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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: AUKUS treaty deepens UK-Australia defence partnership to generate £20 billion in trade and create 7,000 new jobs

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    AUKUS treaty deepens UK-Australia defence partnership to generate £20 billion in trade and create 7,000 new jobs

    Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary in Australia alongside UK’s Carrier Strike Group – demonstrating government’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    • Signing of new UK-Australia AUKUS treaty protects our seas, supports over 21,000 UK jobs and underpins up to £20 billion exports potential.  
    • Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary in Australia alongside UK’s Carrier Strike Group – demonstrating government’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. 
    • New treaty unlocks greater economic cooperation and delivers on the Government’s Plan for Change.  

    A new 50 year AUKUS treaty will underpin the UK and Australian submarine programmes, support tens of thousands of jobs in the UK and Australia, enhance both nations’ industrial capacity, and deliver the submarines that keep the UK and our allies safe.   

    The deal demonstrates the Government’s commitment to deliver both security and prosperity, safeguarding jobs across the UK and boosting our defence industry, with new submarine exports amounting to hundreds of millions of pounds a year.  

    Expected to be worth up to £20 billion to the UK in exports over the next 25 years, this decades-long programme will create over 7,000 new jobs in UK shipyards and across the supply chain, building on the billions of pounds already invested in Barrow, Derby and beyond.  

    There will be over 21,000 people working on the conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered AUKUS submarine programme (known as SSN-AUKUS) in the UK at its peak, contributing to opportunities and economic growth in local communities across the UK.  

    Defence Secretary, John Healey, said:   

    AUKUS is one of Britain’s most important defence partnerships, strengthening global security while driving growth at home.

    This historic Treaty confirms our AUKUS commitment for the next half century. Through the Treaty, we are supporting high-skilled, well-paid jobs for tens of thousands of people in both the UK and Australia, delivering on our Plan for Change today and for the generations to come. There are people not yet born who will benefit from the jobs secured through this defence deal.

    Our deep defence relationship with Australia – from our work together to support Ukraine, share vital intelligence, and develop innovative technology – makes us secure at home and strong abroad.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said:

    The UK-Australia relationship is like no other, and in our increasingly volatile and dangerous world, our anchoring friendship has real impact in the protection of global peace and prosperity. 

    Our new bilateral AUKUS treaty is an embodiment of that – safeguarding a free and open Indo Pacific whilst catalysing growth for both our countries. 

    This is how our government delivers the Plan for Change – protecting our national security and stability whilst generating jobs for Brits.

    This is the latest milestone reached under the AUKUS partnership – our most strategically significant new defence partnership in a generation.  

    The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will travel to Australia as the Carrier Strike Group and more than 3,000 British military personnel take part in the largest military exercise Australia has ever hosted. Their visit follows the exercise’s success where the AUKUS nations worked with Japan on advancing how we use robotics and autonomous systems in our defence systems.   

    Both ministers will meet their counterparts at the annual “Australia-UK Ministerial”, known as AUKMIN, to drive forward collaboration across the board – generating further trade and investment to our £23 billion per year annual trade relationship with Australia.  

    Travelling onto Melbourne, the Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will meet with businesses at the forefront of AUKUS – delivering the defence industrial strength needed to protect British, Australian and American interests.   

    The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will visit Darwin to see our commitment to the Indo-Pacific first hand as the Carrier Strike Group docks in the Northern Territory.   

    This deployment – one of the UK’s largest this century – sends a clear message that the UK alongside our partners stands ready to protect the Indo-Pacific’s vital trade routes and will deter those who undermine global security.  

    On HMS Prince of Wales, the flagship of the group, the Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary will meet the service personnel who have participated in Exercise Talisman Sabre, one of the largest military exercises in the world this year. Bringing together over 35,000 military personnel from 19 nations, this exercise strengthens and tests how key partners can work together to safeguard global trade routes and maintain regional stability.  

    The Carrier Strike Group deployment this year reinforces the Government’s Plan for Change by strengthening the international partnerships that underpin economic growth and national security, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad. It takes place against the backdrop of the Government’s landmark commitment to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027.   

    This historic investment underpins the Government’s mission-led approach to securing Britain’s future, providing the economic stability necessary for growth whilst ensuring the UK maintains cutting-edge capabilities such as to meet emerging global threats.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 24 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China has extended invitations to the 2025 World Conference on AI to senior officials from over 40 countries and international organizations — Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — China has extended invitations to the World Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the 2025 Conference on Global AI Governance to senior officials from more than 40 countries and international organizations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Thursday.

    Chinese State Council Premier Li Qiang will attend and deliver a speech at the opening ceremony of the conference on July 26 in Shanghai, east China, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said the same day.

    At a regular press briefing, Guo Jiakun stressed that artificial intelligence is rapidly developing and has become an important driving force for a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation. He added that holding the World AI Conference and the Global AI Governance Conference is an important step in implementing China’s Global AI Governance Initiative. The goal is to make the conference a technological benchmark, an application exhibition, a catalyst for industrial development, and a platform for discussions on AI governance.

    The theme of this year’s conference is “Global Solidarity in the Age of AI”.

    “We hope that participants will have in-depth discussions on three key topics: deepening innovation cooperation and unleashing intellectual dividends; promoting inclusive development and bridging the digital divide; strengthening joint governance and ensuring that AI development serves the interests of the people,” Guo Jiakun said.

    China hopes to strengthen unity, jointly strive for development and coordinated actions to ensure the healthy and orderly development of AI in the direction of benefit, safety and fairness, the Foreign Ministry spokesman added. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Thailand-Cambodia border hostilities, humanitarian efforts in Syria and attacks across Ukraine

    Source: United Nations 2

    The dispute dates to 1953 when France first mapped the border, but tensions resurfaced in May after the death of a Cambodian soldier in a border skirmish.

    Secretary-General António Guterres is “following with concern” reports of the clashes, his Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told journalists in New York.

    “The Secretary-General urges both sides to exercise maximum restraint and address any issues through dialogue and in a spirit of good neighbourliness, with a view to finding a lasting solution to the dispute,” he said.

    Inter-agency humanitarian assistance in Syria

    The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) led an inter-agency visit to Rural Damascus governorate in Syria on Thursday to assess needs and provide assistance to more than 500 families displaced by recent violence in nearby Sweida governorate.

    The UN agencies visited the Sayyeda Zeinab community and plan to visit the neighbouring Dar’a Governorate in the coming days, where humanitarians are supporting tens of thousands of people displaced by violence.

    In Rural Damascus and Dar’a, OCHA and its partners are expanding protection services for displaced people. This includes psychosocial first aid and case management support for children.

    Also on Thursday, the World Food Programme (WFP) distributed urgent food assistance to displaced families. The agency additionally continues to provide assistance across the country, including to Syrians returning home after a decade of conflict.

    Limited access to Sweida

    On Wednesday, a second convoy from the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) arrived in Sweida, with UN agencies providing support.

    The convoy included food, wheat flour, fuel, medicines and health supplies. Medical supplies were delivered to the Sweida national hospital, and wheat flour was dispatched to bakeries.

    Across Sweida, Rural Damascus and Dar’a governorates, the UN has distributed over 1,600 dignity kits to displaced women and girls. UN partners are also providing recreational activities, awareness sessions on gender-based violence and support for women and children.

    But despite efforts in neighbouring governorates and increasing support in Sweida, full and direct access to the conflict-ridden governorate itself is limited due to security constraints.

    Nonetheless, the UN is continuing dialogue with Syrian authorities to facilitate direct access to Sweida.

    Nationwide attacks in Ukraine

    OCHA further reported that at least five civilians were killed, and 46 others injured, in attacks across several regions of Ukraine over the past two days.

    Kharkiv in the northeast was one of the more affected regions, where a glide bomb strike injured at least 16 people on Thursday, and fighting killed three and injured five others on Wednesday.

    Additionally, overnight attacks in central Ukraine injured seven people in Cherkasy and four in Odesa City, damaging homes, health centres, schools, shopping areas and a market.

    Civilians in the southern Kherson region, the eastern Donetsk region and the southeast Zaporizhzhia region were also affected.

    Evacuations and humanitarian response

    Following the overnight attacks in Cherkasy and Odesa, aid workers assisted first responders by providing first aid, meals, shelter materials, hygiene kits, emotional support and legal assistance to affected families.

    Amid the hostilities, nearly 600 people were evacuated from the Donetsk region, and, in the past day, another 24 were evacuated from the northeastern region of Sumy.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Two ex-militia leaders in Central African Republic sentenced for war crimes, crimes against humanity

    Source: United Nations 2

    Alfred Yekatom and Patrice-Edouard Ngaïssona received prison sentences of 15 and 12 years for their roles in brutal attacks against civilians – primarily from the country’s mainly Muslim Seleka population – during the 2013-14 civil war.

    They were found guilty “beyond any reasonable doubt” of leading and facilitating attacks on civilians in the capital, Bangui, and the country’s west.

    Thousands of people were killed in the violence that swept CAR following a 2012 coup led by the mainly Muslim rebel coalition, Séléka. The fighting took on a deeply sectarian tenor as Anti-Balaka militia started a brutal campaign of reprisal attacks.

    Long list of crimes

    The ICC’s Trial Chamber V found Mr. Yekatom responsible for a number of crimes he committed in the context of the attack on Bangui (the capital of CAR), the events at Yamwara (a school where he had established a base), and during the advance of his group on the PK9-Mbaïki axis.

    These included murder, torture, forcible transfer and deportation, directing an attack against a building dedicated to religion and persecution.

    Mr. Ngaïssona was convicted for aiding and abetting many of the same crimes, including persecution, forcible displacement and cruel treatment.

    Both men were also found to have targeted Muslims based on the Anti-Balaka’s perception of collective guilt for Seleka abuses.

    The judges sentenced Mr. Yekatom to 15 years and Mr. Ngaïssona to 12 years, with time already served to be deducted.

    Charges of war crimes of pillaging and directing an attack against a religious building during the attack on Bossangoa were not upheld against Mr. Ngaïssona, and those of conscription, enlistment and use of children were not upheld against Mr. Yekatom.

    ‘Instrumentalization of religion’

    The Chamber noted that while religion was instrumentalised by armed groups during the conflict, the violence was not initially religious in nature.

    Many witnesses testified that Muslims and Christians had lived peacefully together prior to the conflict.

    The convictions mark the conclusion of a trial that began in February 2021. Over the course of proceedings, the Prosecution called 114 witnesses, while the Defense teams called 56. A total of 1,965 victims participated in the trial through legal representatives.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Signs onto Bipartisan Epstein Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    July 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Mark Takano signed onto H.Res.581, bipartisan legislation that would ensure the American public can know the truth about convicted child sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. 

    “I cosponsored this bipartisan legislation because the American people deserve the truth. Jeffrey Epstein committed horrific crimes andfor years, powerful people helped him, enabled him, or looked the other way. The public deserves to know who was involved.

    But instead of helping us shine a light, House Republicans are doing everything they can to keep the truth hidden. They are shutting down the House to avoid a vote on this bill. They promised transparency. What they are delivering is a cover-up.”

    If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, resources are available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI and Law Enforcement Partners Arrest Members of the Mexican Mafia Prison Gang

    Source: US FBI

    Today, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) San Diego Field Office–Imperial County Resident Agency, FBI Los Angeles, FBI SWAT, ATF Los Angeles–El Centro Office, the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office (ICSO) Border Crime Suppression Team, the United States Marshals Service, and other law enforcement partners conducted court-authorized law enforcement activity related to an ongoing investigation involving the Mexican Mafia criminal enterprise. 

    “Removing violent criminals from our streets and seizing their resources is a top priority for the FBI and paramount to our mission of protecting the American people,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the San Diego Field Office. “Today’s successful operation is another example of what we can accomplish by working closely with our law enforcement partners on the shared goal of safer communities.” 

    The FBI and its law enforcement partners arrested a total of five individuals believed to be associated with the Mexican Mafia prison gang and seized several firearms, illicit proceeds, distribution amounts of methamphetamine, and electronics. All subjects were indicted for allegedly operating an illegal gambling establishment, money laundering, and/or importation of methamphetamine. 

    Since the start of this extensive investigation, the FBI, ATF, ICSO, and other law enforcement partner agencies have executed a number of search warrants and seized U.S. currency, drugs, firearms, electronics, and gambling machines. So far, 16 subjects associated with the Mexican Mafia have been indicted and or arrested on federal charges, including alleged drug trafficking and importation, weapons offenses, money laundering, and operating an illegal gambling business. 

    FBI San Diego will continue to collaborate with its law enforcement partners and U.S. Attorney’s Office to apprehend individuals tied to violent criminal organizations and bring them to justice. Learn more about the FBI’s violent crime program. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Introduces the Streamlining Rural Housing Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), along with Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), introduced the Streamlining Rural Housing Act.  The bill directs the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a memorandum of understanding to evaluate the feasibility of joint environmental review and inspection processes.  By streamlining the review and inspection processes between HUD and USDA, this bill would make rural housing development more efficient for home builders, affordable housing non-profits, and state housing finance agencies.

    “Duplicative red tape and burdensome regulations create additional costs and deter much-needed investments in rural affordable housing,” said Ricketts.  “The Streamlining Rural Housing Act is the first step to enhance efficiency and eliminate conflicting requirements that delay approvals so that we can build more housing in rural Nebraska.  When I was Governor of Nebraska, our state created a rural workforce housing fund to help administer support to communities for rural housing needs, like construction costs, down payment assistance, and technical assistance.”

    “Across Kansas, the demand for rural housing has been on the rise, and it’s important that we find innovative solutions to address this issue,” said Moran.  “Streamlining rural housing regulations between HUD and USDA will simplify the regulatory process for developers, allowing them to more efficiently address the growing housing needs in Kansas and across the country.”

    “To address the shortage of quality, affordable housing in rural areas, federal regulations need to work for communities rather than against them,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m glad to join my colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation that would improve and streamline environmental reviews and housing unit inspections so that we can build more homes and lower costs where it’s needed most.” 

    “Americans are facing an affordable housing crisis.  We need to build more housing and build it fast to bring down costs and get more people into homes,” said Gallego.  “Government should be part of the solution, but right now it’s part of the problem.  By reducing red tape and streamlining redundant processes, this bipartisan bill will accelerate construction, lower costs, and get more desperately needed homes on the market.”

    The Streamlining Rural Housing Act would direct the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to:

    • Create a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to evaluate categorical exclusion under the environmental review process for housing projects that use combined funding;
    • Create an MOU to develop a process for designating a lead agency.
      • This process will streamline adoption of Environmental Impact Statements and Environment Assessments approved by the other Department to construct housing projects funded by both agencies;
    • Create an MOU to evaluate the feasibility of a joint inspection process for housing projects that use combined funding;
    • Establish an advisory working group to consult on the MOUs consisting of:
      • Affordable housing non-profits;
      • State housing and housing finance agencies;
      • Non-profit and for-profit home builders and housing developers;
      • Property management companies;
      • Owners of multifamily properties;
      • Public housing agencies;
      • Residents in housing assisted by HUD and USDA;
      • Housing contract administrators.

    “The Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH) applauds the efforts of Senators Moran, Ricketts, Shaheen, and Gallego in introducing this important legislation which will help streamline program requirements at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development (RD) programs,” said Colleen Fisher, Executive Director of the Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH).  “Many times when housing developers and owners are operating a property here is a need to have multiple sources of funding so that the property can cash flow and rents are at levels that low-income residents can afford.  When this occurs, the agencies require separate if not identical inspections, somewhat negating the purpose of having the multiple layers of funding, thus increasing regulatory costs.  By requiring one inspection, operating costs will be reduced or redirected toward services on properties.  The approach envisioned in the bill has been supported by several different Administrations, with the goal of reducing regulatory burdens and improving the delivery of affordable housing programs.”

    BACKGROUND

    Often, when a housing project draws federal funding from Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, one has to follow separate processes for environmental review and housing inspections for both agencies.   This can incur more costs, lead to delays in project completion, and present challenges in getting over excessive bureaucratic procedures. This is burdensome especially at a time when housing needs in rural America are growing and existing housing supply is aging.  Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) are an effective way to address duplicative compliance requirements and regulatory misalignment across different federal, state, and local agencies.

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: US-Philippine Airmen strengthen ties during Cope Thunder 25-2

    Source: United States Airforce

    PACAF participated in Cope Thunder 25-2, a unique platform that integrates U.S. and Philippine Air Forces and enhances interoperability through bilateral fighter training, subject matter expert exchanges and key leadership

    engagements.CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines (AFNS) —  

    U.S. Pacific Air Forces and Philippine Air Force members participated in Cope Thunder 25-2, a bilateral training conducted across multiple locations in the Philippines. The exercise aimed to strengthen partnerships and support the Philippine Air Force’s modernization efforts, promoting regional and global stability.

    Established in the Philippines in 1976, Cope Thunder provides a unique platform to integrate U.S. and Philippine Air Forces and enhance interoperability through bilateral fighter training, subject matter expert exchanges and key leadership engagements. Cope Thunder 25-2 also marked the first time a U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II squadron has deployed to the Philippines.

    “It’s obvious that this isn’t a relationship that’s simply on paper,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Mussler, 421st Mission Generation Force Element commander. “We’ve been integrating with them for a long time, and their mentality and approach to operations is very similar to ours.”

    Subject matter expert exchanges during the exercise enabled U.S. and Philippine Airmen in similar career fields to share best practices and effective techniques aimed at improving day-to-day operations for both forces. These exchanges included maintenance, firefighting, airfield operations, electromagnetic warfare and basic fighter maneuvers, with U.S. and Philippine pilots flying side by side.

    U.S. Air Force maintainers, assigned to the 421st Mission Generation Force Element, depart the flightline after conducting preflight operations on an F-35A Lightning II during Cope Thunder 25-2 at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 7, 2025. The exercise enhances interoperability between the U.S. Air Force and the Philippine Air Force and supported the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown)
    U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Arnaldo Puente Mendez, 421st Mission Generation Force Element aerospace ground equipment maintainer, briefs Philippine Air Force airmen on a self-generating nitrogen servicing cart during Cope Thunder 25-2 at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 9, 2025. During the subject matter expert exchange, U.S. Airmen provided valuable insight into equipment used for aircraft maintenance, supporting Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown)
    U.S. Air Force Capt. Tyler Rico, second to the left, and Capt. Toney Fisher, right, 421st Mission Generation Force Element F-35A pilots, coordinate flight plans with Philippine Air Force pilots during the Cope Thunder 25-2 exercise at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 7, 2025. The training conducted between the U.S. and Philippine Air Force strengthens both the ability to respond together for potential future crises, contingencies and natural disasters. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown) (Image blurred for operational security)

    “We worked closely with the PAF pilots, and it was clear they are professional and highly capable aviators that employ their weapon systems with skill and precision,” said Capt. Tobey Fisher, 421st Mission Generation Force Element F-35A instructor pilot. “Additionally, this exercise afforded the 421st MGFE the opportunity to operate at a remote airfield with minimal support.”

    The F-35A maintenance team supported Cope Thunder 25-2 with a lean, agile team, operating with roughly one-third of the personnel they typically have at their home station.

    “It’s really cool to see such a small team come here and execute the mission,” said Maj. Clinton Bialcak, 421st Fighter Generation Squadron commander, referring to executing the F-35 maintenance mission. “I think everyone in the region, in the world and in the Department of Defense sees that we can do it and they can rely on us.”

    The U.S. Air Force’s participation reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination with regional allies and partners.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Air Force stands up A6 for warfighter communications, cyber systems

    Source: United States Airforce

    The Department of the Air Force has created a new AF/A6 Deputy Chief of Staff office dedicated to warfighter communications and cyber systems.ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

     This structure is designed to address operational communications and cyber needs effectively throughout the force.

    The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years.

    According to Air Force leaders, the change is designed to improve readiness, resilience and operational effectiveness by aligning resources and risk management with mission requirements.

    “We created the A6 to ensure communications and cyber systems are available, secure and aligned with warfighter priorities,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin. “This office will help us focus resources and oversight where it matters most — supporting the mission in contested environments.”

    Members of the new Deputy of the Chief of Staff Warfighter, Communications and Cyber Systems remove their old patches and replace them with new ones at the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia, July 23, 2025. The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stuart Bright)
    The new Deputy of the Air Force Warfighter, Communications and Cyber Systems patch is displayed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., July 23, 2025. The new Air Force A6 logo was designed by Master Sgt. Michael Williams, 85th Engineering Installation Squadron. The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stuart Bright)

    Lt. Gen. Leah Lauderback, former Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations, said the A6 will serve as a critical link between operational feedback and strategic planning.

    “Standing up the A6 allows us to manage risk, prioritize limited resources and advocate for warfighter needs using data from across the enterprise,” Lauderback said. “It’s a necessary step to treat communications and cyber as the operational enablers they are.”

    Maj. Gen. Michelle Edmondson has been appointed to serve as the first standalone Deputy Chief of Staff for AF/A6. Her experience in operations, training and strategic planning is expected to help the office’s focus on delivering integrated, resilient communications capabilities across domains.

    “Our mission is to ensure warfighters have the reliable, secure communications they need to succeed in a complex and contested environment,” Edmondson said. “We’re building an enterprise that connects people, systems and decisions at the speed required by today’s operational demands.”

    The office will coordinate with various stakeholders, including the department’s chief information officer, the principal cyber advisor, major command A6 offices, acquisition program offices and other operational and functional communities.

    Officials emphasized the AF/A6 will be organized around a warfighter-centric model, designed to support current capabilities while informing future investment decisions and force design initiatives.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Operation Healthy Tennessee: Where readiness meets relief

    Source: United States Airforce

    EVENSVILLE, Tenn. (AFNS) —  More than 200 service members from the U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Air Force Reserve participated in Operation Healthy Tennessee, as part of the Department of Defense’s Innovative Readiness Training program, held July 11–21. Over the course of the mission, they provided no-cost medical, dental, optometry and veterinary services to over 2,600 residents across Rhea, Bledsoe and area counties.

    The IRT program is a unique U.S. DoD initiative that enhances military readiness through hands-on, real-world training while delivering critical services to communities in need.

    “This is a great opportunity to not only get services that the community may not be able to afford but they can see what the military provides”, said Cathy Swafford, Rhea County community lead. “You can tell that [the military members] just really want to serve their community and give back.”

    Operation Healthy Tennessee brought together service members across the joint force, fostering an environment to strengthen readiness while offering services such as medical, dental, optometry, nutrition counseling and veterinary care, all provided at no cost by credentialed professionals.

    “We are providing a great level of service,” stated Maj. Ralph Garcia, Bledsoe County officer in charge. “It’s a collaborative joint effort to bring resources to underserved communities.”

    The mission proved to be a powerful example of the program’s impact, making a strong contribution towards the IRT Program.

    U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Shannando Harrison, a dental technician assigned to the 88th dental squadron, Ohio, holds a baby while the baby’s mother receives dental care during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Bledsoe County High School, Pikeville, Tenn., July 18, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SSgt. Sarah Stalder Lundgren)
    U.S. Army Sgt. Yeneidee Charriez Hernandez, an animal care specialist, assigned to the 7350th Veterinary Detachment, Ala., weighs a cat during veterinary care during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Rhea County Fair Grounds, Rhea County, Tenn., July 21, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SSgt. Sarah Stalder Lundgren)
    A U.S. Air Force dental technician completes a dental X-ray for a local resident during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Rhea County Middle School, Evensville, Tenn., July 10, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units.

    In just 10 days, two medical clinic locations served 2,000 patients and completed more than 15,000 medical, dental and optometry procedures. The veterinary team treated 677 pets, delivering services valued at $314,465. A specialized optometry team, assigned to the mission as part of a Naval Ophthalmic Readiness Activity, built and distributed more than 770 pairs of glasses for those in need.

    The fair market value of all medical and veterinary services provided is totaled at $1.9 million.

    “Training is such an important part of an IRT,” said Lt. Danielle Lloyd, Operation Healthy Tennessee officer in charge. “Although we are providing much needed medical care to this community, at the same time, we are training to make sure we are staying mission ready.”

    The operation logged more than 25,000 training hours across categories including readiness, certification, clinic skills, ad-hoc tasks and hands-on training.

    IRT missions, like Operation Healthy Tennessee, often represent a once-in-a-career opportunity, and participants are encouraged to fully embrace the collaborative environment, network with fellow service members and connect with the public to which we are caring for to maximize the experience.

    “Now that we’ve had our last day of clinical care and we’re able to see the final numbers, it’s such a good feeling to see that we’ve helped so many community members,” Lloyd said. “There’s no better feeling than seeing someone who desperately needed care and being able to provide it at no cost.”

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: USS Thomas Hudner Returns from Deployment to 4th and 6th Fleet

    Source: United States Navy

    The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) returned to Naval Station Mayport July 23, concluding a five-month deployment across multiple geographic theaters, including the U.S. 4th and 6th Fleet areas of operations.

    The crew departed Feb. 18, 2025, with their mission focused on strengthening international maritime security and relations with partner nations in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. Shortly after arrival on station, Thomas Hudner welcomed the Honorable Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense, who recognized Thomas Hudner’s high-performing Sailors during his tour of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Guantanamo Bay facilities.

    Upon departing NSA Guantanamo Bay, Thomas Hudner conducted trilateral operations in the Caribbean Sea with the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), the United Kingdom Royal Navy River-class offshore patrol vessel HMS Medway (P 223) and the Royal Netherlands Navy Holland-class offshore patrol vessel HNLMS Groningen (P843), enhancing interoperability among Allied naval forces. Thomas Hudner also conducted freedom of navigation operations off the coast of Cuba, reinforcing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to unity, security, and stability in the Caribbean, Central and South American maritime regions.

    “The crew of Thomas Hudner has consistently proven their unwavering commitment in safeguarding America’s national security interests and maintaining the U.S. Navy’s maritime dominance worldwide,” said Cmdr. Cameron Ingram, commanding officer of Thomas Hudner. “I could not be more proud of my team!”

    Throughout their deployment in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, Thomas Hudner’s crew trained and engaged in a variety of activities, from maritime security operations to joint exercises with Allied and partner navies in the European theater.

    Thomas Hudner participated in several notable exercises, including Formidable Shield 2025, executed alongside 11 NATO Allies in the North and Norwegian Seas and North Atlantic Ocean. During Formidable Shield 2025, Thomas Hudner executed joint, live-fire Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) training utilizing NATO command and control reporting structures to enhance interoperability among Allied naval forces.

    Thomas Hudner also conducted several port visits and collaborative operations with Norway, the United Kingdom, Spain and Greece, reinforcing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to unity, security and stability in the region. During the 81st anniversary of D-Day landings in Normandy, Thomas Hudner also had the honor of representing the U.S. Navy and hosting a reception with Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and various other distinguished government and military leaders in the European theater.

    Following operations in U.S. 6th Fleet’s northern flank, Thomas Hudner was assigned to conduct national tasking in the Eastern Mediterranean supporting Operation Cobalt Shield. Through this mission, Thomas Hudner successfully conducted maritime security operations and promoted regional stability while executing ballistic missile defense operations.

    Thomas Hudner served as the flagship for multiple distinguished visitors throughout her deployment, including the Honorable Pete Hegseth, U.S. Defense Secretary; Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Adm. Christopher Grady, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Adm. Alvin Holsey, commander, U.S. Southern Command; Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa; and members of the German, French and Royal navies.

    “Over the course of a five-month deployment, USS Thomas Hudner and her exceptional crew exemplified the strength of American naval power and international cooperation,” said Capt. Aaron Anderson, Commander, Naval Surface Group Southeast. “Their efforts reflect the strength of our commitment to maritime security and cooperation with our Allies.”

    Thomas Hudner is a multi-mission air warfare, undersea warfare, naval surface fire support, surface warfare and ballistic missile defense surface combatant capable of supporting carrier battle groups and amphibious forces, operating independently, or operating as the flagship of a surface action group.

    U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests.

    For more U.S. 2nd Fleet news and photos, visit facebook.com/US2ndFleet, https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X – @US2ndFleet, and https://www.linkedin.com/company/commander-u-s-2nd-fleet.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Cline Introduces Bipartisan Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

    Washington, D.C. – With the national debt topping $36 trillion and interest payments now exceeding spending on Medicare and national defense, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) has introduced the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act with Reps. Jared Golden (ME-02), Jack Bergman (MI-01) and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03). This bipartisan bill would require the federal government to assess and report its ability to respond to major national emergencies like economic downturns, energy crises, and national security threats.

    The legislation directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to produce an annual report measuring the government’s fiscal strength and readiness. After this report is released, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) would conduct its own independent review and publish its findings to ensure accuracy and transparency.

    “With our debt piling up and interest payments skyrocketing, we cannot afford to be caught flat-footed when the next emergency hits,” said Rep Ben Cline. Just like households plan ahead for tough times, the federal government must do the same. Americans deserve a clear picture of how much room we actually have to respond to future crises. Congress must face the facts and make responsible decisions now, before an emergency strikes.”

    “One of the many lessons the Marine Corps taught me was to have a plan for the worst-case scenario,” Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) said. “This bipartisan bill would force Washington to be clear-eyed about our fiscal outlook in potential national emergencies, which is the necessary first step for responsible planning to keep America stable and secure.”

    “We know that when a crisis hits, preparation makes all the difference. The Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act is a commonsense step to ensure we’re ready to respond to whatever comes our way – whether it’s an economic downturn, a natural disaster, or a national security threat. If we’re serious about keeping our Nation strong and secure, we need to start planning ahead and making our decisions based on reality – not scrambling to prepare after the fact.” Rep. Jack Bergman added. 

    “As a small business owner, I know how important it is to plan for a rainy day – and hardworking families in Southwest Washington know it too,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Our federal government should hold itself to the same standard and be ready to weather any crisis that comes its way. Our bipartisan legislation would require annual assessments of our national fiscal strength when faced with different crises – so we can better prepare our economy to work for the American people under any circumstances.”

    According to the Congressional Budget Office, interest payments on the national debt will permanently exceed defense spending. By 2050, interest costs are expected to double the size of the defense budget. Gross federal debt is projected to hit 123% of GDP by September 2025, surpassing the previous World War II-era high of 119%.

    “Our national debt is not just a number. It is a real and rising threat to our way of life. It impacts our economy, our national security, and our ability to respond in times of crisis. I am proud to see Representatives Cline and Golden take up the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act. This is a commonsense measure. Just like American families must prepare for emergencies, so should our government.” said Former Senator Joe Manchin. 

    “Policymakers and the public need access to the best available analysis on how a severe economic shock may impact the federal government’s finances. While our nation’s largest banks are required to undergo regular stress tests to prepare for an unexpected shock, the federal government lacks an equivalent playbook. It is essential that the federal government be prepared for a possible fiscal emergency, and we commend Representatives Cline and Golden for introducing this bipartisan, commonsense proposal to strengthen our fiscal resilience.” said President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget Maya MacGuineas. 

    Rep Ben Cline concluded “The best way to protect the American people is to be prepared. This legislation gives Congress the tools it needs to manage taxpayer dollars responsibly, respond to national emergencies, and chart a stable financial future for generations to come.”

    Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and a Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Alchemy Bathroom Renovations Auckland Expands Services Across South and East Auckland

    Source: Press Release Service

    Headline: Alchemy Bathroom Renovations Auckland Expands Services Across South and East Auckland

    Alchemy Bathroom Renovations Auckland, a long-established specialist in bathroom upgrades, has announced it is now extending its services into South and East Auckland. The expansion comes as the company responds to steady enquiry growth from homeowners in suburbs such as Papakura, Takanini, Pakuranga, Howick, Botany, and Beachlands.

    The post Alchemy Bathroom Renovations Auckland Expands Services Across South and East Auckland first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Kokomo Police Department Officer Charged with Sexually Assaulting 14-Year-old Girl

    Source: US State of California

    A federal grand jury in Indianapolis, Indiana, returned a two-count indictment, unsealed today, charging former Kokomo Police Department officer Sinmi Asomuyide with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and with lying to state investigators to try to cover up the assault.

    The first count of the indictment charges Asomuyide, who was 31 years old, with willfully depriving Minor #1, who was 14 years old, of her constitutional rights by sexually assaulting her.  The first count also charges that the defendant’s conduct included kidnapping.

    The second count of the indictment charges Asomuyide with lying to the Indiana State Police to try to cover up the assault by, among other things, denying having sexual contact with Minor #1 and denying that there would be any reason for the presence of his semen in his squad car when, in fact, he ejaculated inside his squad car after causing Minor #1’s hand to touch his exposed penis.

    If convicted, Asomuyide faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Interim U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Wheeler for the Southern District of Indiana, and Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office is investigating the case, with the cooperation of the Kokomo Police Department; Bloomington Police Department; and Indiana State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Senior Sex Crimes Counsel Tara Allison of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    This investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Announces 2025 North Carolina Awards to be Held in Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein Announces 2025 North Carolina Awards to be Held in Western North Carolina

    Governor Josh Stein Announces 2025 North Carolina Awards to be Held in Western North Carolina
    lsaito
    Thu, 07/24/2025 – 16:24

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor Josh Stein today announced that the North Carolina Awards, the state’s highest civilian honor, will be presented on November 13 at a ceremony in Asheville. All net proceeds will go to a fund to help communities recovering from Hurricane Helene. 

    “I am proud that this year’s North Carolina Awards will be held in western North Carolina to help shine a light on the fact that the area is open for folks to enjoy,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This year, we will honor the very best of North Carolina while encouraging tourism and helping support the ongoing recovery out west.” 

    “For more than 60 years, the North Carolina Awards have celebrated the outstanding people who make North Carolina a great place to live, learn, and work,” said NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “We are excited to host one of our state’s most prestigious events in Asheville this year and to dedicate proceeds from the event to western North Carolina recovery efforts.” 

    Governor Stein and Visit NC recently teamed up to encourage people to “Rediscover the Unforgettable” in western North Carolina as the region reopens to visitors after Hurricane Helene. Governor Stein announced the initiative in June at the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park. The initiative seeks to bring people from all over to western North Carolina to boost tourism, support local businesses, and highlight outdoor recreation opportunities. 

    The North Carolina Awards event will be held at the historic Grove Park Inn. Tickets will go on sale soon. 

    Created by the General Assembly in 1961 and administered by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the award recognizes “notable accomplishments by North Carolina citizens” in the fields of literature, science, fine arts, and public service. 

    Past award recipients include some of the country’s most distinguished artists, poets, writers, performers, journalists, scientists, and public servants. Since the awards’ inception, more than 300 notable men and women have been honored by the state of North Carolina, including William Friday, James Taylor, Etta Baker, Maya Angelou, Lee Smith, Eric Church, Selma Burke, and Branford Marsalis. 

    Jul 24, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Harriette Richards, Senior Lecturer, School of Fashion and Textiles, RMIT University

    Carol Yepes/Getty Images

    Last week, the ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly received B Corp certification. This certification is designed to accredit for-profit businesses that provide social impact and environmental benefit.

    Established on the Gold Coast in 2010, a 50% stake in Princess Polly was acquired by United States-based A.K.A. Brands in 2018.

    Since then, it has grown its global reach as a low-cost, high-turnover online retailer.

    So can ultrafast fashion ever be sustainable?

    Who is Princess Polly?

    Princess Polly distinguishes itself from other fast fashion retailers through a mission to “make on-trend, sustainable fashion accessible to everyone”.

    As part of this mission, Princess Polly is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, which commits them to sustainable procurement. The 2024 Baptist World Aid Ethical Fashion Report placed them in the top 20% of 460 global brands assessed.

    Yet, on the sustainability rating website Good On You, Princess Polly receives a “Not Good Enough” grade, due to their lack of action on reducing plastic and textile waste or protecting biodiversity in their supply chains, and the absence of evidence that they pay their workers a living wage.

    Regardless of how they make their clothes, Princess Polly produces a lot. At the time of writing, the brand has 3,920 different styles available on their website (excluding shoes and accessories).

    Of those, 34% (1,355 styles) are listed as “lower impact,” which means items are made using materials such as organic cotton and linen, recycled polyester and cellulose fabrics. There are also 720 items on the website currently listed as “new”: their daily new arrivals means they are constantly adding fresh items for sale.

    Overproduction, no matter what the garments are made from, is inherently wasteful. Even when clothes are purchased (and 10–40% of the clothing produced each year is not sold), the poor quality of fast fashion items means that they end up in landfill faster and stay there for longer, contributing to the ongoing environmental disaster.

    Sustainability communication

    In Australia, 1,096 companies are accredited with B Corp status, including 152 fashion businesses.

    B Corp assesses the practices of a company as a whole, rather than focusing on one single social or environmental issue. Businesses must score at least 80 out of a possible 250+ points in the B Impact Assessment to achieve accreditation.

    Organisations are assessed in five key areas – community, customers, environment, governance and workers – and must meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

    Third-party accreditations such as B Corp, Fairtrade and Global Organic Textile Standard are often used by brands as a marketing tool.

    These certifications can enhance consumer trust without the need for detailed explanations. For fashion brands, accreditation can help them stand out in a crowded market. They can provide legitimacy, attract ethical fashion consumers and reduce consumer scepticism.

    While B Corp aims to provide assurance to consumers, activists have accused it of greenwashing. In 2022, the organisation came under fire for accrediting Nespresso, a brand owned by Nestlé, which has a reputation for poor worker rights and sourcing policies.

    B Corp is now facing renewed condemnation for issuing certification to Princess Polly.

    Who needs certification?

    Other B Corp certified Australian fashion brands such as Clothing the Gaps and Outland Denim have built their reputations on their ethical credentials. For values-driven fashion-based social enterprises such as these, accreditations can provide valuable guarantees regarding ethical processes.

    According to our research, however, there are several barriers fashion-based social enterprises face when pursuing ethical accreditation.

    The cost of accreditation, both financial and in terms of time, skills and resourcing, is a significant challenge. And there is no certification that covers all aspects of environmental sustainability and ethical production. As a result, fashion-based social enterprises often require multiple accreditations to fully communicate the breadth of their ethical commitments.

    Despite the costs involved, if fashion-based social enterprises don’t acquire certain certifications they risk being ineligible for government grants and tenders, such as social procurement contracts.

    Differences between fashion-based social enterprises and fast fashion brands are stark. While Clothing the Gaps, Outland Denim and Princess Polly now all hold B Corp certification, the former score much more highly on the B Impact Assessment.
    The value and credibility of the certification is diminished when it extends to unsustainable ultrafast fashion.

    Is it possible for fast fashion to ever be sustainable?

    The question of whether fast fashion can ever be sustainable has become increasingly heated since the advent of ultrafast fashion, where brands produce on demand and sell directly online.

    Fast fashion took seasonal trends from high fashion runways and made them available to consumers at low costs within weeks. Ultrafast fashion takes trends from social media and reproduces them extremely cheaply for mass consumption within days.

    Both fast and ultrafast fashion’s low-cost, high-volume models encourage consumers to value quantity over quality. Using permanent sales and discounts, these brands incentivise multiple purchases of items that may never actually be worn. Online “micro trends” and “haul” videos further spur this overconsumption.

    The overconsumption of fast fashion means lots of it ends up in landfill.
    Dipanjan Pal/Unsplash

    Princess Polly may be using more sustainable textiles and engaging in more ethical forms of production than some of its ultrafast fashion counterparts. But this is not enough when the business model itself is unsustainable. Accreditations such as B Corp are unable to account for this nuance.

    Princess Polly claims to make sustainable fashion, yet it is also proudly trend driven. As an ultrafast fashion brand, it relies on overproduction and overconsumption. The idea that this can ever be “sustainable” is simply an oxymoron.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Ultrafast fashion brand Princess Polly has been certified as ‘sustainable’. Is that an oxymoron? – https://theconversation.com/ultrafast-fashion-brand-princess-polly-has-been-certified-as-sustainable-is-that-an-oxymoron-261561

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Renwick, Professor of Agricultural Economics, Lincoln University, New Zealand

    RobynRoper/Getty Images

    The alarming rise of butter prices has become a real source of frustration for New Zealand consumers, as well as a topic of political recrimination. The issue has become so serious that Miles Hurrell, chief executive of dairy co-operative Fonterra, was summoned to meetings with the government and opposition parties this week.

    After meeting Hurrell, Finance Minister Nicola Willis appeared to place some of the blame for the high price of butter on supermarkets rather than on the dairy giant.

    According to Stats NZ, butter prices rose by 46.5% in the year to June and are now 120% higher than a decade ago. The average price for a 500g block is NZ$8.60, with some local brands costing over $10.

    But solving the problem is not a matter of waving a magic economic wand. Several factors influence butter prices, few of which can be altered directly by government policy.

    And the question remains – would we want to? Proposals such as reducing exports to boost domestic supply, or cutting goods and services tax (GST) on dairy products, all carry consequences.

    A key factor driving butter prices in New Zealand is that 95% of the country’s dairy production is exported.

    Limited domestic supply and strong global demand have pushed up prices for a range of commodities – not just milk, but beef as well. These increases are reflected in local retail prices.

    Another contributing factor is rising costs along the supply chain. At the farm level, producers are receiving record prices for dairy. But this comes at a time when input costs have also increased significantly. It is not all profit.

    Weighing the options

    Before changing rules around dairy exports, the government must weigh the broader consequences.

    On the one hand, high milk prices benefit “NZ Inc”. The dairy sector accounts for 25% of exports and employs 55,000 New Zealanders. When farmers do well, the wider rural economy benefits – with flow-on effects for the country as a whole.

    On the other hand, there is the ongoing challenge of domestic food security. Many people cannot afford basic groceries and foodbank use is rising.

    So how can New Zealand maintain a food system that benefits from exports while also supporting struggling domestic consumers?

    One option is to remove GST from food. Other countries exempt dairy products from such taxes in an effort to make staples more affordable.

    This idea has been repeatedly reviewed and rejected – including by the 2018 Tax Working Group. In 2024, it was estimated that removing GST could cost the government between $3.3bn and $3.9bn, with only modest benefits for the average household.

    Fonterra or supermarkets?

    Another route would be to examine Fonterra’s dominance in the supply chain. There are advantages to having a strong global player. And it is not in the national interest for the company to incur losses on domestic sales.

    Still, the structure of the market may warrant scrutiny. For a long time there were just two main suppliers of processed dairy products – Fonterra and Goodman Fielder – and two main retailers – Foodstuffs and Woolworths. This set up reduced the need to compete on prices.

    While there is arguably more competition in manufacturing sector now, supermarkets are still under scrutiny and have long faced criticism for a lack of competition.

    The opaque nature of the profit margins across the supply chain also fuels suspicion. Consumers know what they pay at the checkout and what farmers receive. But the rest is less clear. This lack of transparency invites speculation about who benefits from soaring prices.

    In the end, though, the government may not need to act at all.

    As economists like to say: “Nothing cures high prices like high prices.” While demand for butter is relatively inelastic, there comes a point at which consumers reduce their purchases or seek alternatives. International buyers will also push back – and falling global demand may redirect more supply to domestic markets.

    High prices also act as a signal to producers across the globe to increase production, which could happen relatively quickly if there are favourable climatic and other conditions.

    We only need to look back to 2014, when the price of dairy dropped by 48% over the course of 12 months due to reduced demand and increased supply, to see how quickly the situation can change.

    Alan Renwick 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. Butter wars: ‘nothing cures high prices like high prices’ – but will market forces be enough? – https://theconversation.com/butter-wars-nothing-cures-high-prices-like-high-prices-but-will-market-forces-be-enough-261750

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University

    Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment.

    Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults face long waits for access, which can be up to three years in some states.

    So what’s going wrong with public dental care in Australia? And how can it be fixed?

    Who funds public dental care?

    Both the federal government and state and territory governments fund public dental services. These are primarily targeted at low-income Australians, including children, and hard-to-reach populations, known as priority groups.

    Individuals and families bear a majority of the costs for dental services. They paid around 81% (A$10.1 billion) of the cost for dental services in 2022–23, either directly through out-of-pocket expenses, or through private health insurance premiums.

    The Commonwealth contributed 11% to the cost of dental care, while the states and territories paid the remaining 8% in 2022–23.

    Who is eligible for public dental care?

    Just under half of Australian children are eligible for the means-tested Child Dental Benefits Schedule. This gives them access to $1,132 of dental benefits over two years.

    While children from low-income families tend to benefit from this scheme, critics have raised concerns about the low uptake. Only one-third use the dental program in any given year.

    Some children access free or low-cost dental care from state and territory based services, such as the Victorian Smile Squad school dental program or the NSW Health Primary School Mobile Dental Program.

    Others use their private health insurance to pay for some of the costs of private dental care.

    What if you’re low-income but aren’t eligible?

    Some Australians aren’t eligible for public dental services but can’t afford private dental care. In 2022–23, around one in six people (18%) delayed or didn’t see a dental professional when they needed to because of the cost.

    Some Australians are accessing their superannuation funds under compassionate grounds for dental treatment. The amount people have accessed has grown eight-fold from 2018–19 to 2023–24, from $66.4 million to $526.4 million.

    However, concerns have been raised about the exploitation of this provision. Some people have accessed their super for dental treatment costing more than $20,000. This more than what would typically be required for urgent dental care, impacting their future financial security.

    Why are the waits so long in the public dental care system?

    The long waits are due to a combination of factors, alongside high levels need:

    • systemic under-funding by Australian governments. This is exacerbated by federal government funding for public dental services remaining fixed rather than being indexed annually

    • workforce shortages in rural and remote areas, with dental practitioners concentrated in wealthy, metro areas

    • poor incentives for the oral health workforce in public dental services

    • too few public clinics, in part because the initial outlay and ongoing equipment costs are so great.

    What is the government planning in the long term?

    The federal government is taking action to improve the affordability of dental services through long-term funding reforms only targeting priority populations to bring some dental services into Medicare.

    An initial focus is for older Australians and First Nations people.

    Cost estimates for a universal dental scheme vary significantly, depending on the population coverage and the number of dental benefits individuals are eligible for, and whether services are capped (as in the case of the Child Dental Benefits Schedule) or uncapped.

    The Grattan Institute estimates a capped scheme would cost $5.6 billion annually.

    The Australian Parliamentary Budget Office estimates it would cost $45 billion over three years.

    When increasing government funding for public dental service, it’s important policymakers ensure the services included are evidence-based and represent value for money.

    What needs to be done in the meantime

    Meaningful long-term funding reform towards a universal dental scheme requires some foundational policy work.

    First, there should be an agreed understanding of what dental services should be government subsidised and provide annual limits for reimbursement to prevent overtreatment. This would avoid some people getting a lot of dental treatment they don’t need, while others could miss out.

    Many dental services are routinely offered without any clinical benefit. This includes six-monthly oral health check-ups and cleans for low-risk patients.

    Second, resource allocation is best done when we focus on prevention and governments fund cost-effective dental services. Priority-setting is best done using economic evaluation tools.

    Third, the federal government should extend its existing decision-making frameworks to include dental services. This would bring dental care in line with medicine and service listings on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), ensuring that safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness inform public funding decisions.

    Fourth, the government needs to reform the workforce. This should include funding to support recruitment and training of students from regional, rural and remote areas. These students are more likely to return to their communities to work, balancing the unequal distribution of the workforce.

    We also urgently need to attract and retain more people to work in public dental services.

    Finally, we need a coordinated national approach to oral health policy and funding. The federal government has an opportunity to do this now as consultations continue through 2025 to develop and implement the National Oral Health Plan 2025–2034.

    Santosh Tadakamadla received National Health and Medical Research Council Early Career Fellowship (APP1161659) from 2019-2023. He is Head of Dentistry and Oral Health at La Trobe Rural Health School in Bendigo.

    Tan Nguyen receives funding from National Health and Medical Research Council (Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme APP1189802). He is affiliated with Deakin University, Monash University, Oral Health Victoria, Public Association of Australia, National Oral Health Alliance and Dental Board of Australia.

    – ref. Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it – https://theconversation.com/waiting-too-long-for-public-dental-care-heres-why-the-system-is-struggling-and-how-to-fix-it-261661

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Santosh Tadakamadla, Professor and Head of Dentistry and Oral Health, La Trobe University

    Just over one-third of Australians are eligible for public dental services, which provide free or low cost dental treatment.

    Yet demand for these services continues to exceed supply. As a result, many Australian adults face long waits for access, which can be up to three years in some states.

    So what’s going wrong with public dental care in Australia? And how can it be fixed?

    Who funds public dental care?

    Both the federal government and state and territory governments fund public dental services. These are primarily targeted at low-income Australians, including children, and hard-to-reach populations, known as priority groups.

    Individuals and families bear a majority of the costs for dental services. They paid around 81% (A$10.1 billion) of the cost for dental services in 2022–23, either directly through out-of-pocket expenses, or through private health insurance premiums.

    The Commonwealth contributed 11% to the cost of dental care, while the states and territories paid the remaining 8% in 2022–23.

    Who is eligible for public dental care?

    Just under half of Australian children are eligible for the means-tested Child Dental Benefits Schedule. This gives them access to $1,132 of dental benefits over two years.

    While children from low-income families tend to benefit from this scheme, critics have raised concerns about the low uptake. Only one-third use the dental program in any given year.

    Some children access free or low-cost dental care from state and territory based services, such as the Victorian Smile Squad school dental program or the NSW Health Primary School Mobile Dental Program.

    Others use their private health insurance to pay for some of the costs of private dental care.

    What if you’re low-income but aren’t eligible?

    Some Australians aren’t eligible for public dental services but can’t afford private dental care. In 2022–23, around one in six people (18%) delayed or didn’t see a dental professional when they needed to because of the cost.

    Some Australians are accessing their superannuation funds under compassionate grounds for dental treatment. The amount people have accessed has grown eight-fold from 2018–19 to 2023–24, from $66.4 million to $526.4 million.

    However, concerns have been raised about the exploitation of this provision. Some people have accessed their super for dental treatment costing more than $20,000. This more than what would typically be required for urgent dental care, impacting their future financial security.

    Why are the waits so long in the public dental care system?

    The long waits are due to a combination of factors, alongside high levels need:

    • systemic under-funding by Australian governments. This is exacerbated by federal government funding for public dental services remaining fixed rather than being indexed annually

    • workforce shortages in rural and remote areas, with dental practitioners concentrated in wealthy, metro areas

    • poor incentives for the oral health workforce in public dental services

    • too few public clinics, in part because the initial outlay and ongoing equipment costs are so great.

    What is the government planning in the long term?

    The federal government is taking action to improve the affordability of dental services through long-term funding reforms only targeting priority populations to bring some dental services into Medicare.

    An initial focus is for older Australians and First Nations people.

    Cost estimates for a universal dental scheme vary significantly, depending on the population coverage and the number of dental benefits individuals are eligible for, and whether services are capped (as in the case of the Child Dental Benefits Schedule) or uncapped.

    The Grattan Institute estimates a capped scheme would cost $5.6 billion annually.

    The Australian Parliamentary Budget Office estimates it would cost $45 billion over three years.

    When increasing government funding for public dental service, it’s important policymakers ensure the services included are evidence-based and represent value for money.

    What needs to be done in the meantime

    Meaningful long-term funding reform towards a universal dental scheme requires some foundational policy work.

    First, there should be an agreed understanding of what dental services should be government subsidised and provide annual limits for reimbursement to prevent overtreatment. This would avoid some people getting a lot of dental treatment they don’t need, while others could miss out.

    Many dental services are routinely offered without any clinical benefit. This includes six-monthly oral health check-ups and cleans for low-risk patients.

    Second, resource allocation is best done when we focus on prevention and governments fund cost-effective dental services. Priority-setting is best done using economic evaluation tools.

    Third, the federal government should extend its existing decision-making frameworks to include dental services. This would bring dental care in line with medicine and service listings on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), ensuring that safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness inform public funding decisions.

    Fourth, the government needs to reform the workforce. This should include funding to support recruitment and training of students from regional, rural and remote areas. These students are more likely to return to their communities to work, balancing the unequal distribution of the workforce.

    We also urgently need to attract and retain more people to work in public dental services.

    Finally, we need a coordinated national approach to oral health policy and funding. The federal government has an opportunity to do this now as consultations continue through 2025 to develop and implement the National Oral Health Plan 2025–2034.

    Santosh Tadakamadla received National Health and Medical Research Council Early Career Fellowship (APP1161659) from 2019-2023. He is Head of Dentistry and Oral Health at La Trobe Rural Health School in Bendigo.

    Tan Nguyen receives funding from National Health and Medical Research Council (Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme APP1189802). He is affiliated with Deakin University, Monash University, Oral Health Victoria, Public Association of Australia, National Oral Health Alliance and Dental Board of Australia.

    – ref. Waiting too long for public dental care? Here’s why the system is struggling – and how to fix it – https://theconversation.com/waiting-too-long-for-public-dental-care-heres-why-the-system-is-struggling-and-how-to-fix-it-261661

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: 3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau, Research Fellow, Jeff Bleich Centre for Democracy and Disruptive Technologies, Flinders University

    Conspiracy theories are a widespread occurrence in today’s hyper connected and polarised world.

    Events such as Brexit, the 2016 and 2020 United States presidential elections, and the COVID pandemic serve as potent reminders of how easily these narratives can infiltrate public discourse.

    The consequences for society are significant, given a devotion to conspiracy theories can undermine key democratic norms and weaken citizens’ trust in critical institutions. As we know from the January 6 riot at the US Capitol, it can also motivate political violence.

    But who is most likely to believe these conspiracies?

    My new study with Daniel Stockemer of the University of Ottawa provides a clear and perhaps surprising answer. Published in Political Psychology, our research shows age is one of the most significant predictors of conspiracy beliefs, but not in the way many might assume.

    People under 35 are consistently more likely to endorse conspiratorial ideas.

    This conclusion is built on a solid foundation of evidence. First, we conducted a meta analysis, a “study of studies”, which synthesised the results of 191 peer-reviewed articles published between 2014 and 2024.

    This massive dataset, which included over 374,000 participants, revealed a robust association between young age and belief in conspiracies.

    To confirm this, we ran our own original multinational survey of more than 6,000 people across six diverse countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, the US and South Africa.

    The results were the same. In fact, age proved to be a more powerful predictor of conspiracy beliefs than any other demographic factor we measured, including a person’s gender, income, or level of education.

    Why are young people more conspiratorial?

    Having established conspiracy beliefs are more prevalent among younger people, we set out to understand why.

    Our project tested several potential factors and found three key reasons why younger generations are more susceptible to conspiracy theories.

    1. Political alienation

    One of the most powerful drivers we identified is a deep sense of political disaffection among young people.

    A majority of young people feel alienated from political systems run by politicians who are two or three generations older than them.

    This under representation can lead to frustration and the feeling democracy isn’t working for them. In this context, conspiracy theories provide a simple, compelling explanation for this disconnect: the system isn’t just failing, it’s being secretly controlled and manipulated by nefarious actors.

    2. Activist style of participation

    The way young people choose to take part in politics also plays a significant role.

    While they may be less likely to engage in traditional practices such as voting, they are often highly engaged in unconventional forms of participation, such as protests, boycotts and online campaigns.

    These activist environments, particularly online, can become fertile ground for conspiracy theories to germinate and spread. They often rely on similar “us versus them” narratives that pit a “righteous” in-group against a “corrupt” establishment.

    3. Low self-esteem

    Finally, our research confirmed a crucial psychological link to self-esteem.

    For individuals with lower perceptions of self worth, believing in a conspiracy theory – blaming external, hidden forces for their problems – can be a way of coping with feelings of powerlessness.

    This is particularly relevant for young people. Research has long shown self esteem tends to be lower in youth, before steadily increasing with age.

    What can be done?

    Understanding these root causes is essential because it shows simply debunking false claims is not a sufficient solution.

    To truly address the rise of conspiracy theories and limit their consequences, we must tackle the underlying issues that make these narratives so appealing in the first place.

    Given the role played by political alienation, a critical step forward is to make our democracies more representative. This is best illustrated by the recent election of Labor Senator Charlotte Walker, who is barely 21.

    By actively working to increase the presence of young people in our political institutions, we can help give them faith that the system can work for them, reducing the appeal of theories which claim it is hopelessly corrupt.

    More inclusive democracy

    This does not mean discouraging the passion of youth activism. Rather, it is about empowering young people with the tools to navigate today’s complex information landscape.

    Promoting robust media and digital literacy education could help individuals critically evaluate the information they encounter in all circles, including online activist spaces.

    The link to self-esteem also points to a broader societal responsibility.

    By investing in the mental health and wellbeing of young people, we can help boost the psychological resilience and sense of agency that makes them less vulnerable to the simplistic blame games offered by conspiracy theories.

    Ultimately, building a society that is resistant to misinformation is not about finding fault with a particular generation.

    It is about creating a stronger, more inclusive democracy where all citizens, especially the young, feel represented, empowered, and secure.

    Jean-Nicolas Bordeleau receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. 3 reasons young people are more likely to believe conspiracy theories – and how we can help them discover the truth – https://theconversation.com/3-reasons-young-people-are-more-likely-to-believe-conspiracy-theories-and-how-we-can-help-them-discover-the-truth-261074

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Endemic vagrancy, disorderly behavior, sudden confrontations, and violent attacks have made our cities unsafe.  The number of individuals living on the streets in the United States on a single night during the last year of the previous administration — 274,224 — was the highest ever recorded.  The overwhelming majority of these individuals are addicted to drugs, have a mental health condition, or both.  Nearly two-thirds of homeless individuals report having regularly used hard drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, or opioids in their lifetimes.  An equally large share of homeless individuals reported suffering from mental health conditions.  The Federal Government and the States have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes, leaving other citizens vulnerable to public safety threats.
    Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order.  Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens.  My Administration will take a new approach focused on protecting public safety.
    Sec. 2.  Restoring Civil Commitment.  (a)  The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)   seek, in appropriate cases, the reversal of Federal or State judicial precedents and the termination of consent decrees that impede the United States’ policy of encouraging civil commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or the public or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves in appropriate facilities for appropriate periods of time; and
    (ii)  provide assistance to State and local governments, through technical guidance, grants, or other legally available means, for the identification, adoption, and implementation of maximally flexible civil commitment, institutional treatment, and “step-down” treatment standards that allow for the appropriate commitment and treatment of individuals with mental illness who pose a danger to others or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves.
    Sec. 3.  Fighting Vagrancy on America’s Streets.  (a)  The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of Transportation shall take immediate steps to assess their discretionary grant programs and determine whether priority for those grants may be given to grantees in States and municipalities that actively meet the below criteria, to the maximum extent permitted by law:
    (i)    enforce prohibitions on open illicit drug use;
    (ii)   enforce prohibitions on urban camping and loitering;
    (iii)  enforce prohibitions on urban squatting;
    (iv)   enforce, and where necessary, adopt, standards that address individuals who are a danger to themselves or others and suffer from serious mental illness or substance use disorder, or who are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves, through assisted outpatient treatment or by moving them into treatment centers or other appropriate facilities via civil commitment or other available means, to the maximum extent permitted by law; or
    (v)    substantially implement and comply with, to the extent required, the registration and notification obligations of the Sex Offender Registry and Notification Act, particularly in the case of registered sex offenders with no fixed address, including by adequately mapping and checking the location of homeless sex offenders.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall:
    (i)    ensure that homeless individuals arrested for Federal crimes are evaluated, consistent with 18 U.S.C. 4248, to determine whether they are sexually dangerous persons and certified accordingly for civil commitment;
    (ii)   take all necessary steps to ensure the availability of funds under the Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance program to support, as consistent with 34 U.S.C. 50101 et seq., encampment removal efforts in areas for which public safety is at risk and State and local resources are inadequate;
    (iii)  assess Federal resources to determine whether they may be directed toward ensuring, to the extent permitted by law, that detainees with serious mental illness are not released into the public because of a lack of forensic bed capacity at appropriate local, State, and Federal jails or hospitals; and
    (iv)   enhance requirements that prisons and residential reentry centers that are under the authority of the Attorney General or receive funding from the Attorney General require in-custody housing release plans and, to the maximum extent practicable, require individuals to comply.
    Sec. 4.  Redirecting Federal Resources Toward Effective Methods of Addressing Homelessness.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)    ensure that discretionary grants issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery fund evidence-based programs and do not fund programs that fail to achieve adequate outcomes, including so-called “harm reduction” or “safe consumption” efforts that only facilitate illegal drug use and its attendant harm;
    (ii)   provide technical assistance to assisted outpatient treatment programs for individuals with serious mental illness or addiction during and after the civil commitment process focused on shifting such individuals off of the streets and public programs and into private housing and support networks; and
    (iii)  ensure that Federal funds for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics reduce rather than promote homelessness by supporting, to the maximum extent permitted by law, comprehensive services for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorder, including crisis intervention services.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall prioritize available funding to support the expansion of drug courts and mental health courts for individuals for which such diversion serves public safety.
    Sec. 5.  Increasing Accountability and Safety in America’s Homelessness Programs.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate actions to increase accountability in their provision of, and grants awarded for, homelessness assistance and transitional living programs.  These actions shall include, to the extent permitted by law, ending support for “housing first” policies that deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery, and self-sufficiency; increasing competition among grantees through broadening the applicant pool; and holding grantees to higher standards of effectiveness in reducing homelessness and increasing public safety.  
    (b)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, as appropriate, take steps to require recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance to increase requirements that persons participating in the recipients’ programs who suffer from substance use disorder or serious mental illness use substance abuse treatment or mental health services as a condition of participation.
    (c)  With respect to recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance that operate drug injection sites or “safe consumption sites,” knowingly distribute drug paraphernalia, or permit the use or distribution of illicit drugs on property under their control:
    (i)   the Attorney General shall review whether such recipients are in violation of Federal law, including 21 U.S.C. 856, and bring civil or criminal actions in appropriate cases; and
    (ii)  the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in coordination with the Attorney General, shall review whether such recipients are in violation of the terms of the programs pursuant to which they receive Federal housing and homelessness assistance and freeze their assistance as appropriate.
    (d)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate measures and revise regulations as necessary to allow, where permissible under applicable law, federally funded programs to exclusively house women and children and to stop sex offenders who receive homelessness assistance through such programs from being housed with unrelated children. 
    (e)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall, as appropriate and to the extent permitted by law:
    (i)   allow or require the recipients of Federal funding for homelessness assistance to collect health-related information that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development identifies as necessary to the effective and efficient operation of the funding program from all persons to whom such assistance is provided; and
    (ii)  require those funding recipients to share such data with law enforcement authorities in circumstances permitted by law and to use the collected health data to provide appropriate medical care to individuals with mental health diagnoses or to connect individuals to public health resources.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Endemic vagrancy, disorderly behavior, sudden confrontations, and violent attacks have made our cities unsafe.  The number of individuals living on the streets in the United States on a single night during the last year of the previous administration — 274,224 — was the highest ever recorded.  The overwhelming majority of these individuals are addicted to drugs, have a mental health condition, or both.  Nearly two-thirds of homeless individuals report having regularly used hard drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, or opioids in their lifetimes.  An equally large share of homeless individuals reported suffering from mental health conditions.  The Federal Government and the States have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes, leaving other citizens vulnerable to public safety threats.
    Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order.  Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens.  My Administration will take a new approach focused on protecting public safety.
    Sec. 2.  Restoring Civil Commitment.  (a)  The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)   seek, in appropriate cases, the reversal of Federal or State judicial precedents and the termination of consent decrees that impede the United States’ policy of encouraging civil commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or the public or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves in appropriate facilities for appropriate periods of time; and
    (ii)  provide assistance to State and local governments, through technical guidance, grants, or other legally available means, for the identification, adoption, and implementation of maximally flexible civil commitment, institutional treatment, and “step-down” treatment standards that allow for the appropriate commitment and treatment of individuals with mental illness who pose a danger to others or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves.
    Sec. 3.  Fighting Vagrancy on America’s Streets.  (a)  The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of Transportation shall take immediate steps to assess their discretionary grant programs and determine whether priority for those grants may be given to grantees in States and municipalities that actively meet the below criteria, to the maximum extent permitted by law:
    (i)    enforce prohibitions on open illicit drug use;
    (ii)   enforce prohibitions on urban camping and loitering;
    (iii)  enforce prohibitions on urban squatting;
    (iv)   enforce, and where necessary, adopt, standards that address individuals who are a danger to themselves or others and suffer from serious mental illness or substance use disorder, or who are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves, through assisted outpatient treatment or by moving them into treatment centers or other appropriate facilities via civil commitment or other available means, to the maximum extent permitted by law; or
    (v)    substantially implement and comply with, to the extent required, the registration and notification obligations of the Sex Offender Registry and Notification Act, particularly in the case of registered sex offenders with no fixed address, including by adequately mapping and checking the location of homeless sex offenders.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall:
    (i)    ensure that homeless individuals arrested for Federal crimes are evaluated, consistent with 18 U.S.C. 4248, to determine whether they are sexually dangerous persons and certified accordingly for civil commitment;
    (ii)   take all necessary steps to ensure the availability of funds under the Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance program to support, as consistent with 34 U.S.C. 50101 et seq., encampment removal efforts in areas for which public safety is at risk and State and local resources are inadequate;
    (iii)  assess Federal resources to determine whether they may be directed toward ensuring, to the extent permitted by law, that detainees with serious mental illness are not released into the public because of a lack of forensic bed capacity at appropriate local, State, and Federal jails or hospitals; and
    (iv)   enhance requirements that prisons and residential reentry centers that are under the authority of the Attorney General or receive funding from the Attorney General require in-custody housing release plans and, to the maximum extent practicable, require individuals to comply.
    Sec. 4.  Redirecting Federal Resources Toward Effective Methods of Addressing Homelessness.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)    ensure that discretionary grants issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery fund evidence-based programs and do not fund programs that fail to achieve adequate outcomes, including so-called “harm reduction” or “safe consumption” efforts that only facilitate illegal drug use and its attendant harm;
    (ii)   provide technical assistance to assisted outpatient treatment programs for individuals with serious mental illness or addiction during and after the civil commitment process focused on shifting such individuals off of the streets and public programs and into private housing and support networks; and
    (iii)  ensure that Federal funds for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics reduce rather than promote homelessness by supporting, to the maximum extent permitted by law, comprehensive services for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorder, including crisis intervention services.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall prioritize available funding to support the expansion of drug courts and mental health courts for individuals for which such diversion serves public safety.
    Sec. 5.  Increasing Accountability and Safety in America’s Homelessness Programs.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate actions to increase accountability in their provision of, and grants awarded for, homelessness assistance and transitional living programs.  These actions shall include, to the extent permitted by law, ending support for “housing first” policies that deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery, and self-sufficiency; increasing competition among grantees through broadening the applicant pool; and holding grantees to higher standards of effectiveness in reducing homelessness and increasing public safety.  
    (b)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, as appropriate, take steps to require recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance to increase requirements that persons participating in the recipients’ programs who suffer from substance use disorder or serious mental illness use substance abuse treatment or mental health services as a condition of participation.
    (c)  With respect to recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance that operate drug injection sites or “safe consumption sites,” knowingly distribute drug paraphernalia, or permit the use or distribution of illicit drugs on property under their control:
    (i)   the Attorney General shall review whether such recipients are in violation of Federal law, including 21 U.S.C. 856, and bring civil or criminal actions in appropriate cases; and
    (ii)  the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in coordination with the Attorney General, shall review whether such recipients are in violation of the terms of the programs pursuant to which they receive Federal housing and homelessness assistance and freeze their assistance as appropriate.
    (d)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate measures and revise regulations as necessary to allow, where permissible under applicable law, federally funded programs to exclusively house women and children and to stop sex offenders who receive homelessness assistance through such programs from being housed with unrelated children. 
    (e)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall, as appropriate and to the extent permitted by law:
    (i)   allow or require the recipients of Federal funding for homelessness assistance to collect health-related information that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development identifies as necessary to the effective and efficient operation of the funding program from all persons to whom such assistance is provided; and
    (ii)  require those funding recipients to share such data with law enforcement authorities in circumstances permitted by law and to use the collected health data to provide appropriate medical care to individuals with mental health diagnoses or to connect individuals to public health resources.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Saving College Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  College sports are a uniquely American institution that provide life-changing educational and leadership-development opportunities to more than 500,000 student-athletes through almost $4 billion in scholarships each year.  College athletics also provide substantial support to local economies and form an indelible part of family activities, pastimes, and culture in many communities. 
    While major college football games can draw tens of millions of television viewers and attendees, they feature only a very small sample of the many athletes who benefit from the transformational opportunities that college athletics provide.  Sixty-five percent of the 2024 United States Olympic Team members were current or former National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) varsity athletes, and approximately seventy-five percent were collegiate athletes.  The 2024 United States Olympic Team earned 126 total medals, leading the overall medal count for the eighth consecutive Summer Olympic Games. 
    Beyond driving our unrivaled success in international competition, college athletes are more likely to report better outcomes in important respects during college and after graduation.  A substantial majority of female executives at the largest American companies participated in sports during adolescence, many at the high school or collegiate level, and examples of business leaders and former Presidents who played college sports are legion.  It is no exaggeration to say that America’s system of collegiate athletics plays an integral role in forging the leaders that drive our Nation’s success.
    Yet the future of college sports is under unprecedented threat.  Waves of recent litigation against collegiate athletics governing rules have eliminated limits on athlete compensation, pay-for-play recruiting inducements, and transfers between universities, unleashing a sea change that threatens the viability of college sports.  While changes providing some increased benefits and flexibility to student-athletes were overdue and should be maintained, the inability to maintain reasonable rules and guardrails is a mortal threat to most college sports.
    To illustrate, following a 2021 antitrust ruling from the United States Supreme Court striking down NCAA restrictions, the NCAA changed its rules to permit players to receive compensation for their name, image, and likeness (NIL) from third parties.  But guardrails designed to ensure that these were legitimate, market-value NIL payments for endorsements or similar services, rather than simply pay-for-play inducements, were eliminated through litigation.  Other limits on player transfers among schools were also taken down through litigation. 
    This has created an out-of-control, rudderless system in which competing university donors engage in bidding wars for the best players, who can change teams each season.  Meanwhile, more than 30 States have passed their own NIL laws in a chaotic race to the bottom, sometimes to gain temporary competitive advantages for their major collegiate teams.  As a result, players at some universities will receive more than $50 million per year, mostly for the revenue-generating sports like football.  Entering the 2024 season, players on the eventual college football national champion team were being paid around $20 million annually.  By the 2025 season, football players at one university will reportedly be paid $35-40 million, with revenue-sharing included. 
    This not only reduces competition and parity by creating an oligarchy of teams that can simply buy the best players — including the best players from less-wealthy programs at the end of each season — but the imperative that university donors must devote ever-escalating resources to compete in the revenue-generating sports like football and basketball siphons away the resources necessary to support the panoply of non-revenue sports.  Absent guardrails to stop the madness and ensure a reasonable, balanced use of resources across collegiate athletic programs that preserves their educational and developmental benefits, many college sports will soon cease to exist.
    A national solution is urgently needed to prevent this situation from deteriorating beyond repair and to protect non-revenue sports, including many women’s sports, that comprise the backbone of intercollegiate athletics, drive American superiority at the Olympics and other international competitions, and catalyze hundreds of thousands of student-athletes to fuel American success in myriad ways.
    Attempting to create some guardrails and shelter from litigation, colleges have adopted a new regime, deciding to pay athletes directly and simultaneously limit the total number of athletes on their campuses.  Given that the new roster limits, by exceeding the scholarship limits they replace, will increase the potential number of scholarships available in many sports, this opportunity must be utilized to strengthen and expand non-revenue sports.  Simultaneously, the third-party market of pay-for-play inducements must be eliminated before its insatiable demand for resources dries up support for non-revenue sports.  Otherwise, a crucial American asset will be lost.
    It is the policy of my Administration that all college sports should be preserved and, where possible, expanded.  My Administration will therefore provide the stability, fairness, and balance necessary to protect student-athletes, collegiate athletic scholarships and opportunities, and the special American institution of college sports.  It is common sense that college sports are not, and should not be, professional sports, and my Administration will take action accordingly.
    Sec. 2.  Protecting and Expanding Women’s and Non-Revenue Sports and Prohibiting Third-Party Pay-for-Play Payments.  (a)  It is the policy of the executive branch that opportunities for scholarships and collegiate athletic competition in women’s and non-revenue sports must be preserved and, where possible, expanded, including specifically as follows with respect to the 2025-2026 athletic season and future athletic seasons:
    (i)    collegiate athletic departments with greater than $125,000,000 in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season should provide more scholarship opportunities in non-revenue sports than during the 2024-2025 athletic season and should provide the maximum number of roster spots for non-revenue sports permitted under the applicable collegiate athletic rules;
    (ii)   college athletic departments with greater than $50,000,000 in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season should provide at least as many scholarship opportunities in non-revenue sports as provided during the 2024-2025 athletic season and should provide the maximum number of roster spots for non-revenue sports permitted under the applicable collegiate athletic rules; and
    (iii)  college athletic departments with $50,000,000 or less in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season or that do not have any revenue-generating sports should not disproportionately reduce scholarship opportunities or roster spots for sports based on the revenue that the sport generates.
         (b)  It is the policy of the executive branch that any revenue-sharing permitted between universities and collegiate athletes should be designed and implemented in a manner that preserves or expands scholarships and collegiate athletic opportunities in women’s and non-revenue sports.
    (c)  To preserve the critical educational and developmental benefits of collegiate athletics for our Nation, it is the policy of the executive branch that third-party, pay-for-play payments to collegiate athletes are improper and should not be permitted by universities.  This policy does not apply to compensation provided to an athlete for the fair market value that the athlete provides to a third party, such as for a brand endorsement. 
    (d)  Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Education, in consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Education, and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, shall develop a plan to advance the policies set forth in subsections (a)-(c) of this section through all available and appropriate regulatory, enforcement, and litigation mechanisms, including Federal funding decisions, enforcement of Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, prohibiting unconstitutional actions by States to regulate interstate commerce, and enforcement of other constitutional and statutory protections, and by working with the Congress and State governments, as appropriate. 
    Sec. 3.  Student-Athlete Status.  The Secretary of Labor and the National Labor Relations Board shall determine and implement the appropriate measures with respect to clarifying the status of collegiate athletes, including through guidance, rules, or other appropriate actions, that will maximize the educational benefits and opportunities provided by higher education institutions through athletics.
    Sec. 4.  Legal Protections for College Athletics from Lawsuits.  (a)  The Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission shall work to stabilize and preserve college athletics through litigation, guidelines, policies, or other actions, as appropriate, by protecting the rights and interests of student-athletes and the long-term availability of collegiate athletic scholarships and opportunities when such elements are unreasonably challenged under antitrust or other legal theories.
    (b)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, to advance the purposes of subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission shall:
    (i)   review, and as necessary revise, litigation positions, guidelines, policies, or other actions; and
    (ii)  develop a plan to implement appropriate future litigation positions, guidelines, policies, or other actions.
    Sec. 5.  Protecting Development of the United States Olympic Team.  The Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy and the Director of the White House Office of Public Liaison shall consult the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and other appropriate organizations of American athletes about safeguarding the integral role and competitive advantage that American collegiate athletics provide in developing athletes to represent our Nation in international athletic competitions.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
         (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Education.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Let’s Honor the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ US Olympic Team with Congressional Gold Medals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Forty-five years ago, at the Lake Placid Olympic Games, a team of young American hockey players took the ice and achieved the impossible, winning against the seemingly unbeatable Soviet Union National Team. The Soviets were four-time defending Olympic gold medalists, stacked with seasoned professionals. Team USA, both the youngest-ever U.S. national team and the youngest in the tournament, stunned the world with a 4-3 victory in what became known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

    Now, a congressional effort is underway to recognize these players with a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress. U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) cosponsored legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal earlier this year. In April, the House of Representatives unanimously passed the legislation, with over 300 cosponsors.

    Together, Senators Cramer and Klobuchar penned an op-ed in The Hill urging their Senate colleagues to pass the legislation to honor this historic team.

    Let’s Honor the 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ US Olympic Team with Congressional Gold Medals

    The Hill – July 24, 2025

    In 1980, the world was fraught with political division, economic shifts, and global conflict. The Cold War loomed large, American hostages were being held in Iran, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan had stoked international anxiety, and the United States was in the midst of a painful recession at home.

    Yet at this time of uncertainty, a single hockey game brought us together as Americans. On February 22, 1980, a team of young athletes, mostly college students, took the ice in Lake Placid and achieved the impossible against the seemingly unbeatable Soviet Union National Team.

    The Soviets were four-time defending Olympic gold medalists, stacked with seasoned professionals. Team USA, both the youngest-ever U.S. national team and the youngest in the tournament, stunned the world with a 4-3 victory in what became known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

    Two days later, the team secured the gold medal with a third period comeback win against Finland. Their improbable run gave Americans a renewed sense of pride and unity during a time of deep division and uncertainty.

    To commemorate the 45th anniversary of this iconic moment, we introduced the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men’s Hockey Team.

    It is only fitting that we honor this team’s achievement. It had a lasting impact on American history and the game of hockey in the United States. Once enacted, three medals will be displayed at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado, the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota, and the Lake Placid Olympic Center in New York, commemorating this greatest sports moment of the 20th century.

    As National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman once said, “The most special moments in sports actually transcend the playing surface.” In 1980, the Miracle on Ice was one such moment—when, for one night, there were no partisan divides or regional differences, only a shared celebration of what Americans can achieve together. That night, the Lake Placid Olympic hockey games transcended the sheet of ice where the 20 amateur hockey players battled for victory.

    The House of Representatives has already passed this bipartisan legislation unanimously, with the support of nearly 300 cosponsors. We now ask our colleagues in the Senate to join us in honoring this historic team and the spirit of unity that the 1980 U.S. Men’s Hockey Team inspired at the Olympics in Lake Placid. We urge swift, bipartisan passage of the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Under Cantwell Pressure, Admin Releases Critical Wildfire Funds

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    07.24.25

    Under Cantwell Pressure, Admin Releases Critical Wildfire Funds

    Trump’s Office of Management and Budget had been withholding $20 million already allocated to WA state to prepare for and respond to wildfires

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the Spend Plan for the over $280 million in overdue FY 2025 U.S. Forest Service State, Private and Tribal Forestry (SPTF) funding, including approximately $20 million for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to use for firefighting training and equipment, forest management, and landscape restoration.

     

    “The State of Washington is in the middle of an active and dangerous wildfire season. After questioning the Chief of the Forest Service and the Secretary of Agriculture, I am pleased that Washington — and all states — are finally receiving the funding they need to prepare for and respond to wildfires this summer and in the future,” said U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

    “Thank you, Senator Cantwell, for your leadership in securing the release of fiscal year (FY) 2025 Forest Service funding for the State, Private, and Tribal Forestry programs,” said George Geissler, State Forester for Washington. “This critical funding was at risk of being included in a recission by the Trump Administration, but because of your efforts will now be put to work in support of forest health protection, private forest landowners, urban and community forests, and wildfire preparedness and response efforts across the State of Washington. On behalf of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), we thank you for your tireless advocacy in support of our work.”

    SPTF funding is typically released to states months prior to the start of wildfire season to be used to train and equip state, local, and volunteer emergency responders and firefighters. This includes funding for fire academies, personal protection equipment, fire pumps, hoses, nozzles, and other safety gear. Delays risked the funding being rescinded by the Trump Administration and could degrade state and local efforts to prepare for and respond to wildfires this summer and in the future.

    On July 10, Sen. Cantwell questioned U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz about why the Trump Administration was withholding the SPTF funding.

    “It’s a budget that’s already been approved. So why aren’t we releasing the funds that go to the community so that they can best prepare for this fire season?” Sen. Cantwell asked during the July 10 Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing.

    “We have not made a determination yet, but that’s something that is being evaluated,” Schultz responded. “We can’t commit that that’s for sure going to go out yet.”

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s questioning of Schultz is HERE; a transcript is HERE.

    On July 16, Sen. Cantwell participated in a virtual briefing hosted by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins outlining the current wildfire situation and outlook across the western United States. During the briefing, she questioned Rollins on why OMB continued to withhold $280 million in SPTF funds.

    Nationally, state, local, and volunteer fire departments respond to roughly 80% of all wildfires each year. Last year DNR, along with local first responders, successfully kept over 93% of fires in Washington state at 10 acres or less. Funds from the SPTF can also be used for hazardous fuels work on non-federal land in the wildland urban interface (WUI), to recover land that has been burned, and for forest health management.

    The National Interagency Fire Center outlook predicts high wildfire risk across the entirety of Washington state from July through September 2025, and a high risk in Eastern and Central Washington in October. Six wildfires are currently burning in the state, and as of July 22, more than 37,000 acres have burned in the State of Washington this year.



    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Intros Bipartisan Bill to Help Tribes Combat MMIWP Crisis and Fentanyl Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    07.24.25

    Cantwell Intros Bipartisan Bill to Help Tribes Combat MMIWP Crisis and Fentanyl Trafficking

    Bipartisan legislation would boost federal benefits to help recruit and retain tribal law enforcement officers; This week – local, federal, and tribal law enforcement indict 12 individuals in major drug trafficking operation on Yakama Nation lands

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Representative Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04) and Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03) introduced the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act of 2025. The legislation would help tribal police departments hire and retain tribal law enforcement officers by providing access to federal retirement, pension, death, and injury benefits on par with law enforcement officers from non-tribal jurisdictions.

    “Tribes need more law enforcement officers to fight both the fentanyl and murdered and missing indigenous people epidemics and to respond to emergencies in their communities,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help tribal communities get the law enforcement resources they need to keep their communities safe.”

    “Tribal police departments work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities in Oklahoma and around the nation,” said Sen. Mullin. “Tribal police should receive equal treatment and resources needed for the safety of their communities without going through excessive red tape. I’m proud to join with my colleagues on this and support our Tribal law enforcement.”

    “As the missing and murdered indigenous women crisis continues to plague tribal communities across the country, tribal law enforcement agencies are facing serious challenges with recruiting and retaining officers and resources,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This bipartisan legislation empowers tribal law enforcement to build and maintain strong, well-trained forces who will be far better equipped to address the MMIW crisis, counter illicit drug flow, and protect tribal communities in Central Washington. I thank members of the House and Senate on both sides of the aisle who understand the scale of these challenges and are helping to lead towards a solution.”

    According to the Department of Interior, public safety and justice at the Bureau of Indian Affairs is funded at just 13% of need and over 25,600 personnel are needed to adequately serve Indian Country. This includes at least 13,000 more tribal law enforcement officers to meet FBI Community Safety Standards.

    “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act.’ The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” – Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation

    “Bolstering support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing the many serious and systemic public safety issues in Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for the Yakama Nation and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. At Yakama we are facing an overwhelming confluence of public safety crises. We have experienced a surge in violent and property crimes, the highest rate of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People in the region, and a terrifying rise in outside gang and cartel-related drug activity coming onto our lands, including the pervasive and deadly fentanyl epidemic. The recent coordinated, multi-agency drug trafficking interdiction “Operation Overdrive” that dismantled a large drug distribution network operating on the Yakama Reservation shows what is possible when all levels of government work together to make our communities safer. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help give the Yakama Nation and other tribes the tools and funding necessary to protect our communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Senator Cantwell and Congressman Newhouse’s partnership with us and their continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” – Jeremy Takala, Law & Order Committee Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council

    “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” – Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

    “Many tribal police departments are chronically understaffed and massively underfunded. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act would level the playing field for tribal police benefits, retirement, and pension, allowing tribes to improve retention and recruitment of officers on tribal lands. Ultimately, passage of the act would help improve overall safety in tribal communities. We are grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman, Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for championing this act and hope the overwhelming tribal support will ensure its approval.” – Chairman Glen Nenema, Kalispel Tribe of Indians

    “As a tribal law enforcement officer and an elected tribal leader, I know firsthand how hard it is to recruit and retain law enforcement officers. This bill will make it so much easier to achieve that objective by ensuring tribal law enforcement officers have access to proper retirement benefits. This bill will make our community safer.” – Vice-President Everett Ekdahl, Jr. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

    “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will provide tribal nations with the tools necessary to recruit and retain law enforcements officers. It shows Congress’s commitment to public safety on tribal lands and the fair treatment of tribal law enforcement officers. We are grateful for Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, and Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez for their leadership on this important issue.” – Chairman Leonard Forsman, Suquamish Tribe

    “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act represents a crucial advancement in ensuring that tribal law enforcement agencies, such as Hopi Law Enforcement Services, have the support they need to protect those that live and work on the Hopi Reservation. The Hopi Tribe is grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for their leadership strengthening recruitment, retention, and public safety across tribal nations.” – Chairman Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Hopi Tribe

    “Access to resources is critical to improving the recruitment and retention tribal law enforcement officers. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act removes administrative barriers and provides the necessary reforms to protect our community. The Nisqually Tribe thanks Senator Cantwell and Representative Newhouse for their leadership in strengthening safety and security across tribal communities.” – Chairman Ken Choke, Nisqually Tribe

    “Jurisdictional gaps in Indian Country have allowed far too many criminals to fall through the cracks. We appreciate Senator Cantwell’s leadership in taking meaningful action to close these gaps. By allowing qualified Tribal officers operating under 638 contracts to enforce federal law and receive federal protections, this bill strengthens our ability to respond to serious criminal activity on our reservation.” Chairman Anthony Hillaire, Lummi Nation

    Combatting the Fentanyl Epidemic

    Sen. Cantwell is a strong advocate for increasing the presence of tribal law enforcement officers on reservations to help combat the fentanyl epidemic and Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) crisis among Native communities.

    Sen. Cantwell first introduced the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act in July 2023. The bipartisan bill was first considered at a U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing on May 1, 2024. During a hearing on the fentanyl crisis in Indian Country later that month, Sen. Cantwell pressed federal officials about the need to help tribes hire and keep more tribal law enforcement officers and highlighted several tribes in Washington state that urgently need more resources to improve chronic understaffing issues.

    In October 2023, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to the leaders of the U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee requesting that the committee hold an oversight hearing on how to address the fentanyl crisis in Indian Country. Soon after, the committee announced two hearings on the topic. At the November 2023 hearing titled: “Fentanyl in Native Communities: Native Perspectives on Addressing the Growing Crisis,” Sen. Cantwell invited Lummi Nation Chairman Anthony Hillarie to testify.

    In December 2023, Vanessa Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, and Glen Melville, Deputy Bureau Director at the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Office of Justice Services and member of the Makah Tribe, participated in the second hearing titled: “Fentanyl in Native Communities: Examining the Federal Response to the Growing Crisis.” At the hearing, both Waldref and Melville commented that fentanyl traffickers often target tribal lands due to lack of tribal law enforcement.

    A background document on Sen. Cantwell’s legislative track record and advocacy to combat the fentanyl crisis is available HERE.

    Fighting Against MMIWP Crisis

    In 2020, Sen. Cantwell’s Savanna’s Act was signed into law to help federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies better respond to cases of missing and murdered indigenous women and people by improving coordination among all levels of law enforcement, increasing data collection and information sharing, and providing tribal governments with vital resources.

    In May 2023, Sen. Cantwell announced she sent a letter to the Biden Administration urging them to prioritize funding to assist Tribes and organizations working to combat the MMIWP crisis.

    Following Sen. Cantwell’s urging, in June 2023 the U.S. Department of Justice announced the creation of the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Regional Outreach Program, which dedicated five Assistant U.S. Attorneys and five coordinators to the task of resolving the cases of missing and murdered indigenous people. This included dedicated personnel based in Eastern Washington.

    In October 2024, Sen. Cantwell announced $6.9 million in federal funding for state and municipal law enforcement agencies, tribal justice departments and programs, and medical examiner offices to help fight the fentanyl crisis, gun violence, and violence against women and children.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Child Care Workforce, Increase Access to Early Head Start Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) last week introduced the bipartisan Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield (HEADWAY) Act. The legislation would address early child care workforce shortages by allowing Early Head Start classroom teachers to teach and earn their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential simultaneously. As of February 2023, nearly 20% of Head Start and Early Head Start staff positions remained vacant nationwide.

    The HEADWAY Act would also help pave the way for greater hiring flexibility, attract more qualified candidates to the profession of early childhood education, and ensure that Early Head Start classrooms are fully staffed.

    “Workforce shortages in child care centers, including in Head Start and Early Head Start, can be particularly challenging for families and communities because so many parents rely on consistent childcare to be able to work. I am proud to help introduce the HEADWAY Act, which will add staff to Early Head Start classrooms, and give early-career child care workers the skills, mentorship, and experience they need to thrive,” Senator Capito said.

    “I’m where I am today because of programs like Head Start,” Senator Warnock said. “Ensuring our nation’s children have access to quality child care and excellent teachers is crucial, which is why I am so pleased to work across the aisle with Senator Capito on this effort. As the father of two young kids, I know how crucial education is during those formative years to their continued growth.”

    The HEADWAY Act will allow Head Start to fulfill its commitment to providing high-quality, early childhood education for children from vulnerable families, laying the foundation for their future success. The HEADWAY Act will support Early Head Start professionals and give program directors the flexibility they need to respond to employment trends, while still maintaining the high standards and professionalization of the field.

    A copy of the bill text can be found here.

    The one-pager can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Hospital Transparency for New and Expecting Parents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    July 24, 2025

    Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Hospital Transparency for New and Expecting Parents

    Washington, DC — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), and Rick Scott (R-Florida) today introduced the Neonatal Care Transparency Act, legislation that would require hospitals to publicly disclose at what life-saving care will be provided to an infant.

    “When faced with an early birth parents should be able to ensure that the delivery hospital is equipped and prepared to provide care for their child. This bill will provide parents with the information needed to welcome their child into the world safely,” said Senator Cotton.

    “Children are God’s greatest gift to the world, and expecting parents deserve peace of mind knowing their delivery hospital is fully prepared to care for their newborn. I am proud to join my colleagues in ensuring hospitals are transparent on how life-saving care will be provided to premature infants,” said Senator Lummis.

    “Families shouldn’t face uncertainty during early labor about whether their premature baby will receive life-saving care from a hospital or not. When a baby’s survival is on the line, parents deserve clear information. I’m proud to support this legislation that requires hospitals to be transparent about their policies. It’s a commonsense measure that protects vulnerable infants and supports families in critical moments,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

    “Becoming a parent is one of the great things in this life, and parents deserve complete transparency throughout the process. This bill will ensure hospitals are upfront about the care they can provide so they’re giving families all the information they need to make the most informed decisions to protect their child,” said Senator Scott.

    Bill text is here.

    The Neonatal Care Transparency Act would:

    • Require hospitals to publicly disclose:
      • The minimum gestational age at which life-saving care will be provided to an infant in the case of a premature birth; and
      • The process by which the hospital would transfer the infant and mother to the nearest neonatal ICU if the hospital does not have the capacity to provide life-saving care to a preemie.
    • Require health care practitioners to disclose the policies above during an initial consultation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Hospital Transparency for New and Expecting Parents

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    July 24, 2025

    Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Hospital Transparency for New and Expecting Parents

    Washington, DC — Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), and Rick Scott (R-Florida) today introduced the Neonatal Care Transparency Act, legislation that would require hospitals to publicly disclose at what life-saving care will be provided to an infant.

    “When faced with an early birth parents should be able to ensure that the delivery hospital is equipped and prepared to provide care for their child. This bill will provide parents with the information needed to welcome their child into the world safely,” said Senator Cotton.

    “Children are God’s greatest gift to the world, and expecting parents deserve peace of mind knowing their delivery hospital is fully prepared to care for their newborn. I am proud to join my colleagues in ensuring hospitals are transparent on how life-saving care will be provided to premature infants,” said Senator Lummis.

    “Families shouldn’t face uncertainty during early labor about whether their premature baby will receive life-saving care from a hospital or not. When a baby’s survival is on the line, parents deserve clear information. I’m proud to support this legislation that requires hospitals to be transparent about their policies. It’s a commonsense measure that protects vulnerable infants and supports families in critical moments,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

    “Becoming a parent is one of the great things in this life, and parents deserve complete transparency throughout the process. This bill will ensure hospitals are upfront about the care they can provide so they’re giving families all the information they need to make the most informed decisions to protect their child,” said Senator Scott.

    Bill text is here.

    The Neonatal Care Transparency Act would:

    • Require hospitals to publicly disclose:
      • The minimum gestational age at which life-saving care will be provided to an infant in the case of a premature birth; and
      • The process by which the hospital would transfer the infant and mother to the nearest neonatal ICU if the hospital does not have the capacity to provide life-saving care to a preemie.
    • Require health care practitioners to disclose the policies above during an initial consultation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 25, 2025
  • From Trade to Technology: India-Maldives cooperation set to expand

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a landmark visit to the United Kingdom on Thursday, setting the stage for the next phase of his two-nation tour as he departed for the Maldives. This marks his third visit to the island nation and the first by a head of government during the tenure of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu.

    The visit is expected to deepen the growing partnership between India and the Maldives, especially under the framework of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, adopted during President Muizzu’s visit to India in October 2024.

    Expanding Economic Ties
    India’s economic and trade relationship with the Maldives has transformed in recent years into a multi-dimensional partnership encompassing trade, infrastructure, finance, and technology. The foundation of this relationship was laid in 1981 when both countries signed a bilateral trade agreement under which India assured the export of essential commodities to the Maldives.

    In April 2025, India approved the highest-ever quotas for essential goods exports to the Maldives, reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of its maritime neighbour.

    Trade between the two nations has grown substantially-from crossing the USD 300 million mark in 2021 to exceeding USD 500 million in 2022. In 2023, bilateral trade stood at USD 548 million. This surge was driven by the launch of a dedicated cargo vessel service in September 2020 and several Lines of Credit (LoC) projects initiated since 2021. Visa-free access for Indian business travellers, granted in February 2022, further encouraged commercial engagement.

    India primarily exports pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, cement, agricultural products, and construction materials to the Maldives. In return, scrap metals make up a bulk of Indian imports from the Maldives. Notably, duty-free tuna exports from the Maldives to India were introduced in August 2022, aiming to boost the island nation’s seafood sector.

    Strategic Financial Cooperation
    The State Bank of India (SBI), operational in the Maldives since 1974, has played a key role in supporting economic infrastructure by financing resort development and marine exports. In November 2022, India extended a USD 100 million financial support package via SBI Malè by subscribing to Maldivian government domestic T-bonds backed by a sovereign guarantee from India. The support was renewed in 2024 with an interest-free extension under a unique government-to-government arrangement.

    In response to further budgetary needs, India offered an additional USD 400 million currency swap facility in October 2024. This follows a 2022 agreement signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority under the SAARC framework, allowing up to USD 200 million in withdrawals.

    Digital and FinTech Partnerships
    In August 2024, India and the Maldives signed an agreement enabling the use of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in the Maldives. This development, facilitated during the visit of India’s External Affairs Minister to Malè, represents a critical step toward digital and financial integration between the two nations.

    To further enhance economic cooperation, Maldivian Finance Minister Moosa Zameer visited New Delhi in December 2024 to participate in the Global Economic Policy Forum. He held bilateral meetings with India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and engaged with business leaders from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to explore investment opportunities.

    July 25, 2025
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