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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New artificial synaptic chip mimicking biological synapses to transform information technology

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 3:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Scientists have created an artificial synaptic device that emulates the behaviour of biological synapses to transform information technology through more efficient computing models.

    They have used two-dimensional electron gas in oxide heterostructures for integrating architecture inspired by the biological brain, also called neuromorphic architecture and logic operations on a single chip.

    Modern computers inherently segregate memory and computation into independent physical units based on ’von Neumann computing’– a system which is like a set of instructions that tells the computer how to handle information and perform tasks. This requires separate units for reading and executing complex operations, and then returning the results to memory, which slows computing. This can create a “bottleneck,”. Especially if the computer needs to handle a lot of instructions and data at the same time, it can get slowed down because everything has to travel along the same path.

    On the other hand, a human brain is a sophisticated, dynamic, reconfigurable system with direct memory access, with neurons conducting the computational operations. Neuromorphic electronics, inspired by the intricate workings of the biological brain, offer the potential to transform information technology through more efficient computing models.

    Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali (Punjab), an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India used a new approach that follows the working principal of human brains to overcome the challenges of ’von Neumann computing’.

    They utilized the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) within the EuO-KTaO3 (KTO) oxide heterostructure to develop a chip which exhibited neuromorphic properties as well as showed a large change in resistivity known as resistive switching behaviour.

    Current is generated at EuO-KTaO3 interface due to shining of light and this persists even after the light is turned off (demonstrating high persistent photoconductivity) resulting in optoelectronic properties necessary for replicating cognitive functions such as sensory perception, learning, and memory.

    The developed chip not only mimics the short- and long-term plasticity observed in biological synapses but also performs logic gate operations, significantly enhancing its versatility and potential for integration in advanced neuromorphic systems.

    Supported by the DST’s Nanomission, and CSIRin the form of a sophisticated, custom-made instrument called a combinatorial pulsed laser deposition setup, Prof. Suvankar Chakraverty Professor at INST, Mohali (Punjab), haveproduced 2DEG at the interface composed of chemicals EuO and KTaO3acting as artificial synaptic device showing neuromorphic properties.The researchwas published in the journal ‘Applied Physics Letter’.

    Neuromorphic design in oxide interfaces can facilitate more energy-efficient and quicker information processing, enhanced AI capabilities, and improved device miniaturisation. These systems may learn and change with time, resulting in more personalized and responsive technology. Furthermore, their resilience and fault tolerance make them perfect for important applications that will ultimately improve everyday life, including healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.

    Publication details:https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0219906

    Figure showing the EuO-KTO interface as an artificial synaptic device mimicking the biological synaptic behaviour, showing neuromorphic properties, volatile to non-volatile switching, and can act as logic gates.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Novel polymer nanocomposite creates base for road safety sensor for accident prone turnings

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 3:48PM by PIB Delhi

    A prototype of a road safety sensor that can be implanted at high-risk turning points where accidents are frequent, has been developed from a new polymer nanocomposite with pressure sensing and energy harvesting properties.

    Scientists are constantly trying to develop new materials for self-powered energy generating and pressure sensing devices and using them for several applications. Flexible, portable, long-lasting, and wearable sensors and energy harvesting devices can play an essential part in today’s artificial intelligence era. Polymers and nanoparticles serve critical roles in today’s flexible electronic systems.

    Researchers from Centre for Nano and Soft matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengluru have developed a polymer nanocomposite for pressure sensing and energy harvesting applications and used it to invent a prototype of a road safety sensor.

    The prototype may be implanted in the movable ramp and secured to the road just 100 meters before acute and fatal turning points. Thus, any vehicle approaching from the opposite side will see the signal on a screen and be alerted. This prototype works on the principle of piezoelectric effect so it can generate energy that can be stored and used further to power electronic gadgets as well.  

    The novel polymer nanocomposite, from which the prototype has been crafted, has been made of transition metal dichalcogenide.

    The scientists, Shri Ankur Verma, Dr. Arjun Hari Madhu, Dr. Subash Cherumannil Karumuthil synthesized vanadium disulfide (VS2) with a very high surface charge which has the capacity of improving the piezoelectric characteristics of polymers. Polymer nanocomposite films were prepared by integrating these nanoparticles at various concentrations into a well-known piezoelectric polymer, poly (vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF).

    Further they investigated how the surface charge of nanoparticles will affect the piezoelectric properties of polymer nanocomposite.  In addition, a laboratory-scale demonstration of a road safety sensor and smart door was established, with the prototype as a pressure sensor.

    This study demonstrates that PVDF-VS2nanocomposites will provide significant value to flexible, long-term energy generating and pressure sensing applications. This work was recently published in the Journal of Material Chemistry A and an Indian patent application filed.

    This study is part of an ongoing project “Materials for self powered energy generating and pressure sensing devices” funded by Department of Science and Technology under INSPIRE –faculty fellowship programme.

    Publication details: DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA07335A

    Patent number: 202341071356 on October 19, 2023.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Council of Medical Research signs MoU with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam to Boost Solar Power Usage in Health Research Facilities

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Indian Council of Medical Research signs MoU with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam to Boost Solar Power Usage in Health Research Facilities

    The collaboration marks a major step towards sustainable energy adoption in India’s healthcare research sector

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 3:55PM by PIB Delhi

    In a landmark agreement to promote sustainable energy within India’s healthcare and research sector, aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and a cleaner, greener future, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN). The partnership is aimed at harnessing solar power for ICMR institutes across the country, supporting India’s push towards renewable energy and sustainability.

    Under this agreement, NVVN will supply, install, test, commission, and maintain rooftop solar panels at 15 ICMR institutes with a combined capacity of 4,559 KW. The project also includes a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for grid-connected solar projects, offering a fixed solar tariff for the next 25 years, ensuring long-term cost efficiency and sustainability for ICMR’s operations.

    Seven institutes are already benefitting from solar power under earlier projects, and the MoU with NVVN will extend solarization efforts to additional facilities, significantly reducing ICMR’s carbon footprint and energy expenditure.

    This partnership effectively advances India’s national renewable energy goals, fostering a sustainable future in healthcare research, and positioning ICMR as a leader in green energy adoption within the biomedical field.

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    MV

    HFW/ICMR NVVN Release/04th October 2024/1

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DoT combats Cyber-frauds: Central system to stop spoofed calls to be commissioned shortly

    Source: Government of India

    DoT combats Cyber-frauds: Central system to stop spoofed calls to be commissioned shortly

    Citizens are advised to use ‘Chakshu’ to report Spam Calls

    45 lakh spoof international calls with Indian phone numbers being blocked by TSPs daily

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 4:31PM by PIB Delhi

    In recent times, citizens are receiving many fraudulent calls, often disguised as originating from Indian mobile numbers. These calls are in fact manipulated by cyber-criminals operating from abroad. These criminals exploit the Calling Line Identity (CLI) to mask the actual origin of the calls, which has led to a spate of incidents involving threats of mobile number disconnection, fake digital arrests, and even impersonation of government officials or law enforcement agencies. Recent cases have included false accusations involving drugs, narcotics, and sex rackets, further intensifying public concern.

    In response to this growing threat, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in collaboration with Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), has introduced an advanced system designed to identify and block incoming international spoofed calls before they can reach Indian telecom subscribers. This system is being deployed in two phases: first, at the TSP level, to prevent calls spoofed with phone numbers of their own subscribers; and second, at a central level, to stop calls spoofed with the numbers of subscribers from other TSPs.

    As of now, all four TSPs have successfully implemented the system. About one third of total spoofed calls at 4.5 million spoofed calls are being stopped from entering the Indian telecom network. The next phase, involving a centralized system that will eliminate the remaining spoofed calls across all TSPs, is expected to be commissioned shortly.

    Fraudsters, however, continue to adapt and devise new methods to deceive the public. DoT is taking timely measures to protect telecom users as these new ways are reported. In the age of rapidly evolving technology, the DoT has taken multiple measures to make the telecom eco-systems safer and secure. However, even with these robust safeguards, there may still be instances where fraudsters succeed through other means.

    In such cases, DoT encourages citizens to proactively report suspected fraud communications to help DoT in identification and prevention of misuse of telecom resources for cyber-crime, financial frauds. It will also help in safeguarding citizens from impersonation, exploitation, and enabling proactive action against potential threats.

    Citizen can report such calls at Chakshu facility available on the Sanchar Saathi platform (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/)  by providing details about suspected fraud calls, SMS, and WhatsApp messages including screenshot, medium of receipt, category of intended fraud, date and time of receiving such communication. An OTP based verification will be carried out.

    The Chakshu facility is a significant step towards safeguarding citizens from cyber fraud. By providing a streamlined process for reporting suspicious activities, it helps in the early detection and prevention of potential frauds, thereby protecting users from financial and personal losses

    In addition, the Government has taken various measures for preventing misuse of telecom resources including:

    i.          Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has rolled out Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) project with objective to devise systems to curb misuse of telecom resources for cybercrime and financial frauds.

    ii.         Sanchar Saathi portal: DoT has developed a citizen centric Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in) providing various facilities for reporting of cases related to misuse of telecom resources which are as under:

    a.     to report suspected fraud communications and Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC);

    b.     to know the mobile connections issued in their name and report the mobile connections for disconnection which are either not required or not taken by them;

    c.     to report the stolen / lost mobile handset for blocking and tracing;

    d.    to check the genuineness of mobile handset while buying a new/old device;

    e.     to report the incoming international calls received with Indian telephone number as calling line identification.

    iii.        Digital Intelligence Platform: DoT has launched an online secure Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) for sharing of information related to misuse of telecom resources among the stakeholders for prevention of cyber-crime and financial frauds. At present DoT field units, all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), MHA, 460 banks and financial institutions, 33 States/UTs police, central agencies and other stakeholders have on-boarded this platform. This platform, inter-alia, hosts the list of disconnected mobile connections on near real time basis along with the reasons for disconnections enabling the stakeholders to take appropriate action including to disengage the associated services linked with these mobile numbers.

    iv.        DoT using AI based tools has identified the mobile connections taken on fake / forged documents or taken exceeding the prescribed limits for an individual. Such mobile connections along with telecom resources and mobile handsets used in fraudulent activities are being weeded out from the telecom ecosystem.

    Following are the outcomes, as on date in brief, of the actions taken by DoT:

    a.  Disconnected 1.77 crore mobile connections taken on fake/forged documents.

    b.  Targeted action of disconnection of 33.48 lakh mobile connections and blocking of 49,930 mobile handsets used by cyber criminals in cyber-crime hotspots/districts of the country.

    c.  77.61 lakh mobile connections exceeding the prescribed limits for an individual have been disconnected.

    d.  Pan India blocking of 2.29 lakh mobile phones involved in cyber-crime or fraudulent activities.

    e.  About 12.02 lakh out of 21.03 lakh reported stolen/lost mobile phones have been traced.

    f.   Disconnected about 20,000 entities, 32,000 SMS headers and 2 lakh SMS templates involved in sending malicious SMSs.

    g.  About 11 lakhs accounts have been frozen by the banks and payments wallets which were linked to disconnected mobile connections taken on fake / forged documents.

    h.  About 11 lakhs WhatsApp profiles/accounts have been disengaged by WhatsApp which were linked to disconnected mobile connections taken on fake / forged documents

    i.   71,000 Point of Sale (SIM Agents) have been blacklisted. 365 FIRs have been registered in multiple States/UTs.

     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Science and Technology successfully completed preparatory phase activities for Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India

    Department of Science and Technology successfully completed preparatory phase activities for Special Campaign 4.0

    Ministers of State, Secretary and Joint Secretary & Nodal Officer of SCDPM 4.0 spearheading DST’s implementation plans and strategies for a successful campaign

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 3:49PM by PIB Delhi

    The Special Campaign 4.0 launched by the Government, with Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances as the nodal department, has gained significant momentum in its preparatory phase. The Special Campaign 4.0 will be entering the Implementation Phase from 2nd October to 31st October 2024, preceded by Preparatory Phase from 16th September 2024 to 30th September, 2024.

    During the preparatory phase, Department of Science and Technology (DST) has identified pending VIP references, Public Grievances, Parliamentary Assurances. The list of offices for Swachhata Campaign has also been identified and the volume of electronic/ automobile/ office scrap to be disposed has also been assessed in its Headquarters as well as in Subordinate Offices and Autonomous Bodies. Plans have been finalized for freeing up of office spaces by way of digitization of documents and weeding of records.

    DST has successfully uploaded the targets for the Preparatory phase of the Campaign on the Special Campaign 4.0 web portal. DST along with its AIs and Subordinate offices has identified 257 cleanliness campaign sites; 26496 physical and 383 e-files for review; 42 pending public grievances and 8 appeals for disposal.

    In addition to above, various large scale awareness generation and campaign advocacy programme have been planned during implementation phase through PIB statements, and various platforms of social media.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Smt. Annapurna Devi visits CARA’s new office premises, launches Swacchata Hi Seva 2024 campaign

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 3:52PM by PIB Delhi

     

    The Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, visited the new office premises of the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA). The Minister’s presence underscored the government’s commitment to enhancing the infrastructure and efficiency of CARA as it continues to serve the needs of children across the country.

    As part of the Swacchata Hi Seva 2024 campaign, a dedicated effort was made to clean one acre of the CARA office premises. The initiative reflects government’s vision for a cleaner and greener India, encouraging community involvement and awareness around sanitation and environmental conservation. Around 1 ton waste was removed from the premises during this cleanliness drive. 

    The program ended with a vibrant plantation drive, where 7 different kinds of saplings were planted, symbolizing hope and growth. Officers from Ministry and CARA actively facilitated the Minister throughout the event, demonstrating their commitment to the cause. Among those in attendance were Shri Anil Malik, Secretary, Ministry of Women and Child Development along with other senior officers. Following this, the Minister met CARA’s senior officials for a review discussion.

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    SS/MS

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    Read this release in: Hindi

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw graces 40th RPF Raising Day Parade at Nashik and felicitates award winning RPF Personnel for Exemplary Service

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw graces 40th RPF Raising Day Parade at Nashik and felicitates award winning RPF Personnel for Exemplary Service

    Union Minister Announces ₹35 Crore Grant for Upgradation of RPF Zonal Training Centres with Focus on Women Personnel

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 4:07PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, today graced the 40th Raising Day Parade of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) as the Chief Guest at the RPF Zonal Training Centre, Nashik. During the event, the Union Minister felicitated 33 RPF personnel who were awarded the prestigious Police Medals for Meritorious Service and Jeevan Raksha Medals for their courageous efforts in saving passengers’ lives during 2023 and 2024. These awards reflect the exemplary service of the RPF in safeguarding the nation’s railway network and are set to inspire other members of the force to continue their dedicated efforts with renewed vigour.

    The Minister lauded the Railway Protection Force (RPF) for its proactive adoption of modern technology in enhancing security measures. He assured that the RPF will be equipped with advanced protective gear, including bulletproof jackets and improved helmets, to ensure the safety and efficiency of its personnel. Furthermore, the Minister announced a grant of ₹35 crores for the upgradation and modernization of Zonal Training Centres of the RPF, with a special focus on facilities for women personnel. An additional grant of ₹5.5 crore was sanctioned for the Zonal Training Centre for the RPF Dog Squad in Tamil Nadu, aimed at strengthening the specialized training infrastructure.

    The Union Minister also took the ceremonial salute during the RPF parade, marking a significant display of discipline and commitment. As part of the event, Shri Vaishnaw launched the Hindi edition of the ‘Sangyaan’ mobile application, which enhances communication within the force. He further released Hindi versions of reference books on three newly enacted criminal laws, aimed at strengthening the legal knowledge of RPF personnel.

    Addressing the gathering, Shri Vaishnaw expressed gratitude to Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister who has been a guiding and inspiring force in the massive transformation of Indian Railways which is taking shape. He said 5300 km of new rail lines have been laid last year and in the last 10 years, 31,000 km of new rail lines have been laid. He further added that 40,000 km have been electrified during the past 10 years, which is double than what has been done in the past 60 years.

    He further said that Indian Railways aims to provide good, comfortable, fast and affordable travel through new age trains like Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains along with modern facilities like Kavach for safer travel experience for all the people of the country. He also stated that about 12,500 General Class coaches are being manufactured presently for convenience of the people.

    Shri Manoj Yadava, Director General RPF, Shri Dharam Veer Meena, General Manager, Central Railway, Divisional Railway Manager, Bhusaval Division and other Senior Officers from Headquarters and Division of Central Railway were present at the event of 40th Raising Day Parade.

    The RPF Raising Day Parade is celebrated by the RPF members and their families. It is a day to reaffirm their commitment to the public good and share their happiness. The RPF is not only entrusted with the responsibility of security of railway property but also of passengers and passenger areas. It has emerged as a force with compassion as it has been helping women, children, sick, elderly, differently abled and others in need of care and protection coming in contact with railways. The force has been working round the clock for providing safe, secure and comfortable travel experience to Railway passengers. It has become a crucial stakeholder in the national security grid by playing an important role in transport security, taking preventive action against acts of terror, fighting crime including Human Trafficking and smuggling, helping police and other Law Enforcement Agencies in detection of crime, aiding in maintenance of law & order, providing bandobasht during National and State elections among others.

    The Railway Protection Force has dedicated itself to the service of the nation and its citizens with utmost dedication, sincerity and hard work to realise the objective of “Sewa Hi Sankalp” leaving no stone unturned in working towards their motto- “Yasho Labhaswa” or “Attain Glory”.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurates the Hiramani Arogyadham Day-Care Hospital in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurates the Hiramani Arogyadham Day-Care Hospital in Gandhinagar, Gujarat

    The then CM of Gujarat and now PM Shri Narendra Modi took numerous steps to improve healthcare facilities and make them accessible to public

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Swachh Bharat Mission keeping in mind the health interests of citizens, providing toilets and access to drinking water in every household

    By initiating the celebration of International Yoga Day, PM Modi made regular exercise a part of public’s daily routine

    The Modi govt. builds health infrastructure in the country, with a plan to increase 75,000 medical seats in the next 10 years

    To alleviate the burden of expensive medications, the government established a mechanism to provide generic medicines, allowing the poor to access medicines at 10 to 30 percent lower price

    The Modi govt. is strengthening the healthcare system for millions by integrating 37 different schemes

    This is a prime example of creating plans with sensitivity and foresight to alleviate the suffering of the people

    Shri Narhari Amin has consistently worked to serve society and solve problems

    At Hiramani Arogyadham, therapies, dialysis, and physiotherapy for various ailments have been made affordable for the general public

    Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 4:19PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah today inaugurated the Hiramani Arogyadham Day-Care Hospital in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. On this occasion, several dignitaries, including Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, were present.

    In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, and now the Prime Minister of the country, Shri Narendra Modi, made numerous efforts to improve healthcare facilities in Gujarat and make them accessible to the public. He mentioned that Shri Narhari Amin has consistently worked to serve society and solve problems. Shri Shah highlighted that Narhari Ji established infrastructure for athletes across Gujarat through the state’s cricket association. Moreover, through schools, he has made significant efforts to provide quality education to around 4,000 children and contribute to their overall development. Shri Shah further noted that after establishing old age homes and the Annapurna Trust, Narhari Ji has now built this Hiramani Arogyadham in memory of his parents, which is truly commendable.

    Union Home Minister said that modern lifestyles, fast-paced lives, pollution, and other factors that lead to various diseases affecting our bodies, requiring long-term treatment. He mentioned that these ailments often need multiple therapies, dialysis, physiotherapy, and other treatments to reduce the suffering caused by the diseases. Shri Shah pointed out that such treatments are usually very expensive and are less accessible to the poor, middle class, and people in rural areas. Keeping these challenges in mind, Shri Narhari Ji has built the Hiramani Arogyadham, which was inaugurated today. Shri Shah highlighted that Narhari Ji has taken a holistic approach to address people’s health concerns.

    Shri Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the Swachh Bharat Mission keeping public’s health in mind, helping people avoid many diseases caused by unhygienic conditions. He further mentioned that after this, the government ensured access to clean drinking water in every household, which helped prevent waterborne diseases. Following that, toilets were built in every home, and International Yoga Day was introduced to make regular exercise a part of people’s daily routine. Shri Shah added that through the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Card, PM Modi has provided comprehensive healthcare coverage of up to five lakh rupees to millions of people, freeing them from the burden of expensive treatments.

    Union Home Minister stated that while a plan can be formulated by the government, comprehensive healthcare is not possible without adequate infrastructure. He mentioned that to address this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the construction of health infrastructure across the country. Shri Shah noted that the Modi government has set a target to increase the number of medical seats by 75,000 in the next 10 years. He also highlighted that the government has established a mechanism to provide generic medicines to relieve people from the burden of expensive drugs, allowing them to access medicines at about 10 to 30 percent lower prices compared to the market.

    Shri Amit Shah stated that the entire healthcare setup is built by integrating approximately 37 different schemes. He mentioned that by combining these 37 various initiatives, an effort has been made to address the health concerns of the country’s 1.4 billion people. Shri Shah emphasized that This is a prime example of creating plans with sensitivity and foresight to alleviate the suffering of the people.

    Union Home Minister stated that if facilities for daily treatments for chronic illnesses, such as dialysis and physiotherapy, are available nearby and at affordable rates, then poor people can benefit from them. He mentioned that at Hiramani Arogyadham, therapies, dialysis, and physiotherapy for various ailments have been made available for the general public at affordable rates.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Colleagues To POTUS: Expedite Resources To Floridians

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    GAINESVILLE, FL — Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm, causing catastrophic damage along Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s crucial for the federal government to expedite state-requested resources and authorize key policy flexibilities in order for Floridians to make a swift recovery.

    U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Florida colleagues sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the direction of federal agencies to expedite requested resources and implement emergency policy flexibilities to help the people of Florida.

    • “Mr. President: In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response.”

    The full text of the letter is below. 

    Dear Mr. President:

    In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we write to urge you to direct federal agencies to expedite state-requested resources and actions and to implement precedented emergency policy flexibilities to facilitate a seamless federal response. Specifically, we urge you to direct federal agencies to act on the following items:

    Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

    • Temporary Housing Assistance

    On September 29, 2024, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) requested FEMA to authorize Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering, including in the form of Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers in accordance with FEMA Policy 104-009-18, as well as in the form of Direct Housing Assistance in Individual Assistance-designated counties.  On October 1, 2024, FDEM requested FEMA to authorize Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for survivors of Hurricane Helene, including to modify FEMA Policy 104-21-0008 to add Friends and Family and Damaged Dwelling categories to the list of eligible survivor locations for TSA. We urge you to approve these requests as quickly as possible.

    Further, with respect to the swift delivery and deployment of FEMA temporary housing resources in impacted communities, we urge you to direct FEMA to authorize the use of travel trailers and manufactured homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas to ensure that housing unit recipients are able to stay on their properties while they rebuild permanent structures.  Due to the nature of Florida’s low elevation, FEMA’s regulatory requirements with regard to temporary housing in flood zones significantly restricts federal housing assistance in the state.  Enabling disaster survivors to remain on their properties following a disaster is crucial to the recovery process, as doing so reduces the need for survivors to commute from a remote location for the purposes of rebuilding and looking after their properties and affairs.  There is a precedent for FEMA allowing this policy flexibility.  Following Hurricane Ian, the provision of temporary housing resources was severely delayed due to FEMA regulations that prevented the placement of manufactured housing units and travel trailers in these flood zones.  However, FEMA ultimately authorized this flexibility following months of delays in temporary housing assistance.

    • Issue Storm-Specific Guidance for Debris Removal, Demolition, and Disposal 

    In the wake of Major Disasters, FEMA may waive program requirements with respect to prior approval for debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal, and issue disaster-specific guidance to inform local communities on how they can remain in compliance with regulations and law while accounting for policy waivers in order to remain eligible for reimbursement.  We have heard from local governments, in designated counties, that the issuance of storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene debris removal, demolition, and waste disposal would enable them to confidently remove hazardous debris in an expedited manner without having to risk failing to comply with regulation or law.  We urge you to direct FEMA to issue storm-specific guidance for Hurricane Helene as quickly as possible. 

    • Ensure Sand Removal, Screening, and Placement is Eligible for Category A Debris Removal Public Assistance Reimbursement

    Hurricane Helene washed tons of sand into the streets and rights-of-way of municipalities in designated counties along the Gulf Coast of Florida, impeding public transportation and evacuation routes.  Sand is an irreplaceable material for Florida’s outdoor economy, and composes the dunes and shorelines that protect infrastructure from storm surge, erosion and tidal flooding.  The collection and removal of sand from streets and rights-of-way, screening of sand to remove debris, and placement of screened sand along shorelines is time-intensive and may be too costly for non-federal entities to expense themselves.  We request you ensure the removal of sand debris, screening of sand for debris, and placement of sand on productive shorelines are eligible activities for FEMA reimbursement under Category A Public Assistance, just as it was following Hurricane Ian.

    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE):

    • Emergency Permitting Procedures

    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations allow the authorization of emergency permitting procedures to expedite emergency work and repair in emergency situations that may result in hazards to life, loss of property, or economic hardship.[2]  The severe impacts of Hurricane Helene pose such hazards, as navigation channels along the Gulf Coast of Florida have been impeded by debris from damaged and destroyed structures and infrastructure.  These channels must be cleared of hazards to promote safe navigation, and to enable recovery in remote coastal areas that require maritime access.  Further, terrestrial infrastructure, including shoreline infrastructure, may require expedited permitting procedures to prevent economic hardship and hazards to public safety from possible future severe weather. 

    • Issue Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies (FCCE) Shoreline Easement Policy Memorandum

    The failed Army Corps of Engineers policy implementation of Section 103 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 1986 (33 U.S.C. 2213) has caused many hurricane risk reduction projects in Florida, including several in Hurricane Helene’s disaster areas, to become effectively defunct due to burdensome perpetual easement requirements.  Pinellas County, which suffered more deaths than any other county in Florida due to Hurricane Helene, primarily from storm surge, is ground zero for this federal policy failure that has led to the erosion of shorelines and dunes that are proven to mitigate storm surge impacts.  Section 361 of the Senate-passed Water Resources Development Act of 2024 contains language that would give policy flexibility to local project sponsors receiving supplemental FCCE funds to construct emergency FCCE projects with less-than-permanent easements.[3]  We urge you to direct the USACE to issue a policy memorandum on an expedited basis to implement this policy, which passed the Senate unanimously, so that local project sponsors have certainty they will be able to secure less-than-permanent easements in anticipation of receiving FCCE funds from a possible forthcoming disaster supplemental.  This policy would also enable local project sponsors to begin implementing hundreds of millions of dollars of supplemental FCCE funds appropriated in December 2022 that have been impeded by failed USACE policy implementation.  

    • Operation Blue Roof 

    Hurricane Helene made landfall with winds of 140 miles per hour and higher wind gusts.  Due to the large size and fast forward movement of the hurricane, Helene projected strong winds over a large area, damaging roofs in the process.  Operation Blue Roof is an emergency program of the Army Corps of Engineers, in consultation with FEMA, for the deployment of blue plastic tarps to protect damaged homes from future rain damage.  Please consider activating Operation Blue Roof if FEMA, USACE, and partners assess sufficient need. 

    U.S. Department of Agriculture:

    • Block Grant Authority for Agricultural Disaster Relief

    The State of Florida has requested Agriculture Secretary Vilsack to designate an Agricultural Disaster for the state, a request we support.  In addition to expediting an Agricultural Disaster designation, we urge you to recognize block grants to states as a valid method of disbursing supplemental disaster assistance to growers.  We would also welcome your support for explicitly including this authority in a forthcoming disaster supplemental.  Supplemental disaster assistance appropriated in December 2022 has been slow to reach growers, in part due to manpower constraints on the USDA’s ability to process and administer disaster loss claims.  Providing agricultural assistance via block grants to states allows state agencies to use their own employees as a force multiplier to process claims in an expedited manner, and disburse aid to agricultural producers more quickly. 

    Thank you for your attention to these important matters. We look forward to working with you on behalf of Floridians.

    Sincerely,


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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating Flaxmere shooting

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are investigating after two men were shot in Flaxmere last night.

    Police were called to a Berwick Crescent address at 11.30pm yesterday, following reports of a shooting.

    Officers were subsequently notified that two men had arrived at Hawke’s Bay Hospital with injuries consistent with being shot.

    One of the men was reported to have a serious injury, while the other was reported to have a moderate injury.

    Enquiries are under way to establish exactly what has occurred. 

    Anyone with information which could assist our enquiries is asked to please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241005/2014.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 
     

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Reporters Without Borders Why is it important to fight propaganda?

    Source: Reporters Without Borders (RSF) (Video Release)

    #EDITORSF : « Why is it important to fight propaganda? »

    Exposing propagandists, explaining their tactics, proposing solutions to disinformation… RSF’s new Director General, Thibaut Bruttin, explains RSF’s strategy to combat propaganda.

    Propaganda Monitor is a project in response to growing concern about the global impact of propaganda.

    #journalism #tech #medias #humanrights #pressfreedom #journalists #journalisme #libertedelapresse #droitshumains #media #journalistes #journalismisnotacrime #rsf

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIbEgffOv-c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 2024 HHS Hispanic Health Summit | September 25, 2024 | Part 1

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Please virtually join Secretary Xavier Becerra for the 2024 HHS Hispanic Health Summit. At this Summit, senior HHS leaders, the Biden-Harris Administration, and Latino health leaders will highlight their work to improve equity and access to health care in the Latino community. Panels and workshops topics will focus on health care access, reproductive health, caregiving, environmental health, and much more.

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov | HHS Privacy Policy | http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARJXHZKBaTI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 2024 HHS Hispanic Health Summit | September 25, 2024 | Part 2

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Please virtually join Secretary Xavier Becerra for the 2024 HHS Hispanic Health Summit. At this Summit, senior HHS leaders, the Biden-Harris Administration, and Latino health leaders will highlight their work to improve equity and access to health care in the Latino community. Panels and workshops topics will focus on health care access, reproductive health, caregiving, environmental health, and much more.

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov | HHS Privacy Policy | http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfISSXnle5U

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: National Lab Discovery Series: New Ways to Accelerate Bioproduct R&D

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Explore cutting-edge advancements in bioproduct research and development with the Agile BioFoundry (ABF), a consortium of seven U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories. This webinar highlights innovative tools and processes designed to accelerate R&D and scale up biomanufacturing.

    Key topics include:

    High-throughput automation pipelines for strain engineering and production.
    Advanced process development for biomanufacturing using single-carbon and gaseous feedstocks.
    Merging synthetic biology with machine learning and robotics for bioproduct synthesis.
    Featuring insights from Berkeley Lab experts Hector Garcia Martin, Chris Petzold, and Eric Sundstrom, this session offers a deep dive into scalable biomanufacturing solutions and interactive discussions with industry leaders.

    Learn how to collaborate with the Agile BioFoundry and explore licensable technologies like the Automated Recommendation Tool. Watch now!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSklZCpjmQI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: This Week at Interior October 4, 2024

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    This Week: Interior personnel join emergency responders and assistance agencies from across the country in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene; Secretary Haaland travels to Carlisle, Pennsylvania as part of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative; Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland travels to the Pacific Northwest to talk about the impact of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda on critical Tribal infrastructure projects; Interior announces more than $24 million to restore our nation’s lands and waters; the Departments of the Interior, Agriculture and Commerce make recommendations for promoting forest health and job creation; more than $80 million in grants are awarded for the Republic of Palau; the Bureau of Reclamation celebrates the first federally funded projects to enhance critical water infrastructure at the Gila River Indian Community; the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement awards a contract for the decommissioning of orphaned pipelines; a small but mighty mammal stars in out social media Picture of the Week! Make sure you follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube!

    http:/www.facebook.com/usinterior
    http:/www.instagram.com/usinterior
    http:/www.twitter.com/Interior

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Enen7i5coV4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 82nd Airborne activated for Helena Relief

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    Active duty Soldiers, paratroopers and CH-47 Chinooks from the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade are actively engaged in support of response efforts to assist their fellow citizens from North Carolina for hurricane recovery efforts due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

    About the U.S. Army:
    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BNL7-22-0029_N_OSOC_OCPA_YT_ocpagen_xx_xx

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army

    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez9wCCGEBrQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sewell Announces $850,000 to Improve Public Safety at Miles College

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)

    Fairfield, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) was joined by Miles College President Dr. Bobbie Knight to announce $850,000 that she secured to improve public safety resources on the campus of Miles College and the surrounding community. The funding will be used to increase safety lighting on campus, procure upgraded security cameras, invest in broadband-enabled security devices, and purchase new public safety vehicles. It is part of the $13.1 million that Rep. Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal government funding package for local projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District.

    Photos and videos are available for media and broadcast purposes here.

    “As our Birmingham community continues to grapple with the horrific impacts of gun violence, there is no better time to ensure that our students, faculty, and staff are safe and secure on campus,” said Rep. Sewell. “The $850,000 that we secured will help Miles College procure additional lighting, security equipment, and vehicles to provide for the safety of the entire campus community. It will help the students here at Miles College focus on what matters most: learning, leading, getting involved, and building community.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Allred Joins Bipartisan Effort Calling for a Disaster Aid Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32)

    Proposed package would include disaster aid for the May derecho and Hurricane Beryl

    Today, Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32) led 11 of his colleagues in the Texas Delegation in a letter urging House of Representatives Leadership and House Appropriations Committee leaders to bring a disaster supplemental aid package to the House of Representatives as soon as possible, noting the great need from recent storms, including Hurricane Beryl.

    “As Americans struggle to recover from Hurricane Helene, another devastating hurricane this season, we write to urge you to bring a supplemental disaster funding bill to the floor as soon as possible,” the letter reads.  “It is important to all those affected across multiple states that we work to provide critical assistance to individuals and businesses recovering from multiple recent natural disasters, including in our home state of Texas after a derecho followed by Hurricane Beryl, both Presidentially declared disasters.”

    “This is the second year in a row that FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund has run out of funding before the end of hurricane season,” the letter continues.  “These funds are critical to ensuring FEMA can continue to help our community and others across the country recover from past disasters and mitigate future events.  Earlier this year, FEMA took measures to conserve and redirect remaining funds to lifesaving missions, pausing assistance with recovery and rebuilding missions for prior disasters, which is an equally important part of FEMA’s goal.  Already more than 650,000 Harris County residents have requested FEMA assistance, which is more assistance requests received than after any other disaster in the county’s recent history.  While we are glad to see that FEMA lifted the pause after the passage of the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, H.R. 9747, with hurricane season still ongoing, additional funding is necessary to meet the unprecedented needs of our community.”

    Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Congressman Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Congressman Colin Allred (TX-32), Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36), Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Congressman Al Green (TX-09), Congressman Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Congressman Troy Nehls (TX-22), and Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) signed the letter. 

    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswomen Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs introduce the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16)

    Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) introduced the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024. The Senate companion has been introduced by Senator Jeanne Shaheen.

    Studies have shown that servicemembers face unique challenges accessing contraception and family planning counseling, especially when deployed. With that in mind, the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024:

    1. Requires that all people enrolled in TRICARE have coverage of contraceptives without cost-sharing, the same as civilians;
    2. Requires the Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive family planning education program for all servicemembers, ensuring that military families have the information necessary to make informed decisions; and
    3. Guarantees access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault upon their request.

    Permanently alleviating these challenges is particularly important at a time when our military continues to confront recruitment and retention challenges.

    “The Department of Defense provides health care to nearly 1.62 million women of reproductive age, but many military dependents face co-pays on birth control when their civilian counterparts don’t,” Congresswoman Escobar said. “No military family should have fewer rights than those they serve to protect. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues, Sara Jacobs and Marilyn Strickland, in introducing a long overdue, commonsense piece of legislation to ensure military families have access to the care they need.”

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Given all that we ask from our service members and their families, it’s absolutely shameful that they can be forced to pay more than civilians for contraception – an essential part of health care. Research tells us that even small copays of contraception can prevent people from getting the care they need, pushing some to forgo contraception completely, choose less effective methods, or use it inconsistently. That’s an unacceptable risk for our service members and endangers our military readiness. I’m proud to co-lead the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act to fix this glaring oversight and ensure that our military can get the contraception they need.”

    “Answering the call to serve often means making a great number of sacrifices for your country, and being able to start a family should not be one of them,” said Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10). “All Americans deserve access to contraceptives.”

    “At this critical moment for reproductive health access, we are grateful for the introduction of this bill by Representatives Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland to lift barriers to birth control for service members and their families,” said Jackii Wang, Senior Legislative Analyst for Reproductive Rights & Health at the National Women’s Law Center. “Being able to decide if, when, and how to become a parent is a decision that everyone should have, including those in the Armed Forces. The Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act is critical to ensuring that service members have the freedom to control their own futures.”

    “Service members and their families deserve access to the full range of sexual and reproductive health care — including birth control,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “They should have the freedom to control if, when, and how they build their families. This should not be up for debate. To truly support our service members and military families, we must protect and expand their access to the health care they need, when they need it. Thank you to Reps. Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs for reintroducing this bill.” 

    Reproductive Freedom for All President and CEO Mini Timmaraju said: “With reproductive freedom under attack like never before, it is more urgent than ever that our lawmakers take bold action to safeguard and expand access to contraception for members of our military and their families. We are grateful to Reps. Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland for fighting to ensure that everybody, including servicemembers, has the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, families, and futures.”

    “Servicemembers deserve equal and affordable access to comprehensive contraceptive services for themselves and for their families,” said Freya Riedlin, Senior Federal Policy Counsel at the Center for Reproductive Rights. “With the vast majority of servicemembers being of reproductive age, the need to ensure comprehensive access to contraception and family planning services couldn’t be clearer. We commend Congresswomen Escobar, Strickland, and Jacobs for championing this vital bill.”

    “Every person deserves to be able to determine if, when and how they build their families, including our service members and veterans. As physicians, we understand that access to contraceptive care is a key part of safeguarding our basic human right to bodily autonomy. We applaud the steps this bill takes to ensure that servicemembers and their families have meaningful access to the full spectrum of contraceptive care through the Access to Contraception for Servicemembers & Dependents Act,” Dr. Jamila Perritt, President & CEO of Physicians for Reproductive Health and ob/gyn in Washington DC, said.

     

    “Everyone deserves access to the contraceptive method they want and need without cost being a barrier. The fact that this is not possible for all of our servicemembers and their families right now is deeply unfair and disrespectful of what they give to our country,” said Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley, CEO of Power to Decide. “As a practicing OB-GYN, it is so frustrating to see patients on TRICARE, counsel them about contraception and then not know whether they will be able to access the method they need. Thank you to Representatives Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland for your leadership—it’s time to fix this.”

    “Birth control and contraception are essential health care,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, health plans for non-military families must cover contraceptives with no cost sharing. This bill would provide our service members and their dependents with the same benefits, allowing them to make decisions about their health and reproductive care without worrying about the costs they will incur. We appreciate Rep. Escobar’s leadership on this issue to ensure service members faithfully serving our country get the high-quality health care they deserve.”

    Although the Affordable Care Act (ACA) guarantees that employer-sponsored and marketplace health plans cover preventive services without cost sharing, including all Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, granted, or cleared contraceptive methods, counseling, and related services, these protections do not apply to coverage through TRICARE, a health care program for uniformed servicemembers and their families.

    In July 2022, the Department of Defense took a critical action in eliminating copayments for medical contraceptive services (i.e., intrauterine devices, birth control shot, birth control implant, and diaphragm measurement and fitting), and effective January 2023, certain TRICARE beneficiaries will no longer face cost-sharing or copayments for tubal ligation (surgical sterilization) services when obtaining care through a civilian provider. However, congressional action is needed to completely eliminate copayments for prescription contraceptives and ensure that servicemembers and their loved ones have equitable access to all methods of contraception.

    Congresswomen Escobar, Jacobs, and Strickland are joined by co-sponsors Ro Khanna (CA-17), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Marc Veasy (TX-33), James McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), James Himes (CT-04), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Annie Kuster (NH-02), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Susan Wild (PA-07), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Scott Peters (CA-50), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), John Larson (CT-01), Susan Wild (PA-07).

    The Access to Contraception for Servicemembers and Dependents Act of 2024 is endorsed by Endorsements: National Partnership for Women & Families, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Women’s Law Center, Power to Decide, Service Women’s Action Network.

    Bill text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Escobar Leads Letter to DHS on Reproductive Healthcare Access for Migrants in Federal Custody

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16)

    Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) led 30 of her colleagues in sending a letter to U.S Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, Acting Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Troy Miller, and Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Tae Johnson expressing concerns about access to abortion care in immigrant communities. 

    The lawmakers wrote: “In March 2023, we wrote to thank this Administration and this Department for revising the guidance to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to ensure continued access to abortion care for unaccompanied youth… Unfortunately, since we last wrote, the number of state abortion bans have only increased, leaving millions of people without access to necessary care. And for noncitizens who are in your care and custody or must risk immigration enforcement en route to a medical clinic, these state- level prohibitions present mounting dangers to their health and safety.” 

    “Abortion bans exacerbate the obstacles to obtaining an abortion for immigrants detained in these states,” they continued. “Approximately 41% of immigrants in ICE detention are being held in two states that ban abortion: Texas and Louisiana. Arriving immigrants held in CBP custody—often much longer than the 72-hour limit and in some cases, up to 30 days—have been unable to access medical care including abortion and emergency contraception… Emergency contraception is most effective within 24-72 hours to prevent pregnancy, but it is generally not available in these facilities, where people are now waiting longer to be processed and released to the community to access care. If someone becomes pregnant because they’ve been unable to access emergency contraception, they may seek access to abortion but many of CBP facilities are based in Texas where abortion is almost completely banned. Even for immigrants who are not detained, obtaining an abortion is incredibly difficult because U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checkpoints in border communities make it all but impossible for undocumented immigrants to safely reach health care facilities located hundreds of miles away.” 

    “These permanent and temporary enforcement checkpoints, in addition to roving patrols, directly contribute to a chilling effect for people who must travel from the border region to other states for abortion care and restrict movement for both documented and undocumented immigrants; forcing some people to avoid traveling altogether and forgo the time-sensitive care they need,” the lawmakers added. “Moreover, should Texas’s anti-immigrant law SB4 go into effect, Texans will also have to worry about being stopped and questioned about their immigration status if they travel from Texas to an out-of-state abortion clinic, risking arrest, detention, and deportation. This is already a threat for Texans who live in or must drive through counties participating Operation Lone Star, where Texas troopers have stopped drivers of color and transferred immigrants to CBP custody.” 

    “Abortion is time-sensitive, essential health care, and no one should face the threat of being separated from their family and possibly deported for attempting to access it – but that is the reality for people in many parts of the country,” the lawmakers wrote before adding the following five actions: 

    1. Consistent with DHS’s protected areas guidance, DHS should ensure that people are able to safely reach those protected facilities without CBP checkpoints impeding their travel or exposing people to potential detention and deportation. Any policies must protect patients from violations of privacy by federal immigration enforcement personnel and guarantee confidentiality of medical information. 
    1. DHS should expand CBP’s November 2021 policy regarding the detention of pregnant, postpartum, and nursing people in CBP facilities to: 

    a.      Expedite processing to minimize the time that people who are pregnant, postpartum, and/or nursing, and their families, are in CBP custody to only the time period necessary to process them for release from CBP custody. In absolutely no case should custody exceed 12 hours from the time of initial apprehension. 

    b.      Ensure that, together with their families, people who are pregnant, postpartum, and/or nursing are released from CBP custody as soon as possible after any discharge from an offsite hospital and are not transferred back to CBP detention for any purposes, including processing. 

    1. We believe that medically vulnerable people, including those who are pregnant, should not be in detention. If pregnant persons are detained, there should be no barrier to abortion. DHS should therefore issue guidance to build on ICE’s current policy of ensuring abortion access: 

    a.      Any pregnant person in ICE/CBP custody who requests access to abortion and is in a state that bans or significantly restricts abortion shall be afforded an immediate transfer (with the option to be transferred back), unless the individual affirmatively asserts a preference to stay in the current placement or state after receiving appropriate advisals.  

    b.      Any pregnant person in ICE/CBP custody shall be promptly notified of the right to access abortion, regardless of state restrictions, in language that the individual can understand, in a comfortable and private venue in which they feel free to ask questions (such as non-directive medical counseling), and the delivery point of which information is standardized (e.g., always by an experienced medical professional). Pregnant persons in ICE/CBP custody who request access to abortion shall be afforded care as soon as they need it and shall be free to choose the abortion method that is best for them, including medication abortion, based on the options that are clinically appropriate. 

    c.       In instances where it is possible, pregnant people in ICE/CBP custody shall not be placed in a U.S. state that bans or significantly restricts abortion access (e.g., bans abortion at fifteen weeks or earlier).  

    d.      For people who are under Orders of Supervision that require ICE’s permission to travel out of state, DHS must require ICE to permit interstate travel for people who need abortion care. 

    1. DHS should make it absolutely clear that the department will not take any enforcement action against people who may be arrested for or convicted of abortion care-related crimes. DHS must also clarify that it will not consider these arrests or convictions, or the disclosure of having obtained abortion care, to bar any form of immigration relief, including in discretionary determinations. It should also issue guidance urging the use of prosecutorial discretion for individuals arrested at checkpoints while trying to access medical care, including abortion and other reproductive care. 
    1. CBP should provide timely access to, and information about, emergency contraception in all its detention facilities in a manner consistent with ICE’s policy on the provision of contraception. 

    They concluded, “A person’s immigration status must never be an additional obstacle to their access to essential, time-sensitive health care. We look forward to working with your agency to make this an integral part of the administration’s response to the growing crisis for abortion access and to close the existing, preventable gaps in coverage, particularly for people in your care and custody.” 

    Joining Congresswoman Escobar in this letter are representatives Jim McGovern (MA-2), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Elanor Holmes Norton (DC), Delia Ramirez, (IL-03), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Greg Casar (TX-35), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Raul Grijalva   (AZ-07), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Melanie Stansbury (NM-1), Judy Chu (CA-28), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Linda Sanchez (CA-38), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Ayanna Pressley (MA-7), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Nikema Williams (GA-5), Tony Cardenas (CA-29), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), and Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44). 

    The full text of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Raskin and Vice Ranking Member Ocasio-Cortez Demand Chief Justice Roberts Explain Why He Allowed Justice Alito to Remain on Jan. 6 Case Despite Recognizing Conflict of Interest

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY)

    Chief Justice Roberts Took the “Highly Unusual” Step of Replacing of Justice Alito as Author on the Fischer Case Following Reports of Ties to “Stop the Steal” Movement Yet Allowed Him to Remain on the Case

    Washington, D.C. —Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Vice Ranking Member of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, sent a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts demanding an explanation for his decision to replace Justice Samuel Alito as the author of the Supreme Court’s opinion in Fischer v. United States, a case involving the January 6 insurrection, just days after the public learned that he repeatedly flew flags and banners supportive of the January 6 insurrectionists while allowing him to remain on the case.

    “Recent reporting by the New York Times suggests that you took the ‘highly unusual’ step of replacing Justice Alito as the author of the Supreme Court’s opinion in Fischer v. United States, a case involving the January 6 insurrection, just days after the public learned that Justice Alito and his spouse repeatedly flew flags and banners supportive of the insurrectionists and the ‘Stop the Steal’ movement.   Your decision suggests that you recognized that Justice Alito’s partisan ideological activity called into question his impartiality with regard to the Fischer matter.  Yet, Justice Alito, like Justice Clarence Thomas, whose own ties to the ‘Stop the Steal’ movement are well established, was allowed to participate in the Fischer case, in violation of the Court’s institutional commitment to the principle that a Justice must ‘disqualify himself or herself in a proceeding in which the Justice’s impartiality might reasonably be questioned,’” wrote the Members.

    On June 20, 2024, the Members wrote to Chief Justice Roberts expressing concerns about Justice Alito’s troubling participation in cases related to January 6 due to his own ties to the “Stop the Steal” movement, and questioned what steps Chief Justice Roberts was taking to investigate flagrant instances of partisan activity and lack of disclosure on the Supreme Court.  The Members also sounded alarms about allegations of misconduct by Justice Clarence Thomas, who failed to recuse himself from January 6 cases despite his own conflicts of interest, as well as his blatant violations of the Court’s financial disclosure requirements.

    The letter followed reporting that between the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol and President Biden’s inauguration on January 20, 2021, Justice Alito and his spouse flew an upside-down American flag outside of their personal residence, in an apparent show of support for the “Stop the Steal” movement.  Additional reporting uncovered other instances of partisan activity by Justice Alito, from displaying other political flags to suggesting he is involved in an ideological battle with “the Left,” according to audio recordings.

    Chief Justice Roberts’ decision to remove Justice Alito as the author of the Fischer opinion strongly suggests he recognized that Justice Alito’s conduct raises concerns about his impartiality.  However, by only changing the authorship instead of requiring both him and Justice Thomas to recuse themselves, Chief Justice Roberts allowed the Court to violate federal law, the Constitution, and its own ethical standards.

    “[B]y taking the half measure of replacing him as the opinion’s author, instead of requiring him, as well as Justice Thomas, to recuse wholly from the matter, you allowed the Court to violate and defy federal law, the Constitution, and its own Code of Conduct. […]  In order to help us understand the Court’s processes and your own actions, as we consider potential legislative action to make clear that the Justices of the Supreme Court, like every person in America, are bound by our Constitution and our laws, we respectfully request that you provide written responses to the following questions,”wrote the Members.

    On June 11, 2024, Ranking Member Raskin and Vice Ranking Member Ocasio-Cortez led Committee Democrats in examining the private and public corruption of the Supreme Court in a roundtable titled “High Court, Low Standards, and Dark Money:  Flagging a Supreme Ethics Crisis in America.” 

    In November 2023, Ranking Member Raskin led Committee Democrats in a letter to Chairman Comer urging him to investigate the ethics crisis in the Supreme Court amid reports of conservative Justices receiving undisclosed lavish gifts from wealthy individuals with business before the Court.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NH Delegation Announces $2.4 Million to Increase Safety for NH Nonprofits, Including Houses of Worship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    The New Hampshire delegation announced $2.4 million in grants for New Hampshire nonprofits, including houses of worship, under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program.

    “Granite Staters practicing their faith at their houses of worship or volunteering at non-profit organizations should be able to do so without fear of violent threats or attacks,” said Congressman Pappas. “This funding will provide needed resources to improve the safety and security of New Hampshire’s non-profits and places of worship. I will continue to fight for federal funding that strengthens public safety and addresses the needs of our communities.”

    “Granite Staters deserve to feel safe when attending a church service or volunteering at a local nonprofit,” saidSenator Hassan. “This federal funding will help houses of worship and nonprofits in New Hampshire – which play an integral role in our communities – boost their security and protect against potential threats.” 

    “Too many times, our nation’s houses of worship have been the target of horrific and senseless violence,” said Senator Shaheen. “No Granite Stater should ever feel unsafe or threatened while practicing their faith, and that’s why I’m glad to see federal funding coming to New Hampshire to help nonprofits and houses of worship bolster their security and protect community members.” 

    “New Hampshire’s non-profit organizations and houses of worship are essential parts of our communities—Granite Staters shouldn’t have to worry about their safety when volunteering or visiting these spaces,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to join the rest of the delegation in welcoming these resources to our state to help ensure these vital spaces can operate safely and securely, free from threats or acts of violence.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Adriano Espaillat Continues Congressional Push Honoring Legacy of Roberto Clemente Coin Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13)

    Espaillat Closing in on History with His Leadership for the Clemente Commemorative Coin Bill

    NEW YORK, NY — Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) introduced the bipartisan Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act earlier this Congress to honor the legacy of the altruistic Major League Baseball (MLB) star Roberto Clemente. 

    The bill, to date, has garnered tremendous support in the U.S. House of Representatives and is near the necessary 290 cosponsors needed to bring the legislation to the House floor for consideration. 

    “Roberto Clemente was a humanitarian, social justice trailblazer, and tireless advocate for the rights of Black and Latino communities, and his legacy extends beyond the baseball field,” said Espaillat. “I am adamant in this congressional effort, through my bill to create the Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin, to ensure a lasting tribute to Clemente’s sportsmanship, unparalleled talent, and humanitarian efforts both on and off the field that continues to inspire us all.”  

    To date, the bipartisan Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act has been endorsed by numerous impactful organizations, including: FRIENDS of the National Museum of the American Latino; NALEO Educational Fund; The National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce; Friends of Puerto Rico; Congreso de Latinos Unidos; Grupo 21; El Museo del Barrio; Youth Guidance BAM Chicago; Roberto Clemente High school; DREAM; Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association; UCF-Puerto Rico Research Hub; Roberto Clemente Middle School; The Clemente Museum; Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade; The Clemente Course in the Humanities; PONY Baseball and Softball; Puerto Rico Pony Baseball and Softball League, Inc.; Clemente Course in the Humanities, Inc.; and the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement.

    Earlier this Congress, Espaillat introduced a congressional resolution urging the MLB to fully implement Roberto Clemente Day throughout the league.

    Read: How a Congressman Wants to Honor Roberto Clemente, featured in the New York Times, detailing Rep. Espaillat’s push in Congress to honor Clemente.

    Read: A half century after his tragic death during a life-saving mission of mercy, we must expand Roberto Clemente Day to honor his legacy, featured in NY Daily News, highlighting Espaillat’s work to expand the MLB’s Roberto Clemente Day.

    Watch Video

    # # #

    Representative Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and his congressional district includes Harlem, East Harlem, West Harlem, Hamilton Heights, Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill and the north-west Bronx. First elected to Congress in 2016, Representative Espaillat is serving his fourth term in Congress. Representative Espaillat currently serves as a member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations responsible for funding the federal government’s vital activities and serves as Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee of the committee during the 118th Congress. He is also a member of the House Budget Committee and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), where he serves in a leadership role as the Deputy Chair as well as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). Rep. Espaillat is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) and serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. To find out more about Rep. Espaillat, visit online at https://espaillat.house.gov/.

    Media inquiries: Candace Person at Candace.Person@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Underwood Announces Opening of FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Joliet

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

    JOLIET — Today, Rep. Lauren Underwood announced that a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Recovery Center has opened in Joliet, Illinois to help residents recover from the severe storms, tornadoes, winds, and flooding that occurred during July 13-16 this year.

    The storms hit our community hard, causing widespread property damage and power outages that stretched across northern Illinois.

    “I want our neighbors to know that if you and your family were impacted by these terrible storms, federal help is available and we are working hard to get you the resources you need,” said Underwood. “I encourage affected residents and business owners to visit this Recovery Center to sit down with an expert, contact my office for assistance, or visit DisasterAssistance.gov for more information.”

    Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois, and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available, and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

    The center will open at the following location:

    Will County Center for Community Concerns

    2455 Glenwood Ave.

    Joliet, IL 60435

    Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m. – 12 p.m., Closed Sundays

    Help in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials will be available at the Joliet center. For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, constituents are encouraged to visit http://www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.

    As Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Underwood plays a key role in allocating funding for FEMA, and has prioritized bringing federal resources to Illinois to help disaster recovery efforts.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Connolly Leads Bipartisan Letter to Postal Board of Governors Urging Action to Ensure Safe and Secure Postal Operations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va)

    CategoriesMIL OSI

    Connolly Leads Bipartisan Letter to Postal Board of Governors Urging Action to Ensure Safe and Secure Postal Operations

    Washington, October 4, 2024

    Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, led a bipartisan group of lawmakers in writing to the Postal Board of Governors to bring to their attention severe deficiencies in United States Postal Service (USPS) operations that risk the security of the mail and mail facilities and threaten the safety of postal employees and members of the public. The Members urged the Board of Governors to take action to address these issues and requested information from the Board to ensure effective oversight of their progress.

    In addition to Connolly, the letter was signed by the following Members of Congress: Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Marc Molinaro (R-NY), and Blake D. Moore (R-UT).

    “The Board of Governors is responsible for overseeing the operations of the USPS, setting the strategic direction of the USPS, approving important and significant USPS policies, and holding USPS leadership accountable to upholding the mission of one of our nation’s most prized assets,” wrote the Members.

    “As such, we bring to your attention for immediate action a series of recent reports by the USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG), which have identified serious lapses in existing postal operations and a glaring lack of oversight by the USPS over its own facilities and contracted suppliers and services,” the Members continued. “The concerns raised by the OIG can be grouped into three primary categories: access to postal facilities, contract trucking safety, and repeated violations of federal wage laws under the purview of USPS contracts.”

    The Members requested answers to the following questions:

    1. Does the Postal Service currently have a record of every driver and carrier (i.e. trucking company), including subcontracted carriers, that accessed Postal Service facilities in FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024?
    2. Does the Postal Service know how many drivers it has permitted to access its facilities without a postal-issued ID security badge and how many of those drivers would have qualified for a badge after completing the nonsensitive security clearance and driving record review?
    3. Does the Postal Service uniformly record the driver’s license, or the information contained therein, for those individuals that access postal facilities without first obtaining a postal badge, how is that information stored, and has any analysis of that data ever been performed to determine if these drivers would qualify for a postal-issued photo ID security badge?
    4. Does the Postal Service maintain a do-not-use carrier or driver list and does the Postal Service share that list with its transportation contractors to ensure that unsafe subcontractors are not utilized?
    5. How many traffic fatalities have occurred involving Postal Service transportation contractors and subcontractors, respectively, in FY 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, and are these companies still performing transportation services for the Postal Service? Are those incidents reported to the Board of Governors?
    6. Have the measures cited in the Postal OIG’s February 2024 report on Contract Trucking Safety regarding implementation of a process and method for tracking contractor crash and fatality information, along with written instructions regarding policy and procedure, been completed given the target date of July 31 provided in the report?
    7. Was the Board of Governors aware of the Postal Service’s intention to use its freight auction board for routine trips or given a projection that the Postal Service would spend approximately $1 billion in FY 2024 on the freight auction board to contract transportation?
    8. Was the Board of Governors aware of the Postal Service’s intention to abandon its postal-issued ID security badge process for contractors operating on the freight auction board and did the Board of Governors agree with or authorize this policy decision? Did the Board of Governors, collectively or individually, express any concern about the potential consequences of this policy decision in light of the significant increase in freight auction utilization?
    9. Why has the Postal Service failed to comply with the requirements of the Service Contract Act after receiving the Department of Labor’s denial of its requested exemption on February 22, 2022? How many freight auction contracts or trips in 2024 failed to include the SCA-required wage determination?
    10. Does the Postal Service track criminal activity by transportation contractors or subcontractors, such as trailer theft, mail theft, or loading commercial freight in sealed trailers carrying mail? If so, how many such incidents occurred in FY 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 and what types of incidents occurred?

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Chairman Martinez and Members of the USPS Board of Governors:

    We write to bring to the attention of the Board of Governors severe deficiencies in United States Postal Service (USPS) operations that risk the security of the mail and mail facilities and threaten the safety of postal employees and members of the public.

    The Board of Governors is responsible for overseeing the operations of the USPS, setting the strategic direction of the USPS, approving important and significant USPS policies, and holding USPS leadership accountable to upholding the mission of one of our nation’s most prized assets.

    As such, we bring to your attention for immediate action a series of recent reports by the USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG), which have identified serious lapses in existing postal operations and a glaring lack of oversight by the USPS over its own facilities and contracted suppliers and services. The concerns raised by the OIG can be grouped into three primary categories: access to postal facilities, contract trucking safety, and repeated violations of federal wage laws under the purview of USPS contracts.

    1. Access to Postal Facilities: The OIG’s September 2023 audit, “Transportation Workplace Safety and Driver Security,” revealed that a significant portion of drivers accessing USPS facilities were not properly vetted according to existing security procedures and lacked valid identification badges. This report found that between 72% and 88% of drivers were found to be without appropriate clearance, putting both postal employees and mail security at risk. The OIG’s February 2024 audit, “Contract Trucking Safety and Compliance” revealed that this lack of driver vetting remained persistent and particularly problematic for suppliers operating on the Postal Service’s freight auction. As of the OIG’s August 2024 audit, this issue remains unresolved.
    2. Contract Trucking Safety: The February 2024 audit, “Contract Trucking Safety and Compliance,” also identified a failure to track serious and fatal crashes involving contract trucking services. The OIG recommended that the USPS establish immediately a method for tracking contractor crash and fatality data, a recommendation codified in the Mail Traffic Deaths Reporting Act. Consistent with the September 2023 audit, the OIG also reported that USPS does not maintain adequate records on who is authorized to transport mail and does not enforce proper vetting procedures drivers, particularly for freight auction suppliers. As we have seen in public reporting over the last several years, these safety lapses lead to serial violation of safety standards and preventable deaths.
    3. Pattern of Wage Violations Under USPS Watch: The August 2024 OIG audit, “Evaluation of Freight Auction,” revealed a troubling pattern of wage violations within USPS’s contracting system, which increasingly awards contracts through the use of freight auctions. Many of these low-cost contracts are possible, in part, because workers are being underpaid in violation of the Service Contract Act. These violations are being exacerbated by the Postal Service’s own failure to comply with the Service Contact Act by failing incorporating the relevant, required minimum wage determinations and fringe benefits in contract solicitations. USPS’s cost-cutting approach has facilitated these wage violations without regard for the quality of outcomes, rewarding contractors for cutting corners. While not a direct safety or security concern, this issue contributes to a culture that deprioritizes safety and security by encouraging unlawful business practices and incentivizing contractors to reduce costs at any expense.

    This pattern of wage violations reflects a broader issue within USPS: a focus on low-cost contracts, principally via its freight auction board, without concern for the quality of outcomes. While cost-cutting is not inherently bad, it becomes deeply problematic when done with disregard for the law, safety, and security. Freight auction spending has surged, with projections reaching $1 billion this year—a 628% increase since 2022. As utilization of freight auctions increases, oversight continues to lag, exacerbating the safety risks, security gaps, and labor concerns identified in recent audits. For example, the OIG’s February report found that, for drivers under these contracts, screening protocols are often inconsistent or entirely absent.

    Although the Postal Service has taken some steps to improve safety and oversight since last year, serious issues remain. USPS’s lack of oversight in favor of low-cost freight auction contracts has led to security lapses, such as insufficient driver vetting, and compromised safety standards for contract trucking, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering both postal employees and the public. Without urgent corrective measures, these failures will continue to compromise the safety of postal employees, the security of the mail, and public trust in the USPS.

    The Board of Governors must ensure the USPS addresses the issues noted above swiftly. Public trust in the Postal Service depends on maintaining safe and secure operations, and the growing use of unaccountable contracting practices threatens to undermine that trust. We urge immediate action to address the OIG’s findings and ensure that modernization does not come at the expense of safety, security, and legal wage rates.

    To better understand the scope of these oversight failures and monitor the steps that the Postal Service will take to address them, we request answers to the following questions:

    1. Does the Postal Service currently have a record of every driver and carrier (i.e. trucking company), including subcontracted carriers, that accessed Postal Service facilities in FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024?
    2. Does the Postal Service know how many drivers it has permitted to access its facilities without a postal-issued ID security badge and how many of those drivers would have qualified for a badge after completing the nonsensitive security clearance and driving record review?
    3. Does the Postal Service uniformly record the driver’s license, or the information contained therein, for those individuals that access postal facilities without first obtaining a postal badge, how is that information stored, and has any analysis of that data ever been performed to determine if these drivers would qualify for a postal-issued photo ID security badge?
    4. Does the Postal Service maintain a do-not-use carrier or driver list and does the Postal Service share that list with its transportation contractors to ensure that unsafe subcontractors are not utilized?
    5. How many traffic fatalities have occurred involving Postal Service transportation contractors and subcontractors, respectively, in FY 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, and are these companies still performing transportation services for the Postal Service? Are those incidents reported to the Board of Governors?
    6. Have the measures cited in the Postal OIG’s February 2024 report on Contract Trucking Safety regarding implementation of a process and method for tracking contractor crash and fatality information, along with written instructions regarding policy and procedure, been completed given the target date of July 31 provided in the report?
    7. Was the Board of Governors aware of the Postal Service’s intention to use its freight auction board for routine trips or given a projection that the Postal Service would spend approximately $1 billion in FY 2024 on the freight auction board to contract transportation?
    8. Was the Board of Governors aware of the Postal Service’s intention to abandon its postal-issued ID security badge process for contractors operating on the freight auction board and did the Board of Governors agree with or authorize this policy decision? Did the Board of Governors, collectively or individually, express any concern about the potential consequences of this policy decision in light of the significant increase in freight auction utilization?
    9. Why has the Postal Service failed to comply with the requirements of the Service Contract Act after receiving the Department of Labor’s denial of its requested exemption on February 22, 2022? How many freight auction contracts or trips in 2024 failed to include the SCA-required wage determination?
    10. Does the Postal Service track criminal activity by transportation contractors or subcontractors, such as trailer theft, mail theft, or loading commercial freight in sealed trailers carrying mail? If so, how many such incidents occurred in FY 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 and what types of incidents occurred?


    Thank you for your service to the USPS and for your immediate attention to issues raised in this correspondence.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott Statement on ILA and USMX Agreement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott Statement on ILA and USMX Agreement

    As originally released by the Committee on Education and the Workforce, Democrats

    WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and the Workforce, released the following statement after International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance reached a tentative agreement to reopen the East Coast and Gulf ports. In sum, ILA workers will receive a 62 percent pay raise over six years. 

    “I am grateful that the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) were able to reach an agreement and reopen the East Coast and Gulf ports. I want to thank President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Acting Secretary Department of Labor Su for ensuring workers have a voice on the job. 

    “This tentative agreement looks to be good news for workers, businesses, and our economy. It is also the result of successful collective bargaining. When workers form a union and exercise their voice, they can bargain for higher pay, better benefits, safer workplaces and receive their fair share of the wealth they create.”

    Ranking Member Scott is the lead sponsor of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), which protects the basic right to join a union by: (1) holding employers accountable for violating workers’ rights, (2) empowering workers to exercise their right to organize, and (3) securing free, fair, and safe union elections. To learn more about PRO Act, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott Statement on the September Jobs Report

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott Statement on the September Jobs Report

    As originally released by the Committee on Education and the Workforce, Democrats

    WASHINGTON –Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) released the following statement after the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that the economy added 254,000 jobs in September, and the unemployment rate ticked down from 4.2 to 4.1 percent. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, 16.2 million jobs have been created, and workers have seen their hourly earnings grow by 18.1 percent on average.

     “Four years ago, the unemployment rate was 7.8 percent. Today, the unemployment rate is 4.1 percent. Four years ago, roughly 800,000 people filed initial unemployment insurance claims during the week.  Only 225,000 filed claims this week. Four years ago, the economy was in freefall and Americans were hoarding toilet paper; today the economy is strong, and Americans are thriving. 

    “The truth is the economy always performs better under Democratic Administrations. For example, President Trump is the first president in nearly 100 years to have lost more jobs than he created during his time in office. During President Trump’s tenure, ten months of which he spent mismanaging the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy lost 2.7 million jobs. During President Biden’s time in office, nearly two years of which were spent recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy has added 16.2 million jobs. That is more jobs than any President has created in four years. And more jobs than any Republican President has created in eight years. The only President to create more jobs is President Clinton, who added 22.9 million jobs in eight years. 

    “Despite inheriting a struggling economy and a workforce devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden-Harris Administration successfully rebuilt the economy and delivered real, lasting results for the American people. The policies in the American Rescue Plan Act (APRA) helped to create millions of new jobs– reflecting Democrats’ commitment to build an economy from the bottom up and the middle out.

    “In ARPA and IRA, Democrats fought to put money in family bank accounts by passing stimulus payments, enacting the child tax credit, enhancing SNAP benefits, increasing unemployment insurance and saving the pensions of one million workers participating in the multi-employer pension fund. Democrat then lowered everyday costs for working families by reducing health care costs, reducing premiums on the Obamacare Marketplace and reducing drug costs, especially insulin, and reducing the costs of childcare.  These measures not only helped families afford their day-to-day needs but by the end of the first year, child poverty was cut in half, and credit card delinquency was at its lowest point in nearly 30 years. And Congressional Democrats were able to accomplish this without a single Republican vote.

    “And the Administration’s commitment to invest in workers has paid off for families across America. The Census Bureau recently reportedthat the strong labor market and falling inflation contributed to a marked increase in real median household income, as well as a decrease in the official poverty rate. These investments demonstrate that policies that prioritize workers are also great for the economy.  

    “Every worker in America should be able to come home from work each day healthy, whole, and fairly compensated. Unfortunately, we know all too well that unscrupulous employers cut corners that put workers’ lives at risk or violate their rights in the workplace. In 2023, 16.2 million Americans were able to count on their unions to help them secure higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces. Continuing to safeguard collective bargaining is just one of the ways this Administration and Congressional Democrats have ensured that workers have a share in the prosperity they work hard to create.

    “Moreover, the Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to raising workers’ wages. This is why in 2021, President Biden worked to raise the minimum wage for federal contractors to $15 an hour. And earlier this year, the Department of Labor finalized a rule that would guarantee overtime pay for most salaried workers earning less than $58,656 per year, extending overtime protections for roughly an additional 4 million Americans. I will continue to support the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing commitment to paying workers their fair share and having the security they need to provide for themselves and their families.

    “The results of these policies speak for themselves – in the past four years, Democrats ensured working people were not left behind during this country’s economic recovery. But the work is not over. Despite the resilience of the economy, there is more that can be done to lower costs, whether at the grocery store, the pharmacy counter, or when buying a home. Democrats are offering proposals to end price gouging, lower prescription drug costs, expand home ownership, increase the Pell grants, lower the cost of childcare, among many other things.

    “In stark contrast, my House Republican colleagues have spent their time in the majority complaining and blaming others but not offering Americans any solutions. And their record shows it. In the last two years, House Republicans have not passed a single piece of legislation that was signed into law that will meaningfully reduce costs for the American people. Complaining about a problem is not a solution.

     “As for me, I will continue my work in Congress, as I always have— working on policy solutions that will build on the progress we have made and create an economy where everyone can succeed.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wittman Introduces Bipartisan Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) today introduced the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act, a bipartisan effort co-led by Reps. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), and Jim Costa (D-CA-21). The legislation will study the implementation of automated software tools to improve and expedite the organ donation referral process.

    This legislation seeks to enhance patient safety by ensuring that every potential organ donor is automatically referred, while reducing the time hospital staff spend on manual referrals. Automating the deceased organ donor referral process will allow hospital staff to focus more on patient care, minimizing the risk of human error, and ultimately increasing the number of organs available for transplant.

    “By harnessing the power of technology, we can streamline the organ donation referral process, giving healthcare providers more time to care for their patients and save more lives,” said Congressman Wittman. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will remove barriers to adopting automated electronic organ donor referrals in health systems nationwide so we can give hope to patients waiting for the gift of life.”

    “There are over 100,000 Americans on the national transplant waiting list. As lawmakers, we have a responsibility to improve and modernize the organ donation process,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “The bipartisan Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act will study the potential for automated electronic donor referrals, reducing the barriers to successful organ transplantation and ultimately saving lives.”

    The bill is endorsed by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO), National Kidney Foundation (NKF), American Kidney Fund (AKF), LifeNet Health (OPO for Virginia’s First District), Infinite Legacy (OPO for greater DC area), American Society of Transplant Surgeons, American Society of Transplantation (AST), New Jersey Sharing Network, Kidney Transplant Collaborative, Waitlist Zero, and LifeCenter Northwest.

    “The Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act is a critical step towards supporting the national adoption of automated electronic deceased donor referral technology.,” Maureen McBride, Ph.D., CEO of UNOS. “Eight lives can be saved by just one organ donor. One small-scale study found that deploying automated deceased organ donor referral systems increased organ donors by 333%. The widespread use of such technology could increase the number of organs available for transplant and ultimately increase the number of Americans who receive lifesaving organ transplants.” 

    “The Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO) supports the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act, an important step in ensuring that every potential donor is given the opportunity to save lives,” said Dorrie Dils, president of AOPO. “We commend Representative Wittman for his dedication and leadership on this important issue. Our member Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) have seen firsthand how automatic referrals expedite the identification of potential organ donors, significantly increasing an OPOs ability to rapidly authorize donors and recover organs for transplant – all of which leads to more lives saved. Accordingly, we strongly support legislative efforts to make this the standard practice.” 

    “This is an important step towards improving our ability to make data-driven improvements to the organ donation and transplantation system. With better data, we can make targeted improvements to streamline the process, reduce delays, and ultimately save more lives,” said Kevin Longino, CEO of the NKF and a kidney transplant recipient. “We thank Reps. Wittman, McClellan, Miller-Meeks, and Costa for introducing the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act and for their continued leadership.” 

    “With over 90,000 people on the kidney transplant waiting list, we need to dedicate more resources toward measures that will make the transplant system more effective,” said LaVarne A. Burton, president and CEO of AKF. “The Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act would require a study to gather information and assess if automation of the current manual referral system to organ procurement organizations would improve the current system. Utilizing technology in referrals could be an important part of updating the Organ Procurement Transplantation Network.”

    “LifeNet Health has found that automatic electronic donor referrals can support earlier identification of potential organ donors, reduce administrative errors, and save hospital staff time,” said LifeNet Health OPO Executive Director Todd Hubler. “LifeNet Health thanks Representatives Wittman, McClellan, Miller-Meeks, and Costa for their leadership on the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act.”

    “With more than 100,000 people in the U.S. waiting for a lifesaving transplant, we commend Congressman Wittman for his efforts advancing this critical legislation,” said Charlie Alexander, president and CEO, Infinite Legacy. “All opportunities that standardize and enhance the organ donation process allow us to embrace and implement best practices which improve patient safety and maximize the number of lives we can save through organ donation.”

    “The American Society of Transplant Surgeons is proud to support the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act, as we are committed to modernizing all aspects of the transplant ecosystem to provide better outcomes for our patients,” said Ginny L. Bumgardner, MD, Ph.D., president, American Society of Transplant Surgeons. “The study proposed in this legislation will provide data on best practices in automated electronic donor referral that will enhance system performance to save countless lives through the selfless gift of organ donation.”

    “Waitlist Zero is in full support of the Organ Donation Referral Improvement Act,” said Eliane Perlman, executive director of Waitlist Zero. “This will provide for a thoughtful study, a key aspect of improving the deceased organ allocation system’s automated electronic deceased donor referrals. This will allow the system to “look before it leaps” into the next phase of improvements. Thanks to the heroes in the organ donation world, the number of deceased donor kidney donations has increased steadily every year for the past 32 years.”

    Background

    Automated electronic deceased organ donor referrals are used by hospitals to refer to organ procurement organizations (OPOs) patients who may become deceased organ donors. Widespread use of automated electronic deceased organ donor referral could increase patient safety and reduce the number of Americans waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. The technology uses hospital electronic health records (EHR) systems to flag patients who are potential candidates for donation and send patient information to the collaborating OPO. Automated electronic deceased organ donor referral replaces the standard practice of manually notifying OPOs of potential deceased organ donors, lifting the burden of reporting off busy hospital staff, reducing the risk of human error, and ensuring every potential donor is referred.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kustoff Secures $745,000 for the University of Tennessee at Martin

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    CategoriesMIL OSI

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) recently helped secure a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Capacity Building Grant for Non-land-grant Colleges of Agriculture worth $745,000 for the University of Tennessee at Martin. 

    “I am pleased to have helped secure this important funding for the University of Tennessee at Martin,” said Congressman Kustoff. “Farmers are the backbone of West Tennessee’s economy and supporting non-land grant colleges of agriculture is one of my main priorities in Washington. It is important to ensure our next generation of farmers have the resources they need to succeed.”

    “The research and outreach provided by this federal funding will positively affect the UT Martin campus, Weakley County Schools, and West Tennessee as well as the service area of our Innov8Africa partner for years. The quality of this project is confirmed by the fact that NIFA requested an increase in scope of the project with an additional $50,000 added to the original budget request,” said Dr. Yancy E. Freeman, Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Martin. 
     
    Congressman Kustoff secured this funding by leading a letter to the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies sent on March 24, 2023. 

    The Capacity Building Grants for Non-land-grant Colleges of Agriculture (NLGCA) Program assists NLGCA-certified institutions in maintaining and expanding their capacity to conduct education, research, outreach/extension, and integrated activities relating to agriculture, renewable resources, and similar disciplines.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investigation ongoing into delayed referrals

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Alberta’s government takes the health and well-being of all Albertans seriously, especially when it comes to having timely access to specialists to support their health needs.

    In late September, AHS notified Alberta’s government that there was an issue affecting patient referrals to community specialists from AHS’ new electronic health record, Connect Care. Following an audit of referrals, AHS discovered that some patient referrals to community physician specialists or allied health providers (for example, physiotherapy and dieticians) outside of AHS were not being processed through Connect Care.

    AHS has identified approximately 14,000 patients who may have been affected by the outgoing referrals to external health care providers not being properly processed. While the review is currently in its early stages, a total of 31 patients have been identified to date as requiring immediate follow up. They may have experienced a potential negative outcome due to the delay in referrals being processed in a timely manner.

    A thorough review of the incident is underway to determine all possible contributing factors. Alberta Health has engaged the Health Quality Council of Alberta (HQCA) to provide an independent third-party review of systems and operational process to determine how a situation like this could have occurred and can be prevented in the future.

    “Timely access to care at critical times is a priority. This issue is greatly concerning, and we are committed to taking swift action to ensure AHS addresses and prioritizes the issue. I’ve asked the HQCA to investigate, and I look forward to recommendations brought forward as a result of the third-party review.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    AHS has begun to notify patients potentially affected by the disruption. AHS will work with the community provider to facilitate patient access in the event of delay that results directly from the issue. Patients can access information on the status of their referrals through MyHealth Records. 

    Quick facts

    • Approximately 14,000 referrals to community providers outside of AHS may have been affected since the implementation of Connect Care.
    • Prior to Connect Care, there was no way to monitor the number of referrals sent and whether they were received by the community provider. 
    • Approximate total number of unsent referrals to community providers by zone:
      • Central: 741
      • North: 549
      • Edmonton: 10,025
      • Calgary: 3,329
      • South: 268

    Related information

    • MyHealth Records

    MIL OSI Canada News –