Category: Agriculture

MIL-OSI Translation: Confederation releases tariff quota for bread cereals earlier than expected

MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

Federal Office for Agriculture

Bern, 30.09.2024 – The 2024 harvest of Swiss bread grains is significantly below the multi-year average; the cold and wet weather is the cause of this decline. The Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG) will release the last part of the tariff quota for bread grains on 4 October in order to cover the national demand for grains such as wheat, rye and spelt.

Frequent rainfall from sowing to harvest has had a negative impact on the quantities and quality of cereals harvested in 2024 in Switzerland and Central Europe. The cereal industry estimates that the need for imports will be significantly increased, which is why it has requested that the last part of the tariff quota, which amounts to 15,000 tonnes, be released earlier than planned. It has also submitted a request for a temporary increase of 20,000 tonnes in the regular quota, which amounts to 70,000 tonnes.

The Federal Council, which is responsible for increasing the tariff quota for bread grains, will decide on the temporary increase, probably at the end of October.

By amending the ordinance on agricultural imports, the OFAG has brought forward the release date of the last part of the quota, i.e. 15,000 tonnes of bread cereals, to 4 October 2024. The amendment will come into force on this date.

Address for sending questions

FOAG, Communications, tel. 41 58 463 01 07, media@blw.admin.ch

Author

Federal Office for Agriculturehttp://www.blw.admin.ch

Social sharing

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Thai experts laud China’s smart rice irrigation tech

Source: China State Council Information Office

Chinese and Thai experts learn about crop water demand testing at the Guangxi Irrigation Experimental Central Station in Guilin, Guangxi, Sept. 28, 2024. [Ren Bin/China.org.cn]

A team of 30 agricultural irrigation experts, government officials and local community representatives from China and Thailand visited Guilin, a city in southwest China’s Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, on September 28, to study climate-smart water and rice farming technologies as part of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism.

In Songlin village, Huixian township of Guilin, researchers from China’s Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute (CRSRI) of Changjiang Water Resources Commission, demonstrated smart irrigation equipment to Thai experts.

“With our smart equipment, the data on flow rate, water level, soil moisture and meteorology can be remotely monitored in real-time with just a digital device in your hand,” said Li Yalong, director of CRSRI’s Agricultural Water Conservancy Department. “With the help of this information, local farmers can control the amount of irrigation water, for example, and it helps achieve the goals of energy saving, water conservation and emission reductionat the same time.”

A local farmer surnamed Liao told China.org.cn about the improved drainage and water conservation since implementing the equipment.

“Compared to last year, the cost of twice irrigation has been saved. And the crops are growing well,” said Liao. “In previous years, when I planted the rice all by myself, the field yield was 1,800 to 2,100 kilograms per acre, but this year, it is estimated to be more than 2,400 kilograms.”

The demonstration site is part of a wider project promoting climate-smart water technologies for sustainable resources and rice production in the Lancang-Mekong Region, supported by the Lancang-Mekong Special Fund.

The project, guided by Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources, is jointly coordinated with several institutes, including the Asia Center of Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI Asia Center) in Bangkok, the Environmental Research Institute of Chulalongkorn University, the Lancang-Mekong Water Resources Cooperation Center, the CRSRI, and the Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research. It aims to enhance climate-smart technology innovation and promote sustainable regional rice production and water resource management.

Thanapon Piman, water cluster lead and SEI Asia Center senior research fellow, who leads the project, praised the demonstration for strengthening cooperation among Lancang-Mekong countries on climate-smart farm technologies. He said it helps local communities adapt to the impacts of climate change and reduce the risks of floods and droughts.

“The technologies from China are good examples for Thailand to apply the technology in agricultural water resource management,” Piman said. “This visit gives us more confidence and inspiration on how to help local communities cope with the impact of climate change.”

The team also visited the Guangxi Irrigation Experimental Central Station, exploring experimental areas for water conservation, pollution prevention, and precision irrigation. Thai experts exchanged ideas on irrigation experiments with the station’s technical staff.

The Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism is a multilateral framework established in 2016 for China and five Southeast Asian countries to collaborate on development and regional issues.

1 2 3 4 5 6 >

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore and Ghana Launch First Call for Project Applications under Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits Cooperation

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Singapore, 30 September 2024 — Singapore and Ghana have set out the processes for authorising carbon credit projects under their Implementation Agreement on carbon credits cooperation, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Applications may be submitted through Singapore’s Carbon Markets Cooperation website, at http://www.carbonmarkets-cooperation.gov.sg.

2 The carbon credit projects authorised under the Implementation Agreement will channel financing towards emissions reduction or removal projects in Ghana. These projects can promote sustainable development and generate benefits for local communities, including job creation, clean water access, improvements to energy security, and reducing environmental pollution (See Annex A for potential project types).

3 Authorised projects can generate carbon credits aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Under Singapore’s International Carbon Credit (ICC) Framework, these credits may be eligible for use by Singapore-based carbon tax-liable companies to offset up to 5% of their taxable emissions.

4 From 30 September 2024, interested parties may submit applications for their carbon credit projects in Ghana to be authorised. Applications submitted will be reviewed by Singapore and Ghana governments on a rolling basis as they are received.

Application and Authorisation Process

5 The application and authorisation process comprises four stages, each corresponding to a different stage of implementation for the carbon credit project (See Annex B). The first three stages require applicants to submit details on the design and implementation plan for the carbon credit project in the lead-up to project authorisation. The final stage is for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the carbon credits generated from the authorised project, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

6 Singapore and Ghana will assess applications against each country’s respective requirements. For Singapore, these projects must meet Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria for International Carbon Credits. The Eligibility Criteria, and the list of eligible carbon crediting programmes and methodologies under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement, are at Annex C, and on the Carbon Markets Cooperation website. The list will be reviewed regularly to maintain relevance and uphold environmental integrity.

Annex A

Potential Carbon Credit Project Types for Applications

Project Type	Description
Clean Water Supply	Rural communities are provided with water purification technologies (e.g. UV-based disinfection systems). This empowers communities with an alternate source of clean and safe drinking water without relying on the conventional method of using firewood to boil water. This reduces carbon emissions from burning firewood and associated deforestation activities, and carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. Local communities can also benefit from improved water safety and security.
Efficient and Clean Cookstoves	In rural areas where households use firewood for their cooking and heating needs, the switch to efficient and clean cookstoves (e.g. cookstoves that use renewable fuel like biogas or solar energy) enables households to meet their cooking and heating needs more efficiently and cleanly. This reduces the burning of firewood and resulting carbon emissions from deforestation. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. Co-benefits are also delivered to local communities, including cleaner air quality through the reduction of firewood burning.
Green Mobility	As Electric Vehicles (EVs) replace fossil fuel-powered vehicles for transportation needs, there are emissions reductions as EVs are more efficient and potentially powered by green energy. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. There are also sustainable development benefits for local communities. Skilled jobs are created for the maintenance of EV infrastructure, and improves air quality from reduced reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Annex B

Flowchart of Application and Authorisation Process

Joint Committee	The Joint Committee is a coordination body that oversees the administration of the Implementation Agreement. The Joint Committee under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement is co-chaired by the Director-General of Climate Change at the National Climate Change Secretariat of Singapore, and the Director of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation of Ghana.
Stage A: Project Application	Applicants are to submit a concept note on the intended project, indicating the programme and methodology that the project will be developed under, and broadly how the project will be implemented to uphold environmental integrity (e.g. explanations on how the project will demonstrate additionality).
Stage B: Project Design	As the project concept is further developed, applicants are to submit a project design document (PDD) on the intended project. The PDD should contain the detailed implementation plan (e.g. how the baseline emissions will be determined, how the project will address permanence and leakage concerns).
Stage C: Project Authorisation	Under this stage, applicants are to submit a validation report from a third-party auditor determining that the project design meets all the rules and requirements of the intended methodology and carbon crediting programme. After receiving Letters of Authorisation from both Singapore and Ghana, the project should proceed to be registered under the intended carbon crediting programme, and proceed to implementation.
Stage D: Corresponding Adjustment Application	As the authorised project is implemented and the emission reductions and removals have been verified by a third-party auditor, the carbon crediting programme will issue carbon credits to the project. Applicants are to submit a Proof of Issuance from the carbon crediting programme accompanied with the verification report from the third-party auditor, to be considered for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the issued carbon credits, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Annex C

Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria and the Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

Eligibility Criteria

1 The Eligibility Criteria requires ICCs to represent emissions reductions or removals that occur within the timeframe specified under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and meet seven principles to demonstrate environmental integrity (see Table C-1 below).

Table C-1: Eligibility Criteria for ICCs

Principle	Definition
To comply with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, the certified emissions reductions or removals must have occurred between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2030.
Not double-counted	The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be counted more than once in contravention of the Paris Agreement.
Additional	The certified emissions reductions or removals must exceed any emissions reduction or removals required by any law or regulatory requirement of the host country, and that would otherwise have occurred in a conservative, business-as-usual scenario.
Real	The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been quantified based on a realistic, defensible, and conservative estimate of the amount of emissions that would have occurred in a business-as-usual scenario, assuming the project or programme that generated the certified emission reductions or removals had not been carried out.
Quantified and verified	The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been calculated in a manner that is conservative and transparent, and must have been measured and verified by an accredited and independent third-party verification entity before the ICC was issued.
Permanent	The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be reversible, or if there is a risk that the certified emissions reductions or removals may be reversible, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any material reversal of the certified emissions reductions or removals.
No net harm	The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not violate any applicable laws, regulatory requirements, or international obligations of the host country.
No leakage	The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not result in a material increase in emissions elsewhere, or if there is a risk of a material increase in emissions elsewhere, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any such material increase in emissions.

Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

2 The Eligibility List of carbon crediting programmes and methodologies in Table C-2 adhere to the Eligibility Criteria and meet the requirements of both Singapore and Ghana. The carbon crediting programmes and methodologies that are eligible may be different for each host country, as host countries also have their own criteria.

Table C-2: Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

Carbon Crediting Programmes	Methodologies
Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG)	All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those under the “Land Use and Forestry & Agriculture” category of GS4GG
Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)	All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those that are under the “Sectoral Scope 14” category of VCS, with these allowable exceptions: · Scenario 2a and 3 of VCS Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework · VM0012 · VM0017 · VM0021 · VM0022 · VM0024 · VM0026 (and VMD0040) · VM0032 · VM0033 · VM0036 · VM0041 · VM0042 Where any VCS methodology is used, the project participant will be required to demonstrate the Sustainable Development contributions or co-benefits of the relevant mitigation activity by submitting to the Joint Committee its verification report under the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB Standards), the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) or another standard recognised by VCS for such purpose.

Carbon Crediting Programmes

Methodologies

Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG)

All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those under the “Land Use and Forestry & Agriculture” category of GS4GG

Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)

All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those that are under the “Sectoral Scope 14” category of VCS, with these allowable exceptions:
·     Scenario 2a and 3 of VCS Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework
·     VM0012
·     VM0017
·     VM0021
·     VM0022
·     VM0024
·     VM0026 (and VMD0040)
·     VM0032
·     VM0033
·     VM0036
·     VM0041
·     VM0042

Where any VCS methodology is used, the project participant will be required to demonstrate the Sustainable Development contributions or co-benefits of the relevant mitigation activity by submitting to the Joint Committee its verification report under the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB Standards), the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) or another standard recognised by VCS for such purpose.

Annex D

Information on the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

1 Singapore and Ghana signed an Implementation Agreement on carbon credits cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on 27 May 2024. Since the signing, Singapore has been working with Ghana to operationalise the Implementation Agreement.

2 As an additional contribution to mitigation of global emissions, Singapore has committed to having 2% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement cancelled at first issuance. These carbon credits cannot be sold, traded, or counted towards any country’s emission targets, and will instead contribute towards a net reduction in global emissions.

3 Singapore has committed to channelling the value from 5% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement towards adaptation measures such as heat resilience measures and coastal protection in Ghana.

4 This is the second Implementation Agreement for Singapore, after the first with Papua New Guinea which was signed in December 2023. Singapore signed MOUs / Letters of Intent on carbon credits collaboration with countries such as Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Fiji, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Mongolia, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Vietnam, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sri Lanka, with the aim of inking similar Implementation Agreements.

5 Effective international cooperation, such as through carbon markets, is an important part of Singapore’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, given Singapore’s national circumstances as an alternative-energy disadvantaged country with limited domestic mitigation potential.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Pitting Good Versus Bad Fungi on Sweet Corn: A Delicate Dance

Source: US Agriculture Research Service

Pitting Good Versus Bad Fungi on Sweet Corn: A Delicate Dance

Contact: Jan Suszkiw
Email: Jan.Suszkiw@usda.gov

September 30, 2024

The same defenses that help some varieties of sweet corn resist fungal diseases can also stymie the potency of a beneficial fungus used to kill hungry caterpillar pests, studies by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists suggest.

Entomologist Pat Dowd and Molecular Biologist Eric Johnson—both at the ARS National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, Illinois—conducted the study as a follow up to one they did in 2022 with field (dent) corn, which is grown for livestock consumption and other uses.

Results from the 2022 study indicated resistance to fungi that cause Fusarium disease in some lines of field corn can diminish the effectiveness of the beneficial fungus Beauveria bassiana, which can be sprayed onto the crop as a biopesticide that kills caterpillar pests such as European corn borers and fall armyworms.

However, not all of the Fusarium-resistant dent corn lines tested had a corresponding decline in the Beauveria fungus’s caterpillar-killing performance. Some corn lines also withstood the insect pests’ feeding damage, leaving open the possibility these lines carried the right combination of genes for benefiting from both disease resistance and compatibility with Beauveria.

Caterpillar stage of European corn borer infected with the beneficial fungus Beauveria bassiana. (Photo by Keith Weller)

Follow-up studies with sweet corn reflect a similar possibility with respect to the genes they possess, according to Dowd and Johnson. In those studies, biopesticide applications of Beauveria killed 12 to 58 percent of European corn borer and fall armyworm caterpillars. However, as with dent corn, the level of insecticidal activity depended on which of 14 lines of Fusarium-resistant hybrid or inbred sweet corn had been treated. In some sweet corn lines, for example, signs of high levels of disease resistance in the form of smaller dead spots on Fusarium-infected leaves were associated with increases in the percentage of caterpillars killed by the fungus two days after application. In other types of sweet corn that were less resistant, larger dead spots corresponded to lower levels of caterpillar control.

Caterpillar control also varied depending on which of two Beauveria strains were used, an observation that underscores the need for continued study on how these subtleties can translate to practical data growers can use in choosing sweet corn lines offering both Fusarium resistance and high levels of insecticidal activity using the beneficial fungus.

Culture of the beneficial fungus Beauveria bassiana. (Photo by Keith Weller)

Finding that “sweet spot” in sweet corn would be especially important to organic growers, who cannot use synthetic pesticides and have fewer options for disease and insect control than in conventional production systems.

“The results of gene expression studies comparing sweet corn hybrids with more and less desirable combinations of Fusarium resistance and Beauveria efficacy were recently received,” said Dowd. “These results will help identify favorable combinations of genes that will help guide the breeding of sweet corn varieties to produce ones that have good resistance to Fusarium and are more compatible with the use of Beauveria.”

The researchers detailed their findings in the January 2024 issue of the journal Organic Agriculture.

The Agricultural Research Service is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. Daily, ARS focuses on solutions to agricultural problems affecting America. Each dollar invested in U.S. agricultural research results in $20 of economic impact.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Maggie Smith was a formidable actor with a biting wit and a fearsome ability to deliver lines

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jen Harvie, Professor of Contemporary Theatre and Performance, Queen Mary University of London

It is a testament to the power of the late British actress Dame Maggie Smith that other eminent actors – though only male ones, as far as I can see – accused her of upstaging them.

Richard Burton complained that in Anthony Asquith’s 1963 film The VIPs, she didn’t merely steal a big scene with him, “she committed grand larceny”. After making the 1978 Neil Simon film California Suite with her (for which Smith won her second Academy Award), Michael Caine is reported to have phoned Michael Palin, who was to be her co-star in the 1982 film The Missionary. “Watch her,” Caine reportedly warned. “She’ll have that scene from under your feet.”

More recent audiences will recognise Smith’s arresting power in her portrayal of Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the long-running television series Downton Abbey and its two films. For film critic Peter Bradshaw, even “in the smallest of roles she set her own terms and every other actor was her satellite”.

A prominent part of what gave Smith her power was her caustic humour, an acerbic put-down, and that withering look – from huge eyes set over pursed lips. New York Times critic Frank Rich praised her ability to “italicise a line as prosaic as ‘Have you no marmalade?’ until it sounds like a freshly minted epigram by Coward or Wilde.”

But there was so much more to Maggie Smith than this. Her range was huge, and her power was built on craft.

The social satire and commentary of her performances could be conveyed through anything from minxy humour to world-weariness, but always intelligence. In a review of her portrayal of Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler in a 1970 National Theatre production directed by Ingmar Bergman, the Evening Standard’s Milton Shulman described her as “haunt[ing] the stage like some giant portrait by Modigliani, her alabaster skin stretched tight with hidden anguish”.

So, if you only know her work through recent blockbusters like Downton and the Harry Potter film franchise, in which she played Professor Minerva McGonagall, take a look at her vast and wonderful back catalogue. It’s a sustained masterclass in acting, as well as some of the very best explorations of the lived experiences of British middle-class women in the mid-to late-20th century. Two good places to start are the 1969 film The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and the 1988 Alan Bennett television play A Bed Among the Lentils.

In The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie – adapted by Jay Presson Allen from Muriel Spark’s 1961 novel– Smith played the eponymous heroine and won her first Academy Award, for best actress. Miss Brodie is a vivacious, romantic teacher at a repressive girls’ school in Edinburgh, Scotland. Confident that she knows what’s best for “her girls”, she fails to recognise how her approach to teaching is as controlling and potentially more damaging than that of the conservative head mistress.

Smith sails through the film, moving from haughty grandeur through charming coquettishness to anguished despair. With just a hint of delicious melodrama, the film captures Miss Brodie’s hubris, but also the strict social limits of the times on girls’ and women’s freedoms and dreams.

A Bed Among the Lentils is one of playwright Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads series of television monologues, written mostly for women. Smith plays Susan, the secretly alcoholic wife of an aspirational vicar. She is clearly under-stimulated by a life spent hosting visiting clerics at lunch and competing with other local women at flower-arranging for the altar. Her life shifts when she meets a kind, young and attractive Asian shopkeeper. He helps her to gain a different perspective on what gods can stand for and discovers what she wants and desires from life.

Smith’s performance under Bennett’s direction is sometimes achingly slow, though it poignantly captures the emptiness of Susan’s life. (Smith reports in the 2018 tribute film Nothing Like a Dame that Laurence Olivier once criticised her for line delivery so slow she “bored him off the stage”. When it came to their next performance, she says, “I went so fast he didn’t know if it was Wednesday or Christmas.”)

Again and again across an extraordinary career, Smith gave us painfully accurate portraits of British women, from steely and haughty to fragile and vulnerable – often simultaneously. She captured women’s fatigue with the social constraints imposed upon them and showed stunning glimpses of a world beyond those limitations, full of other potentials and possibilities.

Jen Harvie does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Maggie Smith was a formidable actor with a biting wit and a fearsome ability to deliver lines – https://theconversation.com/maggie-smith-was-a-formidable-actor-with-a-biting-wit-and-a-fearsome-ability-to-deliver-lines-240135

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK cocoa buyers complete trade mission to Solomon Islands
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The delegation arrived in the country on 20 September, to build partnerships, gain deeper understanding of the cocoa market and cocoa farmers across the country.
A group photo with community members at one of the visited cocoa farming communities on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands.

The UK government has supported 17 cocoa buyers to visit Solomon Islands to increase cocoa exports to the UK.

Supporting the cocoa trade between Solomon Islands and the UK is a win-win, driving growth and increasing incomes for Solomon Islands farmers whilst giving UK consumers access to the best quality Solomon cocoa.

The delegation arrived in the country on 20 September, to build partnerships and gain a deeper understanding of the cocoa market and cocoa farmers across the country.

Highlights from the mission included visiting Pilapaso Cocoa plantation and micro chocolate factories, Amazing Grace on Guadalcanal where they witnessed first-hand the harvesting and fermentation processes conducted by the farm owners, and two days in Malaita province where they visited cocoa farms across the northern region.

The UK cocoa buyers also worked with Solomon processors, visiting Cathliro’s café, processing and chocolate making facilities and the Kokonut Pacific Solomon Islands’ (KPSI) shop, coconut oil and cocoa processing and chocolate making facility in East Honiara.

Their mission concluded with a regional cocoa workshop held at the Heritage Park Hotel at which cocoa producers and exporters from across the Pacific attended and discussed market requirements and sourcing opportunities.

Under the UK-Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement that started in January 2021 goods from the Pacific can enter the UK market duty-free and quota-free.

Thanks to the deal, high-end UK chocolatiers are turning to Solomon Islands for their cocoa: boosting Solomon exports and incomes, whilst bringing quality products to the UK market.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 1 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Swaminathan J: Governance in Small Finance Banks – driving sustainable growth and stability

Source: Bank for International Settlements

Chairpersons and Directors of the Boards of Small Finance Banks; Chief Executive Officers of SFBs; Executive Directors, Chief General Managers and colleagues from the Reserve Bank of India; ladies and gentlemen. A very good morning to all of you.

It is an honour to address this distinguished gathering in the inaugural conference of Board of Directors of Small Finance Banks organised by the RBI. As has been mentioned, this conference is in continuation of the Reserve Bank’s efforts to reach out to its supervised entities through a direct dialogue with their Boards and Top Management. Our objective is to reaffirm the importance of good governance for maintaining financial stability and fostering sustainable growth.

In his address¹ to the Directors of Public and Private Sector Banks last year, the Governor outlined a comprehensive 10-point charter that addressed key aspects such as the role of the Board, its independence, the importance of setting the tone from the top, etc. His speech serves as an excellent blueprint for regulatory expectations from the Boards of Directors, and I encourage you to review it if you haven’t already.

Today, I would like to discuss three key issues with you: (i) the vital role of Small Finance Banks in promoting financial inclusion, (ii) the necessity of strengthening governance and assurance functions for sustainable growth, and (iii) important considerations regarding business models and risks that Boards should be mindful of.

Important Financial Inclusion objective of SFBs

As you are aware, the licensing of Small Finance Banks was introduced a decade ago, in 2014, with the primary objective of advancing financial inclusion. Beyond serving as a vehicle to mobilise savings, SFBs were also envisioned to extend affordable credit to underserved and unorganised sectors, such as small and marginal farmers as well as small business units, by leveraging technology to reduce costs and improve accessibility.

India, today, stands at a pivotal moment in her development trajectory. In the last 75 years, we have transformed ourselves from an agrarian economy into one driven by industry and services. However, translating our GDP into higher per capita Gross National Income comparable to developed economies will require a comprehensive approach towards inclusive and sustainable economic growth. This will inter-alia entail education, skill development, employment generation, and more pertinently further deepening of financial inclusion. Thus, the goal for small finance banks is not ‘small’. On the contrary, it is very significant, as SFBs play a crucial role in extending financial services to the underserved, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving inclusive growth that will be essential for India’s progress towards becoming a high-income economy.

In a developing country like India, it is imperative for the financial sector, including small finance banks to strike a balance between profitability and social objectives. This can be achieved through a strategic focus on sectors that deliver high social impact, ensuring that financial growth is aligned with the broader goal of inclusive development. It is therefore essential for SFBs to actively participate in extending credit under various Government Sponsored Schemes to promote greater accessibility of affordable credit, especially among the vulnerable sections of the society.

As the target group of such lending is mostly the marginalised and underserved sections of the society, it is essential for the SFBs to adopt responsible lending practices. It is disheartening to come across egregious practices by some SFBs, such as charging excessive interest rates, collecting instalments in advance as well as not adjusting such advance collections against loan outstanding, levying of usurious fees, etc. It is also observed that grievance redressal mechanism is far from adequate in most SFBs.

I therefore feel that periodically reviewing how your bank is fulfilling its financial inclusion objectives is an area that Boards should give much deeper consideration to. It is not just about meeting regulatory requirements such as priority sector lending but also about assessing the true impact of your efforts on underserved communities. Boards can reflect on whether the bank is genuinely reaching marginalised groups, such as low-income households, small businesses, and rural populations, and how effectively it is using technology and innovative products to bridge financial gaps, as these were the objectives of having a differentiated licensing for SFBs.

Strengthening Governance

An effective governance framework is the foundation of resilient and well managed institutions, especially in the context of banks. There needs to be a clear division of responsibilities between the Board and the management to ensure smooth functioning of the bank. While the Board is responsible for setting the overall strategic direction, establishing policies, and ensuring that the bank adheres to regulatory frameworks and ethical standards, the management is responsible for the execution of the Board’s strategy and operations. It is the Board’s role to provide oversight, asking the right questions and holding the management accountable for executing the bank’s strategy within the agreed risk appetite.

In this context, it is imperative that the views of the Board are clearly articulated and documented in the minutes of the meetings of the Board and its various sub-committees. It is said that the ‘palest ink is better than the best memory’. Proper documentation serves as a vital record of the Board’s deliberations, decisions, and rationale behind those decisions, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance. Clear minutes not only provide a historical account of the Board’s discussions but also serve as a reference for future decision-making, helping to maintain continuity and clarity in governance practices.

Boards should prioritise proper succession planning for top management. Having just one Whole Time Director (WTD) can create potential vulnerabilities, especially in times of transition or unforeseen circumstances. Without a well-thought-out succession plan, the bank may face leadership gaps that could disrupt operations and affect strategic decision-making. A broader pool of experienced leaders also contributes to better governance and more resilient management structures. We observe that while the SFBs are strengthening their Boards by bringing in new directors, some SFBs are yet to ensure the presence of at least two Whole Time Directors. I would request these banks to expeditiously consider appointing more WTDs.

Empowering Assurance Functions

Boards should accord due importance to assurance functions, namely, risk management, compliance and internal audit. These functions play a critical role in identifying and mitigating risks, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations as well as safeguarding the organisation’s integrity.

Boards should ensure that heads of assurance functions are positioned appropriately within the organisational hierarchy and granted direct access to the Board. Dual-hatting, or combining assurance responsibilities with operational or management duties, undermines the independence and objectivity of assurance functions by creating conflicts of interest. Therefore, any dual hatting of assurance functions, should be avoided.

Key risks to reflect upon

Small Finance Banks have demonstrated strong growth since their inception, now accounting for 1.18 percent of total banking assets (as of March 2024). This is a substantial rise from 0.44 percent in March 2018. The deposit base has grown at a 32 per cent compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) over the last five years whereas net advances recorded a CAGR of 26 per cent. While the business growth in Small Finance Banks is indeed impressive, it is imperative that Boards remain vigilant for hidden and emerging risks that could jeopardise their long-term success.

In this context, I would like to highlight a few areas that Boards could keep in mind.

Business model

Firstly, I would urge Boards to consider the sustainability of their growth strategies and business models by conducting a thorough review of both the liability and asset sides of the balance sheet. Specifically, they should assess whether there is an overdependence on high-cost term deposits or bulk deposits from a limited number of institutions. Additionally, they should evaluate any substantial asset exposures that could adversely impact the bank if they were to sour. These are essential aspects that the Board and its Risk Management Committee must scrutinise to ensure long-term stability and resilience.

Credit risks

Secondly, I would like to emphasise proper credit risk underwriting. While many banks have expanded into unsecured retail lending, hoping to leverage the diversification benefits it offers, there is an underlying correlation risk that becomes more pronounced during economic downturns. In such scenarios, the credit profile of a large segment of borrowers can be significantly impacted, leading to higher default rates. This highlights the importance of rigorous underwriting processes that carefully assess the creditworthiness of borrowers, rather than relying solely on automated systems or algorithms. Effective underwriting should consider a comprehensive range of factors, including income stability, credit history, and the overall economic environment, to ensure that loans are made judiciously.

Further, while digital lending solutions have streamlined the process and made access to credit easier, on-the-ground presence for collections remains crucial. Resorting to coercive recovery practices as a means of mitigating risk is not a sustainable solution. Such practices not only harm the bank’s reputation but can also lead to legal and regulatory repercussions. A better approach is to implement collection strategies that prioritise communication and collaboration with borrowers. This includes strictly adhering to fair practices code and adopting an empathetic approach while dealing with stressed loan book.

Cyber-security risk and third-party dependencies

Thirdly, I would like to address the issue of cyber security and IT vulnerabilities. Being relatively new entities, SFBs have used technology to enhance their product offerings and customer service. However, with their increasing digital footprint, these banks face significant operational risks from growing cyber threats, digital frauds, and possible data breaches.

The cyber security landscape is evolving rapidly, and SFBs must stay ahead of emerging threats to protect their customers’ data and maintain operational resilience. The SFBs should adopt robust business continuity plans and effective IT outsourcing strategies. There is also a need to ensure rigorous change management processes, comprehensive data protection measures, vigilant transaction monitoring, stringent access controls and network security protocols. These measures will help SFBs to significantly enhance their IT resilience against possible disruptions.

Operational Risk

Fourthly, while I have covered cybersecurity threats, I would also like boards of SFBs to be mindful of the larger issue of operational risks. During periods of rapid growth, the focus on increasing market share, launching new products, and acquiring customers can lead to a neglect of essential risk management practices. For example, hastily onboarding new customers without thorough KYC due diligence or rushing the deployment of technology solutions without adequate testing can increase the likelihood of frauds, errors and service disruptions. Growth is important for the success of Small Finance Banks. However, it must not come by overlooking operational controls.

Another significant area of concern for operational risk is the high attrition rate among staff in Small Finance Banks. While the branch network and employee headcounts are expanding, the sector faces a very high attrition rate of nearly 40 per cent, particularly among frontline staff and junior management. Such elevated turnover, though mostly at the entry and junior management levels, poses substantial operational risks, as it can lead to a loss of institutional knowledge, disruption in service delivery, and increased training costs for new hires. To mitigate these risks, Board-level efforts are essential to focus on employee retention strategies at all levels. Further, the absence of succession planning for critical managerial positions is a common issue across SFBs, which requires immediate attention from Boards to ensure a smooth transition of leadership and maintain operational effectiveness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SFBs with their outreach to rural and semi-urban areas, are intended to be one of the key enablers in credit offerings to individuals, weaker sections, entrepreneurs, SHGs/JLGs and MSMEs. They have a large role to play in achieving our aspirational goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

As RBI celebrates 90 years of its foundation this year, we have set deepening financial inclusion as one of our cherished objectives for RBI@100. RBI, with its continued commitment towards a financially inclusive India, has taken several measures to support these segments ranging from Priority Sector Lending targets to the introduction of TReDS for MSMEs. A new chapter in this book is the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) platform which aims at “enabling frictionless credit” with the ‘new trinity’ of JAM-UPI-ULI, further propelling India’s growth story.

SFBs should strive to harness this opportunity and other such opportunities offered by latest technological innovations for efficient and cost-effective service delivery. Further, with robust governance and effective board oversight, SFBs can capitalise on their strengths while meeting growth and stability objectives.

With this, I wish you all the best for the coming sessions and hope that you find these sessions professionally enriching and stimulating. Thank you!

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Nonprofit Executive Accused of More Than $2 Million Dollar Student Meal Fraud

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

ST. LOUIS – The owner of a nonprofit was indicted Wednesday and accused of fraudulently obtaining more than $2 million in funds intended to feed low-income Missouri children, both before and during the coronavirus pandemic.

Cymone McClellan, 31, of St. Louis, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on four felony counts of wire fraud.

The indictment says McClellan owned and ran a non-profit organization called Sister of Lavender Rose (S.O.L.R.). From about January 2019 to June 2022, McClellan and her nonprofit submitted false and fraudulent meal reimbursement claims to Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). S.O.L.R. submitted reimbursement claims to the Food and Nutrition Programs for Children claiming that she served 860,876 meals to children but only bought enough food and milk to serve fewer than one-quarter of those meals, the indictment says. According to the indictment, McClellan defrauded the State of Missouri out of more than $2 million through her fraudulent reimbursement claims.

The indictment says McClellan attempted to cover up her crime by providing bogus sign-in sheets to DHSS falsely claiming to have taken the attendance of meal recipients at certain food distribution locations. S.O.L.R. submitted management plans to DHSS falsely asserting that state meal reimbursement dollars were spent only in connection with the provision of meals to low-income children, and that the nonprofit did not use meal money to make purchases over $5,000. The indictment says McClellan spent $60,000 on a down payment on a house in Collinsville, Illinois and also bought five vehicles and a house in Florissant, Missouri.

One of the addresses where McClellan informed the State of Missouri that she was purportedly preparing food for low-income children belonged to an adults-only nightclub called Elmo’s Love Lounge, the indictment says.

The indictment seeks the forfeiture of the real estate, as well as a 2021 Chevrolet Traverse, a 2012 Chevrolet Express G3500 van, a 2020 Mercedez-Benz Metris van, a 2012 Ford E350 box truck and a 2018 Lexus RX SUV.

Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The wire fraud charges carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Latta Joins House Colleagues in Urging Full Reauthorization of the Farm Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) today joined his House colleagues in sending a letter to House Leadership urging for full reauthorization of the Farm Bill before the end of the 118th Congress. Latta’s district, Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District, is the largest agriculture income producing district in the state of Ohio.

In the letter, the lawmakers write,”Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill. Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record, meanwhile commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families. A $34 billion projected loss in crop cash receipts is expected to result in the sharpest two-year decline in net cash income in our nation’s history: 31% ($69.2 billion). Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and when adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities. Yet, despite the overwhelming increase in production costs, declining commodity cash receipts, and the record-breaking decline in net cash income, without intervention, federal support provided to agriculture in 2024 is projected to reach its lowest level since 1982, a year that presaged the farm financial crisis of the mid-1980s.”

Read the full letter here and below:

Speaker Johnson, Majority Leader Scalise, Majority Whip Emmer, and Conference Chair Stefanik:

As you are all aware, agriculture is among the most vital industries to the United States of America, and the farm bill—omnibus legislation that establishes policies affecting all sectors of the agriculture industry for a five-year period—expires this year.

Since the enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill, which was extended last December to cover 2024, the agriculture sector has faced numerous headwinds. A combination of catastrophic factors including illegal retaliatory tariffs on agricultural products, supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events, crippling inflation, and high interest rates continue to fuel an impending financial crisis in farm country.

Farmers and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill. Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record, meanwhile commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families. A $34 billion projected loss in crop cash receipts is expected to result in the sharpest two-year decline in net cash income in our nation’s history: 31% ($69.2 billion). Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and when adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities. Yet, despite the overwhelming increase in production costs, declining commodity cash receipts, and the record-breaking decline in net cash income, without intervention, federal support provided to agriculture in 2024 is projected to reach its lowest level since 1982, a year that presaged the farm financial crisis of the mid-1980s.

The 118th Congress has an opportunity to do right by producers, other agriculture stakeholders, rural communities, and taxpayers by putting more “farm” back in the farm bill and by making responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles, and the bipartisan H.R. 8467—The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which was advanced by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 24th of this year, does just that. This legislation is the product of input received at seven House Committee on Agriculture hosted listening sessions, and numerous round tables and town halls across the country, is reflective of the over 2,600 priorities submitted to the Committee on Agriculture by 172 members of the Republican Conference, is supported by hundreds of stakeholder organizations, and is worthy of our time, attention, and effort as the 118th Congress comes to a close.

The negative impacts of failing to act will not just stop at the farm gate, but will also hit Main Street businesses, rural communities, and the national economy. Among some commodities and regions, calamitous impacts in farm country, such as those felt during the crisis of the 1980s, are a genuine possibility. Therefore, we respectfully urge that the enactment of H.R. 8467, or similar legislation that makes meaningful investments in farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, is among the top priorities of the Republican Conference and that this be considered a “must-pass” item in the lame duck session of the 118th Congress.

The Biden-Harris Administration and Democratic Congressional Leadership have failed to appreciate the dire situation in farm country and have stood in the way of progress on a highly effective farm bill, however we remain hopeful that after election year politics have run their course, they will join in a bipartisan fashion to do what’s right for the country. All Americans, particularly our rural constituents, deserve nothing less and we stand ready to assist in this endeavor as the end of the year approaches.

Thank you for your strong support of agriculture and rural America.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Meherrin Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Meherrin Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker

Meherrin Indian Tribe to be Featured on N.C. Highway Historical Marker
jejohnson6
Thu, 09/26/2024 – 13:47

An American Indian tribe that settled in northeastern North Carolina soon will be recognized with a North Carolina Highway Historical Marker.

The marker commemorating the Meherrin Tribe will be dedicated during a ceremony Oct. 5 at 1 p.m., at the Meherrin Tribal Grounds (852 NC-11 South, Ahoskie, N.C.).

The Meherrin, whose traditional name Kauwets’a·ka means “People of the Water,” received formal recognition from the North Carolina government in 1986.

The first known written account of the Meherrin people came from English merchant and explorer Sir Edward Bland, who visited the Meherrin village of Cowonchahawkon near present-day Emporia, Va., in 1650 while on an expedition from Fort Henry (present-day Petersburg, Va.). Later, encroaching European settlements in the mid-17th century pressured native peoples, including the Meherrin, to move. Following Bacon’s Rebellion, all Virginia tribes signed the Middle Plantation Treaty of 1677, which subjugated them to King Charles II of England and the governor of Virginia.

A short time later, the Meherrin left the area of Cowonchahawkon and settled on Tawarra/Taurura Creek near Boykins, Va. Other members of the tribe moved north of the Blackwater River, but in 1687 they were ordered by the Virginia Council of State to return south of the river. About 1691, the tribe moved across the border into Carolina Province in what is today North Carolina where their tribal territories are found in Hertford, Bertie, Northampton, and Gates counties.

In 1920, a new Pleasant Plains Indian School was built in Hertford County to replace the original school built in 1866. It was the second Rosenwald-funded school in the county. The school closed in 1949 and was converted into a community center to serve Indian and mixed families in 1950.

In 1975, Meherrin descendants reorganized the tribe and reclaimed its identity under Chief Wayne Mackanear Brown. They created a modern tribal government, led by a chief and seven elected council members. The tribe holds an annual powwow during the first week of October at the tribal grounds between Ahoskie and Murfreesboro, N.C.

A more complete history of the Meherrin Tribe can be found at http://www.meherrinnation.org.

For more information about the historical markers, please visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2023/12/04/meherrin-tribe-95, or call (919) 814-6625.

The marker is one of nine markers being dedicated in 2024 that highlight American Indian culture and history in North Carolina. Historical markers were approved for the Coharie, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of the Saponi, Sappony, and Waccamaw Siouan tribes. In addition, historical markers were approved for the site of the East Carolina Indian School and the Buie Mound site. The N.C. American Indian Heritage Commission staff worked closely with N.C. tribes to complete applications to be considered for the historical marker program.

The Highway Historical Marker Program is a collaboration between the N.C. departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.

Sep 23, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Schweikert: The World Has Now Surpassed Its Record of Debt, at $312 Trillion

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative David Schweikert (AZ-01) took to the House floor yesterday to deliver his last speech before the 2024 election. He started by mentioning that the world has now surpassed the cumulative record of governmental debt, totaling an astonishing $312 trillion. Rep. Schweikert references previous floor speeches where he points out that every tax proposal for the wealthy only brings in 1.5 percent of GDP. He presents an additional hypothetical if Congress were to cut discretionary spending (which accounts for $860 billion) by $300 billion. With the combination of every Democrat tax proposal and every Republican cut, that still only gets 2.5 percent of GDP. All of this borrowing, mind you, comes in a good economic year, where tax receipts are up. We are still going to borrow almost 7% GDP.

Excerpts from Rep. Schweikert’s floor speech can be found below:

On other countries bond rates’ being cheaper than the Unites State’s rates:

[Beginning at 02:12]
“Congress has made the decision that those who are really running this government, those who run this country, will be called the ‘bond market’. Because, if you need to refinance, like we did this fiscal year, we’ve refinanced about $8 trillion and [brought] to market an additional $2 [trillion]. You’re basically sitting on $10 trillion, and that’s not even counting the short term where it was a thirty-day, [and then] six months… those things that had to be rolled. You are subject to the fragility of the bond market, and what interest rate, and how much liquidity… and how many idiots like me come behind these microphones and try to explain the world debt markets to you? Take it seriously, it is not a game. United States is now #14 on the credit stack. That means there [are] 13 other countries today that can sell a ten-year bond cheaper than us. Greece, today, can sell 10-year bonds cheaper than the United States. Think about that.”

On the morality of more cures coming to market:

[Beginning at 09:04]
“Remember: in 15 years, the United States has more deaths than births. We are about to have the fifth year where prime-age males are dying younger. In the last six years, 390,000 Americans have died from fentanyl. Well, it turns out, next year, we might have a fentanyl vaccine. And you might not like it… 390,000 have died in six years! You’re not willing to deal with the moral imperative of saving our brothers and sisters?! We need to think differently. And the fact of the matter is, you are living in a time of miracles. We can cure Hepatitis-C, we can cure hemophilia. There are things that are coming out. There [are] the Vertex experiments that look to cure Type 1 diabetes. If diabetes is 33% of all U.S. health care spending, what is the morality, but what’s also the amazing economics if we would fixate– in the Farm Bill, in nutrition support– in the way we deliver health care to get our brothers and sisters healthier? Turns out, it is the single biggest thing you can do to stabilize U.S. debt. How many people have you heard come behind these microphones within the last year, and be willing to say that? Because you upset the lobbyists, walking up and down the hallways, that need people that are sick!”

On the reiteration that interest is the second biggest expenditure of U.S. government spending:

[Beginning at 17:30]
“If you actually care about the debt, stop living in this fantasy; “We’ll just tax rich people, and that takes care of everything!” If you look at some of the proposals, they’ve already spent the money three or four times. I keep trying to present over and over; when you start to realize the amount of our spending– and by the end of the decade, think of this, 10 years from now– if you add in the debt we will owe to the trust funds, what’s left of them, we’re at $56 trillion. $56 trillion! What happens if interest rates move against us? Remember, interest today is the second biggest expenditure in this government. [Number one is] Social security. Behind that is interest. Then Medicare, then defense. Defense is now the fourth [largest] expenditure in this government. And you try over and over and over. You see right here– 2024-2025– the little, tiny movement we get in 2026 and a couple years after that, and then, boom! Now, this here is because the tax hikes that are coming– they’re already in statute, they’re coming. It’s not a vote, we’re not taking a vote to say we’re going to raise these taxes. It’s called tax expiration. It’s already coming. It’s math– But boom. After three or four years, you’re back, and the curve is back in. We don’t want to tell the truth: it’s demographics“

###
Congressman David Schweikert serves on the House Ways and Means Committee and is the current Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee. He is also the Vice Chairman on the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, chairs the Congressional Valley Fever Task Force, and is the Republican Co-Chair of the Blockchain Caucus, Telehealth Caucus, Singapore Caucus, and the Caucus on Access to Capital and Credit.

Back to News

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest Storm Ciaran and Storm Babet flood reports published 26 September 2024 Latest Storm Ciaran and Storm Babet flood reports published for Newport, East Cowes and Ryde

Source: Aisle of Wight

Official reports examining the severe flooding that affected Newport, East Cowes and Ryde last autumn are now available to read online.

Roads, homes and businesses were submerged on the Island as a result of Storm Babet and Storm Ciaran in October and November 2023.

At least 317 properties experienced flooding during unprecedented rainfall.

In response, the Isle of Wight Council commissioned a series of independent investigations to better understand the causes and any factors that may have influenced the severity of the flooding.

The in-depth studies, known as ‘Section 19 flood investigation reports’, involved collecting information from those directly affected by the flooding, as well as private bodies with flood management responsibilities.

Three reports have been published today (Wednesday) on the council’s website.

A further Section 19 report for Brading and an addendum for Binstead will be published next month with a report for Cowes to follow later in 2024.

The council will now consider all the recommendations, taking into account how many can be delivered and in what timescales given the resource and cost implications.

Some actions will require the council to work closely with key stakeholders and landowners, including Island Roads, the Environment Agency and Southern Water.

Developing a Community Flood Plan and investigating opportunities for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to manage storm water are among eight recommendations proposed for Newport.

At least 56 properties suffered internal flooding in the county town with Gunville being one of the worst affected areas.

In addition to improved flood maps and enhanced monitoring, the report recommends carrying out an investigation into the condition and capacity of the culvert under Arthur Moody Close and watercourse at Ash Lane.

Seven recommendations have been put forward for East Cowes including establishing a flood action group and developing a Community Flood Plan.

Other priorities include replacing or improving the existing tidal outfall and carrying out feasibility studies in providing extra surface water drainage capacity and increasing the capacity of the watercourse at Church Path.

Improved gully and highway drainage maintenance is also being recommended.

The latest Monktonmead report is an addendum to a previous Section 19 report published following flooding in 2021.

At least 107 properties were flooded during Storm Babet — estimated to have been a one in 144 and and one in 190 year event.

The report considers the incident response as well as the actions undertaken following the 2021 and 2023 floods and makes a number of recommendations around property flood resilience, surface water drainage, surface water management and community flood preparedness.

It also notes the detailed review currently being undertaken by the Environment Agency into the causes of the flooding last October and the operation of the Monktonmead Flood Alleviation Scheme.

Councillor Karen Lucioni, Cabinet member for community protection, said: “It was essential that we took action to properly look into the causes and impacts of the flooding that occurred last year. Many residents were adversely affected and much distress and damage to properties resulted.

“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this work as their input has proved invaluable as we now look to take forward potential options to take preventative steps and to mitigate the risk of similar flooding occurring in the future.

“I would also like to thank residents for their patience while these reports have been prepared.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), co-founder of the Global Migration Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” saidJuliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

###

Congressman Greg Casar represents Texas’s 35th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which runs down I-35 from East Austin to Hays County to the West Side of San Antonio. A labor organizer and son of Mexican immigrants, Casar serves as the Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Agriculture.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), co-founder of the Global Migration Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” saidJuliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

###

Congressman Greg Casar represents Texas’s 35th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which runs down I-35 from East Austin to Hays County to the West Side of San Antonio. A labor organizer and son of Mexican immigrants, Casar serves as the Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Agriculture.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: As Las Vegas Breaks Own Record for Most 100-Degree Days, Rosen Bill to Ensure Extreme Heat Qualifies As A Major Disaster Passes in Committee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
As Of Wednesday, Las Vegas Broke Its Own Record For Having The Most 100-Degree Days in a Year
Senator Rosen Introduced This Bill In July During A Record-Breaking Heat Wave
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced that her Extreme Heat Emergency Act passed in the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The bill would explicitly allow extreme heat and other extreme temperatures to qualify as a major disaster under the Stafford Act, which recognizes fires, floods, explosions, and natural catastrophes such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes as disasters eligible for a Major Disaster Declaration from the President. This would help communities like Las Vegas and Reno, two of the fastest warming cities in the United States, access resources and funding to address the damages and losses they’re experiencing as a result of extreme heat waves.
This legislation comes in the wake of record-breaking temperatures in Nevada that have caused concerns for the health and well-being of families. As of Wednesday, Las Vegas broke its record for having the most 100-degree days in a year since 1947. This summer, Senator Rosen visited a Clark County cooling station activated in East Las Vegas, highlighting the need for federal resources to increase resilience against extreme heat.
“This year, Nevadans have been experiencing record-breaking temperatures that are putting our communities at risk,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’ve been pushing to pass my bill to ensure extreme heat can qualify for a Major Disaster Declaration, and make funding and critical resources available for communities in Nevada. I’m proud to see it pass in committee, and I’ll keep working to ensure it becomes law.”
Senator Rosen has been leading the fight to ensure that Nevadans have access to federal resources to stay safe during natural disasters. After last year’s winter storms, Senator Rosen urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency to assist impacted Nevada farmers and ranchers and successfully pushed President Biden to provide more resources and heed Governor Joe Lombardo’s call to issue a Major Disaster Declaration for Nevada. Senator Rosen has also called on the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide federal assistance to address extreme heat in Nevada.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet Introduce Legislation to Support Communities Affected by Gold King Mine Disaster

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet introduced the Gold King Mine Spill Compensation Act to help communities in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona that were affected by the Gold King Mine disaster of 2015 to fully recover.
“Local farmers, homeowners, and outdoor rec outfitters were left high and dry after the Gold King Mine spill in 2015,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill will make sure they get the compensation they need to finally recover and move forward.”
“The effects of the Gold King Mine disaster were felt far beyond the banks of the Animas River. The blowout hurt families, farmers, and outdoor recreation companies in Durango and throughout southwest Colorado who depend on the river for their livelihoods,” said Bennet. “Almost a decade later, too many Coloradans still feel its effects. Our legislation is a necessary step to help Coloradans finally recover certain remaining costs and damages incurred from the spill and make Southwest Colorado communities whole again.”
On August 5, 2015, the Gold King Mine spill released 3 million gallons of polluted mining wastewater into the Animas and San Juan rivers, affecting waterways in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, the Southern Ute reservation, and the Navajo Nation.
Though the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was able to partially compensate some claims, its ability to meet the needs of affected businesses, farmers, and homeowners is constrained by existing laws. This legislation would provide EPA with the necessary authority and funding to compensate certain outstanding claims from the spill.
“The Gold King Mine Compensation Act clears the procedural hurdles that kept businesses that suffered economic losses due to the spill nearly 10 years ago from being made whole,” said Matt Salka, Chair, La Plata County Board of County Commissioners. “We are grateful that the impact felt by those businesses has not been forgotten and that a remedy is possible through this much-appreciated legislation.”
“The work that Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and their teams have done on the Gold King Mine Bill is restoring my faith in government. After all these years to see the promise of our government concerning the Gold King Mine incident and its ensuing economic damage was not forgotten, is refreshing. The wheels of government turn slowly. We at Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours are thankful that Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and their teams are keeping them turning,” said Alex Mickel, President, Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours.
The La Plata County Board of County Commissioners also shared a letter in support of this legislation.
Immediately after the Gold King Mine disaster, then-Governor Hickenlooper declared the affected area a disaster zone. Then, in 2016 he sent a letter to the EPA urging the Gold King mine and other legacy mines in San Juan County on the EPA’s Superfund National Priorities List which established the initial funding for the clean-up.
The text of the bill is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: GIDDY UP-DATE NEWSLETTER: Adventures in Southwestern Colorado

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

Hey folks,
In case you missed it, we crisscrossed Southwestern Colorado to hear about local issues and hold a public town hall to meet Coloradans like YOU! Check out our travels below

First stop: Cortez.
Rural critical access hospitals are forced to overcome challenges other health care providers don’t worry about. We visited Southwest Memorial Hospital to discuss these issues and share how we’re fighting to get them resources they need. Read more about our visit HERE!

We also held a town hall in Cortez to hear directly from YOU on a range of issues like energy permitting reform, immigration, and public lands. Didn’t get to stop by and ask your question? As always, you can send us your questions HERE.

For decades, the federal government forced Native American children into horrific boarding schools that stripped them of their identity. Today, the Kwiyagat Community Academy in Towaoc is leading the way in preserving the indigenous language and culture of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
We also met with Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Council members to discuss issues, including water rights and security, and toured the Farm and Ranch Enterprise, the Tribe’s 7,700 acre farm where they produce alfalfa, wheat, and corn!

Read the full article in the Durango Herald
HERE
In Durango, we celebrated the CDS funding (over $3 million!) to help convert the former Best Western hotel into 120 new units of affordable housing. Who doesn’t like the sound of that?

Fort Lewis College’s new nurse training facility and program is helping solve our rural health care worker shortage through workforce training that the region desperately needs! We toured the construction of the facility to see how our $1.3 million in CDS funding is helping. Pretty neat, right?

Statewide innovation? Yeah, Colorado has that. Agile Space in Durango is helping to meet the needs of our booming aerospace industry and reinforcing our state as THE leader in the national security sector.
Always great to meet with Coloradans in Southwest Colorado, and can’t wait to be back soon! Until next time!
Sincerely,

Senator John Hickenlooper
Not signed up for our Giddy Up-date email newsletter? You’re missing out! Sign up HERE!

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Statement from Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, and Dr. Mary Jane Ireland, Chief Veterinarian of Canada, on the release of the Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance Year One Progress Report

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Statement

Today, we are pleased to announce the release of the Pan-Canadian Action Plan (PAP) on Antimicrobial Resistance Year One Progress Report. This report provides an overview of the activities underway and the milestones we have achieved with our federal, provincial and territorial partners during the first year of the Pan-Canadian Action Plan.

September 26, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada

Today we are pleased to announce the publication from the first year progress report of the Pan-Canadian Action Plan (PAP) on Antimicrobial Resistance. This report provides an overview of the activities underway and the milestones we have achieved with our federal, provincial and territorial partners during the first year of the Pan-Canadian Action Plan.

Antimicrobials, which include antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and antiparasitics, are essential medicines for preventing and treating infections in humans, animals, plants, and crops. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microbes evolve and the medicines used to fight infections become less effective. As antimicrobial resistance increases, the ability to successfully treat infections is threatened, which can have serious consequences for the health of people, animals, and plants.

The report focuses on strengthening capacity to monitor antimicrobial resistance and use in Canada by developing the LNM National Laboratory Surveillance System for Antimicrobial Resistance for human and animal health, by publishing the reserve list of antimicrobial drugs Canadian guide to prescribers on which antimicrobial drugs to use sparingly to preserve their effectiveness, in investing in developing and sharing national guidelines for point-of-care antimicrobial prescribing to reduce unnecessary or inappropriate use of antimicrobials in human health, and in developing the Pilot project to increase the supply of antimicrobials in Canada, which will be launched later this year to improve access to antimicrobials for people in Canada.

Progress is also being made to support disease prevention and control in animals by facilitating access to alternatives to antimicrobials, such as vaccines, modernizing the Livestock Feed Regulations to support the use of innovative products in commercial livestock feed and to help reduce the need for antimicrobials, and by advancing research and innovation in antimicrobial resistance nationally and internationally, through theGenomics Research and Development Initiative on antimicrobial resistance,Assessment of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial use (AMU) in food animals of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, and current involvement in theJoint Programming Initiative on Antimicrobial Resistance.

Antimicrobial resistance is a global crisis with far-reaching consequences. We are pleased to participate in this year’s United Nations High-Level Week at the General Assembly to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to combating antimicrobial resistance, share information on our progress, and engage with international health leaders and experts on key global health challenges.

Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that the antimicrobials we rely on every day remain effective and are available to people and animals when they need them – today and for generations to come.

To learn more about RAM: Canada.ca/antibiotics

Dr. Theresa TamChief Public Health Officer

Dr. Mary Jane IrelandChief Veterinarian

Contact persons

Media RelationsPublic Health Agency of Canada613-957-2983 media@hc-sc.gc.ca

Media RelationsCanadian Food Inspection Agency613-773-6600cfia.media.acia@inspection.gc.ca

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Aboriginal economic development in Northern Ontario

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

On Friday, September 20, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, hosted a roundtable with representatives from select regional Indigenous organizations, municipal stakeholders and senior government officials to identify economic development challenges and opportunities facing First Nations leaders and businesses in the region.

September 26, 2024 – Thunder Bay, Ontario – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

On Friday, September 20, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, hosted a roundtable with representatives from select regional Indigenous organizations, municipal stakeholders and senior government officials to identify economic development challenges and opportunities facing First Nations leaders and businesses in the region. This conversation is part of the ongoing renewal of the Northern Ontario Prosperity and Growth Strategy (SPCNO), aimed at ensuring that the Strategy continues to meet the needs of Northern Ontario.

Discussions focused on how the SPCNO contributes to meeting the unique needs of Northern Ontario residents, including First Nations communities. They focused on ways to effectively support First Nations-led economic development, including increasing First Nations homeownership rates, and facilitating First Nations joint ventures and access to business services in Northern Ontario. The meeting also provided an opportunity to learn more about regional perspectives on Indigenous economic reconciliation.

Specifically, during Friday’s discussions, participants emphasized the need to continue to support capacity-building efforts at the community level and the role that FedNor can play in encouraging and promoting cooperation between First Nations communities, municipalities and other levels of government. Other topics of discussion included the role and importance of transportation and access to education in Northern Ontario, particularly for rural and remote Indigenous communities, as well as the barriers that First Nations communities face in accessing capital, business development and succession planning.

Three additional virtual sessions, focusing on Indigenous economic growth and the challenges facing communities and businesses in the region, will be held later in the fall. FedNor will send out invitations in the coming weeks.

These sessions on the SPCNO are part of an ongoing effort by FedNor to engage diverse stakeholders across Northern Ontario. A report on what we heard will be released in the coming months, and a revised and final Northern Ontario Prosperity and Growth Strategy will be released in early 2025.

Roundtable participants included Brian Davey, Executive Director, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, Georjann Morriseau, Policy Advisor, Strategic Initiatives, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Paul Capon, Policy Advisor, Matawa Tribal Council, Tara Ingram, Economic Development Advisor, Matawa First Nations Management, Alain Joseph, Manager, Indigenous Relations, City of Thunder Bay, Kim Falcigno, Vice-President, Oshki-Wenjack Oshki-Pimache-O-Win, Dawn Lambe, Economic Development Officer, Anishinabek Nation, Jeremy Bonhomme, Relationship Manager, First Nations Financial Management Board, Valerie Gideon, FedNor Chair, and Nick Fabiano, FedNor Vice-President, as well as FedNor staff.

Jennifer KozeljPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNorjennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Preparedness Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene
Source: US State of Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director, and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Purdue at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates ahead of landfall of Hurricane Helene. As of 8:00 am ET, Hurricane Helene’s maximum sustained winds have increased to 100 mph with higher gusts, making it a Category 2 hurricane. Additional strengthening is forecast, and Helene is expected to be a major hurricane when it reaches the Florida Big Bend coast tonight. Sixty-eight shelters are open throughout the state in preparation for severe impacts from Hurricane Helene, including 2 state-operated shelters in Tallahassee and DeFuniak Springs. These shelters have are housing over 2,500 residents from areas that may be severely affected by Hurricane Helene.

Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, updating EO 24-208 and declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties. This allows state officials to make critical resources available to communities ahead of any potential storm impacts.

Following Governor DeSantis’ request, FEMA approved the state’s pre-landfall disaster declaration request. This provides important federal resources and assistance, including personnel, equipment, and supplies, and makes available funding sources for emergency protective measures. The pre-landfall declaration request is for the 41 Florida counties included in Executive Order 24-208.

Voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders are in effect in multiple counties statewide. Residents need to evacuate if they are under a mandatory evacuation order. Counties under evacuation orders can be found at FloridaDisaster.org/EvacuationOrders.

Residents in the big bed area needing assistance finding or going to a shelter in the Big Bend region for Hurricane Helene can call (800) 729-3413. FDEM team members are conducting callbacks from messages received last night and accepting new calls today to facilitate shelter coordination. For additional resources and assistance, residents can call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at (800) 342-3557. Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole.

Watches and warnings in effect include:
Hurricane Warning: Western Alachua, coastal Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, coastal Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, western Marion, coastal Pasco, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties
Hurricane Watch: Inland Citrus, inland Hernando, coastal Hillsborough, coastal Manatee, inland Pasco, Pinellas, coastal Sarasota
Tropical Storm Warning: Central and eastern Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Calhoun, Charlotte, inland Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, inland Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Indian River, Jackson, Lake, Lee, Miami-Dade, Monroe (including Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas), Manatee, central and eastern Marion, Martin, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, inland Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Union, Volusia, Walton, Washington
Storm Surge Warning: Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Dixie, Franklin, Gulf, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Monroe, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties

To learn more, residents can visit FloridaDisaster.org/Guide. For updates on county resources available visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for a list of all 67 county emergency management contacts.

State Preparedness Efforts
- The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 on Tuesday, September 24, and is leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
- The State Emergency Response Team is engaged in over 1,150 missions to assist counties in their preparation efforts. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging response resources, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
- There are 35,000 shelf-stable meals staged near the anticipated area of storm impact, ready to deploy for response.
- Seven Urban search and rescue task forces are ready to deploy.
- The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has mobilized nearly 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen in preparation for Hurricane Helene and can surge to 5,500 if needed.
- The FLNG is postured to provide logistics support, law enforcement support, route clearance, search and rescue, commodity distribution, flood mitigation, aviation and other support as needed by the state.
- The Florida State Guard (FSG) has prepared the following:
  - 250+ Soldiers ready to deploy.
  - 10 shallow water vessel boat teams
  - 7 flat-bottom-flood rescue skiffs
  - 2 amphibious rescue vehicles
  - 12 UTV’s
  - 15 Cut and toss crews
  - 7 search and rescue teams
  - 2 UH-60 Blackhawk for daytime aerial assessment and logistics missions
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has positioned all assets, including aircraft, and is ready to respond for reconnaissance and damage assessments, including all backup satellite and communications systems. Portable towers have been staged for emergency communications.
- FDLE is prestaging Telecommunication Emergency Response Taskforces for response to ensure continuity of service of the 911 system.
- FDLE’s Criminal Justice Information Services received permission from the FBI to allow law enforcement agencies to perform criminal history queries on behalf of emergency shelters to determine the suitability of shelter staff who may care for vulnerable populations (children, the elderly, the disabled).
- Nearly 2,000 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) team members work directly on storm response.
- FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road and bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated. Remember to always follow the direction of local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
- FDOT issued an Emergency Order on September 23, lifting weight restrictions and allowing emergency response vehicles, including utility vehicles staging for rapid response, to bypass weigh stations.
- FDOT Statewide Preparedness Efforts Include:
- Road Ranger Service has expanded service to 24 hours in the storm impact areas.
  - 890 team members conducting pre-storm preparations.
  - 613 team members working in the field conducting pre-storm preparations.
  - 245 pieces of heavy equipment are being used for pre-storm preparations.
  - 307 team members staged for cut and toss operations
  - 120 bridge inspectors staged for deployment
  - 43 team members staged for UAV (drone) deployment
  - 40 large pumps staged
  - 688 generators staged to assist with traffic signal power
  - 4 ITS trailers are staged.
- Seaports:
  - Port Key West, Panama City, Port St. Joe, Tampa Bay, SeaPort Manatee, Port St. Pete, Port of Fernandina, JAXPORT, and Port Canaveral are closed waterside.
- Airports: Some flight cancellations or delays are being reported. Check with airlines directly on specific flight updates. The following airports have suspended service:
  - Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
  - Tampa International Airport (TPA)
  - St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
- Railroads:
  - Amtrak: Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes (New York to Miami) will terminate in Jacksonville
  - Amtrak: Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes (Miami to New York) will originate in Jacksonville
  - SunRail service has been suspended.
- Freight Rail:
  CSX will limit operations in the Tampa area.
- Florida Gulf & Atlantic will shut down operations except the Pensacola area.
- Apalachicola Northern and BayLine have suspended operations
  - First Coast Railroad will shut down operations on 9/27 .
- The following transit providers have made the following schedule modifications.
  - Service Suspended: Lakeland Area Mass Transit (Citrus Connection), Manatee County Area Transit, Sarasota County Area (Breeze) Transit, Lee County (LeeTran), Charlotte County, Jacksonville Transit Authority (JTA) Skyway and St. Johns River Ferry, St. Johns County (Sunshine Line), Bay County (Bayway), StarMetro, Big Bend Transit, Wakulla County Transit, Jackson County (JTrans), Calhoun County Transit, Liberty County Transit, Gulf County ARC suspending, LYNX, Marion County Transit, Key West Lower Key Shuttle, Hillsborough County (HART), Pasco County, Hernando County (The Bus)
- The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care and support to Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care in Florida. 1-877-741-3400. Visit https://department.va.gov/integrated-service-networks/visn-08 for more information.
- Department of Management Services (DMS) is working to identify potential evacuation shelter sites for special needs and pet-friendly evacuees as far east as Lake City and west as Panama City.
Health and Human Services
- The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is tracking APD-licensed group homes in impacted areas to ensure client safety from Hurricane Helene. APD will provide necessary guidance for re-entry when it is appropriate to do so.
- The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) is deploying over 135 emergency response vehicles. Staging is currently in Leon, Liberty, Osceola, and Pinellas counties.
- DOH has prepared for Special Needs Shelter operations to begin in areas of Helene’s path. A press release has been sent statewide for additional information on special needs shelters. To find a shelter near you, please visit the county emergency management page here.
- DOH and the Agency for Health Care Administration have initiated Patient Movement Mission to support medical transport and evacuations of health care facilities.
- The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-002, which:
  - Waives competitive procurement requirements in order to procure commodities, goods, and services expeditiously in response to the emergency.
  - Permits emergency medical transportation services to operate across county lines.
  - Permits Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Medical Directors, as defined by Chapter 401, Florida Statutes, licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
  - Authorizes a reporting extension for the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
  - Authorizes an extension of the upcoming licensure renewal deadlines for Nursing Home Administrators, Radiological Personnel, and Athletic Trainers until October 31, 2024.
- DOH and the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-209. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers.
- The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has activated reporting in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS) and has requested that all health care providers report their census, available beds, evacuation status, and generator status information. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
- AHCA made 537 provider calls for Hurricane Helene preparation ahead of landfall.
- As of this morning, 80 health care facilities are reporting that they are evacuating.
  - 38 assisted living facilities
  - 26 nursing homes
  - 8 hospitals
  - 4 residential treatment facilities
  - 2 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
  - 1 adult family care home, and 1 intermediate care facility for developmentally disabled
- 100% of operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site. The Generator Status Map for long-term care facilities is available here.
- The Agency has waived all prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services until further notice.
Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures
- The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is assisting the Florida Department of Corrections with the evacuation of correctional facilities as needed.
- FHP is assisting with evacuations in Taylor County and in Cedar Key in Levy County.
- FHP is removing any abandoned or disabled vehicles left along roadways ahead of storm arrival.
- FHP cut teams, along with FDOT road clearing teams, are staged and ready for post-storm deployment to provide aid to areas impacted by the storm.
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) issued Emergency Order 24-05, in support of Executive Order 24-209 which: waives specific requirements for commercial motor vehicles providing emergency relief; and waives the replacement fees for driver’s license and identification credentials, vehicle registrations and titles, vessel registrations and titles and temporary parking permits for impacted individuals.
- The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is working with the Community-Based Care Lead Agencies to contact foster families and group home providers to ensure preparedness. Two group homes are evacuating to safer locations.
- DCF has contacted all licensed providers in potentially impacted areas to ensure disaster preparation plans are in place and unmet needs have been addressed.
- The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) contacted all Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates on their ongoing preparation efforts and gather the status of any unmet needs.
- The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) has been in contact with all school districts and state colleges and is ready to provide assistance immediately following Hurricane Helene. Currently, 68 school districts have announced closures in addition to 25 State Colleges and 11 Universities. For more information on school closures, visit fldoe.org/storminfo.
- In preparation for Hurricane Helene. Currently, 65 school districts have announced closures in addition to 22 State Colleges and 9 Universities. For more information on school closures, visit fldoe.org/storminfo.
- Following the issuance of the Governor’s Executive Order 24-209, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued an Emergency Final Order allowing for the activation of disaster debris management sites to store and process storm-generated solid waste and debris.
- DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers
- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) has partnered with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association to encourage more than 71,000 Florida-licensed lodging establishments to relax pet policies and waive pet fees for evacuees.
- Through this effort, anti-price gouging information and emergency accommodations resources have also been provided.
- DBPR has proactively communicated with more than 137,000 restaurant and lodging licensees to provide storm preparation and food safety resources.
- The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs.
- DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
- FloridaCommerce has activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
- Updates on business closures and business resources are consistently being updated at FloridaDisaster.biz/CurrentDisasterUpdates.
- VISIT FLORIDA has activated Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia and Priceline to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
- Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has crafted special offers for Evacuees and First Responders in need of accommodations during an evacuation. Please see the linked pages below for more information.
- Rosen Hotels & Resorts activated its Florida Resident Distress Rates* for residents in the 61 counties where Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency. This initiative provides evacuees with a safe and affordable place to stay as they ride out the storm. For more information see https://www.rosenhotels.com/rosen-hotels-resorts-reduces-pricing-ahead-of-helene/
- Visit website for CareerSource openings: careersourceflorida.com
- Comcast has opened more than 52,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in Florida. The free and public hotspots are open for all, including non-Xfinity customers. For more information click here.
- Walmart is working with state partners to provide needed supplies after the storm has passed.
- Publix has provided 10 pallets of water for shelters in Leon County.
- CVS Health is working with state partners to prepare pop-up pharmacies in impacted areas.
- UBER is providing Floridians free rides up to $35 each way to and from a state-approved shelter in counties under a state of emergency for Hurricane Helene. To get a ride users should use promo code HELENERELIEF.
- The Florida Department of State, Division of Elections, has contacted the United States Postal Service (USPS) about election information and vote-by-mail ballots. The Division of Elections recommended that Supervisors of Elections t contact their local district USPS to discuss a mitigation plan for ballot mailing, delivery, and return.
- The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with Florida’s ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida’s agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources.
- The Florida Forest Service staged equipment, like high-water vehicles.
- The Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson, has approved an Emergency Order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for animal transportation. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses, and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
- The Department of Revenue (FDOR) has issued Emergency Order 24-001: Taxing Authority Millage and Budget Hearings to assist local taxing authorities with altering their plans for annual budget hearings because of Helene. Department of Revenue bulletin PTO 20-07 provides further instructions for local taxing authorities during declared emergencies.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has high-water vehicles staged to deploy.
- 72 FWC officers and staff are ready to deploy with specialized equipment, such as:
  - 6 Airboats
  - 8 Shallow draft boats
  - ATVs/Side-by-sides
  - 71 high-water capable four-wheel drive vehicles
  - 3 aerial surveillance drones
  - 12 high-water capable swamp buggies/Fat Truck/UTVs
  - 4 SOG support trailers
  - 4 BERG self-sustainment container units
  - 4 Hygiene trailers
  - 2 Mobile command units
  - 6 Generators
  - 2 Water trailers
  - 1 Fuel trailer
- The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) has evacuated 22 satellite facilities and two major facilities and relocated 4,630 inmates into hardened housing units. Inmate visitation has been suspended statewide until Monday, September 30. The FDC will be posting updates publicly and in real-time at FDC.myflorida.com/weather-updates
- The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) have finalized storm preparations to ensure the safety and security of staff and youth in our care. This includes fueling all vehicles, moving vehicles in low-lying and flood-prone areas to higher ground, testing and ensuring adequate fuel supplies for generators in the event of loss of power, and ensuring food, medicine, and emergency supplies are stocked and ready.
For previous updates see below:
9/24/2024
9/25/2024

Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Helene.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada focused on supporting Indigenous economic development in Northern Ontario

Source: Government of Canada News

On Friday, September 20th, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, convened a roundtable with representatives from some regional Indigenous organizations, municipal stakeholders and senior officials to identify the economic development challenges and opportunities facing First Nations leaders and businesses in the region.

September 26, 2024 – Thunder Bay, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

On Friday, September 20^th, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, convened a roundtable with representatives from some regional Indigenous organizations, municipal stakeholders and senior officials to identify the economic development challenges and opportunities facing First Nations leaders and businesses in the region. This conversation is part of the ongoing renewal of the Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario (PGSNO), which is designed to ensure the Strategy remains responsive to the needs of Northern Ontario.

Conversations centred on how the PGSNO is working to address the unique needs facing residents in Northern Ontario, including First Nations communities. Discussions explored ways on how best to support First Nations-led economic development, including growing First Nations ownership, joint ventures, and access to business services in Northern Ontario. The meeting also served as an opportunity to learn more about regional perspectives on Indigenous economic reconciliation.

Specifically, during Friday’s conversations participants focused on the need to continue to support capacity building efforts at the community level, and the role that FedNor can play to encourage and promote cooperation between First Nations communities, municipalities, and other levels of government. Additional topics of discussion included the role and importance of transportation and access to education in Northern Ontario, in particular for rural and remote Indigenous communities, and obstacles facing First Nations communities as it relates to access to capital, entrepreneurship and succession planning.

Three additional virtual sessions focused on Indigenous economic growth and the challenges facing communities and businesses in the region will be held later this fall. Invites will be sent by FedNor in the coming weeks.

These sessions on the PGSNO form part of an ongoing effort by FedNor to engage with a variety of stakeholders from across Northern Ontario. A What We Heard Report will in issued in the coming months, and a final, refreshed Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario will be published in early 2025.

Roundtable participants included Brian Davey, Chief Executive Officer, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, Georjann Morriseau, Policy Advisor, Strategic Initiatives, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Paul Capon, Political Advisor, Matawa Tribal Council, Tara Ingram, Economic Development Advisor, Matawa First Nations Management, Alain Joseph, Manager of Indigenous Relations, City of Thunder Bay, Kim Falcigno, Vice President, Oshki-Wenjack Oshki-Pimache-O-Win, Dawn Lambe, Economic Development Officer, Anishinabek Nation, Jeremy Bonhomme, Relationship Manager, First Nations Financial Management Board, Valerie Gideon, President of FedNor, and Nick Fabiano, Vice-President of FedNor, and FedNor staff.

Jennifer Kozelj
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
jennifer.kozelj@sac-isc.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Plan a Spooky and Family Friendly Halloween Season at Government House and Wascana Centre

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on September 26, 2024

From October 24 until November 1, the Provincial Capital Commission (PCC) invites guests of all ages to attend family-friendly Halloween events at Government House and Wascana Centre.

“We are thrilled to offer a variety of Halloween events for all to experience the magic and mystery of Halloween in the historic setting of Government House and the natural beauty of Wascana Centre,” Provincial Capital Commission Executive Director Jenna Schroeder said. “These events are a beloved tradition, and we cannot wait to celebrate the season with our community.”

PCC Halloween activities include:

Ghost Stories Tour at Government House on October 24 and 25

Step into the haunting history of Government House for a thrilling Ghost Stories Tour on October 24 and 25 from 6-9 p.m. Hear chilling tales of mysterious events that leave visitors and staff shivering in their boots. Tours are free and will run every 20 minutes on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, offering a glimpse into the eerie, unexplainable happenings within the historic building.

Tricks and Treats at Government House on October 27

Bring the family for Halloween fun at Government House’s annual Tricks and Treats event on October 27 from 1-4 p.m. Families are encouraged to come in costume. Children can trick-or-treat through the museum and the whole family can pose for pictures in the festive photo booth. Enjoy magic shows every 40 minutes starting at 1:30 p.m., with the final show beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Annual Pumpkin Way at Wascana Centre on November 1

Don’t throw out that pumpkin! The day after Halloween, the public is invited to drop off jack-o’-lanterns at the Queen Elizabeth II Gardens from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Then, from 6-8 p.m., walk through the spooky jack-o’-lantern display, enjoy hot chocolate, do a craft, or visit animals from Fenek Farms. All pumpkins will be donated to Fenek Farms after the event.

Come and make unforgettable memories this Halloween at Government House and Wascana Centre! We look forward to celebrating the season with you and your family.

Due to construction at Wascana Place, PCC will not hold the annual Spooktacular event this year. The event will be returning next year.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor of Winchester pays a visit to The Boaz Project

Source: City of Winchester

The Mayor of Winchester Cllr Russell Gordon-Smith greatly enjoyed a recent visit to local charity The Boaz Project. Based at Hill Farm in Sutton Scotney, it’s an inclusive, farm-based charity which helps provide a brighter future for people with learning disabilities.

The Mayor said: “It is hard to overstate my admiration for The Boaz Project, which runs on a site of some four acres in Winchester. I met some of their staff at a fete in the summer and was so impressed that I invited myself along for a visit! I hadn’t been aware that the name “Boaz” refers to a generous farmer in the Bible.

Boaz Project General Manager Stuart Palmer, the Mayor Cllr Russell Gordon-Smith with his companion Dinah and three of the project’s members: Julian, Oliverand William

“The staff and volunteers teach groups of adults with special needs useful skills, looking after hens, sheep and a donkey or two, growing vegetables and flowers, cooking meals for the group and making craft goods. The members learn to work, to socialise, and to value and take care of themselves.

“I experienced a wonderful, caring atmosphere and people taking care of animals, plants and each other, outdoors in fresh air and I take my hat off to all involved.”

Stuart Palmer, General Manager at The Boaz Project, said: “It was lots of fun showing the Mayor around, in particular showing off our recently refurbished woodwork machine shop.

“We are keen to invite budding and or hobby woodworkers to come and enjoy our workshop facilities for themselves, rather like the Men’s Sheds movement. We are very happy to provide free parking, coffee and homemade cake for anyone who could make good use of the space.”

The project’s woodworking facilities are available for use by external groups on Tuesdays.

The Mayor’s Diary.

The Mayor’s Charity events.

Last Updated: Thursday 26 September 2024

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Duckworth, Boozman, Klobuchar Launch Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) recently launched the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus to promote the longevity of the aviation industry and the renewable fuels industry.

“As the aviation industry strives for lower emissions and cleaner energy sources, the development and utilization of sustainable aviation fuel will be a critical element,” said Sen. Moran. “To help spur development, I am launching the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus. The caucus will work together to find ways to promote technologically innovative solutions to create a sustainable aviation industry and increase our nation’s competitiveness in the domestic production of sustainable aviation fuel.”

“As we continue our work to reduce emissions and foster energy independence, one of the most important things we can do is make aviation more sustainable by increasing the use and supply of American-grown, American-made sustainable aviation fuel,” said Sen. Duckworth. “To help us do just that, I’m proud to join Senators Moran, Klobuchar and Boozman in launching the Senate’s first-ever Sustainable Aviation Caucus. With this new caucus, I look forward to continuing our work to protect and grow American SAF production for use around the world, while also reducing our carbon footprint and supporting our domestic farmers and economy.”

“I’m pleased to join this initiative to promote education and policies that support sustainable industry practices,” said Sen. Boozman. “I look forward to working with leaders of the caucus and stakeholders to advance measures that continue to advance aviation in an environmentally sound manner.”

“Airlines across the country are committed to developing technologies to reduce carbon emissions from air travel,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “The expanded use of sustainable aviation fuel will create jobs in rural areas, bolster our national security, and slash carbon emissions. This caucus aims to promote data, research, and innovation in sustainable aviation to ensure that the U.S. maintains its leadership in this field.”

“The SAF Coalition is grateful to Senator Jerry Moran and his colleagues Senators Tammy Duckworth, John Boozman and Amy Klobuchar for their leadership in launching the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus,” said Alison Graab, Executive Director of The SAF Coalition. “The formation of the caucus is a positive step towards strengthening national energy security, driving economic growth, and generating quality jobs across the country through the development and deployment of SAF. We look forward to working with the caucus and other SAF advocates to enhance incentives that expand SAF production and support our nation’s energy needs.”

“GAMA applauds the bipartisan leadership of Senators Moran, Duckworth, Boozman and Klobuchar for launching the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus,” said Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). “General aviation has been at the forefront of advancing technological and operational improvements that mitigate the industry’s impact on the environment. The Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus will assist in fostering key partnerships between government and other stakeholders to further advance the industry’s sustainability commitments. We look forward to working with the caucus to highlight policies, initiatives and industry developments that will advance a more sustainable future for the aviation industry.”

“Delta Air Lines applauds the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus leadership and founding members for placing a spotlight on the importance of sustainable aviation policies and solutions, such as enabling the market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),” said Cherie Wilson, Vice President, Government Affairs – Sustainability, Delta Air Lines. “As on-road transportation increasingly electrifies, aviation demand for SAF will continue to grow exponentially. SAF is the most important lever we have to decarbonize aviation and ensure a more energy secure America, all while providing economic benefits for farmers and other agricultural value chain players across the SAF ecosystem. We look forward to working with the caucus on enabling policy solutions,”

“We applaud Senators Moran, Klobuchar, Boozman and Duckworth for their bipartisan leadership advancing discussion in Congress to accelerate policy and dialogue around sustainable aviation solutions. The domestic adoption of cost competitive SAF is the most promising, in-production and scalable lever we have today to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions in aviation,” said Nick Boeyink, States Director, Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels. “Growing America’s clean aviation fuels market is a tremendous economic opportunity that will drive the creation of hundreds of thousands of American jobs while making our nation more energy secure. We look forward to working with members in both parties to build momentum for policies that will make American aviation more sustainable.”

“Business aviation is leading in sustainability with a mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, through new technologies, including more efficient aircraft, electric aviation and sustainable aviation fuel,” said Ed Bolen, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO. “We commend Senators Moran, Duckworth, Boozman and Klobuchar for founding the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus to help innovate toward a net-zero future, on the ground and in the air. Sustainable aviation technologies will strengthen the American economy by creating good-paying jobs in manufacturing, feedstock production and energy generation, as well as reducing America’s dependence on foreign energy sources and improving our national security.”

“Gevo appreciates Senators Jerry Moran, Tammy Duckworth, John Boozman and Amy Klobuchar leading the bipartisan Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus, which will provide a timely forum to bring more awareness to SAF and other sustainable aviation solutions,” said Lindsay Fitzgerald, Sr. Vice President of Public Affairs for Gevo. “Both co-chairs understand the key role farmers have when it comes to scaling SAF production, as well as the economic and energy security benefits that come from producing new energy resources for airlines and their customers. We look forward to working with the Caucus to advance our shared policy and sustainability goals and growing U.S. SAF.”

“I recently joined Senator Moran?to break ground on an exciting new SAF project led by two Growth Energy members, and he understands why this industry is vital to our rural communities, our environment, and America’s ability to compete in a low-carbon economy,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “This new caucus will bring together some of the bioeconomy’s most important champions, organized around the shared goal of decarbonizing aviation with American-made biofuels. We’re grateful to Senator Moran for leading this bipartisan, bicameral?effort.”

Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) also created the Congressional Sustainable Aviation Caucus for members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Alford, Hinson, Miller, Kiggans Lead Republican Conference in Letter Urging House Leadership to Prioritize Farm Bill This Year

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

WASHINGTON – Today, as first reported by Punchbowl News, U.S. Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04), Ashley Hinson (IA-02), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Jen Kiggans (VA-02) led a majority of the House Republican Conference in a letter to House GOP Leadership reaffirming their commitment to advancing a farm bill that meets the needs of production agriculture and rural America.

The letter, which was signed by 140 Members, emphasized the importance of the Farm Bill and noted that farmers, ranchers, and producers are still living under outdated policies from the 2018 Farm Bill.

“Farmes and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill,” said the Members. “Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record. Meanwhile, commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families … Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and wen adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities.”

“The 118th Congress has an opportunity to do right by producers, other agriculture stakeholders, rural communities, and taxpayers by putting more ‘farm’ back in the farm bill and by making responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles, and the bipartisan H.R. 8467—The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which was advanced by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 24th of this year, does just that,” the Members continued.

The Members highlighted the negative impacts of failing to act, noting that the consequences will extend beyond the farm gate — hitting Main Street businesses, rural communities, and the national economy.

“We respectfully urge that the enactment of H.R. 8467, or similar legislation that makes meaningful investments in farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, is among the top priorities of the Republican Conference and that this be considered a ‘must-pass’ item in the lame duck session of the 118th Congress,” the Members concluded.

“We are honored to stand alongside 139 of my colleagues to lead a letter that shows House leadership that Republicans are committed to passing a Farm Bill that supports our nation’s constituents, farmers, ranchers, and rural communities,” said Congressman Alford. “We passed H.R. 8467 out of committee, and now it is time to give it to America. The stakes are high; production costs are up, and farm income is declining. We don’t need an extension, and we don’t need this next year–we need this Farm Bill now. Our producers are worthy of certainty and support for their tireless work in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world.”

“I led 139 of my colleagues – the majority of the House Republican Conference – in calling for Republican House leadership to bring the Farm Bill up for a vote as soon as possible. This bill passed out of committee with bipartisan support, and I believe would receive bipartisan support on the House Floor from Members who understand that food security is national security. Our farmers don’t have time for games, they need Congress to do the work and come through for them, just like they come through for us each day. I will continue advocating for passage of a strong Farm Bill to ensure Iowa farmers can continue feeding and fueling the world,” said Congresswoman Hinson.

Click here to read text of the letter.

In addition to Representatives Alford, Hinson, Miller, and Kiggans, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Robert Aderholt, Rick Allen, Mark Amodei, Kelly Armstrong, Jodey Arrington, Brian Babin, Don Bacon, James Baird, Troy Balderson, Jim Banks, Andy Barr, Cliff Bentz, Jack Bergman, Stephanie Bice, Gus Bilirakis, Dan Bishop, Lauren Boebert, Mike Bost, Larry Bucshon, Ken Calvert, Kat Cammack, Mike Carey, Jerry Carl, Earl Carter, John Carter, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Juan Ciscomani, Ben Cline, Tom Cole, Mike Collins, James Comer, Eric Crawford, Dan Crenshaw, Monica De la Cruz, Scott DesJarlais, John Duarte, Neal Dunn, Chuck Edwards, Jake Ellzey, Ron Estes, Mike Ezell, Pat Fallon, Randy Feenstra, A. Ferguson, Brad Finstad, Michelle Fischbach, Scott Fitzgerald, Charles Fleischmann, Mike Flood, Vince Fong, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Kay Granger, Garret Graves, Sam Graves, Michael Guest, Clay Higgins, J. Hill, Erin Houchin, Bill Huizenga, Ronny Jackson, Dusty Johnson, David Joyce, John Joyce, Mike Kelly, Trent Kelly, Young Kim, David Kustoff, Darin LaHood, Nick LaLota, Doug LaMalfa, Doug Lamborn, Nicholas Langworthy, Robert Latta, Jake LaTurner, Michael Lawler, Julia Letlow, Greg Lopez, Barry Loudermilk, Frank Lucas, Blaine Luetkemeyer, Morgan Luttrell, Nicole Malliotakis, Tracey Mann, Michael McCaul, Richard McCormick, Daniel Meuser, Carol Miller, Max Miller, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Marcus Molinaro, John Moolenaar, Barry Moore, Nathaniel Moran, James Moylan, Gregory Murphy, Dan Newhouse, Zachary Nunn, Greg Pence, August Pfluger, Harold Rogers, Mike Rogers, John Rose, David Rouzer, Michael Rulli, John Rutherford, Maria Salazar, Austin Scott, Keith Self, Pete Sessions, Michael Simpson, Adrian Smith, Lloyd Smucker, Pete Stauber, Bryan Steil, Dale Strong, Claudia Tenney, Glenn Thompson, Michael Turner, David Valadao, Jefferson Van Drew, Derrick Van Orden, Ann Wagner, Tim Walberg, Michael Waltz, Randy Weber, Brad Wenstrup, Bruce Westerman, Brandon Williams, Joe Wilson, Robert Wittman, Steve Womack, Rudy Yakym, and Ryan Zinke.

Background:

The Farm Bill is omnibus legislation that establishes policies affecting all sectors of the agriculture industry for a five-year period. The most recent legislation, which was passed in 2018 and extended in 2023, expires this year.

On May 24, 2024, the House Agriculture Committee passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 to reauthorize the Farm Bill. The legislation supports producers and puts more “farm” back in the farm bill and makes responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Crop Report for the Period of September 17 to 23, 2024

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on September 26, 2024

Harvest was delayed across much of the province over the past week due to rainfall. Currently, producers are 79 per cent complete. This is still ahead of the five-year average of 75 per cent and the 10-year average of 69 per cent. Although moisture has helped replenish topsoil moisture conditions and green up pastures for fall grazing, it has also caused concerns for downgrading of crop quality in areas yet to be harvested. Producers in many regions are hopeful for drier conditions in the upcoming weeks to help with harvest progression.

The southwest region is nearing harvest completion with 96 per cent of crops harvested. The southeast region currently sits at 83 per cent, with the east-central and west-central regions sit at 75 per cent and 70 per cent completed, respectively. Both northeast and northwest regions sit at 65 per cent complete.

Harvest is complete for winter wheat, triticale and field peas with harvest nearly complete for fall rye and lentils. Durum leads in harvest progress for spring-seeded cereal at 95 per cent complete, followed by barley at 91 per cent and spring wheat at 85 per cent. Oats currently sit at 75 per cent and canary seed is 68 per cent. Harvest is nearing completion for chickpeas at 93 per cent. For oilseed crops, mustard is 93 per cent harvested followed by canola at 56 per cent. Flax and soybeans are the furthest behind in harvest completion at 42 per cent and 32 per cent complete, respectively.

Rain fell throughout much of the province over the past week at varying amounts. The highest amounts were mainly recorded in the southwest region. The Gouldtown area recorded the highest amount of precipitation over the past week at 100 mm which was followed by the Richmound and Eston areas at 82 mm and 81 mm, respectively. Additionally, the Neidpath area received 78 mm and the Admiral area received 75 mm.

Although the recent moisture slowed harvest progress, it was welcome in areas struggling with topsoil moisture shortages. This rainfall helped alleviate some producer concerns relating to fall pasture conditions. Currently, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 64 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and four per cent very short. Hayland is rated as 60 per cent adequate, 33 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 53 per cent adequate, 37 per cent short and 10 per cent very short. Producers are hopeful for additional moisture following harvest to assist with replenishing topsoil moisture supplies for next year.

As producers evaluate livestock water supplies moving into the fall, 59 per cent indicate there are no shortages occurring or anticipated with 31 per cent indicating they have moderate shortages. Additionally, 85 per cent of producers reported no concerns about water quality for their livestock. Producers in the southwest and west-central regions of the province are expressing higher concerns about livestock water shortages and reduced water quality.

Crop damage over the past week was mainly due to wind, wildlife and waterfowl. As producers continue with harvest, they are also busy baling, hauling bales, fencing, cleaning corrals, harrowing combined fields and spraying for fall weed control. Additionally, some winter cereal seeding operations have commenced across the province.

As producers continue with harvest and fall field work, they are reminded to take safety precautions in all the work they do. The public is also reminded to take extra caution, time and space when encountering machinery on the road.

A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online: Download Crop Report.

Follow the 2024 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Introduces HEMP Act to Relieve Unnecessary Constraints on Hemp Industry, Provide Transparency and Certainty

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 26, 2024

Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

Dr. Rand Paul Introduces HEMP Act to Relieve Unnecessary Constraints on Hemp Industry, Provide Transparency and Certainty

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) continued his efforts to address Kentucky hemp farmers’ concerns with federal overreach and bring clarity, transparency, and certainty to regulation by introducing the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act.

“For years, I’ve led the fight in Washington to restore one of Kentucky’s most historically vital crops by legalizing industrial hemp. We achieved a hard-won victory, but there is still work to do to prevent the federal government from weighing down our farmers with unnecessary bureaucratic micromanaging. My legislation will help this growing industry reach its full economic potential and bring transparency to government regulations,” said Dr. Paul.

This legislation creates transparency and certainty by defining a margin of error in hemp testing and provides real solutions to help Kentucky hemp farmers and processors.

The HEMP Act amends the definition of “hemp” from 0.3 percent THC to 1 percent THC. It also requires testing of hemp-derived products rather than the hemp flower or plant itself. Additionally, to help prevent legal hemp from being seized during transport, the bill requires that hemp shipments be accompanied by one of two easily accessible types of documentation.

Dr. Paul is proud to be a leading voice for removing government restrictions on hemp, including championing legislation, testifying before the Kentucky legislature, and advocating for Kentucky farmers in Washington. This legislation ensures Kentucky can rebuild its hemp industry and push forward to a prosperous future.

You can read Dr. Paul’s HEMP Act HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Lamborn Votes to Avert Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug Lamborn (5th District of Colorado)

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Doug Lamborn joined his House Republican colleagues in passing H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions for Fiscal Year 2025, by a vote of 341-82. This legislation prevents a government shutdown while authorizing the appropriate federal funding for defense, disaster relief, and more.

“I am pleased to see this continuing resolution passed,” said Congressman Lamborn. “Now more than ever, we cannot afford to shut down the government. Failing to properly fund critical defense operations emboldens our adversaries and endangers our national security. We will still continue to advocate for conservative priorities as the 118th Congress comes to a close. It remains imperative that reckless spending in Washington is avoided.”

H.R. 9747 will extend funding at current FY 2024 levels through December 20, 2024. In light of recent events, the bill also appropriates an additional $231 million to the Secret Service to ensure they have the resources and manpower to protect all major candidates, including former Presidents. This funding is contingent on the timely transmission of a Mission Assurance Report from Secretary Mayorkas regarding the attempted assassination of President Trump.

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

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Firearms Office Encourages Firearms Safety This Hunting Season

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on September 26, 2024

The Saskatchewan Firearms Office (SFO) wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable hunting season and reminds everyone that a secure firearm is a safe firearm.

“A successful hunt starts with safety,” SFO Deputy Commissioner and Chief Firearms Officer Murray Cowan said. “Respect your firearm, respect wildlife, and respect the environment. Hunting is not just about the harvest; it is about preserving the balance of nature and returning home safely.”

When transporting your firearms, ensure they are not loaded, are kept out of sight, locked securely in a case, or otherwise rendered inoperable (using a trigger lock or cable, or the bolt is removed), and that they are stored separately from live ammunition. Do not leave firearms unattended in your vehicle, and if you must, conceal them and do so briefly while the vehicle is kept within eyesight.

When hunting, ensure you have a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and Hunting and Fishing Licence (HAL) and be mindful of the training that came with those licences. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded, always control its muzzle, know your target and what’s beyond it, be aware of your surroundings, and always get permission to access private land.

The SFO is proud of its ongoing relationship with Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MN-S) to advance firearms safety and training for Métis citizens in the province.

“Our partnership with Métis Nation Saskatchewan is being built on trust, respect and a shared vision for the heritage of Saskatchewan,” SFO Commissioner Robert Freberg said. “Together, we are honouring traditional knowledge, while empowering meaningful, long-lasting collaboration, standing as a testament to the power of unity and mutual respect in shaping a brighter future for the province.”

The agreement signed last year outlines specific areas they will collaborate on and ensures funding for a community educator position within MN-S, who will work to educate their community members about firearms safety and storage, licensing and hunting. Thanks to this partnership, the SFO was invited to attend Back to Batoche this summer, where staff had the opportunity to provide firearms knowledge to festival attendees.

The SFO is also pleased to report that the new Saskatchewan Ballistics Laboratory is yielding positive results.

Since becoming operational, the lab has completed over 100 firearms examinations for police agencies in Saskatchewan, and it has been able to create linkages from crime scenes in Saskatchewan to others in Canada and the United States. The reduced wait times for forensic testing has also positively impacted prosecutions and court timelines, as tests that would have taken months to complete are now being completed before first court appearances occur.

The SFO is committed to its role in enhancing public safety through community outreach and education, promoting safe firearms use and ownership, and advocating for the proud and longstanding heritage of responsible firearms stewardship in Saskatchewan.

-30-

For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Secure Support for Renewable Fuel Infrastructure, Expand Access to Biofuels

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
WASHINGTON – As the deadline to extend the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) rapidly approaches, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is demanding certainty for consumers, biofuel producers, and retail store owners by requesting the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) keep the program operational.
She partnered with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and led three of their colleagues in urging the USDA to extend the HBIIP with Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funds. The senators emphasized the program has been an essential tool for helping retail store owners purchase the infrastructure necessary to provide higher blends of biofuels at the pump, which will only become more critical as year-round, permanent sales of E15 are expanded across the nation.
“Since its inception in 2020, HBIIP has been vital in expanding access to higher blends of biofuels like E15, E85, and B20 for customers. Through a cost-share approach, HBIIP has helped fuel retailers invest over $77.8 million in biofuel-related infrastructure projects, leading to an estimated 1.2 billion-gallon increase in annual biofuel sales,” wrote the senators. “However, access to these higher blends of renewable fuel can only occur if the proper infrastructure is in place at our gas stations, truck stops, and heating fuel facilities, a gap HBIIP has and will continue to help bridge. As the final quarter ends on September 30, 2024, we strongly encourage the USDA to allocate CCC funds to sustain this essential program.”
“By continuing to invest in renewable fuel infrastructure, we can drive further adoption of higher blends of biofuels, which boosts skilled job opportunities in rural communities, protects the environment by reducing emissions, and adds value to the crops grown by producers across the country,” concluded the senators.
Read the full letter here.
Background:
Ernst was instrumental in creating and maintaining HBIIP as part of her commitment to invest in renewable fuel infrastructure, rural job opportunities, and hardworking farmers. She introduced the Biofuel Infrastructure and Agricultural Production Market Expansion Act, which would provide resources to retailers for purchasing more compatible biofuel infrastructure.
More broadly, Ernst has also been a strong advocate for homegrown, Iowa biofuels, including by calling on the White House to make E15 available year-round and country-wide, adhere to the GREET model to provide domestic producers with a seat at the table, amend its harmful decision to set the Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels well below industry production capacity, raise Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels, and issue timely guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025

Category: Agriculture

Pitting Good Versus Bad Fungi on Sweet Corn: A Delicate Dance

Share this page

Updates to this page

Important Financial Inclusion objective of SFBs

Strengthening Governance

Empowering Assurance Functions

Key risks to reflect upon

Business model

Credit risks

Cyber-security risk and third-party dependencies

Operational Risk

Conclusion

Statement

Contact persons

Dr. Rand Paul Introduces HEMP Act to Relieve Unnecessary Constraints on Hemp Industry, Provide Transparency and Certainty