TULSA, Okla. – Michael David Gregory from Commerce, Oklahoma was sentenced today for the death of a two-month-old child who died from severe head and eye injuries that a child abuse pediatrician diagnosed as abusive head trauma. Additionally, Gregory was also sentenced for assault related to brain injuries he caused to another two-month-old child, the twin sister of the first infant, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Gregory, 30, to a total of 240 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Judge Hill further ordered Gregory to pay a $200 special monetary assessment.
According to a charging document, Gregory pleaded guilty to one count of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country and one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. According to his plea agreement, Gregory was caring for the twin two-month-old infants at an apartment he shared with his girlfriend in Commerce, Oklahoma. While Gregory’s girlfriend was at work, Gregory forcefully picked up and handled the newborn infants. Gregory admitted that his actions caused traumatic and severe brain and eye injuries in both infants, resulting in the death of one child identified as A.M.R.
Michael David Gregory is not a member of a federally recognized tribe. However, the apartment in which Gregory cared for the twins is located on the Quapaw Nation reservation, and both infants are considered “Indian persons” because they are eligible for membership in the Choctaw Nation.
Michael David Gregory was previously released on bond in this case. Judge Hill ordered him to report to a United States Bureau of Prisons facility on July 22, 2025.
The Commerce Police Department and the Quapaw Nation Marshal Service in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melody Nelson prosecuted the case.
Iran’s immediate response – the firing of about 100 drones into Israel, many of which were shot down – appears an opening gambit; meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his country’s airstrikes would continue “for as many days as it takes.”
The Conversation turned to Javed Ali, an expert on Middle East affairs at the University of Michigan and a former senior official at the National Security Council during the first Trump administration, to talk through why Israel chose now to strike and what the implications are for U.S. policy on Iran.
Why did Israel strike now?
There was a combination of factors that led up to this moment.
One of the more immediate reasons was that an International Atomic Energy Agency report found that Iran was making progress toward enriching uranium to a degree that, in theory at least, would allow Tehran to very quickly upgrade to a weapons-grade level. That is the thrust of what Netanyahu has said by way of reason for the attack now – that intelligence shows that Iran was getting closer to a possible breakout status for a nuclear weapon.
But there is a confluence of other factors that have built up over the last year and a half, ever since the Oct. 7, 2023, attack by Hamas in Israel.
Iran’s proxy Axis of Resistance – that is, regional groups aligned with Iran and supported militarily by Tehran, including Hamas and Hezbollah – doesn’t present the same level of threat to Israel as it did in the pre-Oct. 7 landscape.
In the past, an Israeli attack of the sort we are seeing now would have invited a multidirectional response from all corners of the resistance – and we saw this in the early days after the Oct. 7 attack.
As of now, none of Iran’s resistance partners have done anything in response to the latest strike – and that is, in large part, due to the fact that Israel has successfully degraded these group’s capabilities through a series of campaigns and operations. The United States has also contributed to this effort to a degree with sustained operations against the Houthis in Yemen from March to May this year, including hundreds of airstrikes.
Further, Israel’s previous attacks on Iran in April and October 2024 managed to degrade Iran’s ballistic and surface-to-air missiles and air defense radar systems. This likely played into Israel’s calculations, too.
Lastly, Israel knows that it has a strong supporter in the White House with President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress. Washington may not be 100% aligned with Tel Aviv on every issue, but at the moment there is no criticism from the the White House or Republican members of Congress on Israel’s attacks.
There may have been some dialogue between Netanyahu and the Trump administration over the timing of the Israeli strike preceding yesterday’s attacks, during which Israel would have made the case that the time is right now to launch a very different type of campaign to really set back Iran’s nuclear program. In recorded remarks about Israel’s operations, Netanyahu stated he directed his national security team to begin planning for a large-scale campaign against Iran’s nuclear program last November.
Perhaps the White House did push back, saying that it wanted to see if any progress could be made in the talks. Certainly, it has been reported that Trump told Netanyahu in a phone call on June 10 that he believed a deal with Tehran could be negotiated.
Regardless, Netanyahu still went ahead with the strike.
Indeed some observers have posited that collapsing the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran may have been one of the intentions of Netanyahu, who has long opposed any deal with Tehran and has reportedly been irked by Trump’s reversal on the issue. During his first administration, Trump unilaterally pulled the U.S. out of a previous nuclear deal.
A newspaper shows the portraits of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, who were due to meet in Oman. Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images
What should we make of the US response to the strike?
The White House hasn’t criticized Israel in its response to the strike, merely stating that it wasn’t involved.
In my assessment, the White House appears to be sincere in the substance of what it is saying: that there was no overt and direct U.S. involvement with Israel during the actual strike. As for U.S. involvement in any planning or intelligence sharing ahead of the strike, we may never know.
But this is largely messaging for Iran: “We didn’t attack you. Israel attacked you.”
The U.S. is clearly worried that any response in Tehran may involve U.S. assets in the region. In the past, parts of Iran’s proxy network have hit American bases in Jordan and Iraq. Backing up this being a real concern in Washington is the fact that in advance of Israel’s strike, it already made moves to protect some of its assets in the region and remove personnel.
Has Iran said whether US targets will be included in its response?
On June 11, Iranian Defense Minister Aziz Nasrizadeh warned that if Israel were to attack, Tehran would respond against U.S. personnel and bases in the region – but that hasn’t happened yet.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and military officials must know that attacking U.S. targets would be very risky and would lead to a significant response that would likely be even more damaging than Israel’s latest attacks – including putting a potential deal over its nuclear program at risk. And the U.S. has the capability to hit Iran even harder than Israel, both militarily and through the extension of sanctions that have already been very punishing to the Iranian economy.
Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister of Israel, points to a red line he drew on a graphic of a bomb while addressing the United Nations on Sept. 27, 2012. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Ultimately, it will be Khamenei who decides Iran’s response – and he remains firmly in control of Iran’s national security apparatus despite his advanced age. He knows he will have to walk a fine line to avoid drawing the U.S. into a military campaign.
So how might Iran respond in coming weeks?
Despite the challenges facing Iran at the moment, Iran will, I believe, have to respond in a way that goes beyond its previous attacks on Israel.
Reports of drone attacks against Israel on June 13 fit within the framework of the attack Iran launched against Israel in April 2024 that included a combined salvo of almost 300 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones over several hours. Despite the damage Israel has inflicted against Iran through its series of operations, Iran probably still possesses thousands or tens of thousands of these types of weapons that it can use against various targets in the region.
Iran could look at targets outside Israel, without necessarily hitting the U.S. directly – for example, by attacking maritime targets in the Persian Gulf and in effect closing the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. military planners have long been concerned about Iranian naval attacks using small boats for ramming or small arms attacks against shipping in the Persian Gulf.
Another option would be for Iran to increase its involvement in terrorism activities in the region. Tehran’s proxy groups may be diminished, but Iran still has its Quds Force, through which the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducts nonstate and unconventional warfare. Will the Quds Force look toward targeted assassinations, bombings, or kidnappings as part of Iran’s retaliatory options? It has employed such tactics in the past.
And beyond conventional weapons, Iran also has pretty significant cyber capabilities that it has used against Israel, the United States and Saudi Arabia, among others.
Where does this leave US-Iran talks?
It would appear Trump is still holding open the possibility of some kind of deal with Iran. In his statement following the Israel attack, he warned Tehran that if it didn’t come back to the table and cut a deal, the next Israeli attack would be “even more brutal.”
The attack could push Iran into reengaging in talks that were seemingly stalling in recent weeks. Certainly that seems to be the thrust of Trump’s messaging.
But the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists in the attack, and the apparent wounding of one of the negotiators, may convince Tehran to double down on a path toward a nuclear weapon as the only means of a deterrence against Israel, especially if it suspects U.S. involvement.
Javed Ali does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Democratic leaders and a lone Republican senator, Alaska’s Lisa Murkowski, quickly decried the treatment of U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla of California and called for an investigation after he was removed from a press conference with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on June 12, 2025, in Los Angeles, handcuffed and forced to the ground.
“Sir! Sir! Hands off!” Padilla, 52, shouted as several federal agents surrounded and moved him out of the room where Noem was speaking about the Los Angeles protests against immigration enforcement. “I am Senator Alex Padilla. I have a question for the secretary.”
Padilla, who unexpectedly appeared at the press conference and interrupted Noem as she was speaking during her prepared remarks, was released soon after and met with Noem. Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, shared a video of the incident with Padilla on X, and wrote, “Incredibly aggressive behavior from a sitting US Senator. No one knew who he was.”
Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation, spoke with Boise State University political scientist Charlie Hunt, an expert on Congress, to understand how political polarization and a shift in American political decorum may have contributed to the shocking moment of an American senator being forcibly removed from a press conference.
What is striking to you about what happened to Sen. Padilla?
What stood out to me was the aggressiveness with which Noem’s security officers detained Sen. Padilla and took him out of the room. We do not ever see something like this happen to members of Congress and particularly members of the Senate. Sen. Padilla represents 39 million people – he is not some back-bencher member of the House of Representatives. I think it’s safe to say that no other modern presidential administration has come close to treating an individual member of Congress in this way.
This is also a real turn in terms of the completely autocratic way in which Department of Homeland Security staff responded to the incident. They claimed in a social media post that Padilla didn’t identify himself at the briefing, even though, “I’m Senator Alex Padilla” were the first words out of his mouth in the video that they themselves shared.
What safeguards, if any, do members of Congress have that might protect their ability to speak freely, and publicly oppose the executive branch?
Members of Congress enjoy the same basic free speech rights that all Americans do, but they do also have an additional set of protections that are relevant to this incident.
Members of Congress have significant oversight power, which involves doing due diligence on what actions the executive branch is taking and making sure they’re complying with laws that Congress has passed.
As a Senate member from California, it’s perfectly legitimate for Padilla to want clarity on immigration enforcement actions that are taking place in Los Angeles. Padilla even clarified after the incident that he was at the press conference to get answers from the Department of Homeland Security that he and other Senate members have been seeking for weeks about deportations.
This is completely in line with Congress’ oversight power. Senators often question officials in committee hearings like we typically see, but they also conduct fact-finding missions to learn how executive actions are affecting their constituents.
Congress members also have protections stemming from the Constitution’s speech and debate clause. Essentially, they cannot be arrested or indicted for things they say in their official capacity, which – because of Congress’ oversight responsibility – Padilla was clearly within the bounds of here.
Yes, of course, Padilla was also trying to draw attention to himself and the issues he’s focused on. But it’s not against the law to be a little bit disruptive or to engage in political theater, especially thanks to these additional protections members of Congress typically enjoy.
What other factors led to this moment?
Something I’ve written about previously is a phenomenon called negative partisanship. This means that voters and Congress members alike are driven not so much by loyalty to their own party but instead a sort of seething hatred for the other political party. What gets the most clicks and views, and what drives voters more and more, is the idea that “we don’t just want to see voting along the party line – we want to see our team beating the other side into submission.” This incident with Sen. Padilla was a very literal embodiment of this principle.
We have seen violence during Trump’s campaigns, where hecklers would be roughed up by participants at rallies, at Trump’s encouragement. Certainly, we saw it at the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021, and Trump’s subsequent pardons of those rioters.
Does Padilla’s removal have anything to do with Donald Trump specifically?
We can’t ignore the singular role Trump has played here. This is a uniquely authoritarian presidency, even much more so than the first Trump administration. By authoritarian, I mean a leader who tries to rule on his own and suppress all dissent. Trump didn’t create partisanship, political violence or negative partisanship. But there’s no getting around the fact that his past behavior and openness to violence have lowered the bar for decorum in American politics.
For example, if you have convinced your supporters that the people on the other side of the political aisle are “sick” or “nasty,” that they are going to ruin the country, then those supporters will become more willing to accept some of the actions Trump has taken, such as calling in the Marines on protesters in Los Angeles, or pardoning the Capitol attackers – even if they wouldn’t have been willing to accept that kind of response 20 years ago.
All of these things combined – negative partisanship, plus having a leader on one side that is willing to lower the decorum bar beyond where we thought was possible – is a recipe for things unfolding like we saw with Padilla.
U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, speaks to news reporters outside the Wilshire Federal Building after he was forcibly removed from a press conference on June 12, 2025. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images
What will you be watching for as this situation plays out?
My concern is the balance of powers between the executive and legislative branches of government. We expect competition between the branches, for “ambition to counteract ambition,” as James Madison put it, to ensure one branch doesn’t get too powerful. This incident was a huge step in the wrong direction.
As a result, authoritarian presidents and administrations see an opening to treat them this way without consequences. What Congress does in the next several days about this episode will speak volumes – or not – about whether it intends to ever reassert itself as an equal branch of government.
Democrats held the floor in the Senate all afternoon to demand answers about Padilla’s treatment. It will be revealing how Senate Majority Leader John Thune and others respond. Lisa Murkowski has said she’s pretty appalled by what happened. Meanwhile, Lindsey Graham seemed to imply that Padilla deserved what he got. Which route will Republicans, who control Congress, take?
Charlie Hunt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Since the outbreak of crises in Libya in 2012, then in Mali and the entire central Sahel, as well as the proliferation of Boko Haram in the countries of the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel region has been facing enormous security challenges that are aggravated by political, geopolitical, socio-economic, and environmental factors. The deterioration of the security situation is aggravated by highly porous borders, attacks by non-state armed groups as well as inter-community conflicts that have had and continue to have negative impacts on communities and force millions of people to be displaced. But also this situation has generated a major crisis of governance and lack of confidence in the governments of the affected countries having led to a wave of coups d’état and political transitions in : Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso and Chad. The crisis in the Sahel prevails in a context where women were already subject to several forms of violence and discrimination underpinned by socio-cultural barriers deeply rooted in tradition.
Against this backdrop, women are actively working for peace. They have organized themselves into associations at local, national, and regional levels to influence peace and to advocate for the advancement of their rights. But their efforts face several challenges, mainly organizational and lack of funding. It is in this context that UN Women has developed and is implementing since 2023 a program aimed at strengthening the capacities of women’s organizations for peace in the Sahel. Funded by the Government of Netherlands, the program plans to support 103 organizations applying a comprehensive approach combining institutional, technical and advocacy support and partnership.
Building on the commitments of UNSCR 1325, 2024 marked a pivotal shift toward strengthening local women’s organizations and positioning them as key actors for inclusive peace. At the core of the initiative, lies a powerful bet on grassroots transformation. A total of 103 women-led peace organizations received tailored support spanning institutional diagnostics, technical training, coaching, and access to equipment. Twelve organizations now operate from fully equipped, staffed offices, and five have successfully mobilized new funding based on project proposals developed with the program’s guidance. Fifteen organizations began designing income-generating initiatives to secure independent funding streams.
“The project transformed our structure. We revised our policies, gained visibility, and secured international funding.” – Young women leader, APSJ Mauritania
Beyond capacity building, the program invested in coalition building and advocacy. A mapping of peace-focused women’s organizations was completed in all five countries, laying the foundation for connected national networks and an emerging regional alliance. Virtual convenings and a digital platform piloted in Mali are facilitating knowledge exchange and cross-border solidarity. The 103 organizations are now informally networked across countries, forming the backbone of a regional movement of women peacebuilders in the Sahel.
A cohort of 170 women leaders across the five countries received in-depth training in advocacy strategy, messaging, and influence. Women’s organizations developed national advocacy plans with concrete actions, strategic targets, and implementation roadmaps. The execution of those plans has already begun through targeted lobbying and partner engagement. So many successful advocacy initiatives have been conducted. For example, a National Women’s Dialogue was organized in Niger after the July 2023 coup, uniting 44 women’s groups to define priorities for inclusive transition. Those priorities were presented to the government and some of them considered in the transition roadmap.
In all the five countries, women hold quarterly citizen dialogues to reflect on solutions for durable peace and their inclusion in peace processes.
With a dedicated visual identity “Sahel Women’s Leadership for Peace” the initiative rolled out communications campaigns targeted millions of people across all countries. Public debates, radio programs, and digital storytelling amplified the voices and priorities of women peacebuilders, while increasing public awareness of the WPS agenda.
With this innovative approach, UNWOMEN is catalyzing deep shifts in the peace infrastructure of the region. From grassroots organizations gaining legitimacy and funding, to regional coalitions taking shape and national advocacy plans being rolled out, women are now repositioned as peace leaders. The initiative is not just building capacity, it is reshaping systems. And as these women organize, influence, and lead, they are redefining what inclusive peace looks like in some of the region’s most fragile contexts. Even though the region is still in crisis, there is hope that this women’s movement will contribute to the stabilization of the region.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TEHRAN, June 13 (Xinhua) — A loud and “terrifying” sound was heard near Shahid Nojeh Air Base in Kebudraheng area of western Iran’s Hamedan Province amid heightened tensions following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency reported on Friday.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported the death of the formation’s aerospace division commander Amir-Ali Hajizadeh along with several members of his unit in what it said was a “terrorist” attack by Israel earlier in the day, the IRGC’s official news outlet Sepah News reported.
Mehr’s report also said Iranian fighter jets were spotted flying over the northeastern city of Mashhad, but authorities have not yet issued any official statements explaining the flights. -0-
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TEHRAN, June 13 (Xinhua) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed on Friday that Iran would give a “legitimate and strong” response to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory earlier in the day.
He made the announcement in a statement on the presidential office’s website in connection with the deadly Israeli strikes on various areas of Tehran and other cities in the country.
M. Pezeshkian stressed that the Iranian people and the country’s authorities will not remain silent in the face of “Israel’s crime,” adding that the Islamic Republic’s response will make Israel “regret its stupid actions.” –0–
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)
Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), released the following statement in response to Israel’s defensive strikes against the Iranian regime:
“Iran’s accelerating nuclear program, developed in secret and in violation of international agreements, poses a direct threat to our national security and the safety of the entire region. With a long track record of supporting terrorism – particularly through its regional terrorist proxy network – obstructing international inspections, and calling for the destruction of Israel, the Iranian regime has made its intentions unmistakably clear.
“Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has long directed and armed terrorist proxies including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen – groups responsible for deadly attacks on civilians, Israeli population centers, and U.S. personnel and assets across the region.
“Faced with an existential threat, Israel acted to protect its citizens and prevent a nuclear-armed adversary from gaining ground. I support Israel’s right to defend itself and to take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of its people.
“Preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is critical not only for Israel, but for the security of the United States and our allies. This is a moment that calls for resolve and unity from the international community.
“In Congress, there is strong bipartisan agreement that Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. I will continue working across the aisle to uphold that commitment. As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense and Homeland Security, I remain focused on strengthening our strategic partnerships, supporting our allies, and safeguarding peace and security at home and abroad.”
S. 868 would require the Administration to impose sanctions on foreign persons who have knowingly engaged in any of the following:
Significant corruption in the country of Georgia,
Activities that impede Georgia’s relationship with the North Atlantic Treaty organization and the European Union, or
Actions that undermine the peace and territorial integrity of Georgia.
The bill also would require the Administration to report to the Congress on sanctions imposed under the bill, diplomatic relations with Georgia, and other related matters. The requirements of the bill would expire five years after enactment.
Under current law, the Administration can impose sanctions on foreign persons who engage in corruption or undermine the peace and territorial integrity of an ally or partner of the United States. If the enactment of S. 868 leads the Administration to broaden those sanctions, more people would be denied visas by the Department of State, resulting in an insignificant decrease in revenues from fees. Although most visa fees are retained by the Department of State and spent, some collections are deposited into the Treasury as revenues. Denying foreign nationals entry into the United States also would reduce direct spending on federal benefits (emergency Medicaid or federal subsidies for health insurance, for example) for which those people might otherwise be eligible.
The bill would block transactions involving certain assets either in the United States or under the control of people or entities in the United States. Under the bill, any person or entity violating those prohibitions would be subject to civil or criminal monetary penalties. Such penalties are recorded as revenues, and a portion can be spent without further appropriation.
On the basis of data about similar sanctions, CBO estimates any additional sanctions imposed under the bill would affect a small number of people. Thus, enacting S. 868 would have insignificant effects on revenues and direct spending, and would, on net, reduce deficits by insignificant amounts over the 2025-2035 period.
Using information about the cost of reports similar to those required by the bill, CBO estimates that implementing S. 868 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Such related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
S. 868 would impose a private-sector mandate as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) by expanding the scope of authority for the Administration to regulate transactions between entities in the United States and foreign entities and officials of foreign governments who would be subject to sanctions under the bill. That expansion would result in additional burdens on individuals and entities, such as banks, in the United States that are required to monitor and report on foreign transactions and to block access to certain assets owned by sanctioned entities. It also would prohibit transactions between entities in the United States and sanctioned parties that otherwise would be permitted under current law.
The cost of the mandate would be any income or profit lost as a result of the bill’s enactment. CBO expects that because a small number of people or entities would be affected, the loss of income from any incremental increase in restrictions imposed by the bill would be small as well. CBO estimates that the cost of the mandate would fall well below the annual threshold established in UMRA for private-sector mandates ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).
S. 868 contains no intergovernmental mandates as defined in UMRA.
The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Emma Uebelhor (for federal costs) and Brandon Lever (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
H.R. 275 would require the Department of Homeland Security to publish, on a publicly available website, a monthly report on the number and nationalities of Special Interest Aliens encountered by the department during the previous month. Special Interest Aliens are non‑U.S. nationals who, based on an analysis of their travel patterns, potentially pose national security risks to the United States.
On the basis of information about similar reporting requirements, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
The CBO staff contact for this estimate is David Rafferty. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
Home Newsroom AG Labrador Visits North Idaho to Strengthen Partnerships with Law Enforcement in Fight Against Child Exploitation
POST FALLS — Attorney General Raúl Labrador visited North Idaho this week to meet with police chiefs and strengthen partnerships between local law enforcement and the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The visit included stops at the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association Conference, participation in biannual mental health training for ICAC investigators, and discussions with Post Falls Police Department leadership. “Our ICAC investigators do incredibly demanding work to protect vulnerable children from online predators, and they can’t do it alone,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Building strong partnerships with police departments across Idaho, including here in North Idaho, is essential to keeping our kids safe. Our investigators confront the worst of humanity in their work, which is why providing them with mental health resources through professionals like Dr. Crampton and Dr. Ginkel is so critical to supporting our team.” At the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association Conference, Labrador thanked police chiefs for their dedication to protecting Idaho communities. He let them know his office is available to be a resource and assist local law enforcement with certain investigations and prosecutions, especially ICAC cases. The Attorney General then spent time at the ICAC booth at the conference, speaking directly with chiefs who stopped by about collaboration opportunities and resources available to their departments. Attorney General Labrador then joined his ICAC investigators and team members in Post Falls for their biannual Mental Health and Resiliency training conducted by Dr. Alex Crampton and Dr. Ross Ginkel, the contracted psychologists for the ICAC team. These investigators are heroes who work tirelessly to protect children in Idaho. Every day, they confront horrific images and disturbing cases as they conduct search warrants and arrest online predators. The Attorney General’s office ensures these investigators have mental health resources available whenever they need them, and it was an honor for Labrador to join them for part of this critical training. The Attorney General’s office has ICAC investigators stationed throughout the state. These full-team mental health trainings are held in different locations across Idaho to accommodate investigators statewide and bring the entire team together. The Attorney General also met with Captains Mark Brantl and Jason Mealer at the Post Falls Police Department to discuss ongoing collaboration between local law enforcement and the Attorney General’s ICAC Task Force. The Attorney General’s ICAC Unit works with the Idaho ICAC Task Force, a coalition of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, to investigate and prosecute individuals who use the internet to criminally exploit children.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is expanding access to vital care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities by approving Medicaid State Plan Amendments (SPAs) in several states. Indian Health Service (IHS) and Tribal clinics in Minnesota, New Mexico,Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming are now authorized to provide Medicaid clinic services beyond the physical clinic site, including in homes, schools, and other appropriate community locations.
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Bernard (“Bernie”) J. Keller, 27, of Hamburg, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in 2017 and 2018, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received reports that files of suspected child pornography had been shared on the Kik application. Subsequent investigation traced the files to Keller, who was ultimately convicted in Erie County Court of Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child less than 16 in August 2022, sentenced to 10 years’ probation, and placed on the New York State Sex Offender registry. In March 2025, the New York State Police received another report from NCMEC that four files of suspected child pornography were shared between two users on the Kik application. Subsequent investigation traced the files once again to Keller. On May 21, 2025, a search warrant was executed at Keller’s residence, during which investigators seized his cellular telephone. A preliminary search located suspected child pornography on the cell phone.
If any members of the public have information regarding this defendant, you are asked to call the FBI at 716-856-7800.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Mark Grimm, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that GLENN GRIFFIN, the owner and president of Griffin’s Landscaping Corporation, was sentenced to two years in prison for a scheme in which GRIFFIN bribed a Town of Cortlandt employee to gain unauthorized access to a Town facility to dump loads of unauthorized materials. GRIFFIN was also sentenced for a separate bid-rigging scheme. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Vincent L. Briccetti.
On May 20, 2025, ROBERT DYCKMAN, the former Assistant General Foreman for the Town of Cortlandt, was sentenced by Judge Briccetti to a year and a day in prison for his participation in the bribery and dumping scheme. As part of their sentences, GRIFFIN and DYCKMAN were each ordered to pay $2.4 million in restitution to their victims.
“Glenn Griffin and Robert Dyckman’s corruption not only damaged public land and fragile wetlands but also undermined the public’s faith in our government and institutions” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Griffin, a successful business owner and president, bribed Dyckman so that he could save money and, in the process, illegally dump harmful, unauthorized materials on public property generating $2.4 million in damages. Moreover, Griffin then took government money to remove and haul away the very materials that he had illegally dumped. Together with our law enforcement partners, we are committed to rooting out such brazen and wasteful corruption.”
According to statements made in public filings and court proceedings:
Illegal Dumping Scheme
From 2018 until February 2020, GRIFFIN and DYCKMAN engaged in an unauthorized dumping scheme. DYCKMAN gave GRIFFIN and his employees unauthorized access to Arlo Lane, a Cortlandt facility, to dump hundreds of large truckloads of unauthorized materials such as thick concrete, cement with rebar, tiles, bricks, large rocks, and soil. After the illegal dumping, GRIFFIN billed and received payments from the Town of Cortlandt for removing and hauling away the very materials that GRIFFIN had illegally dumped at Arlo Lane with DYCKMAN’s assistance.
DYCKMAN generally allowed GRIFFIN and his employees to access Arlo Lane on Saturdays or after working hours. To carry out the scheme, DYCKMAN would attempt to clear senior Town of Cortlandt management away from Arlo Lane around the time of the unauthorized dumping. When DYCKMAN arranged for a subordinate Town of Cortlandt worker to work overtime when GRIFFIN was dumping unauthorized loads, DYCKMAN would falsely record the worker’s overtime as having occurred during the week in order to conceal the scheme.
In exchange for access to Arlo Lane, GRIFFIN paid DYCKMAN cash bribes.
GRIFFIN and DYCKMAN were ordered to pay the Town of Cortlandt and the Westchester Land Trust, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization which owns damaged wetlands abutting the Town of Cortlandt’s Arlo Lane property, a total of $2.4 million to remediate and restore their property following GRIFFIN’s and DYCKMAN’s criminal conduct.
Bid-Rigging Scheme
Between 2015 and 2018, Griffin also engaged in a bid-rigging scheme. GRIFFIN defrauded the village of Croton-on-Hudson for work on its schools, and the hamlet of Verplanck for work at its fire department. GRIFFIN made sham, non-competitive, and inflated bids on behalf of entities that GRIFFIN did not work for or have authorization to submit bids on behalf of, so that GRIFFIN would be the low bidder in a pool of purportedly competitive bids and receive public money for work on the projects. Based on these sham, non-competitive, and inflated bids, GRIFFIN was awarded contracts with a combined value exceeding $133,000.
* * *
In addition to the prison term, GRIFFIN, 56, of Cortlandt, New York was sentenced to three years of supervised release and a $50,000 fine. He was also ordered to forfeit $220,000 and pay $2.4 million in restitution, with $1.2 million due to the Town of Cortlandt and $1.2 million due to the Westchester Land Trust. On August 26, 2024, GRIFFIN pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Victoria Reznik to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
In addition to the prison term, DYCKMAN, 53, of Verplanck, New York, was sentenced to two years of supervised release and ordered to pay $2.4 million in restitution, with $1.2 million due to the Town of Cortlandt and $1.2 million due to the Westchester Land Trust. On August 26, 2024, DYCKMAN pled guilty before Magistrate Judge Reznik to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Westchester County Police Department in this investigation. Mr. Clayton also thanked the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and the New York City Department of Investigation for their assistance in the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David R. Felton and James McMahon are in charge of the prosecution.
Victim of Alleged Homicide Was Murdered in Connection with Drug Trafficking Conspiracy
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia; and the District Attorney for Sullivan County, New York, Brian Conaty, announced the filing of a Superseding Indictment charging DWAYNE JOHNSON with the May 2017 murder of Shaniece Harris (the “Victim”), as well as additional controlled substance and firearms offenses. JOHNSON was previously taken into custody on controlled substance and firearms charges following the recovery of, among other things, marijuana and approximately 30 firearms from his residence in May 2023. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Vincent Briccetti. Earlier today, JOHNSON was arraigned on the charges in the Superseding Indictment.
“As alleged, more than eight years ago, Dwayne Johnson murdered Shaniece Harris in Monticello, New York, in connection with a long-running drug conspiracy,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Thanks to the hard work of the prosecutors in this Office and our law enforcement partners at FBI, New York State Police, NYPD, and the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office, Johnson will be held to account for this cold-blooded crime. This brutal murder shows the harsh truth that drug trafficking and violence go together, and drug trafficking poses incredible dangers to communities throughout New York. As this Superseding Indictment shows, we work every day to deliver justice for the victims of senseless violence—no matter how many years have passed. We hope this prosecution brings some measure of peace to the victim’s loved ones.”
“Dwayne Johnson allegedly murdered Shaniece Harris as part of his drug trafficking operation,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia. “We are committed to ending the senseless and irreparable damage caused to our communities by violence connected to drug trafficking. The FBI has a long memory. No matter how much time has passed, we will not cease in our efforts to find justice for victims of murder and other violent crimes.”
“I am thrilled that this arrest is the first step in bringing closure to the family and loved one’s of Shanice Harris,” said District Attorney Brian Conaty. “I applaud the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Southern District of New York. I am proud that members of my office were able to assist these entities in this investigation. I thank all the law enforcement entities involved for their unwavering dedication to investigating and apprehending the individual who was responsible for this heinous crime. It is law enforcement collaborations such as this that send a stark message that the victims of violent crime will never be forgotten.”
As alleged in the Superseding Indictment and other public filings: [1]
On or about May 29, 2017, JOHNSON shot and killed Shaniece Harris in Monticello, New York, in furtherance of his long-running conspiracy to traffic over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana in the Southern District of New York and elsewhere. Following a series of searches in 2023, law enforcement recovered multiple videos made by JOHNSON in which Johnson displayed his cache of firearms and articulated his intent to shoot anyone who attempted the steal his marijuana or marijuana proceeds. On or about May 24, 2023, law enforcement recovered from JOHNSON’s residence body armor, a large quantity of ammunition, and approximately 30 firearms, including multiple short-barreled rifles.
* * *
JOHNSON, 46, of Monticello, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison; one count of murder through use of a firearm, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of death or life in prison; one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; one count of possession of a short-barreled rifle in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison to be served consecutively to any other term of prison imposed and a maximum sentence of life in prison; and one count of unlawful possession of firearms, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
The minimum and maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, the FBI Hudson Valley White Collar Crime Task Force, the New York State Police, the NYPD, the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office, and the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kaiya Arroyo and Jorja Knauer are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Liam Ronan.
The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment and the description of the Superseding Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact descried therein should be treated as an allegation.
PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland drug trafficker was sentenced to federal prison Friday for possessing fentanyl on multiple occasions.
Yesmin Miseal Medina Vargas, 20, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Oregon, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, in February 2023, Medina Vargas was identified as a leader of a dispatcher-based drug trafficking organization in the Portland area. Medina Vargas was responsible for taking orders from customers and coordinating drug deliveries.
In February 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents executed a search warrant on Medina Vargas’ residence and seized more than 20 pounds of fentanyl, body armor, ammunition, and cellular phones.
Medina Vargas resumed drug trafficking and several months later, in August 2023, Medina Vargas arrived at a controlled buy in Tigard, Oregon, with a minor in his vehicle. Medina-Vargas and the minor were arrested, and agents seized approximately 2,000 fentanyl pills.
On September 12, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Medina Vargas with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
On November 5, 2024, Medina Vargas pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. As part of his plea agreement, Medina Vargas admitted that he was part of a drug trafficking organization that caused an overdose death.
This case was investigated by HSI with assistance from the FBI, Westside Interagency Narcotics Team, and Lake Oswego Police Department. It was prosecuted by Cassady A. Adams, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.
DETROIT – Mubasher Riaz, 41, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, was sentenced today to 188 months in prison after having pleaded guilty to charges of coercion and enticement of a minor, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.
Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Division.
According to court records, in July 2023, local police in Maumee, Ohio, learned that Riaz was messaging a 13-year-old girl, Minor Victim 1 (MV-1) on Snapchat. Communications between Riaz and MV-1 showed that Riaz had requested and received nude images of the minor and that he attempted to gather information about her home with the intent to meet with her to engage in sexual activity. FBI agents reviewed Riaz’s Snapchat communications and found that Riaz messaged numerous other individuals on Snapchat who identified themselves as minors, some as young as 11 years old. For example, Riaz communicated with Minor Victim 2 (MV-2), who was 13 years old when Riaz contacted her. Riaz drove to MV-2’s foster home and engaged in sexual activity with her in his parked car. Riaz offered MV-1 and MV-2 tobacco and other items in exchange for sex acts. As part of his sentence, Riaz will be required to pay $150,000 in restitution to his minor victims.
“This defendant preyed in the most disgusting ways on vulnerable girls as young as 11 years old. Those are the actions of an evil man. And we will do everything in our power to prosecute fiends who prowl around pursuing our children,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said.
“The sentencing of Mubasher Riaz sends a powerful and unequivocal message: those who exploit children will be investigated aggressively and held fully accountable under federal law,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office. “I commend the exceptional efforts of our Ann Arbor Resident Agency and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan. Their unwavering dedication to justice was instrumental in securing this conviction. The FBI in Michigan is resolute in its mission to protect children and ensure that anyone who seeks to harm them will face justice.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Zurek.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Washington D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement on the Israel strikes of Iran Nuclear sites:
“Israel is the eternal homeland of the Jewish people and has the right to defend herself from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard of Iran – the world’s most prolific state sponsor of terrorism, and existential threat to peace and stability for all people in the Middle East.
Simply put, Iran must be stopped from developing nuclear weapons.”
Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
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To watch Senator Capito’s interview, click here or on the image above.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Republican Policy Committee (RPC), joined CNBC’s “Squawk Box” to discuss progress on the Republican reconciliation bill.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ON THE CURRENT STATE OF PLAY FOR THE RECONCILIATION BILL:“We’re working it through with our members. We’ve had meetings. We know how important it is to the American people that their taxes don’t go up, that we shore up the border, our national security, and our energy. We are on track here…I feel very good about where we are at this point.”
ON SENATE GOP LEADERSHIP WORKING WITH MEMBERS: “At the end of the day, we’re going to be successful, and part of that is because of the leadership of John Thune— he’s listening to everybody. Mike Crapo has been very studied over on Finance [Committee] to make sure that everybody has input. He has stacks of ideas from different senators. But at the end of the day, we all know this bill is important for the economy, for the prosperity of many people around the country, so that’s going to be the driving force for all of us.”
ON PROTECTING SNAP AND MEDICAID BENEFITS: “You have to look at the benefit programs to make sure that those that are due benefits, those that need the benefits, get the benefits…but what’s happened here is that there are people on those benefits, both programs, that don’t deserve to be there or don’t qualify…We need to flush that out, get rid of the waste, the fraud, the abuse of the system so that it is there for the folks who need it.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivers an important speech at a meeting held to mark the 120th birth anniversary of veteran leader Chen Yun at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 13, 2025. (Photo by Wang Zhuangfei/Xinhua)
BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday called for learning from veteran leader Chen Yun and carrying forward his legacy with an enterprising spirit and hard work to build China into a strong country.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a meeting held in the Great Hall of the People to mark the 120th anniversary of Chen’s birth.
Chen was recognized as a great proletarian revolutionary and statesman, and as one of the founding figures of the country’s socialist economy. He was a key member of both the Party’s first generation of central collective leadership with Mao Zedong at the core and the second generation of central collective leadership with Deng Xiaoping at the core, according to Xi.
At the meeting, Xi recalled Chen’s glorious life, hailing him as “a tested, distinguished Party and state leader,” who had made significant contributions to the cause of the Party and the people.
Xi encouraged Party members to learn from Chen’s lofty spirit and qualities, urging them to remain steadfast in their ideals and convictions, bolster their confidence in success, and maintain political resolve in a complex environment full of turbulence and change.
Xi further underlined the significance of learning from Chen’s wealth of leadership expertise and striving to enhance the Party’s capacity for leading economic and social development as well as its self-building competence.
He emphasized the importance of enhancing the Party’s leadership over economic work and deepening the understanding of the laws governing socialist economic development.
“It is important to comprehensively deepen reform at a swift and steady pace, and to remain steadfast in pursuing higher-standard opening up,” he said.
Xi also praised Chen for his adherence to the principle of seeking truth from facts and for viewing research and studies as a vital prerequisite for decision-making.
He urged CPC members to adopt this scientific methodology in thinking and working, make sound assessments of situations, plan effectively for the future, and improve their research and studies, so they can make decisions that better reflect reality and meet the people’s expectations.
Chen was born in 1905 and joined the Party in 1925. He died of illness in 1995 at the age of 90.
Li Qiang, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, who are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting.
Zhao Leji, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting.
A meeting is held to mark the 120th birth anniversary of veteran leader Chen Yun at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, June 13, 2025. Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi attended the meeting. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
PCL Construction Management Inc. has been selected through a two-stage procurement process as the successful team to deliver the new 33-bed Grenfell Long-Term Care (LTC) Home.
“The Grenfell Long-Term Care Home is a vital investment in the infrastructure that supports our residents,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “Selecting a general contractor is the first step in providing a modern, accessible long-term care home for Saskatchewan residents in Grenfell and surrounding areas.”
“We are very pleased to have a team in place for the Grenfell Long-Term Care project and construction can soon begin,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “Thank you to the foundation and the community for your continued support and commitment to bringing this important facility to life.”
PCL Construction was chosen to lead the construction project following a two-stage procurement process. The new LTC home will include two spa tub rooms, a commercial kitchen, common living and dining spaces, administrative areas, a maintenance garage and parking stalls.
“I am so pleased to see the new 33-bed Grenfell Long-Term Care Home move forward,” MLA for Moosomin-Montmartre and Legislative Secretary to the Ministers of Health Kevin Weedmark said. “I am happy to see this investment in health care in Southeast Saskatchewan. This new facility will change lives by providing long-term care in Grenfell, so more people can receive this care close to home. I thank the people of Grenfell and area, and the local health care foundation, for the work they have done to move this project forward. I am excited to see the difference this facility will make in people’s lives when it opens in 2027.”
“We are incredibly proud to have been awarded the Grenfell Long-Term Care project,” PCL Construction District Manager Mike Zurowski said. “This facility will be a cornerstone for the community, providing essential care and comfort for years to come. It is an honour to work alongside SaskBuilds and Procurement on such a meaningful initiative, and our team is excited to bring this vision to life with the quality and dedication we are known for.”
“It is very exciting that this long awaited and much needed project is going ahead to benefit the community and surrounding area,” Grenfell and District Health Foundation Chair Trevor Burnham said. “We are looking forward to learning more about the final details about the project.”
Owned and operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), the new long-term care home will be built on a vacant parcel of land at the corner of Alberta Avenue and Qu’Appelle Street in the northeast corner of Grenfell.
“This new long-term care home reflects Saskatchewan Health Authority’s strong commitment to supporting seniors in living healthy, fulfilling lives and receiving care as close to home as possible,” SHA CEO Andrew Will said. “With 33 new beds, this home will provide a welcoming environment for seniors in Grenfell and surrounding area, helping them stay connected to family, friends and community while receiving high-quality care.”
Construction is scheduled to begin July 2025 with substantial completion by Spring 2027. Residents of the Grenfell Pioneer Home, which closed in 2018, were relocated to nearby facilities.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)
WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after Israel launched military strikes on Iran overnight.
“I stand with Israel. A world with fewer nuclear weapons is a safer one for everyone. The autocratic and theocratic Iranian regime could launch nuclear weapons not only at Israel, but also U.S. military bases and other U.S. interests.
“I worry about the safety of innocent civilians in Israel, Iran and elsewhere in the region. I urge that innocent civilians not be targeted. I also worry about U.S. personnel stationed in the Middle East. Iran must not target U.S. personnel.
“What makes this situation even more volatile is that the United States, a longstanding ally of Israel, does not have a President respected or trusted on the world stage. This makes our country and the world less safe. This escalation happened because Donald Trump is a weak president who is focused on the wrong priorities in the region. While Iran ratcheted up its nuclear program, Trump was focused on getting an illegal gift from Qatar of a used 747 ‘palace in the sky.’ He also chose to go to Saudi Arabia earlier this year to make corrupt deals that benefit his family. He has not visited Israel since becoming President.
“By Trump’s design, our government lacks leaders who can manage a crisis. We live in a dangerous world and entrusting the world’s most powerful military to former TV host Pete Hegseth is extraordinarily irresponsible. Secretary of State Rubio’s weak and feckless statement yesterday was troubling too and reflects an indifference towards ensuring the U.S. is the global leader it once was. These are the moments where a competent cabinet matters.
“The Iranian regime must not gain nuclear weapons and we must secure a diplomatic solution that avoids an all-out war in the Middle East. I am praying for the safety of the civilians who are in harm’s way and for our service members stationed across the region.”
OMAHA, Neb. – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested four aggressive protestors, June 12, who were caught on video damaging federal property and threatening to assault federal agents and officers following the execution of a federal search warrant at Glenn Valley Foods.
The protest was in response to a June 10 operation targeting illegal aliens suspected of victimizing individuals and businesses by using stolen or fraudulent identities and documents to gain employment illegally.
“Many of these protesters claim to be fighting for justice, but instead they damaged property, threatened federal officers and agents, and attempted to obstruct a lawful operation aimed at arresting individuals who exploited stolen identities to work illegally,” said ICE acting Director Todd Lyons. “The irony is stark; while they falsely accuse federal agents of injustice, they themselves engage in the very abuse, intimidation, and lawlessness they claim to oppose. I’d suggest they start standing up for the victims in these cases, these victims may have to completely rebuild their lives after having their personal information stolen or used fraudulently. Where is the concern for the justice they deserve?”
The investigation was conducted by ICE HSI with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the State of Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles Fraud Unit.
The protesters arrested are expected to face felony charges of assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, or interfering with a federal officer while engaged in the performance of their official duties as well as damaging government property.
ICE HSI remains committed to protecting the integrity of our nation’s laws and immigration system and ensuring that those who exploit it, or attempt to interfere with its enforcement, are held accountable.
The investigation into additional individuals involved in the violence is ongoing.
“Peaceful protest is a right protected under the Constitution, and our agents are proud to defend that right every day,” said Special Agent Charge of HSI Kansas City Mark Zito, which covers Omaha. “But threats, violence, and property damage by criminal actors claiming some kind of vigilante justice will not be tolerated in the Heartland.”
If you’re illegally present in the U.S., you don’t have to — and shouldn’t — wait for ICE officials to arrest you. Instead, you can leave on your own terms. Self-Deport now.
Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement praising the Trump administration for expanding Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) and supporting homegrown Iowa biofuels:
“I thank President Trump and Secretary Zeldin for standing with Iowa farmers and biofuels producers by expanding renewable volume obligations for ethanol and biodiesel. This decision will drive investment in our rural communities, support our farmers, create jobs, and strengthen American energy independence with homegrown liquid fuels. President Trump is a strong friend of Iowa farmers and energy producers, and this investment underscores his commitment to strengthening and growing Rural America.”
Last month, Feenstra helped lead a letter urging expanded RVO levels for Iowa farmers and biofuels producers.
[. He was so impressed by what he saw that his government created Kananaskis Country to preserve the breathtaking landscape and ecosystem of the region.
Today, Kananaskis Country spans 4,000 square kilometres and includes five provincial parks. Premier Lougheed contributed so much to conserve and promote Alberta’s natural beauty, so it is fitting to honour his legacy by naming the new wildlife overpass on the Trans-Canada Highway the Honourable Peter Lougheed Wildlife Overpass. Construction of the $17.5-million overpass began in 2022, and the project was completed last year. It’s the first wildlife overpass to be constructed outside of a national park in Alberta.
“Naming this structure in honour of former premier Lougheed provides a long-lasting reminder of his work to preserve Kananaskis Country for our enjoyment and the safety of the wildlife that roam through the region”
“Our job at Forestry and Parks is to take care of the land, the wildlife and the places Albertans love to explore. This overpass is a great example of how we’re working to protect both animals and people. Naming it after Premier Lougheed is a great way to honour the man whose vision helped create Kananaskis Country in the first place. His legacy lives on every time a hiker hits the trail, a family sets up camp or a bear crosses the highway safely.”
The Honourable Peter Lougheed Wildlife Overpass, on the northern tip of Kananaskis Country, provides a gateway for wildlife to cross safely into and out of the area. It is one of the busiest wildlife corridors in the region, as bears, elk, deer, lynx and other animals travel between the mountains, the foothills and valleys below. Organizations like the Yellowhead to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) and the Miistakis Institute have studied wildlife movements in the region, and with their input this site was selected.
“This overpass is a major milestone in advancing wildlife crossings in one of the most important landscapes for wildlife movement in the entire Yellowstone to Yukon region. We applaud the Alberta Government’s leadership in hugely advancing these projects, as they’ve created a conservation success story that benefits both wildlife and people.”
The wildlife crossing structure demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to improving safety for both drivers and wildlife. The new crossing is expected to reduce collisions in the area by an estimated 80 per cent. The crossing supports the Alberta Wildlife Watch Program, a leading-edge driver safety program, to prevent animal-vehicle collisions. The program identifies collision prone locations along the highway network and works to mitigate those risks through projects such as wildlife crossings and fencing. In fact, wildlife such as deer, elk, coyote and lynx were using the crossing structure before it was even completed.
“This is a really exciting moment for so many people who have been involved in this project for over a decade. The new overpass is a huge step forward in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, connecting natural landscapes, and improving the ability for wildlife to find food, mates, water and safety. This crossing will help elk, deer, bears and other animals across the Trans-Canada Highway in a way that is safe for them and the tens of thousands of people driving this highway every day.”
Key Facts
Peter Lougheed became Premier of Alberta in 1971 and served Albertans until his retirement in 1985.
Peter Lougheed passed away in September of 2012.
Construction of the wildlife overpass began in 2022 and was completed in fall 2024.
Animal-vehicle collisions are a significant safety concern and account for about 60 per cent of reported collisions on rural highways.
These animal-vehicle collisions cost Albertans nearly $300,000 per day in direct and indirect costs, including property damage, health care and highway cleanup.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)
GOMEZ: “If it can happen to Alex, it can happen to any of those senators on the other side, or any member of Congress, or anybody.”
You can watch the press conference HERE.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and members of the California congressional delegation held an emergency press conference on the steps of the U.S. Capitol to condemn the Trump administration’s forcible removal of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla during a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press conference.
Senator Padilla was thrown to the ground and handcuffed while attempting to ask Secretary Kristi Noem questions regarding DHS’s military-style deployments in LA and ongoing reports of human rights abuses at detention facilities. The senator identified himself repeatedly, yet was removed from a federal building where his own office is located.
You can read Rep. Gomez’s full remarks as delivered below:
“I think everyone is definitely shaken up—but extremely angry about what just occurred. Because we’ve seen this situation before. This administration — Donald Trump — is outside the bounds of the law, outside the bounds of the courts, outside the bounds of custom and practice. And he will not stop in just Los Angeles.
“He’s not gonna stop in California. He’s gonna go to every state in the union to show that he is not controlled by the Constitution. And if people think it’s only in California, they are mistaken.
“What we’ve seen is that this administration—with their ICE raids—is not going after criminals. I don’t know any MS-13 gang members that work at a car wash during the day, or at a day laborer site, or at a restaurant during the day. That’s who he said he would go after. But who is he going after?
“He’s going after a mom doing her yearly check-in—with her kids—and then deporting them to Texas and separating them. A little girl who’s getting cancer treatment—and the only place she can get it is here.
“People should be pissed off. Not just because of them—but because of what it means about our country, where we’re heading. And we’re heading down a dark, dark path. Something that, in my imagination, I never thought we’d reach. But this is where we are.
“And if they can do that to a member of Congress from New Jersey [and California’s] senior senator, who was shouting at the top of his lungs, ‘I am Senator Alex Padilla,’ and whose office is in that federal building—he had a right to be there—then they’re gonna make something up to justify, probably, an indictment of that senator.
“And what we want to know—what we’re going to demand—is that Kristi Noem come before Congress and testify about what occurred today.
“Because if it can happen to Alex, it can happen to any of those senators on the other side. It can happen to any member of Congress. It can happen to anybody.
“So I want to just stress: we’re not going to give up. We’re not going to be intimidated. We’re not going to be cowed. We’re going to keep fighting for our communities. And I know the Trump administration says using the word ‘fight’ is some kind of declaration. And it is a declaration.
“It’s a declaration that we’re not going to give up. That we’re going to stand up for one another. Because too much is at stake. And I want everybody to know—we’re calling on all Americans to stand up. Because when is it going to be enough?
“When somebody gets shot in the streets of Los Angeles? When a member gets shot?”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)
Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Connecticut’s U.S. Senator Christopher Murphy, and U.S. Representatives Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34) and Donald Beyer (D-VA-08) today reintroduced the Choose Medicare Act. This revolutionary proposal opens Medicare to all Americans with a new ‘Part E’ and builds on the system we have today by allowing Medicare to compete with private health insurance.
“In the richest country in the world, no person should have to worry about whether they’ll be able to afford care if they become sick or get into an accident. At a time when proposed cuts from Republicans threaten the health and financial security of millions, it’s more important than ever to expand access to high-quality, affordable health care,” said Merkley. “The Choose Medicare Act does just that by allowing every American to buy into Medicare, protecting and expanding this effective, popular system, and putting consumers and businesses in the driver’s seat on the road to universal health care.”
“Instead of shielding big insurance companies from competition, we should give Americans the option to choose Medicare’s high-quality, low-cost coverage if it’s right for them and their families,” said Murphy. “While Republicans spike the cost of living and cut health care for millions of Americans, we’ll keep fighting to expand access and affordability.”
“I got pneumonia when I was seven years old, and my family almost went bankrupt because we were uninsured. Today too many families are still one medical emergency away from financial crisis,” said Gomez. “Our bicameral legislation lets every American opt into Medicare — which is affordable, effective, and trusted — and we’re going to keep fighting until everyone has access to the care they need.”
“Our bill would give all Americans access to Medicare, one of the most popular and successful health care delivery programs in history,” said Beyer. “Allowing employers and the general public the option to choose Medicare would fill many of the gaps in our health care system, get more people covered, and make the nation healthier. Every American should be able to access affordable, quality health care, and this bill represents the kind of bold action required to make that a reality for all.”
The Choose Medicare Act is co-sponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL). The bill is supported by Families USA, MoveOn, American Federation of Teachers, the Center for Medicare Advocacy, and the Center for Health and Democracy.
“Now, more than ever, millions of people are grappling with skyrocketing health care costs and rising concerns that they won’t be able to access affordable health insurance and the care they need to keep their families healthy. Lawmakers should be doing all they can to ensure people across the country have more options for affordable health care, not less. The Choose Medicare Act is an important effort that creates a new pathway to make Medicare accessible to more consumers and employers, and makes important improvements to the current program like coverage of all reproductive health and essential health benefits,” said Jane Sheehan, Deputy Senior Director of Government Relations for Families USA.
“The Choose Medicare Act would improve the existing Medicare program by creating a critically needed out-of-pocket cap in traditional Medicare,” said David Lipschutz, Co-Director of the Center for Medicare Advocacy. “The bill would also enable people currently not yet eligible for Medicare to enjoy the benefits of traditional Medicare, without the restrictions of limited provider networks found in many Medicare Advantage plans.”
“Big Insurance’s monopoly control over health care in this country has led to higher health care costs and a growing medical debt crisis, all while making health care unaffordable and inaccessible to a majority of Americans. It is a system designed to put profits over patients. This bill is a vital step towards breaking Big Insurance’s strangle hold over health care in this country and will open up the most successful health care program in our country’s history, Medicare, to even more people. I applaud Senator Merkley for introducing it,” said Wendell Potter, President, Center for Health and Democracy.
Medicare ‘Part E’ aims to be self-sustaining and fully paid for by premiums. Plans would be offered on all state and federal exchanges, giving people the ability to use existing Affordable Care Act subsidies to help cover their premiums. Additionally, employers could choose to select Medicare ‘Part E’ rather than private insurance to provide affordable and reliable health care to their employees.
The Choose Medicare Act:
Increases Access, Competition, and Choice
Opens Medicare to employers of all sizes and allows them to purchase high-quality, affordable health care for their employees without requiring replacement of employment-based health insurance.
Addresses the discrepancy between consumer protections in the individual and group markets by extending the ACA’s rating requirements to all markets, to end discrimination based on pre-existing conditions once and for all.
Provides Comprehensive Coverage
Includes the ACA’s 10 essential health benefits and all items and services covered by Medicare.
Provides high-quality, gold-level coverage and cost-sharing.
Ensures coverage for a wide range of reproductive services, including abortion.
Improves Affordability
Establishes an out-of-pocket maximum in traditional Medicare.
Increases the generosity of premium tax credits and extends eligibility to all earners.
Directs Medicare to negotiate fair prices for prescription drugs by incorporating in the program the drug price negotiation section of the Inflation Reduction Act.
Drives down private insurance premiums through competition from Medicare by allowing the HHS Secretary to block excessive private insurance rates.
Extends traditional Medicare protections on balance billing or surprise bills to ‘Part E’ plans.
Full text of the Choose Medicare Act can be found by clicking here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)
In response to Israel’s successful preemptive strike against Iran, Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) voiced strong support for Israel’s right to defend itself:
“It was with satisfaction that I received the news that Israel successfully interrupted Iran’s plans to produce nuclear weapons,”said Grothman. “Israel has every right to defend itself, and when faced with an existential threat, it acted decisively with a highly sophisticated and successful operation involving aircrafts, drones, and world-class intelligence. As the world’s leading sponsor of terror, Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.
“The fact that civilian casualties during an operation of this size were so small shows that this is not an operation against the people, just the Iranian leadership whose stated goal is to wipe Israel off the map. If initial reports are true and only 80 Iranians have died, it is incredible how Israel was able to protect noncombatants.
“The overwhelming success of Israeli intelligence in determining exactly where to strike indicates a sizeable number of Iranians want the regime to fail. The Iranian government should take stock of their lack of popularity and focus more on making their own people happy and less time trying to destroy a country 1,000 miles away.
“It is disappointing that some of my colleagues in Congress seemed to expect Israel to stand by while Iran advanced a nuclear program that threatens Israel, the United States, and global stability.
“My prayers are with the Israeli military, citizens, and Americans abroad. Your safety remains top of mind.”
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U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) proudly serves the people of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)
Congressman Allen Testifies Before the International Trade Commission in Support of the American LSPTV Industry
Washington, June 13, 2025
Yesterday, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) testified before the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) to urge the Commissioners to take immediate action and hold China accountable for unfair trade practices that are harming U.S. producers in the Low Speed Personal Transportation Vehicles (LSPTV) industry.
Congressman Allen Testifies Before the ITCA transcript of Congressman Allen’s full testimony can be read below:“Chair Karpel and fellow Commissioners—thank you for allowing me to appear before you today for this important hearing. I’m grateful to be here to support the U.S. low speed personal transportation vehicle industry. The Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), encompassing Georgia and South Carolina, and much of my district, has long been the epicenter of U.S. golf cart manufacturing. We are home to two large producers that deliver electric vehicle models for personal and recreational transportation: Club Car and E-Z-GO.“For as long as I can remember, Club Car and E-Z-GO have been pillars of the Georgia economy, providing thousands of jobs in the state. Furthermore, they were—and still are—the standard bearers in the golf cart industry. “Unfortunately, the futures of these two great American companies are at risk due to the massive influx of dumped and subsidized low speed personal transportation vehicles from China. If the U.S. industry is not provided with the trade relief it so desperately needs, hundreds of U.S. manufacturing jobs could be lost.“As you’ll hear in detail from members of the domestic industry today, Chinese imports have severely injured the domestic industry and threaten to put it out of business. The U.S. Department of Commerce recently determined that Chinese-manufactured vehicles are being dumped and subsidized to the tune of between 478% and 515%, respectively. These substantial rates demonstrate the degree to which Chinese imports have undersold U.S.-manufactured vehicles, making it all but impossible to compete. This has led to reduced shifts, reductions in workforce, decreases in production, and a sharp decline in profitability for the domestic industry.“And not only do these unfairly traded Chinese imports harm manufacturers of new vehicles—they also have decimated the market for refurbished U.S.-manufactured vehicles. Refurbished used vehicles were an important part of the U.S. industry, but low-priced imports have wiped out this market segment. U.S. processors of used vehicles have found it all but impossible to sell refurbished used vehicles when new Chinese vehicles are being sold at the same or lower prices.“Over the last year, I have led a bipartisan and bicameral effort to bring more attention to this issue. We have reached out the U.S. Trade Representative and Department of Commerce, highlighting the vast amounts of subsidies provided to Chinese producers and the degree to which subject imports are being dumped. Today, I would like to present a letter to the ITC Chair that is signed by 25 Senators and Representatives advocating for positive outcomes of these cases, which is absolutely critical to the health of the domestic LSPTV industry, a historic and uniquely American manufacturing industry. “On a level playing field, U.S. companies like Club Car and E-Z-GO can out-innovate and out-compete anyone in the world. However, when foreign companies—with government backing—violate international trade rules and flood the U.S. market with dumped and subsidized products, the playing field is far from even. Here, dumped and illegally subsidized low speed personal transportation vehicles have undermined the U.S. industry. “It has taken the Chinese industry less than four years to completely upend the U.S. low speed personal transportation vehicle market. They have infiltrated the market at every level, and if left unchecked, these illegally dumped and subsidized imports will decimate the domestic industry and take away hundreds of U.S. manufacturing jobs.“The domestic industry is not looking for special treatment—just the opportunity to compete on a level playing field. I respectfully urge you to carefully consider this matter and take appropriate action to enforce U.S. trade remedy laws. Thank you again for the opportunity to testify before you today.”
BACKGROUND: Last week, Congressman Allen led a bipartisan, bicameral group of his colleagues in sending letters to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) Chair Amy Karpel in support of the American low-speed personal transportation vehicle (LSPTV) industry.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)
Yesterday, Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-5) and Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA-50) introduced the Nuclear REFUEL Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to help increase investment of nuclear energy in the United States. Senators John Husted (R-OH) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) are leading the effort in the Senate.
“It’s important that we make it easier to produce more energy in this country – not less,”Congressman Latta said.“The Nuclear REFUEL Act will streamline nuclear regulatory licensing and increase investment of nuclear energy right here in the United States, helping to unleash American energy. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan solution with my colleague, Rep. Peters, so we can get back on track to establishing American energy dominance.”
“We must find a way to recycle nuclear fuel to reduce nuclear waste and make nuclear power, which can help reduce air pollution, more economically viable,”Congressman Peters said.“Right now, nuclear operators are not allowed to recycle and reuse spent fuel responsibly, but our bill will change that by creating a regulatory pathway to allow the practice. While we work toward a permanent long-term solution to nuclear waste storage and disposal, proposals like this will help us safely utilize nuclear waste.”
“Ohioans need reliable and affordable energy sources, and America’s national and economic security depends on onshoring and expanding energy production. The Nuclear REFUEL Act would inject additional sustainable energy options into our economy by expanding clean nuclear energy production here at home. I am proud to lead this bill because it would give our homes and businesses more of those choices,”said Senator Husted.
“More zero-emission nuclear power can help meet our growing energy demand while strengthening our energy independence and national security. By making it easier to safely recycle spent nuclear fuel, we can reduce nuclear waste, lower energy costs, and further America’s longstanding global leadership in nuclear energy. I’m pleased to co-lead another bipartisan, bicameral nuclear bill to support U.S. clean energy dominance,”said Senator Whitehouse.
“With this bill, Congress is stepping up in a bipartisan way to provide solutions for fuel availability for advanced reactors and for used fuel management. This helps accelerate the deployment and adoption of clean energy powered by advanced fission technologies. The changes proposed in this legislation will facilitate efficient NRC licensing for facilities that recycle used nuclear fuel and produce fuel for advanced reactors. Domestic recycling of used nuclear fuel also enhances the supply chain resilience and security of nuclear fuel for advanced nuclear power plants, like Oklo’s powerhouse, securing America’s future of clean energy abundance,” said Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo Inc.
“For decades, the United States government has failed to provide a meaningful solution for what to do with spent nuclear fuel. Technology currently exists to recycle the roughly 95% of spent nuclear fuel’s remaining energy generation capability to refuel nuclear reactors, and as a country we should do so. Recycling will help secure our domestic nuclear fuel supply and help alleviate the massive cost that onsite storage has burdened American taxpayers with for far too long. USNIC commends Senator Husted for introducing the Nuclear REFUEL Act and encourages the Senate to act swiftly to move this legislation forward,”said the United States Nuclear Industry Council.
BACKGROUND: Nuclear fuel recycling technology, known as pyroprocessing, creates a uranium-transuranic (U/TRU) mixed fuel that can be used by advanced fast reactors to make energy while reducing the amount of nuclear waste.
Currently, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission does not clearly state which regulatory pathway they will use to license recycling facilities that do not separate plutonium. They could be licensed under two categories: Part 50 or Part 70. Part 50 is typically targeted towards reactors (licensing utilization and production facilities), while Part 70 licensing focuses on fuel cycle (licensing uranium enrichment or fuel fabrication facilities).
The Nuclear REFUEL Act will clarify that a U/TRU facility would be licensed only under Part 70, which is a single-step licensing process and would significantly streamline the licensing requirements for fuel recycling facilities which will revitalize domestic investment in nuclear energy.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)
Washington, DC — Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement today after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its proposed Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements for 2026 and 2027.
“Today’s announcement rightfully recognizes the key role biofuels play in American energy security,” Smith said. “If finalized, these volumes will support our agriculture producers, provide much needed certainty to the industry, and ensure consumers have greater access to affordable liquid fuels. I thank Administrator Zeldin and President Trump for their continued support of American biofuels and look forward to working with them to ensure today’s RVOs have the intended effect of promoting American energy production.”
BACKGROUND:
Congressman Smith first introduced a bill to approve year-round sale of E15 in 2015.
On May 16, Smith, Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), and Angie Craig (D-MN) joined 25 colleagues in a letter to the President urging for robust blending requirements in the ongoing RFS rulemaking.
On April 22, Smith, Craig, Hinson, and Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) led 25 members of Congress in a letter urging the administration to lower prices at the pump by providing a summertime E-15 waiver.
On March 11, Smith led a bipartisan press conference highlighting grassroots support for eliminating restrictions on E15 sales.
On February 13, Smith and Craig introduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to enable the year-round, nationwide sale of E15. Read more about the bipartisan, bicameral legislation here.
On February 6, 2025, Smith and Craig led nearly 30 colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. The letter emphasized the important role of the American biofuels industry in maximizing energy abundance and affordability while encouraging the EPA to issue timely and science-driven guidance to fulfill the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS).
