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  • MIL-OSI USA: Romney, Hassan, Warner, Ernst Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Fight Pandemic Relief Fraud

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT)

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) Emerging Threats and Spending Oversight Subcommittee, Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Subcommittee Chair, Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) today introduced the COVID Spending Transparency Act of 2024, bipartisan legislation that would extend the term of the Treasury Department’s Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery (SIGPR)—currently scheduled to sunset at the end of March 2025—for another five years.

    SIGPR was created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 to oversee spending of government funds in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Several federal inspectors general, including SIGPR, have collectively uncovered waste, fraud, and abuse in the pandemic assistance loan programs amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars. SIGPR currently has 42 open cases, with 28 of those cases amounting to more than $499 million in CARES Act funding

    “The CARES Act was critically important for the country at a critical time, but it’s become clear that the oversight of funds tied to the CARES Act and other COVID relief legislation is still needed,” Senator Romney said. “It would be unwise to let the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery expire when there is still work to be done to recover federal funds. Our legislation would extend this important office for five years in order to continue to give the inspector general the tools needed to continue rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in our federal programs from the COVID pandemic.”

    “The CARES Act provided critical funds to help save lives, support families, and keep small businesses afloat during the pandemic — but we know that some bad actors took advantage of it. We need to keep working to recover fraudulently obtained or used CARES Act federal funding,” said Senator Hassan. “The Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery plays a crucial role in overseeing these funds, and we must extend the position so that it can continue to combat waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    “The CARES Act provided crucial support to businesses during the COVID pandemic, but it also opened the door for potential misuse. This legislation would ensure that those receiving COVID relief funds are using them appropriately,” Senator Warner said. “It’s crucial the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery continues their important work, and has the resources to do so.”

    “With hundreds of billions of dollars of waste and fraud, it is evident that the screening process for pandemic swindlers had more holes than Swiss cheese. We need to give the Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery the time, resources, and jurisdiction to track down every last cent of COVID fraud,” said Senator Ernst.

    Background:

    In November 2023, Senators Romney and Hassan led a HSGAC Emerging Threats and Spending Oversight Subcommittee hearing examining federal COVID-era spending. During the hearing, Romney advocated for extending SIGPR past its expiration date of March 28, 2025.

    The CARES Act created the Main Street Lending Program, which offered loans to small and medium-sized businesses. The Main Street Lending Program issued loans for small and medium-sized businesses and set up a payment plan of 15% in the third and fourth years, with a majority of payment of 70% due in the fifth year. The expiration of SIGPR coincides with the maturing of loans under the Treasury Department’s Main Street Lending Program.

    To date, SIGPR has recovered over $60 million in taxpayer funds, which surpasses its budget appropriated by Congress. SIGPR’s investigations have resulted in 53 federal indictments, 44 arrests, 16 guilty pleas, with 3 additional guilty pleas filed with the court, and 4 sentencings which have generated $11.2 million in seizure or forfeiture orders, $11.9 million in court ordered restitution, and a $350,000 civil settlement.

    Text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Marshall Joins Grassley and Bicameral Colleagues in Calling Out Abuses in the Biden-Harris Unaccompanied Migrant Children Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and bicameral Republican colleagues in a letter urging President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to work with Congress to root out abuses in their administration’s unaccompanied migrant children program and stop the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)’s cover-up of the crisis. HHS has failed to comply with two out of three Department of Homeland Security (DHS) subpoenas and other information requests issued amid its investigation into more than 100 suspicious sponsors identified.
    Program Abuse
    More than 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children have crossed the southwest border under the Biden-Harris administration, while cartel trafficking activity surged an estimated 2,500 percent. Amid this crisis, the lawmakers note that the Biden-Harris administration limited background checks for sponsors of unaccompanied children, cut back on familial DNA testing at the border and decreased information sharing with law enforcement.
    Seeking Solutions
    The lawmakers are urging Biden and Harris to “make changes to [their] policies and procedures” in order to “end this public safety crisis.” They are specifically calling on the Biden-Harris administration to enhance information sharing with law enforcement and Congress, fully cooperate with DHS’s child exploitation investigation and thoroughly respond to all congressional oversight requests.
    “[The Biden-Harris HHS] must stop its cover-up and cooperate with law enforcement and Congress to end this crisis and protect unaccompanied children and the American people,” the lawmakers concluded.
    Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In White Plains, Gillibrand Announces Legislation to Address Epidemic of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Service Members and Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of firing their own weapons, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visited the Westchester County Michaelian Office Building in White Plains to announce legislation to address traumatic brain injuries among service members and veterans. 

    Service members who regularly fire heavy weapons are at increased risk of brain injury as a result of repeated exposure to explosions or blasts from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. At least a dozen Navy SEALs who have died by suicide over the past decade were later found to have suffered blast injuries, and many more service members have complained of health issues after blast exposure. Despite this, the Pentagon has struggled to properly investigate the impact of blast overpressure, effectively track the prevalence of blast overpressure-related injuries, or offer appropriate care to service members and veterans. Gillibrand is calling for more research and better treatment for those affected.

    Gillibrand was joined by Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, New York State Assemblyman Chris Burdick, City of White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach, Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi, Director of the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency Ronald Tocci, City of Mount Vernon Director of Veteran’s Services Andrea Molina, and local veterans.

    “After repeatedly being exposed to blasts from their own weapons during both training and combat, our service members are sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This bill will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence and causes of these brain injuries; to track each service member’s exposure to blasts; and to help service members access care. This is a critical bill and I look forward to getting it passed in the NDAA.” 

    “With research showing an increased risk of traumatic brain injuries for our service members who regularly fire off heavy weapons, it is imperative we work together at all levels of government to start addressing the health implications they are being exposed to from the blasts of their own weapons. We know that doing so can truly save lives as blast overpressure has already been linked to the development of suicidal inclinations and cognitive issues,” said New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. “The Blast Overpressure Safety Act will provide tools to investigate the scope and root causes of TBIs while also tracking service members’ exposure to blasts. The act will also promote access to care. I highly commend Senator Gillibrand for introducing this proactive piece of legislation, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate on initiatives to further protect our active service members and veterans who put their lives on the line to protect us.”

    New York State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, “I am honored to join Senator Gillibrand in showing our steadfast support for our veterans, both abroad and when they return home. Traumatic brain injuries can be life altering and early assessment is critical to ensure that veterans have the resources and support they need to continue living life to the fullest. As a state and nation, we must do better to support our veterans.”

    “I am very pleased to see Senator Gillibrand’s support for the Blast Overpressure Safety Act,” said New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick. “This is a great step in taking care of our active service members and veterans, who have already sacrificed so much for our country. As a society we are making progress in addressing traumatic brain injuries in sports, so it is not only appropriate but crucial that we also make progress concerning those who are putting their lives on the line for our democracy.”

    Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “The brave men and women who serve our country deserve comprehensive care for the injuries they endure in the line of duty – that is the very least that we owe them. Traumatic brain injuries caused by blast overpressure are devastating and all too common, yet we’ve seen a lack of sufficient research and support for those affected. I applaud Senator Gillibrand’s outstanding leadership on this legislation. It is a critical step toward ensuring those we send to the front lines receive the care and understanding they need to heal.”

    “Our service members have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the highest level of care when they return home,” said Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins. “The effects of blast overpressure are a silent threat, leading to traumatic brain injuries that can severely impact their quality of life. Senator Gillibrand’s legislation is a vital move towards better understanding, tracking, and treating these injuries.”

    Specifically, the Blast Overpressure Safety Act would: 

    1. Mandate regular neurocognitive assessments over a service member’s career, including a baseline neurocognitive assessment before training. 
    2. Create blast overpressure exposure and TBI logs for all service members.
    3. Increase transparency regarding blast overpressure safety in the weapons acquisition process. DoD must consider the minimization of blast overpressure during the acquisition process, require contracting entities to provide blast overpressure safety data, and publish blast overpressure safety data for weapons systems and its plans to better protect service members from in-use weapons systems. 
    4. Improve data on concussive and subconcussive brain injuries service members sustain. This includes information on discharges related to and medical providers trained in these injuries, as well as efforts with allies and partners to better address these injuries. 
    5. Enhance efforts to mitigate exposure and help service members access care. This includes retaliation protections for those who seek care; modifying existing weapons system to reduce blast exposure; updating and making publicly available blast overpressure thresholds and creating a waiver system for exceeding these thresholds; training high-risk service members to help them recognize exposure symptoms and creating strategies to mitigate their risk; and expanding the types of technologies in the Warfighter Brain Health Initiative pilot blast monitoring program. 
    6. Support service member treatment by establishing a Special Operations Comprehensive Brain Health and Trauma program, making the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) a program of record and requiring DoD to provide child care services to those seeking treatment there, and mandating training for medical and training personnel on blast overpressure and exposure and TBI. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Congratulates Lincoln Elementary, Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood Public, and Red Trail Elementary Schools on Designation as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    09.23.24

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today congratulated Lincoln Elementary School in Beach, Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood Public School in Mohall and Red Trail Elementary School in Mandan on being designated by the U.S. Department of Education as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Since 1982, the Blue Ribbon School award has honored public and private schools across the country that display overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps.

    “This Blue Ribbon designation recognizes the hard work of students, teachers and faculty, and the entire school community as examples of academic success,” said Hoeven. “We congratulate these schools on this honor and are grateful for their investment in the success and well-being of their students.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scanlon Condemns Project 2025 Plot To Take Over Government, Criminalize Abortion Nationwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon(PA-5)


    Washington, D.C.     — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) spoke on the House floor about Project 2025, the extreme MAGA Republican agenda that gives the President unprecedented powers to control the government and our lives and then uses that power to hurt the middle class, end Social Security and Medicare as we know it, and criminalize abortion nationwide.

    Watch Rep. Scanlon’s remarks HERE or read them as prepared for delivery below.

    “Thank you very much.

    “We’re here to discuss Project 2025, the extremist playbook to impose a radical right-wing agenda upon Americans.

    “It’s called Project 2025 because it’s designed to be implemented by Trump and his allies if he returns to the White House next year.

    “The authors of Project 2025 have even begun recruiting people to apply for jobs to help implement this scheme because – as they detail in Project 2025 – they plan to fire career civil servants and replace them with partisans who swear loyalty to Trump, rather than our country or Constitution. A move, by the way, that the former president tried to implement by executive order before he left office.

    “When the authors of Project 2025 decided to publish their radical agenda, they must not have realized that their ideas are so extreme that Americans would reject them as being – frankly – un-American.

    “That’s why the former president and many of his allies are now trying to distance themselves from Project 2025. But they can’t, because their fingerprints are all over Project 2025. And nowhere is that clearer than in Project 2025’s plan to ban abortion and restrict women’s reproductive freedom. Because the truth is – the extremists who plotted with Trump to overturn Roe v. Wade were never going to stop there.

    “Chapter 14 of Project 2025 outlines their plans. It was written by a member of the Trump administration, and you can read it yourself at pages 449 through 502.

    “Project 2025 would impose a nationwide ban on medication abortion by revoking FDA approval of that drug. It would resurrect a 19th century law, the Comstock Act, to ban the mailing of abortion care materials and criminalize their use. Project 2025 would rip away access to basic contraception. It would end emergency room reproductive healthcare for women whose health and lives are at risk. Project 2025 would end IVF as it’s currently practiced. It would require the government to monitor women’s pregnancies and miscarriages.

    “Project 2025 is beyond extreme. It’s dangerous.

    “Democrats will continue to stand firm and united against this radical agenda, and to stand up for Americans’ reproductive freedom because we trust women to make decisions about their own bodies, not politicians.

    “I yield back.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Work-related health newsletter – September 2024

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    Kia ora koutou and welcome to the September work-related health newsletter. Check out the latest guidance to help you ensure a healthy and safe work environment for you and your workers.

    In this edition:

    • WorkSafe’s priority plans published
    • Updated guidance for working with asbestos
    • New manual tasks screening and risk assessment tools
    • Keeping volunteers healthy and safe
    • Health and safety governance good practice guide
    • ACC levy consultation
    • Upcoming conference.

    Read the full newsletter(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child-care centre guidance on Police vetting for workers

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    We have updated our guidance on the requirements for vetting workers at limited-attendance child-care centres.

    The new Regulatory Systems (Education) Amendment Act 2024 means updates have been made to the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 (Regulation 51).

    A key point is that Police vetting must be completed for non-teaching and unregistered employees at unlicensed child-care centres before the person begins work. This vetting must be used to assess any risks to the safety of children. 

    What are limited-attendance child-care centres?

    These are any premises that are:

    • used regularly for the care of three or more children under six years old (not including the children of the persons providing the care) and
    • where the children do not stay for more than two hours per day and
    • where the children’s parents or caregivers are in close proximity to the children, and are able to be contacted and resume responsibility for the children at short notice. 

    For example, a crèche at a gym or shopping mall.

    It does not include being provided with care before or after school.

    Read more information in the fact sheet: What to know when employing or engaging limited-attendance child-care centre workers

    Related information:

    Governance of education sector boosted | Beehive.govt.nz (external link)

    Regulatory Systems (Education) Amendment Act 2024 – Education in New Zealand | Education.govt.nz (external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Safe Access Zones

    Source: Scottish Government

    Protected zones around abortion services now in place.

    Protected zones of 200 meters around all abortion services in Scotland are now in place.

    Within these zones, it is now a criminal offence to intentionally or recklessly behave in ways that could influence the decisions of women and staff to access services; impede their access; or otherwise cause alarm, harassment or distress.

    Police Scotland are responsible for enforcing the legislation. People who break the law can be fined up to £10,000, or be given an unlimited fine, depending on the court procedure.

    Determining whether an offence has been committed will be a matter for Police Scotland, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and the Courts. Depending on the facts and circumstances of each case, some examples of criminal behaviour may include: approaching someone to try and persuade them not to access abortion services, surrounding people as they try to go in or out of the clinic or hospital, handing out leaflets, religious preaching and silent vigils.

    Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Jenni Minto said:

    “The introduction of Safe Access Zones is a crucial milestone in protecting women’s abortion rights – no one has the right to interfere in women’s personal medical decisions and the law now makes that abundantly clear.

    “I thank Gillian Mackay and all those involved for their work to progress this legislation. I would like especially recognise the women who showed incredible courage in speaking up and sharing their experiences during the Bill process.

    “The new zones of 200 meters around all abortion services will help ensure women have safe access to healthcare – free from intimidation. This law is about protection for women at a time when many will feel incredibly vulnerable around taking a deeply personal and difficult decision.”

    Background

    Full details of the penalties that apply for committing an offence.

    Full list of the locations of zones:

    University Hospital Crosshouse – Kilmarnock

    Borders General Hospital – Melrose

    Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary

    Galashiels Health Centre

    Oak Tree Family Health Centre – Stranraer

    Queen Margaret Hospital – Dunfermline

    Victoria Hospital – Kirkcaldy

    Forth Valley Royal Hospital – Larbert

    Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

    Aberdeen Community Hospital

    Aberdeen Maternity Hospital

    Dr Gray’s Hospital – Elgin

    Inverclyde Hospital – Greenock

    Royal Alexandra Hospital – Paisley

    Sandyford Sexual Health Clinic – Glasgow

    Princess Royal Maternity Hospital – Glasgow

    Ross Hall – Glasgow

    New Victoria Hospital – Glasgow

    Queen Elizabeth University Hospital – Glasgow

    Stobhill Hospital – Glasgow

    Vale of Leven Hospital – West Dunbartonshire

    Raigmore Hospital – Inverness

    University Hospital Wishaw

    Royal Infirmary Edinburgh

    Chalmers Sexual Health Centre – Edinburgh

    St John’s Hospital – Livingston

    The Balfour – Livingston

    Gilbert Bain Hospital – Lerwick

    Ninewells Hospital – Dundee

    Western Isles Hospital – Stornoway

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: How Google AI is helping scientists protect humpback whales in Australia

    Source: Google

    Every year, humpback whales migrate up the east coast of Australia to breed, and journey back to Antarctica to feed. During their migration, the whales make calls and sing songs – a grand chorus in the symphony of their ecosystems.

    This underwater soundscape is a valuable and vital window into the health of this species and their habitats. By tracking audio data, scientists can understand migration activity, patterns, mating calls, competitive behaviors and more.

    Humpback whale mating call, collected in the Gold Coast

    As part of the Digital Future Initiative, Google Australia is teaming up with Griffith University to implement more precise, comprehensive and efficient monitoring of whale migrations and their ecosystems in Australia – enabled by Google AI and automatic audio detection.

    Researchers Dr Olaf Meynecke from Griffith University’s Whales and Climate Program and Dr Lauren Harrell from Google Research are leading this collaboration.

    Traditional whale research methods have faced limitations in both data collection and analysis. Researchers logged sightings and manually analysed audio recordings, which is time-consuming and does not give a continuous view of whale activity. Moreover, visual sightings can only be logged during daylight, and tracking the evolving vocal dialects of whales across different regions and seasons is a complex task.

    With this new collaboration, researchers have deployed hydrophones — underwater microphones — and Google AI powered audio detection systems to monitor the sounds and songs of humpback whales and their habitats.

    A seal swimming around a hydrophone off the South Coast, NSW

    Hydrophones allow us to tune into marine soundscapes and continuously collect underwater audio data all day and all night, through the entire humpback migration season. Google’s AI technology processes this data, automatically detecting whale sounds, marking their location in time and classifying the species. This frees researchers from the minutiae and laborious manual work, so they can look at the big picture, uncover insights and explore new research frontiers.

    Dr Olaf Meynecke deploying a hydrophone in Terrigal, NSW

    Curtin University’s Centre for Marine Science and Technology is supporting the collection and labeling of acoustic data, and a range of local citizen science groups will assist with monitoring each of the hydrophone sites. The AI model will eventually be open-sourced on Kaggle and GitHub, benefiting other whale and marine researchers worldwide.

    While our current focus is on monitoring humpback whale sounds, the potential of this AI model extends far beyond. We’ll look to build on the model to detect the sounds of diverse marine species, from fish to dolphins and seals. These advancements will open up uncharted territories of research that could help protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats for generations to come.

    Posted in:

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Program for Greater Bendigo Seniors Festival available now!

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    The program for the 2024 Greater Bendigo Seniors Festival which runs from October 6 – 13 is now available at local libraries, neighbourhood houses, Bendigo and Heathcote Visitor Centres, the City of Greater Bendigo’s customer service centres at Heathcote and Galkangu Bendigo Gov Hub and on the City’s website.

    A standout event of this year’s festival is the Showcase Concert featuring Amber Joy Poulton in her show – Honky Tonk Queens which takes place at 11am on Friday October 11 at the Capital, View Street, Bendigo.

    Amber Joy Poulton is renowned for her hit theatre show the Coal Miner’s Daughter, which brings to life the legacy of country music’s first queens—Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, and Loretta Lynn. This show features classic hits like Jolene and Stand By Your Man while celebrating the spirit of ageing well. Tickets are on sale now at the Capital Box Office or by visiting the Gotix website.

    The concert is presented by the City of Greater Bendigo and the Victorian Government and will also include a Welcome to Country and didgeridoo performance as well as the launch of the Ageing Well in Greater Bendigo video that highlights the vibrant lives and contributions of older adults in our community.

    For those looking to explore services and resources for older adults and people living with disability, the Be Well Be Connected Expo – Heathcote Roadshow is a must-visit. This free expo, funded by the City of Greater Bendigo and the Victorian Government, brings together a wide range of exhibitors showcasing aged care, community, and disability products and services. It is a great opportunity to meet with service providers and advisors who can offer valuable insights and support.

    The Try Before You Ride events at Bendigo Railway Station are perfect for those wanting to gain confidence in using public transport. This inclusive initiative, supported by the Victorian Government, allows people of all abilities to familiarise themselves with public transport options in a supportive environment.

    The program also features a range of other events including morning and afternoon teas, exhibitions, performances, exercise programs, come and try days, dancing, live music and more.

    City of Greater Bendigo Community Partnerships Manager Andie West said the annual Seniors Festival is a fantastic opportunity for older adults to celebrate, connect, be active and involved in the many activities available during the festival week.

    “This year’s program is packed full of great events with something for everyone and with many events either free or low cost it’s a great time to get out and about and try new things,” Ms West said.

    “The theme for this year’s festival is Explore, Engage, Evolve and we encourage older adults to grab a program, get involved and enjoy the activities on offer.”

    Victorian Seniors Card holders can also take advantage of free public transport on all regional bus services, V-Line bus and train services and all Metropolitan train, tram and bus services from Sunday October 6 to Sunday October 13.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Statement On the War In Gaza and Escalation Between Israel and Hezbollah In Lebanon

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement regarding the ongoing war in Gaza, and recent escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

    “This weekend’s escalation in combat between Israel and 140,000 Hezbollah forces supported in southern Lebanon by Iran creates a powder keg. If not contained, this conflict could widen and adversely impact thousands more innocent people of adjacent nations, as well as destabilize global markets.

    “This war must end. A ‘ceasefire’ is not enough. There must be a UN negotiated truce subject to multinational enforcement. The constituents I represent include thousands who trace their ancestry to Israel, Lebanon, Palestinian communities, and other impacted adjacent nations across the Middle East. I release this statement out of deep concern for them and the people of their ancestral lands. The road to peace must begin with the United Nations and its Security Council whose primary charge is the “maintenance of international peace and security.”  

    “The UN must demonstrate leadership and backbone in resolving this festering conflagration. With no intervention, the widening war of utter destruction across that war-torn region will escalate. It must end. An immediate truce is fundamental. It will require multinational enforced military lines of demarcation. Terrorist organizations cannot be voting parties to ongoing negotiations. States sponsoring terrorist organizations should face a strictly enforced multinational sanctions regime. 

    “I urge the Speaker and Minority Leader of the US House to bring forward this week, as the House reassembles, a first order of business House Privileged Resolution urging the United Nations be called into Special Session. The UN must address deescalating this widening carnage and ongoing war. In 1948, the United Nations following World War II acted with dispatch to address vast rebuilding and resettlement issues arising in post war regions of the Middle East and elsewhere.

    “Today, the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza and the West Bank — inflamed by the Hamas terrorist organization in alliance with other terrorist organizations and supported by arms from Iran — continues to plague the people of that region. Ethnic and religious cleansing forms a brutal and nonviable substitute for a truce and contemporary compact among neighboring States. It is long overdue. The United Nations must step up to this crucial, modern-day challenge which the people of all sovereign nations know is necessary. The bloody fighting in the Middle East must be brought to a negotiated truce. 

    “The hatred unleashed by the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel will reverberate across future generations of families on all sides of this conflict. Surely the people of the region and world seek a better road forward. The United Nations must rise to this compelling occasion.”

    Since the start of the conflict in Gaza, Congresswoman Kaptur has remained actively engaged in urging an aggressive diplomatic path forward to address the ongoing conflict and work toward a negotiated two-state solution. On October 8th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement condemning the Hamas terror attacks. On November 3rd, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement following a meeting with Egyptian Ambassador Zahran calling for a humanitarian pause so aid could be delivered and those seeking safety could reach it. On November 16th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement following a dialogue with Jordanian Ambassador Kawar in diplomatic efforts to secure a durable peace. On December 13th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement following a meeting with Lebanese Charge D’Affaires Hachem. On December 15th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement following a meeting with Apostolic Nuncio, Cardinal Pierre. On January 19th, Congresswoman Kaptur urged the State Department to affirm US opposition to forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. On January 31st, Congresswoman Kaptur published an opinion article in the Toledo Blade. On March 28th, Congresswoman Kaptur reaffirmed her support for a two-state solution. On April 4th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement following a call between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Biden. On May 6th, Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement on the ongoing developments in Gaza. On June 3rd, Congresswoman Kaptur affirmed her support for a two-state solution, and applauded the peace plan for Israel and Gaza. On June 11th  Congresswoman Kaptur released a statement reaffirming her support for a Two-State Solution for the Israeli and Palestinian people, and applauding the United Nations Security Council vote to support the US diplomatic peace plan for Israel and Gaza.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Burgess Statement and Video on Passage of the Building Chips in America Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael C Burgess MD (R-TX)

    Semiconductors are necessary for some of the most vital technology we have today – from the phone in our pockets to insulin pumps and advanced medical imaging. This bill will cut through bureaucratic tape and streamline the National Environmental Policy Act’s regulations for microchip manufacturing which otherwise would have taken years to ever cross the finish line.

    Let me be clear, the NEPA process is valuable. The Environmental impact assessments and reviews that are conducted in this country are a pragmatic symbol of the American people’s commitment to environmental conservation and land management. However, there is work to be done on the efficiency of the process as a whole.

    Due to NEPA’s red tape, many semiconductor projects are delayed and manufacturers become discouraged in developing domestic manufacturing projects. Not only will this bill open job opportunities for thousands of people, but it also will empower our nation’s economic and national security goals. The Chips Act is an investment into domestic manufacturing projects.

    This legislation is important to Texas as we remain at the forefront of national resurgence in high-tech manufacturing. Streamlining the NEPA process will help companies in the semiconductor supply chain bring great economic prosperity to our state. I urge members to support this bill, thank you and I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier calls for application of Green Rural Revival Program experience

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese vice premier calls for application of Green Rural Revival Program experience

    HEFEI, Sept. 23 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong on Monday said that learning from and applying the experience gained through the Green Rural Revival Program will give full play to the main role of farmers and improve work efficiency in the nation’s efforts to promote comprehensive rural revitalization.

    Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a meeting held in Hefei, the capital of east China’s Anhui Province, on the experience gained from the Green Rural Revival Program.

    Liu said that the program has involved many innovations in theory, mechanisms and practice, and that applying the experience gained through the program will bring tangible benefits to farmers.

    He also called for more efforts to upgrade entire rural industry chains, carry out rural planning and construction according to local conditions, promote the integrated development of urban and rural areas in counties, and improve the level of governance in rural regions.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China, Switzerland open talks on free trade agreement upgrade

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Sept. 23 — China and Switzerland on Monday began negotiations on an upgrade of the Sino-Swiss free trade agreement (FTA), with both sides agreeing to intensify consultations and reach a high-level upgrade agreement as soon as possible on the basis of mutual benefits.

    The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement that Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and Guy Parmelin, Swiss federal councilor and head of the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, announced the launch of talks through a livestream.

    Wang said that since it came into effect 10 years ago, the Sino-Swiss FTA has played a positive role in promoting the growth of bilateral trade, and enterprises in both countries have truly benefited.

    Upgrading the FTA will help expand bilateral trade and boost two-way investment, and promote the upgrading of economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, Wang said, adding that it will also showcase the two countries’ support for free trade and openness to the outside world at a time when economic globalization is encountering headwinds.

    Parmelin said that with trade protectionism on the rise globally, it is of great significance that China and Switzerland have launched their FTA upgrade negotiations. It shows that the two countries are always committed to building an open, standardized environment for international economic and trade cooperation, and it has sent a positive signal to the outside world that the two countries will deepen cooperation, he added.

    The Sino-Swiss FTA was signed in July 2013 and came into effect in July 2014.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China sees continuous decrease in water and soil loss: official

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, Sept. 23 — China has seen a continuous decrease in its water and soil loss in recent years, thanks to its massive efforts to treat rivers, lakes and reservoirs, preserve water and soil, and protect ecology and the environment, a Chinese official said on Monday.

    Li Liangsheng, vice minister of water resources, said that thanks to these efforts, China’s water and soil preservation rate has increased continuously, and its river and lake ecosystems have improved steadily. The country’s treatment of water and soil loss has covered an area totaling 620,000 square kilometers over the past 10 years, he added.

    Li, also chair of the Board of Directors of the International Research and Training Center on Erosion and Sedimentation (IRTCES), said that as the impact of global climate change intensifies, human activities increase and industrialization accelerates, extreme weather events are occurring more frequently, and many countries are facing sedimentation and erosion problems.

    Li said the IRTCES will do more to play its leading role in the global issue of erosion and sedimentation, and support the realization of the goals set for the ninth phase of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme.

    Li made the remarks at a Monday event held in Beijing to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the center, which was established by the Chinese government and UNESCO in 1984.

    Over the past 40 years, the center has led scientific and technological progress in the field of erosion and sedimentation, promoted academic exchange, and played an important role in boosting international research cooperation in the field of erosion and sedimentation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Demands Action to Stop Iranian Crime on U.S. Soil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – Following reports indicating Iran is paying criminal organizations to carry out violent plots—including assassinations—against their critics within the United States, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues in demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) stop this criminal activity.  
    “We write to request information regarding how the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is prosecuting criminals who commit or attempt to commit acts of violence in the United States on behalf of foreign adversaries, and what statutory changes to the criminal code would help DOJ to robustly prosecute these crimes,” wrote the senators.
    “An…example includes a plot, allegedly ordered by individuals in Iran, to use members of an Eastern European criminal organization who refer to themselves as ‘Thieves-In-Law’ in an attempt to murder a prominent critic of Iran—who is a United States citizen—within the United States,” continued the senators. “The attempted assassination followed a prior plot by Iranian intelligence officials to abduct the same critic from within the United States for rendition to Iran.”
    The senators requested DOJ share efforts that foreign governments have undertaken to enlist criminal actors to commit crimes in the United States, identify if there has been any increase in these activities, explain their strategy in thwarting foreign government activity, and answer whether there would be changes to the criminal code to deter these illicit actors.
    Read the full letter here.
    Background:
    Ernst introduced the PUNISH Act to enforce “maximum pressure” sanctions on Iran until the State Department can certify that Iran has not supported any attempt in the last five years to kill a U.S. citizen or a former or current U.S. official. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Dusted Charm

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Dusted Charm of Pottawattamie County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “From humble beginnings in a basement to a thriving warehouse and showroom that sells clothes, home goods, and candles, Dusted Charm is a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and the importance of a supportive community,” said Ranking Member Ernst. “This small business encapsulates what it means to give back, and it is inspiring to see folks come together to support one another in times of need.”
    Inspired by the gravel roads and street signs she saw on the way to her daughter’s doctor appointments, Becca Wiggins founded Dusted Charm in 2017 in her basement with a few t-shirts and a passion for graphic design. As the business grew, Becca relocated her operation to the historic 100-block of West Broadway, where she brought her mom and sisters on board as co-owners. Today, Dusted Charm sells a wide variety of women’s clothing and home goods, including signs, candles, and more. In the spirit of giving back, Dusted Charm organizes “Give Back” days where they donate 25% of all sales to a designated charity. In 2022, Dusted Charm received the Omaha Metropolitan Area Tourism Award for being the best retail business in Pottawattamie County, and it recently celebrated its 7th business anniversary.
    Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Crack Down on Illicit Drug Analogues

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) joined a bipartisan group of colleagues to reintroduce the Stop Importation and Manufacturing of Synthetic Analogues (SIMSA) Act. The legislation is led by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).

    Specifically, the SIMSA Act targets deadly drugs that are substantially similar to already-controlled substances, but carefully engineered—often in China or Mexico—to slip into the U.S. undetected.  

    “Preliminary data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources shows that fentanyl and fentanyl analogues were involved in approximately 82% of all drug overdose deaths in West Virginia in 2023,” Senator Capito said. “These deadly substances are flowing into our communities from China and across our southern border, and criminals know that they can get around existing law by slightly changing the chemical makeup of a drug while still having the same negative effect on the human body. This legislation will allow for law enforcement to crack down on synthetic drugs and save lives.”

    BACKGROUND:

    U.S. law prohibits the unauthorized use of certain controlled substances. However, illicit drug makers and importers circumvent those laws by altering single atoms in controlled substances to create tweaked drugs that are not yet outlawed, but have similar effects on users. Currently, uncontrolled substances must undergo a time-consuming analysis before the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) can permanently schedule them. 

    Full text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn: Schumer’s Delays on Defense Make America Less Safe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the national security implications of delaying the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and failing to pass funding for our national defense in a timely manner under Democrat Majority Leader Schumer’s direction. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.  
    “The lack of productivity on some very important matters by the United States Senate lies squarely at the feet of the Majority Leader.”
    “We have less than five days before the end of the month. That’s why we’re hearing all of this unnecessary drama and narrative about a potential government shutdown.”
    “We’ve not considered a single appropriations bill in the Senate, which we could have done months ago.”
    “We have defense leaders from every facet of our military saying that the way the Senate is currently operating when it comes to funding the military and providing for the authorities that they need in order to do their job in the defense authorization bill, that the Senate’s failure to act on a timely basis is making their jobs harder and Americans less safe.”
    “The picture of leadership here in the United States Senate is truly pitiful.”
    “We could have avoided all of this if the Senate Majority Leader had scheduled votes on individual government funding bills months ago.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Warren, Healey, Wu, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date
    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.
    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. 
    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.
    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.
    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.
    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 
    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.
    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Rep. Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”
    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark.
    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”
    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”
    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.
    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Warren Send Letter to IRS Commissioner, Urging Action on Payment of Employee Retention Tax Credits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (September 23, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a senior member of the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) today sent a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Daniel Werfel urging the IRS to expedite payment of Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERC) claims, prioritizing low-risk claims from taxpayers experiencing financial hardship. After the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ERC was an important lifeline that kept workers employed during the difficult economic downturn.

    The lawmakers wrote, “On September 14, 2023, the IRS imposed a moratorium on processing new claims. On August 8, 2024, the agency announced that, going forward, it would start processing claims filed between September 14, 2023, and January 31, 2024. It also disclosed that it had identified 50,000 valid ERC claims, would expedite those payments, and would pay another large block of low-risk claims this fall. Although we support the agency’s effort to prevent improper payments, both the slow pace of review and the moratorium have caused significant delays and hardship for those with legitimate claims. During the moratorium, the IRS backlog doubled to around 1.4 million claims. The long delay and backlog have put many nonprofits and businesses in jeopardy of shutting down before the IRS even considers their ERC claim.”

    The lawmakers continued, “The agency’s recent announcements are a positive step towards providing the relief Congress intended for taxpayer employers. But there are a significant number of claims that the IRS has identified as low risk, which the IRS is not currently processing. This means that many claimants likely will have to wait several more months to receive the benefit to which they are entitled. We believe that, as soon as possible, the IRS should approve and pay low-risk ERC claims from struggling nonprofits and small businesses. Immediately approving and paying low-risk ERC claims would greatly benefit the hundreds of thousands who are still operating in a challenging economic environment.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey’s Major Alzheimer’s Legislation Passes Through House, Moves to President Biden’s Desk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Then-Representative Markey authored the National Alzheimer’s Project Act in 2011 and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act in 2014
    Washington (September 23, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security and founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s, applauded passage by the House of Representatives of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act, legislation 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 and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act (AAIA) now head to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law.  
    “Since my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 1985, I have fought to ensure the federal government has the funding, resources, and coordination necessary to find a cure for this disease,” said Senator Markey. “The National Alzheimer’s Plan Act and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act have transformed our understanding of the disease and its risk factors for more than a decade. But our work is not yet done. Today’s extension of these bills until 2035 is a commitment from Congress that we will not stop fighting until Alzheimer’s is a disease only found in history books. I thank Senator Collins and my colleagues for their support in delivering hope to millions of families just like mine across the country as these two bills head to the President’s desk.”
    “We have made tremendous progress in recent years to boost funding for Alzheimer’s research, which holds great promise to end this disease that has had a devastating effect on millions of Americans and their families,” said Senator Susan Collins, a founder and co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “These two bills will maintain our momentum and make sure that we do not take our foot off the pedal just as our investments in basic research are beginning to translate into potential new treatments. We must not let Alzheimer’s to be one of the defining diseases of our children’s generation as it has ours.”
    “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,” said Senator Mark Warner, co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “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 — co-led by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Collins (R-Maine), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.),  Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) — 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. The bill also includes updated language to reduce health disparities for underserved communities, including Black, Brown and disabled communities, who are at increased risk for Alzheimer’s as they age.
    The NAPA Reauthorization Act is endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, National Down Syndrobe Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, and LuMind IDSC Foundation.
    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act — authored by Senators Markey, Collins, Capito, Warner, Moran, Menendez, Murkowski, and Stabenow — 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.
    The Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act is endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.
    Senator Markey is a leader in the fight to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and to support family caregivers. In July 2024, Senator Markey applauded the HELP Committee’s passage of Older Americans Act Reauthorization Act of 2024, which included provisions based on his Respite Care And Resources for Everyone (CARE) Act and Convenient Care for Caregivers Act to expand respite care for family caregivers of older adults that need long-term care, including individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. Earlier that month, Senator Markey unveiled his “Caring for Caregivers” family caregiving agenda, which included his Convenient Care for Caregivers Act to support family caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer’s receiving health care services at the same time and location to improve health outcomes. As a member of the House of Representatives, Senator Markey founded the bipartisan, bicameral Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s to develop a whole-of-government approach to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. He created the Independence at Home program to provide seniors, including individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, the option to receive primary care in their home. Senator Markey authored the bipartisan Spending Reductions Through Innovations in Therapies (SPRINT) Act, which would encourage drug development for high-cost, chronic health conditions such as Alzheimer’s, the Health Outcomes, Planning and Education (HOPE) Act to improve early detection and diagnoses of Alzheimer’s and support caregivers, and the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Act, which would require the National Institutes of Health (NIH) work to improve treatment outcomes and engage federal agencies in the effort to combat Alzheimer’s.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Urges Administration, Colleagues Not To Make Israel’s Job Harder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding national security priorities:

    “In May, 2000, Israeli forces withdrew from southern Lebanon. But while the occupation ended, Hizballah’s appetite for waging war on Israel only grew. And its further deadly attacks on Israel invited the 2006 conflict.

    “The history of Israel’s fight to defend its northern border and innocent civilians against Hizballah terrorists bears eerie parallels to the story of brutal violence Hamas has perpetrated from Gaza.

    “Israel withdrew there in August, 2005. And by 2007, Iran-backed terrorists had bent the enclave to its all-consuming mission: war on Israel.

    “But the most glaring through-lines in Israel’s north and south are not the relentless bloodlust of terrorists. They’re the predictable delusion of Israel’s ‘friends’… And the shameful cowardice of international authorities that claim to stand for peace.

    “Take, for starters, how the Biden-Harris Administration chose to welcome the U.N. General Assembly by signaling its openness to resuming funding for UNRWA. And how it apparently still clings to the fiction that an organization so thoroughly corrupted by Hamas that nearly a dozen of its staff directly participated in the October 7th attacks is somehow reform-able.

    “But while the civilized world gathers in one place, the General Assembly might productively spend its time contemplating other pressing questions. For example:

    “Why hasn’t the U.N. Security Council managed to enforce resolutions 1559 and 1701 in Lebanon? These resolutions were passed to end and prevent further conflict between Israel and Lebanon by removing the threat Hizballah posed on Israel’s border, and to end the threat Hizballah posed to the state of Lebanon itself.

    “And why has the U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon allowed Hizballah to build up massive stockpiles on Israel’s border in clear preparation for war? Why has the UN looked the other way as Hizballah has expanded its corrosive influence over the institutions of Lebanon’s government?

    “But setting aside the failures of the so-called international community, this past weekend once again cast a spotlight on America’s own naivete toward the glaring facts of Iran-backed war on our friend, Israel.

    “In an interview that might rightly attract scrutiny for its host’s obfuscation of the facts on Israel’s latest responses to Hizballah terrorism, the White House national security communications advisor said out loud what the Biden-Harris Administration has been saying by its actions for nearly a year.

    “Quote: ‘We’ve been working since the beginning of this conflict, October 8th… to try to prevent an escalation…’

    “Think about it, Madam President. The only way to claim credit for working to ‘prevent an escalation’ is by pretending like Hizballah’s October 8th attacks – or Hamas’ October 7th massacre – weren’t actually escalations, themselves!

    “Unfortunately, the Administration official also seemed to suggest a moral equivalence between Israel and Hizballah. He suggested that ‘military action, by either side’ would not be ‘in either side’s best interest,’ and implied that an Israeli response would itself be escalation.

    “Second-guessing Israel’s interests.  Micromanaging their defensive efforts.  Blaming Israel for escalation when it’s clear Hamas and Hizballah have been the instigators of this conflict. It’s a tired playbook.

    “The Administration is telling the world that what America wants is a return to October 6th, as if the status quo ante was sustainable or peaceful. This, of course, is pure fantasy. Hamas broke a cease-fire on October 7th.

    “Or consider Hizballah’s history as the centerpiece of Iran’s ‘ring of fire’ around Israel:

    “Just since the 2006 conflict, Hizballah terrorists have imported tens of thousands of rockets to target Israel, deployed forces directly to Israel’s border, and constructed tunnels that would allow them to emulate Hamas’ October 7th invasion.

    “Recent estimates suggest the terrorists posses up to 200,000 rockets, missiles, drones, and precision-guided munitions, along with 25,000 active-duty militants. All of it is pointed south at Israel. And all of it, as Hizballah’s leader has boasted, is from Iran.

    “Or consider Lebanon itself. Hizballah is a cancer on the Lebanese state. It wields its power as a sectarian terror squad, and leaves a long trail of blood through the highest ranks of civilian government and civil society. Sunnis, Christians, Druze, and fellow Shiites – none are immune from Hizballah’s wrath.

    “Then again, National Public Radio refers to Hizballah as a ‘political’ group. Perhaps the Administration officials’ confusion is a symptom of their media diet. Or, more likely, the foundations of their foreign policy are fundamentally flawed:

    “Remember the declaration by the President’s national security advisor early last fall that the Middle East was ‘quieter than it has been for decades’.

    “The absurdity of this boast in light of October 7th is striking enough. But even when it was written, it betrayed the Administration’s naivete toward glaring and abiding threats to Israel and America’s national security interests in the region.

    “Iran’s agents in Syria and Iraq had already fired hundreds of rockets at American forces on this Administration’s watch. Since last October, these attacks have only metastasized, including into the Red Sea. Was this an acceptable status quo?

    “Was Hizballah’s steady preparation for war? Was Hamas’ expropriation of humanitarian assistance in order to build terror tunnels?

    “The United States ought to stand with our friend, Israel, as it faces these terrorists down. The goal should not be simply to avoid escalation or to return to the status quo ante, but to help Israel defend itself against terrorists bent on Israel’s destruction.

    “We have a stake in ensuring Israel emerges from this conflict stronger and these terrorist organizations and their Iranian patron weaker. These same terrorists want to expel the United States from the region. We are the Great Satan, in their own parlance.

    “Instead, by their misplaced obsession with escalation, the Administration and Washington Democrats are making Israel’s job harder.

    “If the President and Vice President want to see an end to war in Gaza and prevent greater hostilities in Lebanon, then it’s time to switch the focus of their diplomatic pressure.

    “Every time Administration officials try to tie Israel’s hands in public comments… And every time a U.S. Senator threatens to hold critical security assistance hostage… Hamas, Hizballah, and their patrons in Tehran are emboldened.

    “If our colleagues want peace, it’s time to show support for a nation founded on peace… And resolve toward terrorists whose reason for existence is chaos and violence.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. Mr. Daniel Noboa Azín, President of the Republic of Ecuador

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Daniel Noboa Azín, President of the Republic of Ecuador. The Secretary-General thanked President Noboa for Ecuador’s constructive role in the Security Council. The Secretary-General and the President discussed significant threats posed by transnational organized crime in the region.

    *****

    El Secretario General se reunió con el Excelentísimo Señor Daniel Noboa Azín, Presidente de la República del Ecuador. El Secretario General agradeció al Presidente Noboa por el papel constructivo de Ecuador en el Consejo de Seguridad.  El Secretario General y el Presidente discutieron las importantes amenazas que plantea el crimen organizado transnacional en la región.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.E. MR. Robert Golob, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General met with H.E. Mr. Robert Golob, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia.

    The Secretary-General and the Prime Minister exchanged views on the Summit of the Future. They also discussed developments in the Middle East and Ukraine as well as their global implications. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for the role of Slovenia in the Security Council.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Invites Students in Texas’ Seventh Congressional District to Participate in 2024 Congressional App Challenge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07)

    Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Invites Students in Texas’ Seventh Congressional District to Participate in 2024 Congressional App Challenge

    Houston, TX, September 23, 2024

    Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) announced the launch of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Texas’ Seventh Congressional District.  The competition, which is open to middle school and high school students, encourages students to learn to code and inspires them to pursue careers in computer science.  

    “I am excited to launch this year’s Congressional App Challenge for students across our district and to provide them with an opportunity to demonstrate and develop their STEM skills,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “I look forward to seeing the submissions from our talented young neighbors.”

    The Congressional App Challenge is open to middle school and high school students in Texas’ Seventh Congressional District.  The deadline to submit an app is October 24, 2024.  The winner for Texas’ Seventh Congressional District will be selected by a panel of judges from the district.  For more information about the competition, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Supporters of Russia’s invasion targeted in further sanctions

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters today announced further sanctions as part of the Government’s ongoing response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.  

     

    “Russia’s continued illegal war of aggression against Ukraine is an assault on the rules-based order,” Mr Peters says. 

     

    “This latest round of sanctions targets actors involved in Russia’s illegal occupation of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant, Russia’s military-industrial complex, and Belarusian individuals and entities providing support to the invasion. 

     

    “Russia’s continued illegal occupation of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant threatens nuclear security and safety. New Zealand again calls on Russia to cease its occupation of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant and immediately withdraw from Ukraine’s territory. 

     

    “The sanctioning of Belarusian actors represents a shared effort with our likeminded international partners to condemn and hold accountable those supporting Russia’s illegal actions.  

     

    “By joining with more than 35 other countries imposing sanctions on those supporting Russia’s aggression, we raise the costs involved for the Russian war machine,” Mr Peters says.  

     

    Since the Russia Sanctions Act entered into force in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed sanctions on more than 1,700 individuals and entities, along with a range of trade measures. These new sanctions target five individuals and six entities.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government’s desperate decree to stop public servants working from home won’t work

    Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

    “The Minister of Public Service Nicola Willis is expecting public servants to stop working from home to help bolster the flagging local economy is micromanaging gone mad and counterproductive.” NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff said.

    “This Government has already tried to control staffing ratios in terms of ‘front line’ and ‘back office, and now it is trying to control where people should work.”

    “Minister Willis should concentrate on the big picture issues confronting Aotearoa New Zealand, instead of trying to manage the day-to-day operations of the public service.”

    “Though flexible hours and working from home options vary across organisations, it’s understood that people are more productive and happier with flexible arrangements. In a cost-of-living crisis it also reduces the financial and environmental impact of transport and parking. This is an operational matter, one the minister shouldn’t be involved in.” Wagstaff said.

    “Working from home practices have benefited from new technology, making it easier to connect remotely. The advent of COVID speed up the adoption of these tools and practices, demonstrating value to employers and employees alike.”

    “Employers offering a hybrid model of working from home for part of the week has become very attractive for some workplaces, both in terms of convenience and productivity.”

    “It’s crucial that the public service offers good work that attracts and retains the workers we need. This decision will just make that goal much harder in an already difficult environment.”

    “Despite the Government doing its best to portray itself as modern, innovative thinkers, this decree demonstrates that in reality they don’t understand the value of a modern, positive, high-trust workplace culture. Micromanaging and stopping staff from working some of their time at home is all about an old-fashioned command and control mentality.”

    “The Minister of Finance is fooling herself if she thinks forcing people to stop working from home will correct the damage done to the economy by the massive job cuts.” Wagstaff said.

    “Public servants only have so much money to spend. Now they will have to spend more on public transport and less on their local communities. It is a zero-sum game,” said Wagstaff. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three cheers for Simon Court

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    ACT MP Todd Stephenson has picked up the End of Life Choice baton. David Seymour’s original bill did not restrict access to people terminal within six months, but he would have had no bill without adding the restriction. That political compromise has meant some of the people who suffer most – especially those with long, slow, degenerative diseases like Motor Neurone Disease – are denied choice and control. Stephenson explains how his new bill would put this compromise right on Q&A, here.

    Three cheers for Simon Court

    The most important thing this Government does in three years may be what’s happening quietly in the background of resource management reform. Last week Court announced, beside Chris Bishop, that the Government is replacing the RMA with two laws based on property rights.

    If you’re a long-term Free Press reader, all of this will sound very familiar. The difference is that this time it is happening. It is now official Government policy with a series of dates by when legislation will be drafted, introduced to Parliament, and passed into law.

    At the heart of New Zealand’s problem is that it’s a beautiful, isolated piece of land. It has a mild climate that beats Canada’s skin-freezing cold or Australia’s blood-boiling heat any day. It’s filled with resources that make it one of the richest per-capita in the world. Climate change will probably actually make New Zealand even better off compared with the rest of the world.

    When a group of people have such a wonderful inheritance, they have two choices. Either make the most of it, or pull up the drawbridge.

    Making the most of it would mean making it easy for each generation to build a home. That would mean making it easy to build the infrastructure that connects homes together, forming towns and cities. It should be easy to farm the land, and extract resources that make human life long and happy (just not while they’re left in the ground).

    This seems like an obvious choice, but enter human nature. For the last few decades, the net result has been pulling up the drawbridge. You can’t do bloody anything, home building has only once reached the levels of the 1970s, when there were only three million people. There are probably more Kiwis working in Australian mines than New Zealand ones.

    The result is a generation who feel hopeless. Born into the best place on the planet where it’s needlessly hard to get a place of your own. Why not vote for a politician who promises to tax the rich? Better still, cut out the middle man, join a gang, and do it yourself. Then there’s those who leave.

    That is the result of the RMA. The simple diagnosis is that it’s a bureaucratic nightmare, but it’s more than that. It is the legislative expression of a people’s desire to enjoy what they have and bugger anyone else.

    The central concept in the RMA is sustainable development, to provide for current generations without taking from future ones. Because nobody knows what future generations want, or what technology they’ll have to achieve it, the best way to achieve this is to do as little as possible, which is pretty much what’s happened.

    Too many people have too many grounds to object to too many activities meaning nothing gets done. It’s not unusual for it to take longer to get permission to do something than to actually do it. The range of criteria Councils must consider under the RMA is everything from climate change (but you already pay under the ETS for whatever you do) to the ‘intrinsic values of ecosystems’ (how can you know them if they’re intrinsic)?

    David Parker’s RMA reforms, replacing it with three acts, introduced a new central concept ‘te oranga o te taiao.’ Nobody knows what that means in the context of resource management decisions. By the time the Courts figured it out, Indonesia would have overtaken us in GDP per capita.

    So that’s gone and the Resource Management Act is being replaced with a law whose central concept is the enjoyment of private property. The starting point is that you have a right to use and develop your own property. The second result is that you have a right to object only if your own property is affected.

    The result is a switch back to the pioneering vision of New Zealand. A nation of people who can instead of a nation of people who are not allowed.

    The law will also make many processes standard. If you have a water treatment plant that spits out water with less than x parts per million of E. Coli, congratulations. You’ve met the standard and can just build it.

    The Government will now listen to an expert advisory group, people with real experience of development, as the law itself is developed for introduction to Parliament. It will be passed before the next election, and New Zealand will have taken a massive step forward to achieving its potential.

    Much of this is owed to Simon Court, one of only two engineers in Parliament (David Seymour is the other one). Court has been working away since he entered Parliament, releasing ACT’s detailed RMA policy in 2022, and making it real in Government. A very good example of how ACT keeps the Government in place, and makes it better.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brown Calls on U.S. Department of Agriculture to Allow Emergency Haying and Grazing for Ohio Farmers Experiencing Drought Conditions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – With hay supplies being used three to four months earlier than expected, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) called on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to provide additional flexibility for Ohio farmers experiencing drought conditions to conduct emergency haying and grazing on Conservation Reserve Program enrolled land. Brown’s letter amplifies the concerns raised by Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge, who wrote to Vilsack asking for these flexibilities for Ohio farmers.
    “I share Director Baldridge’s concern that most farmers experiencing intensifying drought conditions in Southern Ohio are not eligible for the existing USDA emergency haying and grazing allowance due to the fact that most CRP acres in Southeast Ohio are enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) Program, ” wrote Brown.
    “As Ohio farmers work to withstand this historic drought, I ask that you grant ODA’s request and provide additional flexibilities to allow for emergency haying of CREP and SAFE acreage in Southeast Ohio,” Brown continued.
    Earlier this week, Brown hosted a news conference call with farmers and other leaders in Ohio agriculture to discuss the severe drought stretching across Southeast Ohio and share resources available to affected farmers. Ohio is currently experiencing the worst drought in the state in over a century. Last week, Brown also hosted a webinar in partnership with USDA’s Farm Service Agency to help connect farmers with federal resources related to the drought.
    “The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) appreciates Senator Brown’s support of the state’s request for USDA to allow emergency haying of acreage enrolled in various conversation programs,” said OCA President Mark Goecke of Allen County. “Cattle families in Southern and Southeastern Ohio are struggling to manage through a drought of historical proportions. The expanding drought has negatively impacted pasture and forage conditions statewide, but these areas have been battling the lack of rainfall all summer. Hay cuttings were severely limited, and the ongoing drought has forced producers to already feed their winter hay supplies, resulting in a dire situation to provide the feed needed for their cattle.”
    The full letter is HERE or below. Director Baldridge’s letter is HERE.
    Dear Secretary Vilsack:
    I write to draw your attention to the attached letter from Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) Director Brian Baldridge, requesting U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provide additional flexibility to conduct emergency haying of eligible Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres.
    I share Director Baldridge’s concern that most farmers experiencing intensifying drought conditions in Southern Ohio are not eligible for the existing USDA emergency haying and grazing allowance due to the fact that most CRP acres in Southeast Ohio are enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) Program.
    As Ohio farmers work to withstand this historic drought, I ask that you grant ODA’s request and provide additional flexibilities to allow for emergency haying of CREP and SAFE acreage in Southeast Ohio.
    Thank you for your consideration; I ask that you please keep my office informed of any further action.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –