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  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Members Win Strong New Contract with Schneider Electric

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Nearly 200 IAM Union members have ratified a new three-year master agreement with Schneider Electric, an energy management and automation company.

    The national agreement covers IAM Local 831 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Local 2574 in Huntington, Ind.; and Local 619 in Lexington, Ky. The contract also covers members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT).

    Highlights include annual base general wage increases of over 11% compounded over the three-year agreement, while lower tiers will receive over 18% compounded over the three-year agreement. The contract continues the current healthcare cost share and cost-of-living allowance. It also provides for 401(k) contributions and paid family leave.

    “IAM Union members have secured a strong future at Schneider Electric, ratifying a new three-year master agreement,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “The deal ensures annual wage increases, maintains healthcare cost-sharing, and enhances benefits like 401(k) contributions and paid family leave. This contract is a victory for working families, protecting their livelihoods while supporting their long-term well-being.”

    “This agreement represents a powerful commitment to our members’ futures, delivering wage growth, stable healthcare costs, and enhanced benefits,” said IAM Collective Bargaining Department Director Craig Norman. “This is the best Master Agreement the unions have obtained in over twenty years of negotiations, and it comes through the solidarity of the membership from the floor.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Orders CHS Hedging, LLC, To Pay $650,000 for Recordkeeping and Unauthorized Trading Violations

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today issued an order simultaneously filing and settling charges against CHS Hedging, LLC, a Minnesota based futures commission merchant, for recordkeeping deficiencies and failure to obtain customer authorizations before entering trades for customers.

    The order requires CHS Hedging, LLC, to pay a $650,000 civil monetary penalty. The respondent admits the facts related to its recordkeeping deficiencies as detailed in the order and is ordered to cease and desist from further violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations, as charged. In accepting CHS’s Offer, CFTC recognizes CHS’s self-reporting and cooperation in connection with this Division of Enforcement’s investigation.

    Case Background

    The order finds from June 21, 2019, to Sept. 2, 2023, CHS used at least three different recording platforms to make or keep audio recordings of communications by its associated persons (APs) with CHS customers. At various points during that time, these platforms suffered from deficiencies or other issues resulting in CHS’s failure to make or keep approximately 3,000 audio recordings of its APs calls with CHS customers. These calls would have included communications concerning quotes, solicitations, bids, offers, instructions, trading, and/or prices leading to transactions in commodity interests.

    Additionally, the order finds during this time, CHS, through three of its APs, placed 75 trades for seven customers without a power of attorney and without obtaining specific information from customers about the quantity and/or precise commodity interest to be purchased or sold.

    The order also acknowledges CHS’s representations concerning its remediation in connection with this matter.

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this matter are James Deacon, Alison Wilson, and Rick Glaser.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Requests Public Comment on a Rule Certification Filing by KalshiEX LLC

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is requesting public comment on a rule certification filing by KalshiEX LLC, which would amend its rulebook to include rules for a request for quote functionality and amendments to its prohibited transactions rule. Comments must be submitted on or before Oct. 28, 2024.

    The Division of Market Oversight has determined to stay Kalshi Submission No. 2409-1100-4224-55, dated September 11, 2024, pursuant to Section 5c(c)(2) of the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) and § 40.6(c)(1) and § 40.7(a)(2) of the CFTC’s regulations. As set forth in the stay notification letter, this determination was made because the submission presents novel or complex issues that require additional time to analyze and is potentially inconsistent with the CEA or the CFTC’s regulations. The CFTC has 90 days to review the submission, until the end of Dec. 23, 2024.

    The public comment period opens on Sept. 26, 2024 and closes on Oct. 28, 2024. Comments may be submitted electronically through the CFTC’s comments online process. All comments will be posted on CFTC.gov. The Kalshi submission is available under Industry Filings.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Amanda Dory’s Bilateral Meeting With Canadian Deputy Minister of National Defence Stefanie Beck

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Spokesman LtCol Garron Garn, USMC, provided the following readout:

    On September 26, 2024, Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Amanda Dory hosted Canadian Deputy Minister of National Defence Stefanie Beck for a bilateral meeting at the Pentagon. The two leaders discussed continued international support for Ukraine, defense strategy and investment, modernization of the North America Aerospace Defense (NORAD) Command, support to Haiti, and a range of other bilateral and global issues. The leaders reaffirmed the deep and longstanding partnership between the United States and Canada, based on a shared commitment to a secure and prosperous North America. 

    The leaders discussed in detail potential areas for enhanced cooperation between the United States and Canada in order to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific and agreed to continue close coordination on Indo-Pacific security.

    They also agreed on the importance of continuing to work together through bilateral and multilateral engagements.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UPDATE: Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: UPDATE: Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers

    UPDATE: Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers

    Sept. 26, 2024
    DR-4787-WV MA-011
    FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
    FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

    Media Advisory

    Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers 

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Centers in Boone and Roane counties will be closed Friday, Sept. 27, because of forecast inclement weather.

    The centers are located at:

    Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

    Madison City Hall

    255 Washington Ave.

    Madison, WV 25130

    Hours of operation:

    Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

    Closed Sundays

    Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024
    Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

    Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot

    206 E Main St.

    Spencer, WV 25276

    Hours of operation:

    Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

    Closed Sundays

    Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

    Pending any effects from the weather, the centers are scheduled to reopen at 8 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 28.

    Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. They can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.

    The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.

    For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

    Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

    Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

    issa.mansaray

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Slotkin Statement on Vote to Keep Government Funded

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (MI-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-07) released the following statement after voting to extend government funding and avoid a government shutdown. This afternoon the House passed a Continuing Resolution to fund the government until December 20, 2024 with broad bipartisan support.

    “This evening, I voted along with an overwhelming bipartisan majority to keep the government funded through December and avoid a shutdown that would be costly for Michigan and our country. In addition to extending current funding levels, this measure also supports multiple bipartisan priorities, including the U.S. Secret Service and its work protecting Presidential candidates and support for communities affected by natural disasters. The U.S. Senate has also reached an agreement to vote on this legislation today, so it will soon be on its way to the President’s desk to be signed into law. 

    “When Congress returns in November, it should continue the bipartisan approach that led to this agreement and negotiate a budget free of partisan items. We do our best work when we work together – even when it’s hard. Our constituents expect their lawmakers to get in a room, hammer out a compromise, and move the ball forward for the American people – and they deserve nothing less.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Slotkin Highlights Bipartisan Wins in Speech on House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (MI-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI-07) took to the House floor today to highlight the passage of three bipartisan bills she championed and call for bipartisan congressional action on additional legislative priorities. This week, the House passed the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Pilot Program Act, IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act, and Building Chips in America Act, which are now set to be signed into law.

    Slotkin also called upon her colleagues to work in a bipartisan way on legislation pertaining to other outstanding legislative priorities. She urged Congress to support the Department of Commerce’s efforts to restrict the import of advanced vehicles manufactured by China and pass a bipartisan Farm Bill and National Defense Authorization Act.

    “These bills are evidence that we do not need to be at each other’s throats. In fact, being at each other’s throats is principally against the mission of what it means to be a Representative. It means you’re not getting work done. It means you’re doing things for political posturing. It means that you care more about making a statement that makes the news or goes viral on Twitter than you are about actually moving the ball down the field for your constituents,” said Slotkin. “I hope that when Congress returns in November, and when a new Congress is sworn in next year, we can learn that basic lesson. We do our best work when we work together – even when it’s hard.”

    Slotkin full remarks on the House floor can be found HERE

    A transcript of Slotkin’s remarks as delivered can be found HERE

    The bipartisan Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Pilot Program Act would cut red tape for companies that transport goods across our borders by allowing more freight and warehouse companies to participate in Customs and Border Protection’s CTPAT program. 

    Through partnership between supply chain leaders and the federal government, the CTPAT program expedites freight through the country, reducing disruptions in international trade and supply chains while keeping the border secure.

    Slotkin introduced the bill, which is co-led by Reps. Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), and Morgan Luttrell (TX-08). Its Senate companion is led by Sens. Tom Carper (D-DE), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), and John Cornyn (R-TX). 

    The bipartisan IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act would ensure survivors of human trafficking and law enforcement officers working to combat these terrible crimes receive the resources and support they need.

    The bill would make permanent and expand the Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Program that helps provide support and services to individuals impacted by human trafficking. It would also make permanent the Investigators Maintain Purposeful Awareness to Combat Trafficking Trauma (IMPACTT) Program which supports the employees and partners who are exposed to repeated stress through their work combating these crimes. 

    Slotkin is an original co-sponsor of the bipartisan legislation, which is led by Rep. Dave Joyce (OH-14) and co-led by Ann Wagner (MO-02) and Dina Titus (NV-01). Its Senate companion is led by Sens James Lankford (R-OK) and Gary Peters (D-MI). 

    The bipartisan Building Chips in America Act, of which Slotkin is a cosponsor, would streamline approval processes for domestic semiconductor manufacturing projects that receive funding through the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act.

    And on Monday, the Department of Commerce announced a new proposed rule to restrict the import of advanced, connected vehicles manufactured by China that pose a risk to U.S. national security. Slotkin applauded the announcement, and called upon Congress to pass her legislation that would strengthen America’s ability to address the threat posed by these vehicles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Applauds More Than $10 Million to Help Older AANHPI Workers Get Job Training, Find Employment

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    SEATTLE, WA – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) applauded an investment of $10,091,442 in federal funding for the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) in Seattle, Washington. This funding will help NAPCA continue its work of assisting older Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) individuals in accessing community service programs that serve as a bridge to employment opportunities. 

    “Building up and expanding the Seattle area and our country’s workforce means ensuring that everyone has access to the training programs and resources necessary to find employment,” said Jayapal. “This funding is so important to our community and will help NAPCA continue their meaningful work of connecting our older, low-income AANHPI community with community service programs and job opportunities — helping to ensure long-term financial stability. The Biden-Harris administration’s Department of Labor, led by Acting Secretary Julie Su, continues to be a strong champion for all workers across the country.”

    “The funding we’re announcing today advances the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of promoting worker-focused training programs that incorporate industry and worker voices,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The grants will help enhance access to quality jobs for older workers.”

    “We greatly appreciate Congresswoman Jayapal and our partners in Congress for helping us secure funding for AANHPI older adults in this critical worker training program,” said Clayton Fong, President/CEO, NAPCA. “She brings a unique understanding to the challenges and barriers that many AANHPI older workers face in the workforce as a staunch advocate for immigrant rights.” 

    These funds come from the Department of Labor through the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which aims to provide training and career services to low-income older individuals who are seeking to enter or re-enter the workforce.

    This funding will assist NAPCA in their work to help older AANHPI individuals with lower incomes gain work experience and overcome barriers to employment. The program provides access to on-the-job training at community-based organizations and government agencies to assist older Americans in participation in both community service and employment.

    NAPCA serves more than 1,200 older workers across the country through the SCSEP every year.

    Jayapal wrote a letter of support for this funding request earlier this year.

    Issues: Jobs, Labor, & the Economy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Adams, Foushee Introduce the College Thriving Act to Promote Skills-For-Success College Courses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    WASHINGTON, DC (September 26, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) and Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12), introduced H.R. 9824, the College Thriving Act of 2024, legislation to create a Department of Education grant for colleges and universities to design and implement a skills-for-success course for first year college students.

    “Opportunities for practical and emotional skill-building in a student’s first year of college leads to a more positive transition to college life, and an increase in campus engagement and academic success in their later years,” said Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “The College Thriving Act will provide institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, with critical funding to establish skills-for-success courses to better help students achieve their goals. I thank Congresswoman Adams for joining me in introducing this bill, and I look forward to moving it through the House and onward.”

    “College should be a place discover who you are as a person, and the first year of college can be an overwhelming transition for many who are on their own for the first time. I’m joining with my fellow North Carolina Congresswoman Valerie Foushee to introduce the College Thriving Act, to help young people make the critical adjustment to college life and succeed in the years ahead,” said Rep. Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12). “This small investment will be especially helpful to students who, like me, may be the first in their family to attend college and need additional support as they begin their higher education journey. I want all our young people to have that opportunity, to become happier, healthier, wealthier, more productive college graduates.”

    Specifically, the College Thriving Act of 2024 will:

    • Create a $1 million three-phase, five-year grant program through the Department of Education for accredited four-year public institutions of higher education to design, pilot, and fully implement a skills-for-success course for incoming first year students. 
    • The skills-for-success course topics would include time management, mental wellbeing, engaging with campus partners and resources, goal setting, coping with stress, organizational skills, and navigating interpersonal relationships and conflict.  
    • Require schools to submit a report at the completion of the five years on the success and other findings of the pilot and implemented course.  
    • Additionally, when evaluating grant applications, the Department of Education will prioritize HBCUs for grant awards to the greatest extent possible.

    The College Thriving Act is endorsed by: American Psychological Association and North Carolina Psychological Association.

    The full bill text of the College Thriving Act is available here.

    ### 

    Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture, and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister concludes successful visit from President of France to Canada

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, welcomed the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, to Canada from September 25 to 26, 2024. With stops in Ottawa, Ontario, and Montréal, Quebec, the visit helped further strengthen the close ties between our countries and advance our shared priorities.

    The leaders announced three key declarations that will align Canada and France’s work to preserve peace and security, take ambitious climate action, protect the environment, and responsibly harness the full potential of artificial intelligence (AI).

    The first of these three declarations, the Canada-France Declaration on a Stronger Defence and Security Partnership, underscores Canada and France’s steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia’s illegal invasion. It also reaffirms our contributions to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific and reflects our co-operation in managing emergencies, modernizing our armed forces, and combatting foreign interference.

    The two leaders discussed shared, ongoing work to respond to the humanitarian situation in Haiti and reiterated their support for the United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support mission in the country. Canada and France are in steadfast support of Haitian-led solutions to the conflict that will make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of the Haitian people – and build a better future.

    Building on the progress made at the United Nations General Assembly and the Summit of the Future earlier this week, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron highlighted the critical importance of continued action to fight climate change and protect our oceans. In the Canada-France Declaration on the Ocean, the leaders underlined the vital role that oceans play for the environment, the climate, the economy, and food and energy security throughout the world. To advance our work, Prime Minister Trudeau announced Canada’s membership in the Paris Pact for People and the Planet. The Pact, led by France and in partnership with global leaders, emphasizes collective action to accelerate sustainable development and create opportunities to help lift vulnerable populations out of poverty.

    During the visit, the Prime Minister and the President met with AI experts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to discuss the risks and benefits of this new technology. Canada and France have world-leading AI ecosystems, including leadership roles in the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), which has 29 members worldwide. A testament to our progress in growing a dynamic AI industry, GPAI’s first two centres of expertise opened in Canada and France. Moving forward on this work, the Prime Minister and the President announced the Canada-France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence. The Declaration reiterates our countries’ commitment to a safe use of AI that respects human rights and democratic values.

    During President Macron’s visit, Canada was also named Country of the Year for the Viva Technology 2025 technology conference, which will be held in Paris next year. At this event, Canada’s delegation will collaborate with the international community and meet with thousands of visionary start-ups, investors, organizations, and researchers to leverage advances in AI to strengthen our economy, increase productivity, and create new opportunities for Canadians. SCALE AI, Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster dedicated to AI, will lead Canada’s business delegation.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron reaffirmed their commitment to promoting the French language and La Francophonie’s institutions ahead of the next Sommet de la Francophonie, which will be held in Villers-Cotterêts and Paris, France, on October 4 and 5, 2024. They also renewed their commitment to strengthening strategic coordination in preparation for the successive G7 Presidencies that Canada and France will hold, in 2025 and 2026 respectively.

    Quote

    “Canada and France’s relationship is built on shared history, a common language, and democratic values. President Macron’s visit to Canada is a testament to the enduring friendship between our two countries, and with the progress we have made over this visit, we will move forward to build a fairer and more prosperous future for our peoples.”

    Quick Facts

    • This was President Macron’s second visit to Canada. It followed both leaders’ participation in the United Nations General Assembly and Summit of the Future in New York City, United States of America.
    • As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the G7 and the G20, a founding member of the European Union, and a key partner in the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, France is a key ally for Canada on the international stage.
    • In 2023, France was Canada’s third largest merchandise export market in the European Union, and its 12th largest trade partner globally, with two-way merchandise trade totalling $12.9 billion.
    • That same year, Canadian exports to France amounted to $4.3 billion, while imports from France totalled $8.7 billion.
    • In France, Canada is represented by an embassy in Paris and consulates in Lyon, Nice, and Toulouse. France is represented in Canada by its embassy in Ottawa and consulates in Vancouver, Toronto, Montréal, Québec, and Moncton.

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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement by Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    We, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau and President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron, reaffirm, here in Ottawa, the strong bond between Canada and France. This meeting reflects the importance of our historical and cultural ties and the enduring friendship between our nations that is rooted in a shared history, a common language and the values that drive what we do. 

    We also enjoy a strong trade relationship. Together, we are working to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth, as well as a transparent, rules-based multilateral trade system. Since the provisional implementation of the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in 2017, trade between Canada and France has grown significantly (over 53% for Canadian exports and nearly 46% for French exports in the span of seven years). Our bilateral trade helps to make life more affordable for our citizens and create good jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.

    In an international context marked by many different overlapping and mutually reinforcing crises, our two countries are determined to protect fundamental democratic principles in the face of authoritarian, populist and hateful ideologies. We stand up for human rights, fairness, and the rule of law, with due respect for international law and state sovereignty.

    Canada and France are facing foreign information manipulation and interference operations. Canada and France will strengthen their exchanges to effectively respond to these threats. In particular, Canada and France will work closely within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to create tools to guide countries in developing public policy focused on strengthening information integrity. In addition, through fora such as the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) and the Forum on Information & Democracy, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these objectives in our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

    Enhancing our bilateral cooperation 

    This year, we commemorated the sacrifices made by Canadians, the French and our Allies on the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landing. We will work to step up our bilateral cooperation in security and defence in order to improve our ability to respond to geopolitical crises. To that end, the Canada-France Declaration on a Stronger Defence and Security Partnership, which we are announcing today, will enable us to provide more effective support to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, strengthen our cooperation in modernizing our armed forces, and combat foreign information manipulation and interference. 

    To support French and Canadian citizens around the world, we also wish to strengthen our cooperation with respect to emergency preparedness and crisis management. We applaud the work of Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre and France’s Centre de crise et de soutien in this area.

    Fighting climate change and protecting the ecosystems and environment

    In response to the triple planetary crisis of climate warming, biodiversity loss, and pollution, we will continue to step up our cooperation, particularly in the fight against climate change and ocean protection. We will do this through our bilateral and multilateral actions, in line with the France-Canada Partnership, which was renewed in April, in which we pledged to work together, in particular to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Diversity Framework and to strengthen our climate and energy commitments, as well as our shared commitment to adopting a legally binding international agreement to address plastic pollution.

    Our Canada-France Declaration on the Ocean speaks to our readiness to put oceans at the heart of the bilateral and international agenda—with recognition of their critical role in the environmental and climate balance—in preparation for the June 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice. We also underscore their importance in providing food and energy sources, a vector for economic exchanges, and a vital link between countries and communities. The Prime Minister and the President also emphasized their commitment to working together in the fisheries sector, as demonstrated by the recent agreement reached on the Atlantic halibut fishery.

    Our two countries will also pursue their political commitment towards the adoption of a legally binding treaty to put an end to plastic pollution that meets our peoples’ expectations, with ambitious measures throughout the life cycle of plastic, from production to waste management. 

    To keep the Paris Agreement’s 1.5 °C target within reach, we will accelerate efforts on operationalizing the global stocktake’s decision on transitioning away from fossil fuels, including in the context of our G7 presidencies. We will continue to work with determination to align financial flows with the Paris Agreement, in particular by disclosing climate change risks and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies. We will continue our work together to expand the scope and use of carbon market instruments, while supporting countries that are interested in implementing these instruments.

    Canada is pleased to join France and the many countries that support The Paris Pact for People and the Planet (4P) in responding to the dual challenge of combatting poverty and preserving the planet. Further, to encourage increased funding in support of sustainable development, our two countries will continue to participate actively in the United Nations Secretary-General’s SDG Stimulus Leaders’ Group.

    Our responses to energy security concerns will aim to secure long-term energy supply in keeping with our climate objectives, and in a manner that ensures continued prosperity for both of our countries. Building on the Joint Statement Between Canada and France on Nuclear Energy Cooperation of fall 2023, we are working together to step up civil nuclear cooperation between our two countries, with a focus on identifying project funding solutions and upgrading skills and training for the trades. We will also work to accelerate the global phase-out of coal through our support for the Powering Past Coal Alliance and the Coal Transition Accelerator. 

    Recognizing the key role of critical minerals in supporting a green and digital economy, our two countries will work on the need to explore opportunities for joint investment in critical minerals projects, with the aim of securing their respective value chains. Canada and France are also founding members of the Sustainable Critical Minerals Alliance, which aims to promote on a global scale sustainable and socially inclusive mining, processing and recycling practices, and responsible critical minerals supply chains. We will continue to work with like-minded countries to reaffirm these values. Lastly, Canada and France will work together to develop low-carbon, efficient, sustainable and resilient transportation systems, whether in the aviation, rail or marine sectors.

    Embracing artificial intelligence responsibly

    Canada and France consider science and technology to be important levers for meeting the major challenges of the 21st century. We are mindful of the importance of developing a responsible approach to artificial intelligence (AI) that takes into account both risks and benefits, as demonstrated in the joint launch of the Global Partnership for Artificial Intelligence in 2020. The Canada-France Declaration on Artificial Intelligence published today reiterates our commitment to responsible, safe AI that respects human rights and democratic values. To promote and support scientific research in the field of AI, we welcome the recent call for proposals from last July for new funding, launched under the auspices of the Joint Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation uniting our two countries. 

    Expanding Canada-France collaboration in all areas of AI, we will further our work together at the AI Action Summit, to be hosted by France on February 10 and 11, 2025. With a view to promoting outreach and cooperation between our companies and business organizations and providing solutions, Canada is proud to announce that it will be Country of the Year at VivaTech 2025 in Paris. Responsible use of AI can create economic benefits for everyone, and adopting it can increase economic productivity and growth, for the benefit of all workers and businesses.

    In addition, our two countries will continue to work together to establish a digital dialogue on platform governance and ensure that AI is designed, developed, and deployed ethically and in compliance with copyright. This would allow us to recognize the important shared challenges in the digital space that have a considerable impact on the strength and health of culture and media in Canada and France.

    Promoting the French language throughout the world

    Canada and France reaffirm their support for the promotion of French and for the institutions of La Francophonie, and they commit to concluding a Canada-France Memorandum of Understanding on the Cité Internationale de la Langue Française on the margins of the upcoming Francophonie Summit in Villers-Cotterêts and Paris, France, on October 4 and 5. With our partners in the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, we will support linguistic and cultural diversity, peace, democracy, and human rights. The Summit will also provide an opportunity to strengthen education, research, and innovation in French, as well as economic and digital cooperation for sustainable development. 

    Addressing geopolitical challenges

    We reiterate our strongest condemnation of Russia’s more than 900-day war of aggression in Ukraine. In the face of this war, which jeopardizes the security of the entire Euro-Atlantic region, we reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in all areas, for as long as it takes. We continue to work towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on international law, and in particular the principles of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. In line with the NATO Washington Summit Declaration, we will continue to deepen our support for Ukraine, to give it the means to defend itself and deter Russian aggression. We are pursuing our efforts to support Ukraine in its reform process, notably in the fields of justice, the fight against corruption, and promotion of the rule of law. We also underscore the efforts of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, co-chaired by Canada with the participation of France. Finally, we are committed to helping to operationalize the agreement reached at the G7 Summit in Apulia to leverage immobilized Russian sovereign assets for the benefit of Ukraine.

    We also condemn in the strongest possible terms the October 7 massacres perpetrated by Hamas against Israel, and recognize Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law. We are extremely concerned by the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and by the appalling situation of the civilian population, which has been repeatedly displaced within the country and is unable to meet its most basic needs. Canada and France therefore call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the unfettered access of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Canada and France support the two‑state solution, which includes the creation of a Palestinian state, living in peace and security, alongside the State of Israel.

    We also wish to maintain our support for Haiti, to help re-establish security, the rule of law, and democracy. While we remain concerned about the humanitarian and security situation there, we are nevertheless pleased to note the progress made, including the establishment of the Transitional Presidential Council, a Prime Minister and a Cabinet of Ministers. We also welcome the fact that the creation of the Provisional Electoral Council is well underway. We are committed to supporting preparations for free, fair, and transparent elections. Canada and France will continue to work closely together to support the Haitian National Police, the Multinational Security Support Mission, and the strengthening of the justice sector and the fight against corruption and financial crime. 

    In the Indo-Pacific region, our two countries will study the deployment of joint patrol missions in the future, and will maintain their participation in multilateral exercises. To this end, our two countries will work on the possibility of integrating Canadian support into the deployment of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.

    Coordinating our successive 2025 and 2026 G7 presidencies

    We will strengthen strategic coordination between our governments in the context of our bilateral and multilateral exchanges, and with a view to our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026. We are determined to meet today’s global challenges, guided by our shared desire to build a better future based on our common values, and supported by the rich and dynamic relationship between our two countries.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Hendrikus Wilhelmus Maria (Dick) Schoof, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Hendrikus Wilhelmus Maria (Dick) Schoof, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Sint Maarten and Aruba were represented by senior officials.

    They discussed developments related to Ukraine, the Middle East as well as Venezuela. They also exchanged views on the follow up to the Summit of the Future as well as on issues related to Small Island Developing States, including and climate adaptation financing.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Celebrates Congressional Passage of Legislation to Combat Alzheimer’s

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON — This week, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease, applauded House passage of two bipartisan bills he introduced that would cement and build on the important progress that has been made to prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) Reauthorization Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act (AAIA) now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law.  

    Nearly seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s costs our nation an astonishing $360 billion per year, including $231 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid. If we continue along this trajectory, the number of people age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s may grow to a projected 12.7 million and approach $1 trillion in annual costs by 2050. Family caregivers provide 18 billion hours of unpaid care for loved ones with dementia annually, valued at nearly $347 billion.

    “I know from firsthand experience what a devastating illness Alzheimer’s disease is, as I watched my mother battle with it for a decade before her passing,” Sen. Warner said. “While we’ve made great strides in research, there is still so much work to be done to find effective ways to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s. On behalf of the millions of American families who have been touched by Alzheimer’s, I’m glad to see these two bills head to the president’s desk to be signed into law.”

    The NAPA Reauthorization Act would:

    • Reauthorize NAPA through 2035 and modernize the legislation to reflect strides that have been made to understand the disease, such as including a new focus on promoting healthy aging and reducing risk factors; and
    • Update language in recognition of the need to include underserved populations, including individuals with Down syndrome, who are at increased risk for Alzheimer’s as they age.

    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act would:

    • Continue through 2035 a requirement that the Director of the National Institutes of Health submit an annual budget to Congress estimating the funding necessary to fully implement NAPA’s research goals. Only two other areas of biomedical research – cancer and HIV/AIDS – have been the subject of special budget development aimed at speeding discovery.

    Along with Sen. Warner, both bills were co-authored by Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and Ed Markey (D-MA).

    The NAPA Reauthorization Act and Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act are endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s. The NAPA Reauthorization Act is also endorsed by the National Down Syndrome Society, the National Down Syndrome Congress, and LuMind IDSC Foundation. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Introduces Bill to Update and Expand Social Security Survivor Benefits, Provide Financial Relief to Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Legislation would adjust benefits last expanded 70 years ago to account for inflation
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) led Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in introducing the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act, legislation that would adjust benefits for the first time in 70 years to cover costs associated with cremation or burials for surviving family members by increasing the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) lump-sum death benefit to account for inflation. Beginning in 2025, survivor benefits would increase from $255 to $2,900 and subsequently ensures that the benefit is indexed to keep up with inflation.
    “Funeral costs should be the last thing on the minds of grieving families when they lose a loved one. But because benefits designed to help folks afford funeral expenses haven’t kept pace with inflation, the cost of burying a loved one has become top of mind for many mourning families,” said Senator Welch. “This bill will update Social Security death benefits to help alleviate financial burdens for families following the loss of a loved one.” 
    The Social Security Administration provides a lump-sum death benefit to survivors of a beneficiary in the event of their death to help families offset funeral costs. The lump sum payment, which is provided to surviving spouses, dependent children under 18, or children with disabilities, was capped at $255 in 1954. 
    In the 1950s, a full memorial and cremation service cost around $700. In Vermont, the average cost for a funeral with a viewing and cremation is $7,023. Nationwide, the median cost of a funeral with a viewing is $8,300, while the average cost for a funeral with cremation is $6,280.  Despite this increase in cost, the SSA’s lump-sum death benefit has remained stagnant at $255. 
    The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act is endorsed by Social Security Works and the Strengthen Social Security Coalition. 
    “When families lose a loved one, the last thing they should have to worry about is how they will pay for the funeral. Social Security includes a lump-sum death benefit, which should help to cover those costs. However, the value of that benefit has greatly deteriorated over time. The Strengthen Social Security Coalition enthusiastically endorses the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act, which restores this important component of Social Security so that it once again provides peace of mind during life’s most difficult moments,” said Nancy J. Altman, Chair of the Strengthen Social Security Coalition.  
    “Social Security Works is proud to endorse the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act. The American people owe Senator Welch an enormous debt of gratitude for this important expansion bill. Social Security’s lump-sum death benefit has not been increased for almost three-quarters of a century, while funeral costs have gone up substantially. Senator Welch is a true champion of working families and their Social Security, the American people’s pension,” said Alex Lawson, Executive Director of Social Security Works. 
    Learn more about the Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement for the Congressional Record in Support of Guatemala’s Democracy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Statement for the Congressional Recordin Support of Guatemala’s DemocracySenator Peter Welch (D-Vt.)September 25, 2024
    Madam President, last December I joined Senators Tim Kaine, Dick Durbin, Jeff Merkley, and Laphonza Butler, and Representatives Norma J. Torres and Delia C. Ramirez, on a trip to Guatemala. We arrived just weeks before the scheduled inauguration of President Bernardo Arévalo, who had been elected by an overwhelming majority. The Guatemalan people had voted decisively to reject the corruption, impunity, and malfeasance that had been the hallmark of successive governments in that country.
    We went to Guatemala to speak directly to Mr. Arévalo’s supporters, as well as to the powerful forces in Guatemala, including the Attorney General, opposition members of Congress, magistrates, and those who were corruptly conspiring to prevent President Arévalo from taking office. Our purpose was to make clear that if their efforts to subvert the will of the people succeeded, it would have profoundly negative long-term consequences for U.S. relations— both economic and security—for whoever illegally seized power. It would propel the country down a path of authoritarianism and economic decline much like Nicaragua, leading to further social division, political instability, and isolation
    Their efforts to overturn the election and undermine the people were flagrant; the Attorney General went so far as to attempt to nullify the fair election of then President-elect Arévalo shortly after we met with officials of the outgoing administration to urge a peaceful transfer of power.
    Ultimately, the efforts to prevent President Arévalo from taking office failed. But his detractors were far from defeated. They immediately set their sights on preventing President Arévalo from carrying out his anti-corruption agenda and forcing him from office. Those efforts continue today.
    I mention this because I recently met with a delegation of Guatemalan Indigenous women, led by Nobel Laureate Rigoberta Menchú.  Although their numbers are woefully under-represented in the three branches of government, I have never met more determined and courageous women.  Women who have experienced extreme poverty, violence, and loss, yet who have become leaders in their communities and fiercely dedicated to preserving their Indigenous identity, improving the lives of their families, and defending Guatemala’s fragile democracy. 
    The United States strongly supports President Arévalo, who offers the best chance Guatemala has had in decades to chart a new path for his country—a path grounded in the rule of law, in the institutions of democracy, in transparency, in accountability. And despite the efforts of the corrupt networks whose only interest is in using the institutions of power and privilege to enrich themselves, I am hopeful because President Arévalo has the support of Guatemala’s Indigenous population, exemplified by the fearless women I met this week.
    They are not going to let what they won freely and fairly at the ballot box be stolen from them.  They are not going to allow a minority of crooked elites deny them and their children the chance for a better life. They have an ambitious social, economic, and political reform agenda. They are committed to working to strengthen education, economic opportunity, equality, democracy, and justice. It is in the interest of the Arévalo Administration, and the United States, to help them achieve these goals for the benefit of all Guatemalans.
    View and the download the statement here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell, Warner Introduce Vital Bill To Support Bourbon Production And Environment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA) announced today the introduction of the White Oak Resilience Act of 2024, which will mobilize greater federal resources and direct research into safeguarding our nation’s White Oak tree population.
    White Oak trees are vital to the environmental ecosystem, as well as several trademark American industries, like bourbon and furniture production. Considered the most important hardwood tree in the eastern United States, White Oak trees provide sustenance and shelter for a host of wildlife species across the country.
    White Oak trees can take up to 25 years to reach full maturity, but a lack of seedlings has created an impending shortage that threatens the future of this species and the billions of dollars in economic impact they generate nationwide. This bipartisan legislation will help reverse the depletion of this iconic tree and address the threat its extinction poses to the American economy.
    “Kentucky bourbon is synonymous with the White Oak tree, used to age our state’s signature spirit in its wooden barrels. As we face an impending White Oak shortage, I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation that will help protect this species and preserve Kentucky’s iconic bourbon industry that bolsters our economy and supports thousands of jobs across the Commonwealth. This is commonsense conservation at its best,” said Senator McConnell. 
    “Virginia is home to one of the highest concentrations of White Oak trees in the country, and they play an indispensable role in our ecology and our economy,” said Senator Warner. “These trees have tremendous utility as both food for many species and material for the forestry industry, but without further action, we could face a severe shortage soon. I’m glad to sponsor bipartisan legislation that will get ahead of that crisis by bolstering a plan to regenerate our White Oak trees, keeping Virginia beautiful and investing in one of the forestry industry’s most valuable species.”
    In a statement from Brown-Forman, the largest American-owned spirits and wines company: “We are pleased to see the introduction of the White Oak Resilience Act to the Senate. Brown-Forman depends on healthy forests to provide the white oak for our bourbon barrels. White Oak barrels are more than just a container, they’re an important ingredient that provides all of the color and more than half the flavor to our whiskeys. We are committed to the conservation of the existing hardwood forests we rely on and have undertaken several initiatives to support sustainable forestry practices. We are appreciative of the leadership from Senators McConnell and Warner, supporting this key legislation will provide critical resources for white oak restoration.”
    “Sazerac commends Senators McConnell and Warner for introducing the Senate companion to HR 5582, the White Oak Resilience Act. Although Sazerac has locations in numerous states, we have distilleries in both Kentucky and Virginia (Buffalo Trace and 1792 in Kentucky; A. Smith Bowman in Virginia) making it particularly significant that these two senators have come together to recognize the importance of this species. The spirits industry has found the ideal wood in White Oak for our barrels and has endeavored to regenerate it for years to come,” said Elizabeth Wise, Chief Global Government and Public Affairs for Sazerac.
    “On behalf of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the worldwide voice of Bourbon, we applaud Leader McConnell and Senator Warner for their leadership in introducing the White Oak Resilience Act,” said Kentucky Distillers’ Association President Eric Gregory. “White Oak is instrumental to our signature industry as the new charred oak barrel is where the magic happens, transforming young whiskey into the mellow, amber nectar that is Kentucky Bourbon. The KDA and its 68-member companies have an enduring commitment to the sustainable and conscientious use of our natural resources that our legendary distilleries depend on to make the world’s greatest whiskey. The White Oak Resilience Act will help ensure the future of this important species for our communities, our homegrown Bourbon industry, and generations to come.”
    “On behalf of the University of Kentucky, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Leader McConnell and Senator Warner for introducing the White Oak Resilience Act that addresses White Oak sustainability, which is crucial to Kentucky’s signature bourbon industry. The research this measure directs will allow us to leverage our scientific expertise, particularly in genetics and genomics, to support the health and resilience of White Oak tree populations. As a land-grant institution committed to the Commonwealth’s economic development, we are well-positioned to translate our findings into practical applications for the bourbon industry,” said University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto.
    “White Oak is a keystone species that supports over 500 types of wildlife while also bolstering rural economies and providing wood products to cities and towns across America,” said Jason Meyer, Executive Director of the White Oak Initiative. “We’d like to thank Senators Warner and McConnell for their leadership in bringing this bill forward and working together to ensure a long, sustainable future for this critical American resource.”
    “Virginia’s upland oak forests are on the decline and are incredibly important for wildlife and sustainable forestry,” said Virginia State Forester Robert W. Farrell. “The White Oak Resilience Act will help Virginia’s forest landowners care for their hardwood forests and ensure White Oak is on the Virginia landscape for generations to come.”
    Earlier this year, Senators McConnell and Warner supported Senate passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 and the President signed it into law. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator McConnell secured measures to help preserve the nation’s natural beauty, including language instructing the U.S. Forest Service to work on White Oak restoration, used for barrels that only bourbon can be aged in.
    U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) introduced the companion bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Cruz, Tillis, 11 GOP Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop Biden-Harris Amnesty Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Budd (R-NC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Steve Daines (R-MT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), James Lankford (R-OK), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced their Visa Integrity Preservation Act, which would close a loophole in current law that the Biden-Harris administration took advantage of in a June 2024 executive action to grant amnesty to illegal immigrants who entered the United States without inspection or overstayed a visa:
    “For almost four years, the Biden-Harris administration has waived their magic amnesty wand to create unlawful programs that allow any and every person to enter and stay in the U.S. – legally or not,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By strengthening the laws already on the books, our legislation would root out this massive pull factor while also preserving the integrity of our employment-based nonimmigrant visa program, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support.”
    “The Biden-Harris administration has failed to secure our southern border and politically exploits the crisis they’ve created,” said Sen. Cruz. “What they call their ‘keep families together’ agenda is being used as a loophole to allow illegal immigrants to bypass our legal immigration process, granting amnesty to 500,000 illegal aliens. We must send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate any manipulation of our immigration laws. That is why I am proud to join Senator Cornyn and my Republican colleagues to stop this exploitation of our immigration system.”
    “The Biden-Harris Administration once again has shown their disregard for Congress and the law by issuing this policy,” said Sen. Tillis. “I am proud to co-sponsor Senator Cornyn’s legislation to close this Biden-Harris backdoor amnesty and prevent this Administration from abusing our immigration laws.”
    “The Biden-Harris Administration’s failed inaction at the border has allowed for too many loopholes threatening our national security and giving leeway to those who enter our country illegally,” said Sen. Crapo. “It is imperative we close this loophole as Congress moves forward with addressing an issue ignored by the Administration for far too long.”
    “Joe Biden and ‘Border Czar’ Kamala Harris have failed to secure the southern border, and Montanans are bearing the burden,” said Sen. Daines. “The ‘Visa Integrity Preservation Act’ will stop the abuse of nonimmigrant visa programs and is a step in the right direction towards holding the Biden administration accountable.”
    “Our wide-open southern border is a national security crisis enabled by the Biden Administration’s weak policies,” said Sen. Lankford. “Biden’s executive actions are granting amnesty to illegal immigrants who have broken the law. Instead of enabling illegal immigration, this bill will end this amnesty and ensure those who cross the border or overstay their visa face penalties for breaking the law.”
    “Horrible policies yield horrible results,” said Sen. Tuberville. “The Biden/Harris administration has shown time and time again that they have no respect for the rule of law. By turning U.S. law on its head to protect illegal aliens over U.S. citizens, the Biden administration is creating perverse incentives – causing the influx of people flooding into this country to get even worse. If Joe Biden and Kamala Harris won’t do their job and secure the border, hopefully the Senate will.”   
    “Since day one in office, the Biden-Harris administration has made it crystal clear that they support an open border and providing mass amnesty to illegal immigrants through unlawful catch-and-release programs,” said Sen. Blackburn. “Our Visa Integrity Preservation Act would stop the Biden-Harris administration from devaluing U.S. citizenship and making illegal immigration legal.” 
    Background:
    Current U.S. immigration laws do not allow illegal immigrants who overstay their visas to reenter the United States for up to 10 years if they leave, and those who illegally enter the U.S. are not allowed to reenter at all. The law also requires that temporary visa applicants interview abroad at a U.S. consulate before they can receive their visas, so illegal immigrants are not eligible to regularize their status using the temporary visa programs.  The law does allow the U.S. Secretary of State to waive the consular interview requirement, but only on a case-by-case basis where in the national interest of the United States or in emergency situations.
    In June 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced a new initiative to grant amnesty to over half a million illegal immigrants, including spouses of American citizens. As part of that initiative, President Biden and Vice President Harris waived the consular interview requirement for nonimmigrant visas, enabling immigrants who have illegally entered the U.S. or overstayed a visa to obtain temporary work visas. The Biden-Harris administration’s waiving of this policy encroaches on Congress’s authority and threatens to transform nonimmigrant visa programs into a tool to provide amnesty to illegal immigrants.
    The Visa Integrity Preservation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that immigrants who have entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed a visa for more than 180 days are not eligible for a waiver of the in-person consular interview requirement and would instead be required under all circumstances to depart the U.S. for an interview before they could receive a nonimmigrant visa. Under existing law, they are barred from reentering the U.S. upon presenting for inspection at a Port of Entry.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maryland Delegation Announces More Than $10 million for Chesapeake Bay Watershed Restoration, Preservation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) today announced $10,698,764 in National Fish and Wildlife Foundation funding for 11 Maryland projects to protect and restore water quality, species and habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
    “Maryland’s ecological and economic identity revolves around the health and preservation of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Bay watershed puts food on our tables, supports the livelihood of thousands of people across the region and provides critical habitat for a variety of wildlife species,” said the lawmakers. “In order to maintain this legacy, Team Maryland continues to fight for and secure investments to restore our environment and protect public health. Through these projects and the work of our local partners, we’re working to ensure that generations to come can continue to rely on our beloved Bay.”
    The following agencies and organizations received awards:
    $2,839,348, Eastern Shore Land Conservancy: To engage Talbot County landowners, the Coastal Conservation Association and high school volunteers to install 280 oyster reef balls and restore 2,700 linear feet of living shoreline, as well as nearly two acres of low-marsh habitat.
    $1,481,650, Blue Water Baltimore, Inc.: To mitigate stormwater runoff and pollution in Baltimore’s urban watershed by building rain gardens and permeable pavements at more than a dozen sites across the City.
    $1,274,392, Prince George’s County Government: To restore more than 1,000 linear feet of a degraded, unhealthy tributary to Lower Beaverdam Creek.
    $1,225,069, Future Harvest, Inc.: To advance the adoption of soil health and climate-smart farm management systems by engaging underserved agricultural producers to improve water quality and habitat restoration in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
    $1,081,656, Stewardship Network: To accelerate the installation and maintenance of nature-based green infrastructure solutions across Central Maryland by growing the nascent Climate Crew Network.
    $997,500, The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County: To mitigate flooding and improve water quality in the historic community of Columbia Beach, Maryland.
    $542,994, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science: To improve the delivery of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Report Card and increase its relevance to watershed citizens by integrating socially relevant indicators and community perspectives on watershed ecosystem health.
    $420,247, Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts, Inc.: To increase the adoption of conservation practices through a refreshed farm certification program.
    $330,000, Chesapeake Stormwater Network, Inc.: To deliver core stormwater training programs to the stormwater management community across the Chesapeake Bay watershed and expand efforts to focus on younger and more diverse audiences of existing and emerging stormwater professionals.
    $265,877, Nature Forward, Inc.: To collaborate with four local community organizations to improve water quality and restore pollinator habitat in underserved areas of the Anacostia River watershed.
    240,028, Civic Works, Inc.: To engage community residents and young AmeriCorps adults in training and installation of stormwater best management practices in East Baltimore.
    The awards were made available through the Chesapeake Small Watershed Grants Program, which the lawmakers fought to provide funding for within Fiscal Year 2024 annual appropriations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Wicker and Hyde-Smith Honor James Earl Jones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    Last night, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution that honors the late actor James Earl Jones, who passed away in early September. U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., led the effort.
    “Mississippi has lost a beloved son, and the world has lost an extraordinary talent. From Arkabutla to immortality, James Earl Jones, R.I.P. We’ll remember your voice and your heart,” Senator Wicker said.
    “From the Mississippi Delta to the world stage, James Earl Jones’s extraordinary voice and commanding presence inspired generations.  His contributions to the arts, culture, and humanities will undoubtedly stand the test of time. May his legacy always remind us of the strength, resilience, and power that comes from our Mississippi roots,” Senator Hyde-Smith said.
    U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and Gary Peters, D-Mich., also cosponsored the resolution.
    Jones was born in Arkabutla, Mississippi and was widely known for his roles in The Lion King, Star Wars, Field of Dreams, and more.
    See the full text of the resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Earns “A+” Rating for Unwavering Support for the Second Amendment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today received an “A+” rating from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). Graham was one of only eight senators named to NSSF’s inaugural Congressional Dean’s List, which recognizes members of Congress who have gone above and beyond to protect and preserve the Second Amendment in the 118th Congress.
    “I am honored to be recognized by NSSF today. It is now more important than ever that we stand up for our right to bear arms, promote responsible gun ownership, and protect America’s licensed gun dealers. I will always fight to preserve the Second Amendment,” said Senator Graham.
    “The 2024 NSSF Congressional Report Card is a comprehensive analysis of our elected representatives’ positions on firearm and ammunition industry priorities in the 118th Congress. The Report Card’s grades are based on key votes, co-sponsorships, committee activity, floor speeches, and other official actions by Senators and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Members of our industry are grateful to have so many strong allies in the Halls of Congress,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President for Government & Public Affairs and General Counsel. “NSSF is proud to especially recognize Senator Graham as a member of the new NSSF Congressional Dean’s List for his exemplary leadership in supporting the firearm and ammunition industry and the nearly 400,000 hardworking Americans employed in the industry. Making the Dean’s List is special recognition that Senator Graham has gone above and beyond to protect and preserve the Second Amendment rights of his constituents and the industry that makes the exercise of those rights possible. We applaud Senator Graham for his exemplary level of support.”
    Senator Graham is the lead sponsor of the Respect for the Second Amendment Act, which seeks to make permanent Second Amendment rights afforded to law abiding Americans, and prevent a future Supreme Court from going back on this decision. Graham also led the introduction of legislation to combat “smash and grab” thefts of federally licensed gun dealers, known as the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) Protection Act of 2023.
    Additional information on NSSF’s rating is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Heinrich, Luján Introduce Sarah Davenport for Consideration to Serve on U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced Sarah Davenport for consideration to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. Heinrich and Luján strongly recommended Davenport to the Biden Administration and welcomed the announcement of her nomination in August. 

    VIDEO: Heinrich, Luján Introduce Sarah Davenport for Consideration to Serve on U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico, September 25, 2024.
    Sarah Morgan Davenport has served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico in Las Cruces, New Mexico, since 2009. In that capacity, her practice has focused on prosecuting complex, multi-defendant criminal cases. From 2008 to 2009, Ms. Davenport served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico in Las Cruces. And from 2006 to 2008, she served as an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Law Clerk with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She received her J.D. from the University of New Mexico in 2006 and her B.M. from the New Mexico State University in 1998.  
    In June, Heinrich and Luján commended the Honorable William Paul Johnson, who announced his intention to retire from regular active service as a United States District Court Judge effective in January 2025, after 23 years of distinguished service on the federal bench. The soon-to-be vacant seat on the District Court for the District of New Mexico, which Davenport has been nominated to fill, will be based in Las Cruces, N.M.  
    During the Biden Administration, Heinrich and Luján have worked together to confirm three of the currently sitting federal judges: District Judges Margaret Strickland, David Herrera Urias, and Matthew Garcia.   Earlier this year, the senators also successfully secured the confirmation of David O. Barnett, Jr. for U.S. Marshal for the District of New Mexico. In 2022, the senators highly recommended and welcomed the confirmation of Alexander M.M. Uballez as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Lawler, Ruppersberger, and Bipartisan Group of Colleagues Secure SNAP Theft Reimbursement in Stop-Gap Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Victims of food stamp theft will continue to be reimbursed thanks to a provision in a stop-gap funding bill secured by a bipartisan group of lawmakers including Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-02), and others. H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, passed in the U.S. House of Representatives today in a 341-82 vote, keeping the government funded – and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits flowing – through December 20, 2024. It is expected to be taken up in the U.S. Senate quickly.

    Last month, Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-02), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR-05), James P. McGovern (D-MA-02), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Anthony D’Esposito (R-Y-04), Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07) and Grace Meng (D-NY-06) sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging them to allow victims of SNAP theft to continue to be reimbursed from federal and state coffers. 

    Reports of SNAP theft – in which perpetrators use skimming devices to steal SNAP benefits distributed on electronic debit cards (EBT) – are skyrocketing across the nation. States are currently required to replace stolen benefits under a measure included in the 2023 omnibus funding bill passed by Congress at the end of 2022. But that provision was set to expire on September 30.

    “Ensuring that SNAP recipients who have their benefits stolen are made whole is a top priority and is deeply important to New York families,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY-17). “That’s why I joined colleagues in both parties and chambers to introduce the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act to protect these programs from fraud, and it’s why I have been adamant about the need to include SNAP protections in FY25’s appropriations. I was pleased to see these provisions in the CR we passed this week. We must complete our appropriations work while protecting the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who recognize the dire straits that SNAP theft leaves its victims, which often include veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly and the disabled,” said Congressman Ruppersberger (D-MD-02). “While Congress continues to work toward its long-term and strategic spending bills, I am relieved to know these innocent constituents will not lose their primary source of healthy food.”

    “I was proud to join this bipartisan group of my colleagues in urging congressional leaders to prevent critical SNAP theft reimbursements from ending,” said Congresswoman Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR-05). “I’m glad our message was heard and an extension was included in this stopgap funding bill. I’ll keep working to ensure victims of SNAP theft are protected.”

    “I am proud to have helped secure an extension that will allow states to use existing federal funding to reimburse vulnerable victims of SNAP theft so that families in need can put food on the table,” Congressman Dan Goldman (D-NY-10) said. “SNAP theft can be devastating for working families and these reimbursements are a critical lifeline that allows working families to make ends meet. I will continue fighting alongside my colleagues to ensure that states retain this authority when Congress passes its final budget at the end of the year.”

    “Families that rely on SNAP to put food on the table each day should never go hungry, especially as a result of their benefits being stolen,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY-06), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “That’s why I fought to help over 36,000 New Yorkers recover more than $17.5 million in stolen SNAP benefits. I’m glad to see that this provision was included and extended in this critical government funding bill. I’ve also been fighting to make EBT benefit cards more secure to deter scams, and I’m excited that this bill includes language that will hopefully lead to more secure EBT cards. Many beneficiaries in Queens and across the country continue to be targeted by these scams, and we must continue fighting for the families in our communities experiencing the greatest needs.”

    “It is appalling that Americans are being targeted at record rates in major SNAP benefit theft. These sickening crimes are carried out against veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly, and the disabled – all of whom are just trying to put food on their table,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07). “Our letter represented a unified effort, across the political aisle, to bring justice to victims in all our respective Congressional Districts. Today’s triumph was a culmination of fierce collaboration between both Democrats and Republicans and boldly fighting for justice on behalf of all households that rely on SNAP,” he concluded. 

    “Because of our bipartisan push, victims of SNAP theft will continue to be protected through the SNAP Reimbursement Extension,” said Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19). “I’m proud to have helped lead the effort to ensure Upstate New York families who rely on SNAP benefits always have access to the meals they deserve.”

    “Thousands of Bucks and Montgomery County residents depend on SNAP to put food on their tables, which is why I was proud to join my colleagues in the critical fight to prevent SNAP theft reimbursements from ending. This common-sense reimbursement provision is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the SNAP program and ensuring families in my community and nationwide who have fallen victim to SNAP theft can quickly recover their benefits. Today’s victory is a powerful reminder that when we unite across party lines, we can achieve meaningful change and stand firm in our commitment to uplift our communities and safeguard the well-being of those who need it most,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

    “SNAP recipients who had their food benefits stolen—through no fault of their own, I would add—should not be kicked while they’re down by an indifferent government that tells them ‘too bad’ and leaves them to fend for themselves,” said Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA-02). “Especially when the average SNAP benefit is barely over $2 per person, per meal. We’re talking about people who rely on these benefits to feed themselves and their families. When they are stolen, people go hungry. I’m glad that because of our continued advocacy, Congress is making sure that food insecure families are protected through the end of the year.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation Co-Led by Rep. Tokuda to Combat Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death Passes the U.S. House of Representatives 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jill Tokuda (Hawaii – 2nd District)

    Washington, DC — U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) issued the following statement on the Continued Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death Response Act of 2023 after the legislation unanimously passed the House of Representatives this week. 

    “Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death presents an existential threat to Hawai‘i’s native forests that are a critical habitat for our endangered birds and other species. If we don’t act now, our native forests will not survive,” said Rep. Tokuda. “This bill would help in the fight against Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death by leveraging federal resources to support statewide efforts in mitigating Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death’s impact on Hawaiʻi’s delicate ecosystems.” 

    The Continued Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death Response Act of 2023 would direct the Secretary of the Interior to collaborate with the Secretary of Agriculture and the State of Hawai‘i on combating Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. This bill would increase support for continued detection, prevention, and restoration efforts to Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death, including funding and staff for necessary research. 

    This legislation, which she introduced with U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, is Rep. Tokuda’s first bill to pass the House of Representatives. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate for further action.  

    The full text of the bill is available here. 

    Rep. Tokuda’s remarks on the House Floor are available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fitzgerald’s Bail Reform Bill Passes in House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) issued the following statement after his bill, the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act, was passed on the House floor 255-161.

    “The radical left-wing approach to prosecution and bail have had deadly consequences throughout our country, which is why I introduced the Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act,” said Rep. Fitzgerald (WI-05). “This bill will protect our communities by defining bail bonds as insurance products and by bringing charitable bail funds under state insurance regulation. These changes will add a much-needed layer of transparency and accountability to bail funds, that up until now, have been operating in the shadows without oversight. I was grateful to see my bill pass this week—and I look forward to seeing it make its way through the Senate next.”

    Background: Groups like the Bail Project and Minnesota Freedom Fund aggressively solicit funds to pay bail with little regard to the criminal histories of those they’re putting back on the streets. The Minnesota Freedom Fund paid the bail for notable offenders including George Howard, a man charged with domestic abuse who two weeks after having his bail paid, was charged with second-degree murder in a road rage incident.

    A 2023 analysis by CNN found that at least 65 defendants who were bailed out by the Minnesota Freedom Fund “were awaiting trial on felony charges involving violence, physical threats, or sex crimes. All were convicted.”

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken meets with Kenyan President William Ruto

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken meets with Kenyan President William Ruto in New York City, New York, on September 26, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at http://www.state.gov and on social media!
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YWXadZxni4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stevensville Timber Frame Home Builder Convicted by Federal Jury of Defrauding Customers of More Than $2 Million

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    MISSOULA — A federal jury convicted a Stevensville timber frame home builder on Sept. 20 of wire fraud and money laundering crimes in an alleged scheme in which he defrauded customers of more than $2 million by obtaining payments to build them homes but instead used the money for personal expenses and to pay other debts, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.

    After a five-day trial that began on Sept. 16, the jury found the defendant, Brett Mauri, 61, guilty of four counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. Mauri faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release on the wire fraud counts, and a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the transaction, and three years of supervised release on each count of money laundering.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The court set sentencing for Jan. 30, 2025. Mauri’s release was continued pending further proceedings.

    “Mauri stole nearly $2 million from people who trusted him to build their dream homes. He consistently lied to them and made excuses about the lack of progress on each project, some of whom didn’t have anything to show despite paying Mauri thousands and thousands of dollars. They didn’t just suffer monetary losses, but mentally and emotionally, too. I hope his forthcoming federal prison sentence gives them comfort knowing he can’t scam anyone else again,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.

    In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that Mauri is the owner and operator of Bitterroot Timber Frames (BTF) and Three Mile Creek Post & Beam, LLC. According to Mauri and the company’s website, BTF built custom timber frame homes across the United States. Mauri claimed credit for large projects in some of America’s most popular ski towns between the 1990s and 2010s. The government alleged that between 2018 and 2022, Mauri defrauded nine individuals who hired him to build their timber frame homes. Many of the agreements were made by written contract, while some were formed by email or over the phone. Mauri obtained payments from these customers and lied to them about his operations and what he was doing with their money. Mauri ultimately provided little to nothing in return.

    The scheme involved Mauri inducing customers to send him funds, which were ultimately deposited into his or his wife’s bank accounts. Mauri, and his wife, Carrie McEnroe, primarily used the money for personal living expenses and to pay other debts instead of building the homes as he promised. What work Mauri did perform on victims’ projects gave his operation the hallmarks of a Ponzi scheme. He frequently solicited new money from a victim and used the funds, in part, to cover past expenses that were often incurred on earlier projects. The scheme resulted in victims paying Mauri more than $2 million. In exchange, Mauri provided very little materials or services, and some victims received nothing at all. Victims had hired Mauri to build homes in the Montana communities of Whitehall, Victor, Corvallis and Missoula, and in New York, Utah, and Louisiana.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 10-Count Superseding Indictment Charges DuBois City Manager and Employee with Theft and Misappropriation of More Than $1.5 Million in City Funds

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A federal grand jury in Johnstown has returned a Superseding Indictment that charges two residents of Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, with conspiracy, federal program fraud, and money laundering, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    The 10-count Superseding Indictment named John “Herm” Suplizio, 64, and Roberta Shaffer, 59, both of DuBois, as the defendants. The pair was initially indicted and arrested in November 2023 on conspiracy and federal program fraud charges (read the earlier news release here). The Superseding Indictment expands the time frame of the federal program theft conspiracy in the original indictment, with allegations of an additional approximately $700,000 in theft, and also adds money laundering charges.

    According to the Superseding Indictment, from in and around May 2008 to in and around March 2022, Suplizio, the City Manager for DuBois, and Shaffer, the Secretary to the City of DuBois, knowingly conspired to embezzle, steal, convert, and misapply over $1.5 million owned by the city. To accomplish this theft, Suplizio and Shaffer opened bank accounts without the knowledge of the DuBois City Council or auditors, and then funneled fees intended for the city from a waste management company and two oil and gas companies into those secret accounts. Suplizio and Shaffer used the stolen money to, among other things, make large cash withdrawals, write checks to themselves and others, obtain cashier’s checks with themselves listed as payees, and make payments to Suplizio’s personal credit card. The purchases on Suplizio’s credit card included Suplizio’s vacation expenses, utility expenses for Suplizio’s residence, department store purchases, jewelry store purchases, political dinners, and other personal expenses. The Superseding Indictment alleges that many of the transactions in which Suplizio and Shaffer engaged with the proceeds of their theft were over $10,000, which constitutes money laundering under federal law.

    The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to either five or 10 years in prison, a fine of up to either $250,000 or $500,000, or both, on each count. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.

    Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt and Special Assistant United States Attorney Summer F. Carroll are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment.

    A Superseding Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prineville Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Multi-Million-Dollar Drug Treatment Fraud Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    EUGENE, Ore.—A Prineville, Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for using stolen identities to submit fraudulent health care claims resulting in over $1.5 million in misappropriated funds from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Medicaid Program and filing false tax returns that failed to report earnings she received.

    Darla K. Byus, 55, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $2,033,315 in restitution to OHA and the IRS.

    “Her crimes betrayed the trust placed in this company as a substance abuse treatment provider in Oregon. We thank the state and federal investigators for their dedication and commitment to ending this scheme,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices. “Business owners who abuse the system to line their pockets at the expense of our communities will be held accountable.”

    “HHS-OIG is committed to protecting Oregon communities and taxpayer funds from schemes targeting Oregon’s Medicaid program, which provides necessary services to vulnerable populations,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG values our continued partnership with the Oregon Department of Justice’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and other law enforcement partners and will continue to investigate those who threaten the integrity of federal and state health care programs and the people served by them.”

    “I am pleased that the joint investigation between our Medicaid Fraud Unit at Oregon DOJ and five federal agencies turned up the evidence needed for the United States Attorney to successfully prosecute this complex case. Oregon’s Medicaid program will get back over a million dollars it is rightfully owed, and those who try to defraud Oregonians and undermine our social safety net programs should be on notice— they will be caught and prosecuted,” said Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum.

    According to court documents, from January 2019 to August 2021, Byus used her company, Choices Recover Services (CRS), to overbill the OHA Medicaid Program for substance abuse counseling services and to submit fraudulent reimbursement claims using the stolen identities of Medicaid recipients.

    As an OHA Medicaid Provider for drug and alcohol related counseling services, CRS had access to a provider portal through the Medicaid Management Information System. Byus exploited this access to privileged information to determine a victim’s Medicaid eligibility. She then used their personally identifiable information to submit claims without the victim’s knowledge or authorization. Byus used the stolen identities more than 45 victims, at least a third of which were identified by searching jail roster websites for recent drug or alcohol related offenses.

    Using CRS, Byus submitted over $3 million in false claims to the OHA Medicaid Program and received over $1.5 million in fraudulent proceeds. She used the misappropriated funds to purchase multiple properties in Oregon and to gamble. In addition, Byus knowingly filed false tax returns for herself and CRS, failing to pay approximately $450,438 in taxes.

    On May 13, 2024, Byus was charged by criminal information with heath care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and making a false tax return and, on June 20, 2024, she pleaded guilty.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice Tax Division, and the Oregon Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. It was prosecuted by Joseph H. Huynh and Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Visits Lelu Elementary School [Image 9 of 11]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    KOSRAE, Federated States of Micronesia (Sept. 18, 2024) – U.S. Navy Capt. Daniel Keeler, Pacific Partnership 2024-2 mission commander, left, talks with students during a school engagement at Lelu Elementary School in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 18, 2024. Now in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gavin Arnoldhendershot)

    Date Taken: 09.18.2024
    Date Posted: 09.26.2024 15:35
    Photo ID: 8663453
    VIRIN: 240918-N-RM312-1220
    Resolution: 6000×4000
    Size: 2.07 MB
    Location: KOSRAE, FM
    Web Views: 2
    Downloads: 0

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Visits Lelu Elementary School [Image 4 of 11]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    KOSRAE, Federated States of Micronesia (Sept. 18, 2024) – U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Nikki Petersen, the Pacific Partnership 2024-2 host nation outreach line of effort lead, from Benson, Utah, talks with students during a school engagement at Lelu Elementary School in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 18, 2024. Now in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gavin Arnoldhendershot)

    Date Taken: 09.18.2024
    Date Posted: 09.26.2024 15:35
    Photo ID: 8663448
    VIRIN: 240918-N-RM312-1215
    Resolution: 4756×3675
    Size: 2.39 MB
    Location: KOSRAE, FM
    Web Views: 1
    Downloads: 0

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