Current deferred revenue   7,223       4,749  
    Current operating lease liabilities   12,208       12,051  
    Current maturities of long-term debt   8,217       660  
    Convertible debt   25,000        
    Due to related parties   149       60  
    Income taxes payable   4,643       6,083  
    Total current liabilities   110,642       70,996  
           
    Non-current liabilities      
    Non-current deferred revenue   1,119       1,128  
    Non-current operating lease liabilities   48,286       53,441  
    Long-term debt   695       867  
    Other non-current liabilities   2,819       1,673  
    Total non-current liabilities   52,919       57,109  
    Total liabilities   163,561       128,105  
           
    Stockholders’ equity      
    Common stock   1       2  
    Additional paid-in capital   212,116       210,200  
    Treasury stock   (101,606 )     (25,367 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (7,250 )     (7,913 )
    Retained earnings / (deficit)   5,676       (11,123 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   108,937       165,799  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 272,498     $ 293,904  

    14IBEX LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
    (Unaudited)
    (in thousands, except per share data)

      Three Months Ended December 31,   Six Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Revenue $ 140,682     $ 132,634     $ 270,399     $ 257,243  
                   
    Cost of services (exclusive of depreciation and amortization presented separately below)   98,762       95,884       188,803       184,080  
    Selling, general and administrative   25,706       24,857       51,921       47,897  
    Depreciation and amortization   4,286       4,946       8,655       9,988  
    Total operating expenses   128,754       125,687       249,379       241,965  
    Income from operations   11,928       6,947       21,020       15,278  
                   
    Interest income   311       512       894       1,098  
    Interest expense   (620 )     (111 )     (782 )     (215 )
    Income before income taxes   11,619       7,348       21,132       16,161  
                   
    Provision for income tax expense   (2,351 )     (1,273 )     (4,333 )     (2,661 )
    Net income $ 9,268     $ 6,075     $ 16,799     $ 13,500  
                   
    Other comprehensive income              
    Foreign currency translation adjustments $ (911 )   $ 679     $ 477     $ (22 )
    Unrealized (loss) / gain on cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax   (193 )     395       186       201  
    Total other comprehensive (loss) / income   (1,104 )     1,074       663       179  
    Total comprehensive income $ 8,164     $ 7,149     $ 17,462     $ 13,679  
                   
    Net income per share              
    Basic $ 0.61     $ 0.34     $ 1.05     $ 0.75  
    Diluted $ 0.57     $ 0.33     $ 1.00     $ 0.72  
                   
    Weighted average common shares outstanding              
    Basic   15,126       17,885       16,007       18,084  
    Diluted   16,456       18,440       16,977       18,667  

    IBEX LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Unaudited)
    (in thousands)

      Three Months Ended December 31,   Six Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES              
    Net income $ 9,268     $ 6,075     $ 16,799     $ 13,500  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:              
    Depreciation and amortization   4,286       4,946       8,655       9,988  
    Noncash lease expense   3,083       3,297       6,409       6,522  
    Warrant contra revenue         307             594  
    Deferred income tax   (637 )     52       (767 )     296  
    Share-based compensation expense   1,235       1,427       1,905       2,275  
    Allowance of expected credit losses   240       (5 )     323       6  
    Change in assets and liabilities:              
    Increase in accounts receivable   (14,856 )     (14,544 )     (22,505 )     (18,336 )
    Decrease / (increase) in prepaid expenses and other current assets   722       (936 )     (1,013 )     (2,192 )
    (Decrease) / increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (1,496 )     338       3,078       544  
    Increase in deferred revenue   2,386       673       2,465       301  
    Decrease in operating lease liabilities   (3,090 )     (3,267 )     (6,446 )     (6,451 )
    Net cash inflow / (outflow) from operating activities   1,141       (1,637 )     8,903       7,047  
                   
    CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES              
    Purchase of property and equipment   (4,319 )     (2,892 )     (7,949 )     (4,944 )
    Net cash outflow from investing activities   (4,319 )     (2,892 )     (7,949 )     (4,944 )
                   
    CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES              
    Proceeds from line of credit   9,100       59       9,160       96  
    Repayments of line of credit   (1,600 )     (59 )     (1,660 )     (148 )
    Proceeds from the exercise of options   342       6       724       11  
    Principal payments on finance leases   (182 )     (116 )     (353 )     (204 )
    Purchase of treasury shares   (46,562 )     (8,442 )     (51,369 )     (10,274 )
    Net cash outflow from financing activities   (38,902 )     (8,552 )     (43,498 )     (10,519 )
    Effects of exchange rate difference on cash and cash equivalents   (19 )     68       30       3  
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (42,099 )     (13,013 )     (42,514 )     (8,413 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning   62,305       62,029       62,720       57,429  
    Cash and cash equivalents, ending $ 20,206     $ 49,016     $ 20,206     $ 49,016  
                   
                   

    IBEX LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Reconciliation of GAAP Financial Measures to Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    EXHIBIT 1: Adjusted net income, adjusted net income margin, and adjusted earnings per share

    We define adjusted net income as net income before the effect of the following items: warrant contra revenue, foreign currency gain / loss, and share-based compensation expense, net of the tax impact of such adjustments. We define adjusted net income margin as adjusted net income divided by revenue. We define adjusted earnings per share as adjusted net income divided by weighted average diluted shares outstanding.

    The following table provides a reconciliation of net income to adjusted net income, net income margin to adjusted net income margin, and diluted earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share for the periods presented:

      Three Months Ended December 31, Six Months Ended December 31,
    ($000s, except per share amounts)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income $ 9,268     $ 6,075     $ 16,799     $ 13,500  
    Net income margin   6.6 %     4.6 %     6.2 %     5.2 %
                   
    Warrant contra revenue         307             594  
    Foreign currency (gain) / loss   (912 )     697       545       (100 )
    Share-based compensation expense   1,235       1,427       1,905       2,275  
    Total adjustments $ 323     $ 2,431     $ 2,450     $ 2,769  
    Tax impact of adjustments1   24       (482 )     (602 )     (671 )
    Adjusted net income $ 9,615     $ 8,024     $ 18,647     $ 15,598  
    Adjusted net income margin   6.8 %     6.0 %     6.9 %     6.1 %
                   
    Diluted earnings per share $ 0.57     $ 0.33     $ 1.00     $ 0.72  
    Per share impact of adjustments to net income   0.02       0.11       0.11       0.11  
    Adjusted earnings per share $ 0.59     $ 0.44     $ 1.11     $ 0.84  
                   
    Weighted average diluted shares outstanding   16,456       18,440       16,977       18,667  
                   
                   

    EXHIBIT 2:  EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margin

    EBITDA is a non-GAAP profitability measure that represents net income before the effect of the following items: interest expense, income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP profitability measure that represents EBITDA before the effect of the following items: interest income, warrant contra revenue, foreign currency gain / loss, and share-based compensation expense. Adjusted EBITDA margin is a non-GAAP profitability measure that represents adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue.

    The following table provides a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA and net income margin to adjusted EBITDA margin for the periods presented:

      Three Months Ended December 31, Six Months Ended December 31,
    ($000s)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income $ 9,268     $ 6,075     $ 16,799     $ 13,500  
    Net income margin   6.6 %     4.6 %     6.2 %     5.2 %
                   
    Interest expense   620       111       782       215  
    Income tax expense   2,351       1,273       4,333       2,661  
    Depreciation and amortization   4,286       4,946       8,655       9,988  
    EBITDA $ 16,525     $ 12,405     $ 30,569     $ 26,364  
    Interest income   (311 )     (512 )     (894 )     (1,098 )
    Warrant contra revenue         307             594  
    Foreign currency (gain) / loss   (912 )     697       545       (100 )
    Share-based compensation expense   1,235       1,427       1,905       2,275  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 16,537     $ 14,324     $ 32,125     $ 28,035  
                   
    Adjusted EBITDA margin   11.8 %     10.8 %     11.9 %     10.9 %
                   
                   

    EXHIBIT 3: Free cash flow

    We define free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures.

      Three Months Ended December 31, Six Months Ended December 31,
    ($000s)   2024       2023       2024     2023
    Net cash provided by operating activities $ 1,141     $ (1,637 )   $ 8,903   $ 7,047
    Less: capital expenditures   4,319       2,892       7,949     4,944
    Free cash flow $ (3,178 )   $ (4,529 )   $ 954   $ 2,103

    EXHIBIT 4: Net (debt) / cash

    We define net (debt) / cash as total cash and cash equivalents less debt.

      December 31,   June 30,
    ($000s)   2024       2024
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 20,206     $ 62,720
           
    Debt      
    Current $ 8,217     $ 660
    Convertible debt   25,000      
    Non-current   695       867
    Total debt $ 33,912     $ 1,527
    Net (debt) / cash $ (13,706 )   $ 61,193

    1The tax impact of each adjustment is calculated using the effective tax rate in the relevant jurisdictions.

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