NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neguse and Bennet: “We must oppose any provisions that would stake a for sale sign on our nation’s public lands.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Joe Neguse and Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources issued newly released budget reconciliation text. The bill now seeks to sell off between 2 and 3 million acres of land under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service—greenlighting the sale of public lands in Colorado, Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

    “Colorado, like so many Western states, is proud to be home to millions of acres of treasured public lands—places people from across the country and around the world flock to for outdoor recreation and to experience the natural beauty of the outdoors. Auctioning off these lands to pay for President Trump’s radical agenda, including the prioritization of tax cuts for billionaires and big corporations, is an affront to our core values. We must continue to stand in firm opposition to any provisions that would put a for sale sign on our nation’s treasured public lands.” 

    Neguse and Bennet have long partnered on efforts to protect Colorado’s public lands, including through their championing of the CORE Act–a bill that would codify protections for 420,000 acres of the state’s public land, establish new wilderness areas, and safeguard existing outdoor recreation opportunities to boost the economy for future generations.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Neguse Issues Statement on Developments in Middle East

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Neguse issued the following statement regarding developments in the Middle East: 

    “I continue to closely monitor the situation and developments in the Middle East, and join fellow Americans in praying for the people of Israel. Earlier this week, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog — the International Atomic Energy Agency — declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations. A nuclear Iran would pose an undeniable threat to Israel, the United States and our allies, and Israel, like all nations, has the undeniable right to defend itself against any imminent threat. I urge the President and his administration to ensure that U.S. civilians, personnel and forces stationed across the region are protected, and will continue to support efforts to bring stability and peace to the region.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Recognizes Army Birthday, Opposes President Trump’s Vanity Parade

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) led his congressional colleagues in sending a letter to the Trump administration to recognize the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and raise serious questions about how much the President’s upcoming military parade will cost and impact readiness. The letter was signed by Crow, Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), and 18 other members.

    “We fully support commemorating the Army’s founding. However, the size, scope, and execution of the upcoming 250th Birthday Parade in Washington, D.C., raise serious concerns, at a time when the Army faces severe budget constraints, and the Trump administration is supposedly focused on reducing unnecessary government spending,” the letter reads.

    “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to our troops who put on the uniform. The Army’s 250th birthday is an important milestone worthy of recognition, but President Trump is doing it wrong. We should not be pulling thousands of troops away from their training and their families so the President can boost his ego. Spending tens of millions of taxpayer dollars on Donald Trump’s vanity parade, at the same time this administration is firing veterans and cutting the VA, is wrong,” said Congressman Crow. 

    Estimates say this parade will cost upwards of $45 million, and could require millions to repair the streets. Over 6,600 soldiers will be brought in from around the country to participate in this weekend’s event. Additionally, hundreds of ground equipment and aircraft will be moved from strategic positions around the country to D.C. for this event, potentially impacting military readiness. The president has long desired a personal military parade, and will come at the taxpayer expense while this administration claims it is prioritizing rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse.

    A PDF of the letter can be found here, with full text appearing below: 

    June 11, 2025

    Dear Secretary Driscoll, 

    We are excited to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States Army. Since its founding on June 14, 1775, the Army has served as a bedrock of American strength—defending liberty and responding to crises around the world. As Members of Congress, we join the nation in honoring this extraordinary legacy and the soldiers who uphold it. 

    We fully support commemorating the Army’s founding. However, the size, scope, and execution of the upcoming 250th Birthday Parade in Washington, D.C., raise serious concerns, at a time when the Army faces severe budget constraints, and the Trump administration is supposedly focused on reducing unnecessary government spending. Given President Trump’s longstanding personal desire for a military parade, we have important questions about the pressure that may have been put on the Army to plan a far more militaristic parade with greater cost and operational impact than the Army would have independently chosen. 

    We also have important questions regarding the cost, funding, operational justification, and the treatment of participating troops. Cutting costs at the margin by not serving soldiers hot meals, while sending dozens of unnecessary armored vehicles, does not prioritize the troops and is irresponsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. A celebration of this magnitude must reflect our principles: respect for service, fiscal responsibility, and a clear-eyed view of readiness. 

    To that end, we request your response to the following: 

    Funding Sources  

    • What is the total estimated cost of the parade?  
    • What is the estimated cost for each unit participating? Please provide sources of funding for personnel transportation, lodging, meals, equipment transport, and other associated costs for each participating unit. 

    Troop Accommodation  

    • Why are soldiers being housed on cots in federal office buildings instead of standard military or contracted lodging? How much money does this save compared to housing them in hotels?
    • Why are soldiers being provided MREs for breakfast and lunch, with only one hot dinner meal each day?  
    • How much money is the Army saving by only having one hot meal per day as opposed to three? 

    Readiness Impact  

    • Are any of the participating units currently preparing for, or recently returned from, an operational deployment?  
    • What measures are being taken to ensure that participation in this event does not disrupt training schedules, pre-deployment certification, or force availability? 

    Use of Heavy Equipment  

    • Who requested or ordered the inclusion of tanks and other heavy armored vehicles in the parade? When was this request made, and what were the details of the request?  
    • What operational or ceremonial purpose does the participation of 24 of the same vehicle serve, as opposed to including just two or four of each vehicle type?  
    • How much of the total cost of the parade is due to the requirements associated with including these armored vehicles? 

    Infrastructure and Mitigation  

    • What steps are being taken to predict and prevent potential damage to roads and other infrastructure in Washington, D.C.?  
    • Has the Army assessed the cost of any potential damage, and who will bear those costs?  
    • Will the Army conduct the repairs? If yes, how quickly do you expect to be able to do so? 

    White House Involvement  

    • Has the White House played any role in the planning or direction of this event? If so, please provide a detailed description of the extent and nature of that involvement. 

    This anniversary should unite the country around the shared sacrifice and service of our military—not distract from the Army’s core mission or become a partisan spectacle. We ask that your office provide answers to the above questions and share any relevant planning materials, budget justifications, and interagency communications by June 26th, 2025. 

    Thank you for your leadership, and for your continued commitment to the men and women of the United States Army. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Morrison Introduce Legislation to Exempt Small Businesses from Trump’s Tariffs

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

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas, a small business owner, and Congresswoman Kelly Morrison, a member of the House Small Business Committee, introduced the Small Business Liberation Act in the House. This legislation, which was introduced in the Senate last month, would exempt the more than 34 million U.S. small businesses from President Trump’s catastrophically high tariffs enacted on April 2, 2025, which are effectively a national sales tax. Highlighting the urgent need for this legislation, Pappas and Morrison held a press conference with small businesses from across the country, including Mark Carpenter, founder of New Hampshire small business GenTent.

    Small businesses across the country have been raising the alarm that the Trump administration’s chaotic, costly, and unpredictable tariff war will put them out of business in a matter of weeks or months if nothing is done. New Hampshire exports accounted for 7% of the state’s gross domestic product in 2023, the highest percentage of exports of any New England state, meaning that New Hampshire businesses are more vulnerable to retaliatory tariffs. 

    Earlier this week Congressman Pappas met with GenTent owner Mark Carpenter at his small business of just 12 employees to hear about the impact of tariffs on his business. It’s estimated that because of tariffs the cost of a new part his business is producing will go up by 30%, costing the company another $100,000 just in tariffs.

    “This administration’s reckless tariffs are effectively a national sales tax on businesses and families. I’ve heard directly from New Hampshire businesses about how deeply these tariffs will hurt their bottom lines. That’s why I’m pushing legislation that would rein in the President’s indiscriminate, wide-sweeping tariffs announced earlier this year,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The Small Business Liberation Act would exempt all small businesses from the tariffs announced by the Trump administration on Liberation Day. While the President and Republicans in Congress are turning their back on working families, I remain committed to continuing to fight to lower costs, support small businesses, and strengthen our economy.”

    “Small businesses across the country have made clear: Trump’s tariffs are posing an existential threat to their business,” said Congresswoman Kelly Morrison. “Today, we’re introducing legislation to give them the immediate relief they need to survive. Article 1 of the Constitution gives Congress the authority to levy tariffs – and it’s time Congress reclaims its power and does its job. This bill has now been introduced in the House and the Senate – and we need the Republican majority to stand up for America’s 34 million small businesses and bring this to a vote immediately. Our small business owners don’t have the luxury of time – we need to act now.”

    This legislation is endorsed by Small Business Majority and Main Street Alliance.

    “Small Business Majority’s research found that 53% of small businesses are concerned about tariffs negatively impacting their business and 77% are concerned about having a negative impact on the U.S. economy as a whole. Small Business Majority’s research found that 53% of small businesses are concerned about tariffs negatively impacting their business and 77% are concerned about having a negative impact on the U.S. economy as a whole,” said John Arensmeyer, Founder and CEO of Small Business Majority. “These concerns aren’t theoretical – millions of small firms are struggling right now with increased costs, finding new sources of supplies and navigating the uncertainty of tariffs that are on one day and put on hold the next. Small businesses have nowhere else to turn for help but Congress, and they need lawmakers to step in and stop this paralyzing and destructive cycle before irreparable harm is done to our nation’s job creators.”

    “Main Street Alliance members from across the US have been contacting our team about the real impact of tariffs on their businesses. 81.5% of respondents to our recent survey indicated that they will raise prices on consumers to offset the costs from tariffs. 31.5% of respondents indicated that they would lay off employees as a result of the tariffs. The continued unpredictability, self-dealing, and conflicting rationale for the trade war will hollow out Main Street and large Corporations will pick up the scraps. That’s why MSA strongly supports the Small Business Liberation Act. Let’s get it done,” said Richard Trent, Main Street Alliance Executive Director.

    Watch the press conference here. 

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    Background:  

    Pappas has loudly and strongly opposed President Trump’s sweeping tariffs on New Hampshire’s #1 trading partner, Canada, and U.S. allies. In April, Pappas joined colleagues to highlight the negative impact President Trump’s widespread tariffs will have on New Hampshire’s small business community and how they will raise costs for Granite Staters, calling on the administration to reverse course. Pappas has signed two discharge petitions to force a vote on legislation to overturn the Administration’s harmful tariffs on Mexico and Canada, the U.S.’s two biggest trading partners. He is also a cosponsor of the Prevent Tariffs Abuse Act, which amends the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to explicitly state that the authority granted to the President under the Act does not include the authority to impose duties, tariffs, or quotas on imports to the US.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Helps Pass Bipartisan Legislation to Permanently Schedule Fentanyl Analogues

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

    Pappas has led the fight in Congress to permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, securing several extensions of the temporary scheduling measure until permanent measures could be passed.

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the Bipartisan Fentanyl Prevention Caucus,helped pass bipartisan legislation to permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs to ensure law enforcement can keep them off the streets and hold drug traffickers accountable.

    On February 6, 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a temporary scheduling order that placed all fentanyl-related substances in Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act for two years. Following Pappas’s leadership, Congress has extended the order several times, and the scheduling of these substances is currently set to expire on September 30, 2025.

    The legislation passed through the House today, the HALT Fentanyl Act, contains identical key provisions from Pappas’s bipartisan SAFE Act, which he first introduced in the 117th Congress. It will permanently classify any fentanyl-related substance as a Schedule I drug.

    “Over the past five years, I have engaged with law enforcement, public health experts, and colleagues across the aisle to ensure that the scheduling of fentanyl analogues does not lapse and is finally made permanent. Scheduling is a critical step that ensures law enforcement retains the full suite of tools they need to take on the opioid crisis and crack down on drug traffickers. I urge the President to quickly sign it into law so these measures can become law,” said Congressman Pappas. “While this vote represents an important step forward, we cannot risk the progress we have made in bringing down drug-related deaths. Cuts made to Medicaid and recovery services by Republicans in Congress and our current administration will lead to worse outcomes for our communities. We must protect by cutting funding for recovery and avoid kicking people in recovery off their health care, and I will keep fighting to ensure New Hampshire has the resources needed to take on the opioid crisis from all fronts.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Statement on Israel Striking Iran

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

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement on Israel striking Iran nuclear sites:

    “Iran is a terrorist state that has long fueled death and destruction aimed squarely at the United States, Israel, and our allies. A nuclear-armed Iran is a severe threat to America’s national security, global stability, and the existence of Israel. Israel is justified in seeking to degrade Iran’s nuclear program, as an international nuclear watchdog agency just verified Iran is in violation of non-proliferation agreements. The Trump administration must take steps to protect our citizens and troops in the region and ensure we stand with Israel.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Another trial project on hydrogen fuel technology given agreement-in-principle by Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Another trial project on hydrogen fuel technology given agreement-in-principle by Inter-departmental Working Group on Using Hydrogen as Fuel 
    The said project concerns an application jointly submitted by the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited and Chi Shing New Energy Technology Co., Limited, involving provision of electricity with hydrogen power generation equipment to support the operation of electrical equipment at a recreation facility of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at Fan Kam Road, Fanling, for the golf event of the 15th National Games to be held in November.
     
    The spokesperson of the EEB stated, “The Working Group has promptly initiated the examination process upon receipt of detailed information of the trial project. After seeking members’ agreement through circulation, the Working Group has given agreement-in-principle to the application on June 13.”
     
    To date, the Working Group has given agreement-in-principle in stages to a total of 27 applications of hydrogen energy trial projects. The Working Group will continue to make reference to the operational data and experience collected from the trials to provide advice for the continuous enhancement of the safety and technical guidelines on the local application of hydrogen energy. Details are set out in the thematic webpage (cnsd.gov.hk/en/inter-departmental-working-group-on-using-hydrogen-as-fuel/ 
    The Working Group is formed by the EEB, the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Development Bureau, the Security Bureau, the Environmental Protection Department, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, the Fire Services Department, the Transport Department, the Marine Department, the Planning Department, the Lands Department, the Buildings Department, the Architectural Services Department and the Labour Department.  
    Issued at HKT 11:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 13 June 2025 Departmental update Spain strengthens global health leadership with increased support to WHO

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and the World Health Organization (WHO) today signed a new agreement and contribution of €5.25 million to support key WHO initiatives on universal health coverage, environmental health and emergency medical response.

    “Spain has long been a strong and steadfast partner to WHO and global health,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “We thank Spain for its increased flexible funding of our work, in doing so helping WHO be stronger and more independent and allowing us to deliver the services that countries and communities need from us.”

    This year, Spain’s commitment to global health entered a new chapter as it returned to the WHO Executive Board for the 2025–2028 term, nearly two decades since its last membership. This renewed engagement is supported by the country’s new Global Health Strategy, launched on 27 May 2025.

    This is underscored by today’s signing of a new agreement between Spain, and WHO and a growing collaboration between both partners. At the heart of this effort is the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), under the leadership of Mr Antón Leis; AECID has significantly stepped up flexible and strategic funding for WHO activities.

    AECID’s €5.25 million contribution to WHO is part of a broader €60 million pledge announced by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in November 2024. Spain’s multi-year commitment also includes support for critical health programmes in countries such as Jordan, Mali, and Sudan, and global initiatives like polio eradication, patient safety, and the elimination of cervical cancer.

    Looking forward, Spain will host the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Seville, 30 June–3 July 2025, where it aims to elevate health financing as a core development priority. A high-level special event – co-sponsored by WHO and featuring leaders from global health, finance, and academia – will call for bold action through the “Health financing for a safe and sustainable economy: towards Seville health financing agenda for action.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Says Rescissions Bill is “Good for Russia, China and Undertakers”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today spoke from the House floor and then voted against the $9.4 billion rescissions bill that cuts already Congressionally appropriated money for public broadcasting (PBS and NPR) and foreign aid, including support for poor children through UNICEF.

    In his floor remarks during debate on the bill, Congressman Cohen responded to Republican members who had made false claims, and said in part:

    “There will be people who will die. This bill is good for Russia and China and undertakers because it’s going to have people dying. Bill Gates says this is the richest man in the world – Musk – taking advantage of, and killing, the poorest children in the world. They’re not going to be getting the PEPFAR program created by George Bush. They’re not going to get the sustenance they need that’s rotting in ships right now. Don’t end it; mend it. This is a terrible bill. This is Musk’s bill on drugs.”

    See the floor remarks here.

    The measure passed on a vote of 214 to 212.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey On Gov. Abbott’s Decision to Preemptively Deploy the National Guard Ahead of Protest

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey On Gov. Abbott’s Decision to Preemptively Deploy the National Guard Ahead of Protest

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In response to Gov. Abbott’s decision to preemptively deploy the National Guard to planned “No King” protests in Texas this weekend, Congressman Veasey has released the following statement:

    “From the Boston Tea Party to the March on Washington, the history of America is of protest. It was built and shaped by those who dared to challenge injustice — it’s how we’ve always pushed this nation closer to its promise. It’s clear that Gov. Abbotts decision to deploy the National Guard—on top of local law enforcement—is not about public safety. It is an act of provocation designed to incite confrontation and sow fear. It’s an act to show servility to Trump.

    I support every American’s right to peacefully assemble and exercise their First Amendment freedoms enshrined in the Constitution. But let me be clear: violence is never the answer. Trump and Abbott are not protecting the public—they are manufacturing chaos and hoping to divide us. Don’t give them what they want.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey Releases Statement on Current Israel-Iran Conflict

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey Releases Statement on Current Israel-Iran Conflict

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Veasey released the following statement regarding the current Israel-Iran conflict: 

    “Donald Trump’s short-sighted withdrawal from the Iran nuclear agreement placed Israel in a position where it felt a preemptive strike in self-defense was necessary. Iran’s failure to abide by nuclear nonproliferation agreements led the International Atomic Energy Agency to issue a censure of the regime. Iran’s continued development of its nuclear program poses a threat not only to Israel, but to the entire Middle East, the United States, and the Iranian people themselves. Israel’s right to self-defense in the face of the Iranian regime’s nuclear threat is paramount to the future safety of the region and of Americans as a whole.

    Trump endangered our ally, Israel, in 2018 and gave Iran an opportunity to further destabilize the region. We must ensure the safety of our service members and Americans who may be caught in the crosshairs of this conflict.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) announced Momin Mahmood, a sophomore at Destrehan High School in Destrehan, Louisiana, as the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Louisiana’s First Congressional District. His artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year alongside the work of other winning artists from across the country. “Momin’s artwork beautifully expresses the pride our region has for our world-class culture and the joy we get from sharing it with the millions of visitors we host each year, especially for the Super Bowl! This piece highlights the jewel of the historic French Quarter, our iconic St. Louis Cathedral, with incredible detail and will showcase our state’s rich heritage for the many Capitol visitors from Louisiana and across the nation for the next year,” said Leader Scalise.

    Winner:Momin MahmoodDestrehan High School“Echoes of the Crescent City”Watercolor and Ink

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise, Cosponsors Celebrate Passage of Rescissions Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), Conference Vice Chair Blake Moore (R-Utah), Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-Okla.), DOGE Subcommittee Chair Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Rep. Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), and Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas) released the following statements after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025:“For too long, Washington has run on reckless, out-of-control spending to the detriment of American families and taxpayers. Through their investigation into government waste, fraud, and abuse, DOGE uncovered shocking foreign aid initiatives funded by the American taxpayer – such as LGBTQ+ initiatives around the world or electric buses in Africa. Additionally, Americans continue to subsidize the Corporation of Public Broadcasting, including NPR and PBS, despite raging political bias,” said Majority Leader Steve Scalise. “American taxpayers shouldn’t be funding woke foreign aid or radical media – their dollars should go to improving the nation they live in. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House for supporting my legislation codifying the Trump Administration’s rescissions request. House Republicans and President Trump ran on the promise to turn Washington’s spending trajectory around, and with this legislation, we’re following through.”“This $9.4 billion rescissions package is a step in the right direction in reducing waste in our spending, addressing our crippling federal debt issues, and ensuring the American Dream stays within reach for the next generation. If we keep running $2 trillion annual deficits for the next decade, our Treasury bonds will become worthless, and it will be impossible to protect any federal programs in the long haul. I am also pleased that this package maintains live-saving aid provisions in PEPFAR and other Global Health accounts. This effort is critical to scaling back our bloated federal spending,” said Conference Vice Chair Blake Moore. Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole said, “Responsible governance means prioritizing fiscal sanity and holding Washington accountable. Just as everyday Americans make tough choices and cut costs, so should their government. This rescissions request is part of that objective and will advance accountability and save hard-earned taxpayer dollars. It’s another step in fulfilling the promise President Trump and House Republicans made to change the trajectory of our fiscal glide path and restore discipline across federal agencies. I commend Majority Leader Scalise’s work and his willingness to hear various perspectives on the proposal. Taken as a whole, this effort reflects a shared understanding that the status quo on spending cannot remain, and I am steadfast in my support of advancing that comprehensive mission. This is just the start, and we will continue to reevaluate federal spending and target investments where they’re needed most.”DOGE Subcommittee Chair Marjorie Taylor Greene said, “I’m so excited the House has passed its first bill codifying President Trump’s DOGE cuts into law! I’m proud of the work the House Oversight Committee and my DOGE Subcommittee have done to expose the waste, fraud, and abuse at USAID, NPR, and PBS. We led the way. We held the hearings. We’re getting results. But this is only the beginning. We must codify every single DOGE cut into law and keep our promise to the American people to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse for good.”“Taxpayers deserve an efficient, accountable government. H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, cuts reckless, politically biased spending identified by DOGE and takes a critical step toward fiscal health. House Republicans are ready to restore responsibility—I urge the Senate to act swiftly. Let’s go get’em!” said Rep. Aaron Bean.“The Rescissions Act of 2025 is a commonsense measure to restore fiscal discipline in Washington. As Co-Chair of the House DOGE Caucus, I’m committed to eliminating waste, reclaiming taxpayer dollars, and upholding conservative principles of responsible governance. Protecting the taxpayer and overseeing the allocation of their hard-earned money is the constitutional duty of Congress,” said Rep. Pete Sessions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Highlights America First Rescissions Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke on the House floor before the passage of the Rescissions Act of 2025, which codifies President Trump’s DOGE cuts to root out waste, fraud, and abuse from federal overspending. Leader Scalise emphasized that Democrats’ ‘no’ vote is a vote to prioritize far-left foreign programs over lowering inflation, paying down our debt, and strengthening social services for Americans.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 
    Leader Scalise’s remarks:“I thank my friend, our conference chair, Ms. McClain, for managing this time on this important bill. Mr. Speaker, a lot of people come up here and they talk about trying to get America’s fiscal house in order, about the idea of getting back to balanced federal budgets. I don’t know many people here who are against it. I know when we later in this Congress put a bill on the floor to require a balanced federal budget, there will be many Democrats, Mr. Speaker, who will vote no on that, because when it comes time to actually put your votes on the board to back up the principles that most Americans relish, they walk away. They won’t be there when it actually matters. Everybody could talk about cutting wasteful spending. Even if you don’t necessarily agree that it’s wasteful spending, and what we’re bringing today is wasteful spending, but even if you think, ‘Okay, might not be as bad as some other things you don’t agree with,’ we all have to agree, Mr. Speaker, that as we just saw a few weeks ago, Moody’s downgraded the credit rating of the United States. Wasn’t a recommendation, Mr. Speaker. Wasn’t a warning that, gee whiz, if you folks don’t get your fiscal house in order, this might happen. They actually did it. They downgraded the credit rating in the United States because spending has to get under control. The party over there that spent the last four years under President Biden spending like drunken sailors, and all due respect to drunken sailors, because they don’t spend this bad. But the trillions of dollars of debt that were racked up had consequences, Mr. Speaker. “It had consequences not only in terms of our national debt, it affected the pocketbooks of families all across America because that spending, bloated spending in Washington, money we don’t have, by the way, increased inflation to the point where people couldn’t even go to the grocery store to fill up their carts. They couldn’t afford to go to the gas station to fill up their cars. They couldn’t afford to take out a loan to buy a house because interest rates had gotten so high that today we’re spending more money servicing our interest than we are on America’s national debt. These are all real, dramatic facts that concern most Americans. They say, thank goodness, Congress is finally bringing a bill to the floor to start cutting some spending that aren’t priorities. Call it wasteful if you want, call it whatever you want, but these aren’t things that we can afford to spend, even if you agree with them. Because it’s not money we have in the bank. It’s all borrowed money, Mr. Speaker. And so, where did we start? “Well, the White House laid out a number of things. They looked at that USAID program – they didn’t gut the whole thing, but they said there are a number of things that are being done that just don’t represent the values of the United States. And are being done in foreign countries while we don’t have our fiscal house in order here in America. So, how about we start there? I know the Democrats on the other side are acting like, ‘Oh, my God, the world’s going to stop spinning on its axis if this spending goes away.’ So why don’t we talk about some of the spending that will go away? Again, borrowed money, not money we just took out of the bank, money we borrowed from countries like China to spend on that is a debt to our kids. Each one of these I list, Mr. Speaker, you should ask, if you vote ‘yes,’ you’re finally relieving that debt burden. But if you vote ‘no,’ you think it’s okay to send this bill to our kids. “We’re not paying for it today, Mr. Speaker, but our kids would if we keep doing it. If the other side votes ‘no,’ they want to keep borrowing money from our children to spend a million dollars on voter ID in Haiti. The same party that doesn’t want voter ID in America – calls it racist – wants to fund voter ID in Haiti. $6 million for net-zero cities in Mexico. I know some of their best supporters are waving a Mexican flag at an American city right now, and they support those efforts. Most Americans don’t, Mr. Speaker. “$3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street. The minority leader held up a Sesame Street character here on the floor as if Sesame Street somehow is going to go away. I was just watching a commercial on TV yesterday where the Cookie Monster was actually doing an advertisement for Netflix because a private company is paying money to run Sesame Street. It’s not going away. It’s doing just fine. Very lucrative. What will go away is some of the far-left radical views that are being espoused. By the way, when this goes away at NPR, you can still turn on about six or seven other channels and get the same far-left radical views, but they’re all going to be private companies, Mr. Speaker, not taxpayer-funded entities. If somebody wants to pay money to go on one of their services that they stream or get over the top, or however they get their digital content, they can still do that.And there are a lot of options. Never been more options. Some people joke that they buy their services for their cable or whatever else they get, and that there’s 200 channels, and they might only watch four or five of them. There is still going to be a plethora of options for the American people. But if they’re paying their hard-earned dollars to go get content, why should your tax dollars go to only one thing that the other side wants to promote? Let everybody compete on a fair basis. They can still watch Sesame Street in Iraq, but let the Iraqi people pay for it, not the taxpayers of the United States of America’s children. “Today’s taxpayers aren’t paying for it because it’s all borrowed money. $2.1 million for climate resilience in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and East Africa. Five hundred thousand for electric buses in Rwanda. Rwanda is more than free to go buy all the electric buses they want or diesel buses. Why should the taxpayers of America be borrowing money from our children to buy electric buses for Rwanda? $33,000 for being LGBTQI in the Caribbean. Taxpayer money that a ‘no’ vote today says is more important than strengthening a program like Social Security. I say not. $643,000 for LGBTQI+ programs in the Western Balkans. Borrowed money. $567,000, Mr. Speaker, for LGBTQI+ programs in Uganda. $5.1 million to strengthen the ‘resilience of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer global movement.’ Not sure what that global movement is. They can continue that movement in some other way, but just not with the taxpayer dollars of the United States of America’s children. Again, there’s no bank account that $5.1 million came out of. It’s all borrowed money that a ‘no’ vote says is more important than strengthening Social Security. $135 million in contributions to the World Health Organization, which we all saw during COVID, was the mouthpiece for the Chinese Communist Party. I would imagine if we stopped this $135 million funding, the CCP may pick it up because they were regurgitating their talking points during COVID. “At some point, Mr. Speaker, the question we’ve all got to answer is, number one, do you believe in fiscal responsibility? Maybe some people have other priorities than these they’d like to defund. But if you think these are all things that are worth borrowing money from our children to fund, then that’s what the ‘no’ vote represents. If you think it’s time we start somewhere, here’s the place to start, not to finish, just the beginning, to finally start getting control over spending and respecting those families who are working hard, who are working two shifts at the diner to pay taxes on tips that will soon go away if our One Big Beautiful Bill passes. Or somebody who’s working overtime because you want to send your kid to college, and you find out this is where your taxpayer dollars are going, and you’re disgusted and say, ‘When will somebody do something about it?’ Today’s the day to do something about it. Talk is cheap. Put the action on the floor. Let’s finally get control over spending in a small way. Start a bigger picture towards a balanced budget, but it starts here. Vote yes, get this done, and let’s keep moving forward to strengthen this great country. With that, I urge a yes vote and yield back, Mr. Speaker.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill Approved by Appropriations Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, the House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill introduced by Defense Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert.

    “Keeping Americans safe amidst mounting national security threats around the world requires a significant and multi-faceted investment in our military,” said Chairman Calvert. “The FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill provides the resources necessary for maintaining American military superiority, leveraging our technological innovation into tactical advantages on the battlefield, and supporting the Defense Department’s most valuable assets – our warfighters. Together, with the significant defense funding advancing through Congress as part of the reconciliation process, the FY26 bill will lift total defense spending over $1 trillion in the next fiscal year, representing a historic commitment to strengthening and modernizing America’s national defense. I’m thankful for the contributions of Chairman Cole and my colleagues in shaping this important bill.”

    The Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill
     
    In accordance with Chairman Calvert’s national security priorities, the bill invests in America’s military superiority, shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense, protects from threats at America’s border, and takes care of our troops and their families.

    Champions America’s military superiority by:

    • Enhancing investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft including the F-35, F-47, and F/A-XX. 
    • Supporting the modernization of the nuclear triad: the B-21 Raider, the Columbia Class Submarine, and Sentinel.
    • Targeting resources for unmanned aerial systems, uncrewed maritime platforms, and land-based counter-unmanned aerial systems to advance capabilities and strengthen our national defense.
    • Investing in national security space, including proliferated missile warning, missile tracking satellites, and next generation intelligence collection systems to ensure national leaders have real-time global situational awareness.
    • Allocating approximately $13 billion for missile defense and space programs to augment and integrate in support of the Golden Dome effort.
    • Providing over $2.6 billion for hypersonics programs.
    • Reversing the “divest to invest” trend by preserving F-15s and U-2s while investing in next-generation fighters and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
    • Continuing to prioritize innovation through over $1.3 billion combined for the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT), and Office of Strategic Capital (OSC).
    • Strengthening our defense industrial base by investing $131 million in a Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network.
    • Supporting our close ally Israel by providing $500 million for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs, and $122.5 million for U.S.-Israel cooperative development programs.

    Cares for our troops and their families by:

    • Including an increase of 3.8% in basic pay for all military personnel effective January 1, 2026.
    • Continuing historic pay increases enacted in Fiscal Year 2025 for junior enlisted servicemembers.
    • Improving quality of life, readiness, and continuity for servicemembers by slowing permanent change of station moves, saving over $662 million.

    Shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense by:

    • Reducing $3.6 billion and almost 45,000 civilian full-time equivalents to capture Workforce Acceleration and Recapitalization Initiative efforts.
    • Prioritizing fiscal sanity and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse through codifying both the Department’s cooperation with DOGE and streamlined functions and management improvements at the Pentagon.
    • Requiring detailed reporting on the Department’s proposed allocations and expenditures of reconciliation.

    Combats international actors who facilitate drug trafficking and manufacturing by:

    • Providing $1.15 billion for counter drug programs, which is $245 million above the budget request.
    • Increasing funding for the National Guard Counterdrug Program.
    • Transferring Mexico from U.S. Northern Command’s jurisdiction to U.S. Southern Command for better coordination and prioritization.

    A summary of the bill is available here.

    Bill text is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Calvert Statement on Israeli Strikes On Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Defense Appropriations issued the following statement in support of Israel:

    “Israel has taken the necessary steps to ensure their safety and survival. The extensive air strikes against Iran were targeted; intended to take out senior military leadership and nuclear enrichment and military facilities.  

    Iran was given numerous chances to abandon their nuclear enrichment and weaponization activities but chose to push forward despite warnings from President Trump and Israel.  The Iranian Regime has been the largest state sponsor of terrorism in the world; they have armed Hamas and Hezbollah and have repeatedly threatened our shared interests with Israel.  They were the orchestrators of October 7th which saw 1,195 Israelis and 46 Americans murdered, and hundreds taken hostage. From the Beirut bombing in 1983 to the 2024 drone attacks against U.S. assets in Jordan, which resulted in the death of three American troops, they have the blood of hundreds of Americans on their hands. Their day of reckoning has come.  

    As antisemitism rears its ugly head around the world, the reason for the state of Israel has become abundantly clear.  Israel is the ancestral homeland of the Jewish people, and since its inception they have only wished to live in peace with their neighbors but they will not hesitate to defend their nation, and their people, with every tool in their arsenal – as any nation would. Allowing Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, which would enable them to destroy the state of Israel was a red line.  ‘Never again’ is now, and I support Israel’s continued operations to ensure the survival of their people and their home.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Votes for Bipartisan Bill to Fight Back Against Fentanyl Epidemic in the Valley

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) voted to pass the HALT Fentanyl Act, bipartisan legislation that provides law enforcement and public health agencies with stronger tools to crack down on the illegal trafficking of fentanyl and save lives. The vote comes as fentanyl-related overdoses remain the leading cause of death for young adults across the country, especially in Fresno County and the San Joaquin Valley. “Fentanyl is tearing families apart across the San Joaquin Valley. This demands action, and that’s why I worked across the aisle to pass the HALT Fentanyl Act,”said Congressman Costa.“This bipartisan bill permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I, giving law enforcement the tools needed to halt this epidemic.” 
    BACKGROUND Fresno County and communities across the San Joaquin Valley continue to battle a devastating fentanyl crisis. In 2023, nearly 70% of all overdose deaths in Fresno County involved fentanyl, making it the leading cause of drug-related fatalities. While total overdose deaths have declined modestly in recent years, fentanyl remains the dominant driver of overdose deaths, and emergency departments across the region continue to see alarming rates of fentanyl poisoning cases, especially the youth.  The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently classify fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule I substances are those deemed to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse such as heroin and LSD. This permanent classification gives law enforcement the tools they need to keep pace with drug traffickers who exploit loopholes by slightly modifying fentanyl’s chemical structure to avoid prosecution. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa Slams Bill That Risks Farm Exports and Silences Valley PBS, KVPR

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) voted against H.R. 4 – Rescissions Act of 2025, which would revoke $9.8 billion in approved federal funding by Congress. The bill cuts global food aid programs that support U.S. farmers who export food, and it threatens public broadcasting relied on by millions of households. 
    “You don’t reduce the deficit by slashing programs that work—you do it by investing wisely and cutting where it counts,” said Costa.“While Republicans cheer $9.8 billion in so-called savings, their broader agenda balloons the deficit by $3 trillion. This bill would knee-cap tools to advance U.S. interests abroad, pull the rug out from under our farmers and silence trusted local news sources like Valley PBS and KVPR that our communities rely on.” 
    BACKGROUND 
    The Rescissions Act of 2025 is a legislative package introduced by the Trump Administration in partnership with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). It proposes to rescind $9.4 billion in federal funding already approved by Congress, using a rarely invoked process known as a budget rescission. 
    Under the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, the President may propose rescissions to cancel budget authority previously enacted by Congress. While the law provides this authority, rescission packages are rarely used and passed. Historically, Presidents from both parties have submitted rescission proposals, but Congress has only approved a handful of them.  
    Republicans are celebrating the $9.8 billion in proposed “savings,” yet their Big, Ugly Bill would add at least $3 trillion to our debt. This rescissions package seeks to rescind more than $8 billion for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which funds global food aid programs supporting market development for California farmers. These programs help purchase commodities like almonds, grapes, and citrus for export to address global hunger, which generates an estimated $2 billion in annual revenue for American agriculture, feeding the world while generating good will towards the United States. 
    In addition, it would rescind $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, of which roughly 70% of this funding sustains local NPR and PBS stations across America. This would impact Valley PBS and KVPR-Valley Public Radio, which provide trusted news, educational programming, and emergency information to families across the region. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Swalwell Statement on the Assault of Senator Alex Padilla

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-15)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14) issued the following statement on the Assault of Senator Alex Padilla:

    “America is dying. The brutal attack on Senator Padilla puts America closer to a failed democracy. Senator Padilla was physically grabbed and removed from a press conference — that took place in his own office building — for doing his job. Senator Padilla spoke truth to power and was arrested for doing so.

    Secretary Kristi Noem must resign immediately. She has lost the confidence of the American people. We were promised ICE would target violent criminals. Instead, they’re terrorizing families. A four-year-old American citizen battling cancer was deported. A U.S. Marshall was detained over the weekend. And now, two members of congress have been arrested. ICE must also remove its mask. Faceless agents have no business in America. These agents — who resemble KGB officers clearing protests in Russia — are endangering the public and other law enforcement officials.

    The public must show up this weekend at the No Kings Day rallies across 2,000 cities. The size is the point. Not violence. The size. Let’s show Donald Trump there are more decent, freedom-loving Americans than those who support fascism.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Joins Colleagues in Bipartisan Charge To Save Job Corps

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — Last week, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined a letter signed by 199 Members of Congress to U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging her to continue the Job Corps program.

    On May 29, the U.S. Department of Labor issued a notice that it will begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers across the country. Job Corps is a national program with over 120 centers, including the Treasure Island Job Corps Center in San Francisco, which has long served as a critical lifeline for underserved youth in the Bay Area. The Center offers young people free job training, education and housing, all within the heart of the city.

    In their letter, they highlighted, “Nearly 20,000 young people utilize Job Corps to learn skills for in-demand vocational and technical job training. Job Corps is one of the few national programs that specifically targets the 16-24-year-old population that is neither working, nor in school, and provides them with a direct pathway into employment openings in industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding. The program also connects these young Americans with apprenticeships, higher education opportunities, or the military.”

    The members of Congress also noted, “As companies continue to onshore and invest in the men and women of our country, a steady stream of skilled laborers will be required to meet the growing workforce demand. The Job Corps program is uniquely positioned to fill that role and provide these hardworking young Americans with the vocational and technical job training that will set them and our country up for success.”

    The Jun. 5 letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer can be viewed here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Statement on Trump’s Budget Claw Backs to Slash USAID and Emergency Broadcast Systems

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON DC – Today, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) released the following statement on President Trump’s budget claw backs, which eliminates $8.3 billion in funding for U.S. foreign assistance and $1.1 billion in funding for public broadcasting:

    “Gutting U.S. foreign assistance and public broadcasting funding will make America less safe.  

    “These budget claw backs don’t just reduce funding, they unravel decades of investment in our communities, both here in America and around the globe. Whether it’s global partnerships building long-lasting relationships or decades of investments in our emergency broadcast systems that millions depend on, these cuts will make us weaker.  

    “Foreign assistance is not just a moral responsibility – it’s a strategic investment. We’re stopping wars and diseases overseas before they reach our borders. The next pandemic could be only a plane flight away. It also undermines our credibility as a reliable partner, and it’s a gift to our adversaries eager to fill the gaps we leave behind. As a former a Peace Corp volunteer, I’m devastated that Trump is taking a chainsaw to our most effective toolkit for preventing and mitigating global crises.

    “Cutting over a billion dollars from public broadcasting will gut local news and it will cripple emergency broadcasting systems which rural communities rely upon. Let me be clear: Trump’s reckless cuts will disproportionately hurt rural Americans.

    “Congress, not the president, has the power of the purse. Trump is unlawfully sidestepping Congress and the Constitution in order to eliminate these funds. These budget claw backs will codify these draconian cuts into law defying the will of Congress and the who elected them. It’s highway robbery at its finest, where House Republicans and Trump are stealing our ability to be safe at home and abroad.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Statement on Sen. Padilla’s Forceful Removal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) issued the following statement following U.S. Senator Padilla’s handcuffing and detainment during Trump’s Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference:  

    “This is appalling and unacceptable. California’s U.S. Senator Alex Padilla was doing his job of conducting administrative oversight and expressing his right to free speech. Shoving, handcuffing, and throwing a United States Senator on the ground just for asking a question crosses an unprecedented line.

    “This administration is out of control and must be held accountable. These are the actions of an increasingly authoritarian President.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Announces Major Grant Award for Redding Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration awarded $24,393,884 to rehabilitate the runway at Redding Regional Airport.  

    “Redding Regional Airport is an important rural hub for commercial travel, aerial firefighting, and general aviation in the North State,” said Rep. Doug LaMalfa. “This funding will renew the runway and improve overall safety, helping ensure that Redding remains a reliable option for commercial service. I’ve worked closely with local officials to make sure small, rural airports like this one aren’t overlooked when it comes to federal support.” 

    “The City of Redding and Redding Regional Airport greatly appreciate the years of collaboration with our federal partners that made securing this Federal Aviation Administration grant possible. This funding is vital to advancing the essential improvements to our airfield infrastructure,” said City of Redding Airports Manager Andrew Solsvig. “The airport runway is decades old and approaching the end of its useful life. This project is essential to ensure long-term safety and reliability of aircraft operations, while also bringing the airfield into compliance with federal regulations. Planned improvements include resurfacing the runway and blast pads, upgrading runway lighting to energy-efficient LEDs, and replacing all airfield signage.”

    “The city is immensely grateful for the work Congressman Doug LaMalfa and his team have done to make this grant happen,” said Council Member Tenessa Audette. “Redding and North State will be served in fire season, family season and every season in between with a new and improved runway.”

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Applauds Trump Executive Order to Overhaul Wildfire Prevention and Response

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.— Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) joined President Trump at the White House for the signing of a new Executive Order aimed at restoring commonsense to wildfire prevention and response. The order, titled Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response, takes direct steps to improve coordination across agencies, cut unnecessary regulations, and strengthen the tools and partnerships needed to prevent catastrophic wildfires.

    “As peak wildfire season continues, President Trump is continuing to take decisive action to increase preparedness to combat these preventable disasters,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “By consolidating Federal wildland fire programs between agencies and increasing Federal and local partnerships, every firefighter will be part of a stronger and better coordinated response. The President’s action also modernizes the tools available to predict and detect wildfires, which will not only hasten reaction times but also enhance preparation and prevention efforts. Strengthening State and local response, and land management practices will decrease future out of control fires. I look forward to seeing implementation of this Executive Order.”

    Background:

    • Directs the Department of the Interior and Department of Agriculture to consolidate federal wildland fire programs for better coordination.
    • Modernizes detection and prediction efforts by deploying tools like AI, data-sharing platforms, satellite imagery, and advanced weather forecasting.
    • Removes outdated regulations that delay prescribed fire use, fire-retardant deployment, and other proactive fuel reduction efforts.
    • Promotes the use of woody biomass and other forest byproducts to lower wildfire risk.
    • Prioritizes sale of surplus Department of Defense aircraft and parts to support wildfire response.
    • Declassifies historical satellite data to improve fire modeling and prediction.
    • Strengthens federal partnerships with state and local governments to streamline and improve wildfire mitigation efforts.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Reps. Sharice Davids (D-KS), Frank Lucas (R-OK) Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Food Access on Tribal Lands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Frank Lucas (R-OK-03) introduced the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill aimed at improving access to healthy food for tribal communities across the country.

     

    “For many Native families, accessing healthy, affordable food isn’t as simple as driving to the nearest grocery store,” said Davids. “Tribal communities face unique barriers, including long distances to grocery stores and supply chain disruptions that delay or cancel food deliveries. This bipartisan bill helps break down those barriers by ensuring tribal governments can better serve their communities and ensure families don’t go hungry.”

     

    Davids’ bipartisan bill would give tribal governments permanent control over running the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), which provides food to eligible families living on reservations and in nearby approved areas, including parts of Oklahoma. It serves as a critical alternative to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for many tribal households that face challenges accessing grocery stores.

     

    The FDPIR pilot program was originally authorized for five years by the 2018 Farm Bill. Participating tribes have indicated that while the pilot program has been successful, the five-year authorization limit makes it difficult for small and mid-sized tribal producers to scale their operations confidently. Permanent authorization would provide the stability needed for long-term planning and strengthen tribal food sovereignty.

     

    “I am very pleased to join my colleague from Kansas to introduce legislation that will ensure we honor our trust and treaty obligations,” said Representative Frank Lucas (R-OK-03). “Tribes should be able to self-contract to administer quality, domestically produced food. Through the USDA’s FDPIR Demonstration Project, the tribes have proven that they are willing and able to successfully administer this program – now it is time to expand access to all tribes.”

     

    Recent challenges with FDPIR have included delays, canceled shipments, and shortages in food deliveries, partly due to supply chain disruptions and contract management issues. By permanently authorizing the program, this legislation addresses these issues by empowering tribes to manage their food procurement directly, enhancing program reliability and responsiveness.

     

    In 2024, nearly 650,000 tribal members relied on FDPIR to gain access to healthy food. USDA purchases and ships USDA Foods to administering agencies, which then store and distribute the foods, determine applicant eligibility, and provide nutrition education to recipients. USDA also provides administering agencies with funds for program administrative costs.

     

    Each month, participating households receive a nutritionally balanced food package. Participants may select from over 90 products including:

    • Fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

    • Protein foods, including beef, chicken, fish, pork, eggs, bison products, dried or canned beans, soups, peanuts, and peanut butter.

    • Grains, including pastas, cereals, rice, cornmeal, and flour.

    • Dairy, including cheese and milk.

    • Cooking essentials, including vegetable oil, extra virgin olive oil, and butter.

    • Seasonal foods, including pumpkin, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes.

    Additional tribal-related quotes:

    “The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma strongly supports the bill to authorize self-determination and self-governance authored by Reps. Davids and Lucas,” said Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “The Choctaw Nation and other Tribes have demonstrated experience successfully administering the food distribution program. Permanently authorizing self-determination contracts and self-governance agreements will provide greater flexibility and autonomy and expanded sourcing of local foods. Most importantly, it would help us allocate resources where they are most needed to build strong economies and improve the overall health of people in our communities.”

    “Red Lake has long been committed to achieving food sovereignty and diversifying our agricultural operations,” said Chairman Darrel G. Seki Sr., Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. “Through our commercial fishery, cultivation of wild rice over more than 1,000 acres of our Reservation, eight-acre farm known as Gitigaan Acres, and 300-acre buffalo ranch, Red Lake provides our members access to local, traditional, and healthy foods. We appreciate Rep. Davids and Rep. Lucas for introducing this bill so that we can incorporate these foods into our Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations food packages for our members who need access to affordable food the most.”

    “Oneida Nation is proud to be part of the FDPIR Self-Determination demonstration project, and we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our clients and vendors,” said Chairman Tehassi Hill, Oneida Nation. “Through this demonstration project, Oneida Nation and Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin partnered together to replace USDA products in our food packages with local, high-quality products from our own tribal communities. This project allows local, indigenous vendors to build capacity while providing healthy foods to our community. Tribal producers have historically faced barriers to accessing markets given their small size, remote locations and lack of infrastructure. Having reliable orders allows producers like Oneida Nation Farms to plan ahead and invest in equipment, staff, and infrastructure to expand capacity. This project demonstrates how federal nutrition funding can be channeled to support local and regional producers, expanding economic opportunity in tribal communities. The current demonstration project is limited in scope and only gives tribes the authority to procure a few specific products in pre-determined quantities. Currently, making any changes to the products we order requires budget modifications and burdensome, time-consuming approvals from the USDA. Expanding to full Self-Governance authority will provide tribes the flexibility we need to quickly adapt and respond to disruptions in food supply, unpredictable growing seasons, and the unique and changing needs of our clients. Through permanent expansion of the demonstration project with full Self-Governance authority, Congress can recognize tribal sovereignty, reduce federal bureaucracy, support tribal economies, increase local control, and help tribes maintain food security in our communities.”

    “Tribes are not truly sovereign until they are food sovereign. This is why we, as co-chairs of the Native Farm Bill Coalition, support the expansion of self-determination contracting and self-governance compacting authorities to the U.S. Department of Agriculture,” said Chairman Cole Miller, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, and Kari Jo Lawrence, CEO of the Intertribal Agriculture Council, co-chairs of the Native Farm Bill Coalition. “When Tribes have the authority to decide what food they purchase and where they purchase the food from for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Tribes are empowered to prioritize purchasing locally produced, fresh foods that promote the well-being of their members. This authority also opens new Tribal economic development and capacity-building opportunities to Tribes that choose to procure FDPIR products from Tribal farmers and ranchers located in and near Indian Country by supporting new markets and strengthening regional food systems. Tribes have shown time and time again that tribally administered programs are more efficient and effective, and this bipartisan bill is an important step towards food sovereignty.” 

    “The National Congress of American Indians supports the efforts of Rep. Davids and Rep. Lucas to further expand self-determination contracting and self-governance compacting to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR),” said Larry Wright Jr., Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians Executive Director. “To-date, 16 Tribal Nations have utilized the 638 FDPIR pilot program authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill with great success. Not only have Tribal Nations built regional food economies that support Tribal producers, but they have provided access to healthy, traditional foods that promote the health and well-being of Tribal members throughout the country.” 

    “This legislation is a vital step forward in honoring Tribal sovereignty and expanding the proven success of Self-Governance,” said W. Ron Allen, Tribal Chairman/CEO, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, and President, Board of Directors, Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium. “By authorizing both Self-Determination and Self-Governance authority for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), this bill affirms the right of Tribal Nations to design and deliver food assistance in ways that reflect our values, traditions, and community needs. The expansion beyond procurement to the full administration of the program is long overdue and will empower more Tribes to feed their people with dignity and self-determination. I strongly support this effort and urge Congress to act without delay.” 

    “Cherokee Nation strongly supports the expansion of self-determination and self-governance policies throughout the Federal government and applauds Reps. Davids and Lucas for introducing this important bill,” said Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Cherokee Nation. “The Trump Administration and members of Congress on both sides of the aisle wholeheartedly back the growth and enhancement of tribal self-governance, and we see no reason why the upcoming Farm Bill should not include provisions to strengthen tribal sovereignty within the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. Cherokee Nation joins tribes across the country in calling for permanence and expanded tribal authority over this successful program and will continue to advocate for its inclusion in the next Farm Bill.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Introduces Bill to Address Housing Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig introduced legislation to address the affordable housing crisis by enabling the federal government to better track and study housing loss across the country. 

    Rep. Craig’s Federal Inquiry into the Nature and Documentation (FIND) of Housing Loss Act would create a joint taskforce between the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Director of the Census Bureau, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the Department of Commerce and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection to conduct the National Housing Loss Report.

    The taskforce would identify the types of and reasoning behind housing losses that have occurred in the U.S. since January 1, 2022. The report, which would be submitted to Congress within six months of the taskforce’s creation, would include statistical data to help lawmakers craft federal housing policy.

    The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Brittany Petersen (CO-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08).

    “In every corner of Minnesota, I hear from folks struggling to afford a home,” said Rep. Craig. “We’ve got to tackle the housing crisis head on and that starts with getting to the root of the problem. I’m proud to be introducing this common-sense bill alongside my colleagues that will force government agencies to take this crisis seriously and help us devise real solutions at the federal level to make housing more accessible for everyday Minnesotans.”

    The bill is endorsed by housing advocates, as well as The National Association of REALTORS®.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Craig, Van Drew Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Critical Medication Shortages and Reduce American Reliance on Chinese Manufacturing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN) and Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen domestic medication supply chains and reduce American reliance on China for critical medications.  

    The bipartisan Rolling Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient and Drug Reserve (RAPID Reserve) Act would encourage the domestic production of critical medications and incentivize American-based manufacturers to increase their reserves of these medications to prepare for future public health threats and supply chain challenges. 

    Currently, nearly 80% of the manufacturing facilities that produce critical pharmaceutical ingredients are located outside the United States. 

    “Manufacturing critical medications here in America will strengthen our domestic supply chains, create good-paying jobs and most importantly, get life-saving medications into the hands of Minnesotans,” said Rep. Craig. “I’m proud to be reintroducing this common-sense, bipartisan legislation with Rep. Van Drew – because manufacturing pharmaceuticals here at home instead of in China is a no-brainer.”  

    “I am proud to be a part of this bill because it just makes sense,” said Rep. Van Drew. “The RAPID Reserve Act is about making sure we are not relying on China for the medicine we need. We should be making these critical drugs here in America, creating jobs, and keeping our country safe. It is common sense, and it is long overdue.”

    U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Ted Budd (R-MO) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

    The bill is endorsed by the Association for Clinical Oncology, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the Healthcare Distribution Alliance and Phlow Corp.

    You can read the text of the RAPID Reserve Acthere.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Statement on Recissions Package Vote

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on her vote against the Republicans’ disastrous recissions package that will terminate $9.4 billion in Congressionally-approved appropriated funds – including $1.1 billion for public broadcasting and $400 million for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

    “While the American people continue to struggle with rising costs, House Republicans have done nothing to address the affordability crisis in this country. Instead, they passed a catastrophic budget bill that takes food and health care from hundreds of thousands of hard-working Minnesotans. And today, they voted to roll back billions of dollars in Congressionally-approved funding, including federal dollars for public broadcasting, like Minnesota Public Radio and Twin Cities PBS, and PEPFAR – one of the world’s most effective public health initiatives. I voted against this dangerous package because limiting the flow of information and increasing the spread of disease will not make life easier, safer or more affordable for middle-class Minnesotans.”

    The Republicans’ recissions package passed the House with 214 Republican votes.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Statement on EPA RVO Announcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    EAGAN, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement on proposed volumes for the 2026 and 2027 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs).

    “Today’s RVO proposal from EPA is a step in the right direction as we continue working to invest in homegrown biofuels, lower prices at the pump and expand markets for Minnesota producers. As always, there is more work to be done, and I look forward to carefully reviewing any future proposals – including pending decisions on small refinery exemptions – to ensure that these frameworks work for the Minnesota producers and refiners who fuel the world.”

    In Congress, Rep. Craig has led the charge to promote domestic biofuels and expand markets for Minnesota producers and refiners.

    Last month, Rep. Craig, alongside Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), led 26 of her bipartisan colleagues in calling on the Administration to expand annual Renewable Volumes Obligations for biomass-based diesel in their upcoming rulemaking for 2026. In a letter to President Donald Trump, Rep. Craig urged the Administration to support a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) by adopting timely, robust blending requirements in the upcoming “Set 2” rule establishing Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) for 2026 and beyond.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On World Day Against Child Labor, Labor Leaders Introduce Bold Legislation to End Abusive Child Labor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

    The Protecting Children Act is the most robust proposal yet and renews our commitment to confronting child labor violations.

    WASHINGTON – Today, on World Day against Child Labor, Education and Workforce Committee Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) and Workforce Protections (WP) Subcommittee Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) announced their plans to introduce new legislation—the Protecting Children Act—to finally end child labor in America. The bill provides federal worker protections agencies with the tools and resources they need to deter violations and prevent harm to children from intensive work in dangerous jobs. 

    Recent, high-profile news reports have underscored that children are continuing to be illegally employed in hazardous jobs and working conditions.  According to the Wage and Hour Division, the number of children employed in violation of child labor laws has nearly quadrupled between 2015 and 2024.

    “In 2025, oppressive child labor practices should be a lesson taught in history classes—not an ongoing crisis across America. Regrettably, recent reporting has demonstrated that children continue to lose their lives and suffer devastating injuries because they work in hazardous jobs,” said Ranking Member Scott. “Children should be learning and growing in schools, not risking their safety and lives in dangerous workplaces. The Protecting Children Act takes long-overdue steps to strengthen child labor laws and implement serious consequences for endangering children on the job.  This is the bold solution we need to help finally put an end to abusive child labor in America.” 

    “The rise in illegal child labor is a national disgrace. Corporations are exploiting vulnerable children, many of them immigrants, in the most dangerous jobs imaginable.  These are the predictable results of lax enforcement and a system that values profit over children’s lives. The Protecting Children Act is about changing that. It gives us the tools to hold bad actors accountable and finally put an end to the systems that profit from harming children. Our kids deserve protection and the chance to dream, not punch a clock,” said WP Subcommittee Ranking Member Omar.

    The Protecting Children Actrenews our commitment to ending oppressive child labor by:

    ·         Increasing civil and criminal penalties for child labor violations, unsafe workplaces, and workplace injuries and deaths experienced by young workers;

    ·         Strengthening WHD’s ability to prevent the sale and movement of goods produced in violation of child labor rules;

    ·         Expanding capacity for enforcement, research, and data;

    ·         Improving the process for updating child labor rules and prohibiting any future weakening of those rules; and

    ·         Launching public information initiatives to keep policymakers and public informed about child labor enforcement and training young workers on their rights. 

    To read the bill text of the Protecting Children Act, clickhere.

    To read the fact sheet for the Protecting Children Act, clickhere.

    To read the section-by-section summary of the Protecting Children Act, clickhere.

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