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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Sexual assault – Karama

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 31-year-old male in relation to a sexual assault outside of a shopping centre in Karama overnight.

    About 12:20am, Police CCTV Operators observed a sexual assault occur on an unconscious female outside the shopping centre. The male fled the scene before police arrival.

    Strike Force Trident detectives responded and arrested the male at a residence nearby.

    The female victim was attended to by police.

    Sex Crimes Section has carriage of the investigation.

    MIL OSI News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Most of Australia’s conservation efforts ignore climate risks – here are 3 fixes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yi Fei Chung, PhD Candidate in Environmental Policy, The University of Queensland

    Imagine replanting various native species only to have them die because the area is too hot or too dry. Or reconnecting woodland habitat only to lose large tracts to bushfire.

    Well, our new research suggests those scenarios are entirely possible.

    We analysed the two most common ways to prevent overall biodiversity loss on private land in Australia. We found these efforts largely ignore climate risks such as fire, heat, drought and floods.

    Climate change is already threatening the survival of species. Unless conservation efforts are made more resilient to climate change, Australia’s aim to to reverse biodiversity loss could fail.

    What we found

    We examined two types of biodiversity measures in Australia. One is “biodiversity offsets”, which aim to compensate for damage caused by development. The other is voluntary conservation programs, including “conservation covenants”.

    We analysed 77 policy documents underpinning nine biodiversity offset policies and 11 voluntary conservation programs.

    Of the 77 documents, 84% did not consider the impact of climate change. What’s more, only 44% of biodiversity offset policies and 27% of voluntary conservation programs considered climate risk. Even then, they often lacked detail or tools to translate policy into real action on the ground.

    The most common climate adaptation strategies were:

    • safeguarding climate refuges
    • connecting habitat so wildlife can escape extreme heat, fires or droughts
    • targeting funding
    • avoiding offset sites vulnerable to threats such as sea-level rise.

    But most documents lacked details on implementing these strategies.

    We suggest three practical steps to ensure conservation efforts deliver lasting results in a changing climate.

    Few private land conservation programs or biodiversity offset policies took climate change into account.
    Chung, Y. F., et al, (2025) Biological Conservation

    1. Identify and protect climate refuges

    Climate refuges are areas somewhat shielded from the effects of climate change. Gullies, sheltered slopes and forests with good water supplies can help species survive during heatwaves and droughts.

    These places can provide a lifeline for endangered species and prevent local extinctions. Species may shelter in these areas during climate extremes and recolonise well-connected habitats when conditions improve.

    Protecting climate refuges by restricting land clearing or other damaging activities is a common climate adaptation strategy. We found it featured in six policy documents supporting voluntary conservation programs and biodiversity offsets across Australia. But few policy documents explain where these places are or how to protect them.

    For example, the New South Wales Biodiversity Conservation Investment Strategy lists climate refuges as high-priority assets under threat. The strategy says future investment should target these areas.

    But we found no explanation of how investments would be prioritised, or where to find that information. Without this detail, mentioning climate refuges in policy documents is little more than having good intentions.

    To be effective, refuges need to be mapped, prioritised and supported with appropriate protections and incentives. Nature law reform must strengthen protection of climate refuges to prevent further loss.

    Conservation programs could also specifically incentivise landholders to protect or restore refuges on their properties.

    Here’s how to protect Australia’s native species from climate change (The Climate Council)

    2. Promote the actions that build resilience

    On the ground, conservation actions must adapt to climate change. That could mean doing things differently. For example, planting species more likely to survive future climates, or connecting habitat so wildlife can move to new areas.

    While these strategies are well established, we only found three policy documents that mention them. One is the Heritage Agreement policy in South Australia. This offers guidance and potential funding to help landholders implement these actions.

    As Australia’s nature laws are reformed, funding commitments and conservation guidelines need to follow suit.

    Financial incentives or technical support could be offered to landholders for activities that build resilience. Biodiversity offset policies could also mandate conservation actions that improve climate resilience at offset sites.

    3. Adapting to climate change needs to link policy to on-ground action

    Our research found a clear gap between high-level intent and guidelines for on-ground actions. If they don’t line up, then conservation efforts risk falling short. Field programs may lack legal backing, or legislation may not translate into action where it matters most.

    Climate change should be considered at all levels of conservation policies – from high-level legislation to guidelines for implementing individual programs.

    Policies should include clear and consistent targets informed by climate risk. This should be supported by regulations ensuring compliance and practical guidelines for on-ground action.

    Voluntary conservation programs in New South Wales show how it can be done. State biodiversity conservation legislation includes conserving biodiversity under climate change as a key objective. This can then shape real-world programs. For example, the NSW Conservation Management plan echoes this climate commitment. It makes addressing climate change impacts one of the main targets.

    A chance to get it right

    National nature law reform and state reviews present an opportunity to future-proof Australia’s conservation policies.

    These policies must consider the accelerating pace of change and ensure adaptation is embedded through to action. Such actions must be clear, well-resourced, and equipped with practical tools government agencies and landholders can use.

    Otherwise, we risk making conservation policies unfit for the future – missing a golden opportunity to safeguard biodiversity.



    Read more:
    Want genuine progress towards restoring nature? Follow these 4 steps

    Yi Fei Chung receives funding from a UQ Research Training Scholarship. He is also involving in an Australian Research Council Linkage Project that receives financial and in-kind support from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, the Biodiversity Conservation Trust, Tweed Shire Council, and the NSW Koala Strategy.

    Jonathan Rhodes receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the NSW Government, the Biodiversity Conservation Trust, Tweed Shire Council, the NSW Koala Strategy, and the Queensland Government.

    – ref. Most of Australia’s conservation efforts ignore climate risks – here are 3 fixes – https://theconversation.com/most-of-australias-conservation-efforts-ignore-climate-risks-here-are-3-fixes-257131

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: 2025 Int’l Humanoid Robot Skills Competition held in Shanghai

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

    2025 Int’l Humanoid Robot Skills Competition held in Shanghai

    Updated: May 30, 2025 07:44 Xinhua
    Robots “play” a football match during the 2025 International Humanoid Robot Skills Competition held at Zhangjiang Science Hall in Shanghai, east China, May 29, 2025. The 2025 International Humanoid Robot Skills Competition was launched in Shanghai on Thursday, focusing on industrial, household and commercial scenarios. Over 60 global teams competed in robot applications and core technology innovation. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A robot competes in the All-Terrain Dynamic Challenge during the 2025 International Humanoid Robot Skills Competition held at Zhangjiang Science Hall in Shanghai, east China, May 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese FM meets with chairman of Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council

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

    HONG KONG, May 29 — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday met with Surakiart Sathirathai, chairman of the Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council (APRC) and former Thai deputy prime minister who is here to attend the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).

    Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China’s initiative to establish the IOMed provides a new option for the international community to resolve disputes and achieve reconciliation on a voluntary basis, adding that it is also a concrete action to uphold multilateralism and fulfill the spirit of the United Nations Charter.

    China is willing to work together with Asian countries to effectively utilize regional mechanisms of China-ASEAN, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, and the Asia Cooperation Dialogue, in order to jointly safeguard the hard-won peace and stability in Asia, he noted.

    Surakiart said he is honored to be invited to Hong Kong to witness the birth of the IOMed, noting that under the current international situation, the Chinese initiative is timely.

    The APRC looks forward to strengthening collaboration with the Chinese side to make greater contributions to peace and development in Asia, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy News – May 2025

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Print | Email this page

    Office of the Privacy Commissioner | Privacy News – May 2025

    30 May 2025, 09:00

    Read about our Children’s Privacy Project, two open consultation processes, how we did on Privacy Week, a Compliance Notice for Oranga Tamariki, our latest Privacy Survey and more. Read the May 2025 issue.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Bureau of Meteorology issues winter long-range forecast

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    29/05/2025

    The Bureau of Meteorology has issued its long-range forecast for winter 2025.

    While winter is a time for cooler weather, the winter long-range forecast shows day and night temperatures are likely to be above average across Australia for this time of the year.

    Winter rainfall is likely to be above average for interior and central parts of the country. For parts of Australia’s tropical north, the south-east and the south-west, rainfall is expected to be in the typical winter range. Typical rainfall means there’s a roughly equal possibility for these areas to receive above, below or near-average rainfall.

    This includes parts of South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania that have been affected by prolonged dry conditions as well as parts of New South Wales recently impacted by severe flooding.

    This winter forecast follows an autumn which was much wetter than average in the north and east of Australia, and much drier than average in many southern parts.

    Australia’s fire agencies advise there is an unseasonal increased risk of fire this winter across parts of South Australia and Victoria.

    The Bureau updates the long-range forecast each Thursday and you can search the latest details for your location on the Bureau’s website.

    2025 winter long-range forecast (states and territories)

    New South Wales and the ACT

    Winter rainfall is expected to be above average for much of the state and the ACT.

    However, parts of the state’s east are likely to have rainfall in the typical range.

    Average winter rainfall in recent decades has been between 100 and 300 mm along most of eastern New South Wales, with higher falls in the alpine regions, while in western and central New South Wales winter averages are between 25 and 100 mm.

    Warmer than usual winter maximum temperatures are likely across the state, and warmer than usual winter minimum temperatures are very likely.

    Victoria

    Rainfall is expected to be within the typical winter range for much of the state.

    Average winter rainfall in recent decades ranges between 100 and 300 mm throughout much of the state, while the state’s north-west has 50 to 100 mm and parts of the far south and alpine areas have up to 600 mm on average

    Warmer than usual winter maximum and minimum temperatures are very likely across the state.

    Queensland

    Winter rainfall is expected to be in the typical range for much of the state, with parts of the south and west likely to have above average rainfall.

    Warmer than usual winter maximum and minimum temperatures are very likely across the state.

    Western Australia

    Winter rainfall is expected to be above average for much of the state, except for the south-west where rainfall is likely to be in the typical winter range.

    Average winter rainfall in recent decades has been between 100 and 400 mm for most of the South West Land Division with up to 600 mm in the far south-west, 50 to 100 mm in parts of the west, central and south-east, between 25 and 50 mm mid-state, and less than 10 mm in the north.

    Warmer than usual maximum and minimum winter temperatures are very likely across the state.

    South Australia

    Winter rainfall is likely to be above average for much of the state, except for the far south-east where rainfall is expected to be within the typical range for winter.

    Average winter rainfall in recent decades has been between 50 and 300 mm across the south with some coastal parts up to 400 mm, and 10 to 50 mm for the central and northern parts.

    Warmer than usual winter maximum and minimum temperatures are likely across the state.

    Tasmania

    Winter rainfall is expected to be in the typical range for much of the state.

    Warmer than usual winter maximum and minimum temperatures are very likely across the state.

    Northern Territory

    Winter rainfall is likely to be above average across the southern two-thirds of the Territory.

    Warmer than usual June to August maximum and minimum temperatures are very likely across most of the Territory.

    Autumn Preliminary Summary

    Autumn has been warmer than usual for most of Australia. Throughout much of the south and west, daytime temperatures were very much above average.

    Victoria had its warmest autumn on record, New South Wales had its second warmest, and South Australia and Western Australia had their third warmest autumn on record. Autumn has been drier than average across much of the country’s south and west.

    Slow-moving high pressure systems to the south of the continent are contributing to drier conditions in the south. This pattern has also enhanced coastal troughs off New South Wales and southern Queensland, contributing to the recent above average coastal rainfall in these states.

    Conditions have been wetter than usual for much of the east and north, with rainfall very much above average in large parts of Queensland.

    Tropical activity, including Tropical Cyclone Alfred and a low pressure trough over western Queensland, brought widespread rainfall and flooding during March and April.

    Autumn rainfall was very much below average in large parts of the south-east and the west coast. In Tasmania, autumn rainfall was the second lowest on record.

    The national summary for autumn and May will be on the Bureau’s website from 2 June. Detailed summaries for autumn and May conditions for each state, territory and capital city will be published on 4 June.

    MIL OSI News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Convenes Rapid-Response Press Conference on Chaos for Ports, Businesses as Courts Rebuke Trump‘s Ability to Impose Arbitrary Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    05.29.25
    Cantwell Convenes Rapid-Response Press Conference on Chaos for Ports, Businesses as Courts Rebuke Trump‘s Ability to Impose Arbitrary Tariffs
    Port of Seattle Commissioner: “If we’re not seen as a reliable partner, it doesn’t mean that trade doesn’t continue – it just doesn’t go through our gateway”; Cantwell praises lower courts’ decisions to end Trump’s illegal tariffs
    SEATTLE, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman and Barry Barr, CEO of local outdoor apparel company KAVU, for a press conference overlooking the Port of Seattle’s Terminal 46 to respond to the chaos caused in the last 24 hours as President Donald Trump scrambles to keep his draconian tariffs in place amid court challenges.
    “Two courts have ruled against President Trump’s tariffs. They basically have said he’s exceeded his authority. For almost 24 hours, [business owners] just like Barry heard that good news and thought maybe we were having a reprieve against these terrible actions that are costing consumers more,” Sen. Cantwell said. “American businesses need a rules-based trade system. That means American families would have the certainty, not chaos and not higher prices. We know this: That when you start trade wars, usually that means you end up closing markets.”
    “In business, we need predictability. And it’s just been chaos and uncertainty – and we’re not sure what to do or even where to find the information to lead. Especially in sourcing and manufacturing – the timelines are so long and so far out there, several years, and we just don’t know where to go,” Barr said. “This court verdict is a great sign for American consumers. Hopefully prices won’t increase if we can get back to normal tariffs.”
    “These trade relationships are sticky, in that when you move to another market, once you set up these supply chains, they don’t all come back. And so this is a very dangerous period of time,” Commissioner Felleman said. “If we’re not seen as a reliable partner, it doesn’t mean that trade doesn’t continue – it just doesn’t go through our gateway or our country.”
    Video of the press conference is available HERE; photos are HERE; and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks are HERE.
    Last night, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade ruled that President Trump illegally overstepped his authority when he imposed tariffs on most U.S. trading partners on April 2, as well as the additional tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, and Canada.  The Trump administration appealed the U.S. Court of International Trade’s decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals of the Federal Circuit, which this afternoon put a hold on the ruling while it will consider arguments in the case.
    Today, a second federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia also ruled that the President exceeded his authority and issued a preliminary injunction on the collection of the duties, while staying the court’s order for two weeks pending appellate review. The Trump administration also appealed this decision.
    In April, Sen. Cantwell introduced the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025 to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy, and reestablish limits on the president’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs. Her bill has since picked up 12 additional cosponsors – an equal mix of Republicans and Democrats – and been endorsed by multiple major U.S. business organizations, including the National Retail Federation, which is the largest retail trade association in the world. House members also introduced a bipartisan companion bill. On April 16, Sen. Cantwell joined nine local business owners and leaders at the Port of Seattle to push back against the Trump administration’s chaotic tariffs-first trade policy.
    In Washington state, two out of every five jobs are tied to trade and trade-related industries. More information about how those tariffs will affect consumers and businesses in the State of Washington can be found HERE.  
    For the past four months, President Trump has been sowing economic chaos across the country with unpredictable and ever-changing tariff announcements. His back-and-forth announcements and actions have whipsawed American businesses and consumers, as well as close neighbors and allies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Case You Missed It: PHOTOS: Capito Delivers Remarks at GameChanger Annual Dinner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. – Last night, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivered remarks at the Fifth Annual GameChanger Prevention Education Dinner in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. Senator Capito has long been a supporter of GameChanger, which was founded in 2018 to empower young West Virginians to lead healthy, drug free lifestyles as they prepare to be the leaders of tomorrow. 

    “GameChanger, a program designed by and for West Virginians, is not only a success story, but is a model for the rest of the country. I am proud to support GameChanger and the work they are doing to find creative solutions to the drug crisis that has devastated our communities. With organizations like GameChanger leading the way, we can envision a future without addiction,” Senator Capito said.

    Photos from the event are below: 

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivers remarks at the Fifth Annual GameChanger Prevention Education Dinner at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) meets with GameChanger keynote speaker and former professional football quarterback, Tim Tebow, at the Fifth Annual GameChanger Prevention Education Dinner at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Applauds Unanimous SCOTUS Decision Tightening NEPA Requirements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, applauded the unanimous decision from the Supreme Court of the United States in Seven County Infrastructure Coalition v. Eagle County. Project opponents have used litigation over agencies’ obligations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to delay important projects, but today’s decision clearly narrows the scope of burdensome NEPA reviews, as well as the judicial review of those documents.

    Last September, Chairman Capito joined an amicus brief in the Supreme Court of the United States opposing the judicial expansion of NEPA, led by U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), with U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas).

    “Today’s unanimous decision by the Supreme Court of the United States validates what my colleagues and I have long been saying, that NEPA obligations have been utilized beyond their scope to create roadblocks for infrastructure projects instead of protecting the environment. By focusing NEPA reviews on the impacts of the project at hand, instead of hypotheticals, we can move important infrastructure initiatives like pipelines, roads, and energy development swiftly to completion to benefit the communities they serve. The Court’s opinion also reins in lower courts’ reviews of the NEPA documents, which in many cases have unnecessarily invalidated projects by reviewing them under the wrong standard. This is a big win for permitting reform and will help states like West Virginia build again without endless litigation and needless delays,” Chairman Capito said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese military urges US to stop fanning flames on Taiwan question

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

    A Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday urged the U.S. side to stop fanning the flames on the Taiwan question, stressing that such behavior would only backfire.

    Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to reports of U.S. military commanders’ groundless accusations against Chinese actions related to Taiwan.

    Taiwan is part of China. Resolving the Taiwan question is a matter for the Chinese, which brooks no external interference, Zhang reiterated at the press conference.

    “For the cross-Strait situation, there is no factor more destabilizing than the provocations made by the ‘Taiwan independence’ separatists and the disruptions by foreign forces,” Zhang said.

    It is legitimate, necessary, lawful, and justified for the Chinese side to take actions to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Zhang told reporters.

    Responding to reports of the U.S. side building up its military presence against the so-called “China’s threat,” Zhang noted that mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation are the right path for the two countries to engage with each other.

    “The U.S. side should stop conjuring up a ‘powerful enemy’ for itself, whether intentionally or unintentionally,” Zhang said. “Such imagination is irrational and extremely dangerous.”

    The Chinese military will make all-out efforts to enhance its combat readiness and firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, the spokesperson added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China issues guideline to improve market-based allocation of resources, environmental factors

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

    China has recently unveiled a guideline aimed at improving the system for market-based allocation of resources and environmental factors, amid the country’s efforts to speed up the overall green transition of economic and social development.

    The guideline is jointly issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council.

    The guideline outlines measures to deepen reforms in the trading of resources and environmental factors, including improving quota allocation systems, expanding the scope of tradable elements, strengthening trading mechanisms, and enhancing foundational capacities.

    By 2027, China aims to establish basically sound trading systems for carbon emission rights and water use rights, while further refining mechanisms for the trading of pollutant discharge rights, per the guideline.

    By then, the market-based energy-saving mechanism will be further improved, and the trading of resource and environmental factors will become more active, supported by a better price formation mechanism, according to the guideline.

    Despite resource scarcity and limited environmental capacity — China’s fundamental conditions — the country has made significant strides in addressing these constraints through market-based mechanisms, according to an official of the National Development and Reform Commission.

    China has established a national carbon market, a voluntary greenhouse gas emissions reduction market and a water right trade exchange, while also piloting various local trading schemes to promote the market-based allocation of resources and environmental factors.

    The new guideline is expected to help direct the orderly flows of resources and environmental factors toward green and low-carbon development, and to support the cultivation of new quality productive forces, the official said.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Banka, Yang elected third time as WADA president, VP

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

    The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) confirmed on Thursday the third and final three-year term from 2026 to 2028 for its president Witold Banka and vice president Yang Yang.

    WADA’s Extraordinary Foundation Board Meeting was convened online to elect the new leadership of the international organization which is based in Montreal, Canada.

    World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) president Witold Banka (L) and vice president Yang Yang pose for photos during the WADA Foundation Board meeting in Montreal, Canada on Nov. 18, 2022. (Photo courtesy of WADA)

    “Today’s result reaffirms our shared mission and values. Despite the many challenges we have faced over the past five and a half years, it has also been a period of transformation, of resilience, and of undeniable progress,” said President Banka, the former sprinter-turned Minister of Sport and Tourism of Poland.

    “In our final term, we are committed to continue strengthening the global anti-doping system by elevating the athlete experience; expanding the impact of our science, development, compliance and intelligence work and much more,” said Banka.

    He said WADA and its stakeholders around the world would meet the shared objectives and exceed them with the sole purpose of protecting clean sport.

    Yang, a former Olympic short-track speed skating champion, also expressed her gratitude for the Board’s confidence and reiterated her commitment to spearheading WADA’s increased emphasis on education and the role of athletes in charting the course for the future of anti-doping.

    “Serving as vice president has been the privilege of a lifetime, and I enter this final term determined and fully committed to continuing the meaningful work we do each and every day,” said Yang, “I am grateful for the opportunity to spend another term alongside President Banka and look forward to devoting the next three and a half years to completing the work we started in 2020.”

    WADA, established in 1999 as an international independent agency to lead a collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free sport, is composed of a 38-member Foundation Board, which is the agency’s highest policy-making body.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, amid legal appeals to a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    Earlier this week, a US court blocked the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs that US President Donald Trump imposed on imported goods from around 90 nations.

    On Wednesday (US time), the Court of International Trade ruled the emergency authority Trump used to impose the tariffs could not override the role of Congress, which has the right to regulate commerce with other countries.

    The following day, however, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington paused the trade court’s ruling, temporarily reinstating Trump’s tariffs. The earlier court ruling, and the fresh uncertainty prompted by the appeal have left the implementation of Trump’s trade policy in disarray.

    Even though it has been paused, the trade court’s ruling calls into question trade negotiations underway with more than 18 different nations, which are trying to lower these tariffs. Do these countries continue to negotiate or do they wait for the judicial process to play out?

    The Trump administration still has other mechanisms through which it can impose tariffs, but these have limits on the amount that can be imposed, or entail processes which can take months or years. This undermines Trump’s preferred method of negotiation: throwing out large threats and backing down once a concession is reached.

    Emergency powers were a step too far

    The lawsuits were filed by US importers of foreign products and some US states, challenging Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.

    The lawsuits argued the national emergencies cited in imposing the tariffs – the trade deficit and the fentanyl crisis – were not an emergency and not directly addressed by the tariff remedy. The court agreed, and said by imposing tariffs Trump had overstepped his authority.

    The ruling said the executive orders used were “declared to be invalid as contrary to law”.

    The act states the president is entitled to take economic action in the face of “an unusual and extraordinary threat”. It’s mainly been used to impose sanctions on terrorist groups or freeze assets from Russia. There’s nothing in the act that refers to tariffs.

    The decision means all the reciprocal tariffs – including the 10% tariffs on most countries, the 50% tariffs Trump was talking about putting on the EU, and some of the Chinese tariffs – are ruled by the court to be illegal.

    The ruling was based on two separate lawsuits. One was brought by a group of small businesses that argued tariffs materially hurt their business. The other was brought by 12 individual states, arguing the tariffs would materially impact their ability to provide public goods.

    Some industry tariffs will remain in place

    The ruling does not apply to tariffs applied under Section 201, known as safeguard tariffs. They are intended to protect industries from imports allegedly being sold in the US market at unfair prices or through unfair means. Tariffs on solar panels and washing machines were brought under this regulation.

    Also excluded are Section 232 tariffs, which are applied for national security reasons. Those are the steel and aluminium tariffs, the automobile and auto parts tariffs. Trump has declared all those as national security issues, so those tariffs will remain.

    Most of the tariffs against China are also excluded under Section 301. Those are put in place for unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft or forced technology transfer. They are meant to pressure countries to change their policies.

    Other trade investigations are still underway

    In addition, there are current investigations related to copper and the pharmaceuticals sector, which will continue. These investigations are part of a more traditional trade process and may lead to future tariffs, including on Australia.

    The Trump administration is still weighing possible sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
    Planar/Shutterstock

    Now for the appeals

    Following the subsequent reinstatement of tariffs, we now have to wait for the appeals process to play out. This may take some time. The plaintiffs have until June 5 to respond, and the Trump administration has until June 9.

    In the meantime, there are at least five other legal challenges to tariffs pending in the courts.

    If the appeals court provides a ruling the Trump administration or opponents don’t like, they can appeal to the Supreme Court.

    Alternatively, the White House could direct customs officials to ignore the court and continue to collect tariffs.

    The Trump administration has ignored court orders in the past, particularly on immigration rulings.

    The administration is unlikely to lie down on this. In addition to its appeal process, officials complained about “unelected judges” and “judicial overreach” and may contest the whole process. The only thing that continues to be a certainty is that uncertainty will drive global markets for the foreseeable future.

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

    – ref. Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, amid legal appeals to a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – https://theconversation.com/trumps-global-trade-plans-are-in-disarray-amid-legal-appeals-to-a-us-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs-257812

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Requests Nearly $37 Million for 15 Local Projects in Fiscal Year 2026 Spending Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) has requested $36,773,695 for 15 local projects in the Fiscal Year 2026 spending bill. Larsen submitted the requests to the House Appropriations Committee as the Committee begins work on legislation to fund the federal government.

    “My priority in shaping spending bills is to invest in Northwest Washington communities,” said Larsen. “I will continue to work closely with community leaders and stakeholders to secure critical funding to create more jobs, build better infrastructure and improve vital services residents rely on.”

    The spending bill will include earmark funding for community projects that local leaders and stakeholders identified as critical to their communities. Larsen secured more than $19.3 million for 15 Northwest Washington projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 spending package, which was signed into law in March 2024.

    Northwest Washington Community Project Funding Requests

    Larsen requested the following earmarks to invest in Northwest Washington communities:

    Investing in a Cleaner, Greener, Safer and More Accessible Transportation System

    • Community Transit’s Bus Replacement Project: This project will enable Community Transit to purchase two battery electric buses with chargers to replace diesel buses that are beyond their expected useful life. ($3,000,000)
    • City of Lynden’s Pepin Flood, Agriculture, Salmon and Safety Transportation (FASST): This project will complete design and support construction of a new channel for Pepin Creek, and complete design and construction of the Pepin Parkway Bridge. ($2,448,000)
    • Snohomish County’s Everett Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements: The project will improve rail shipping capability, safety, and reliability for freight and intercity passenger service at the Everett Intermodal Yard. These improvements will benefit both BNSF freight trains and Amtrak Cascades service. ($2,000,000)

    Investing in Community Services

    • City of Anacortes’ Community Event Center: The project will support final design and construction for a central event space to host large-scale tourist-oriented events, local nonprofit events and private rentals located near the Anacortes waterfront and downtown. ($3,000,000)
    • Lopez Island Family Resource Center’s Food Center: This project will construct a mixed-use food center, including a community kitchen, shared farm stand, rental spaces, and gathering areas for pop-up shops, in addition to a home base for the San Juan Food Hub and local food bank. ($2,500,000)
    • City of Edmonds’ Food Bank and Community Engagement Space: This project will support an expanded facility for Edmonds Food Bank, including increased food bank space, a commercial kitchen, an urban garden and community meeting spaces. ($2,000,000)
    • City of Bellingham’s Bellingham Central Library Renovation: This project will support exterior renovation of the Bellingham Central Library, including updated windows, upgraded main and children’s entrances, and a refreshed plaza. ($2,000,000)
    • Whatcom County and Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County’s (DVSAS) Douglas Building Preservation: This project will support the renovation of a building used by DVSAS to serve survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. ($1,510,295)
    • Whatcom County Sheriff Office’s Portable Radio Replacement Project: This project will support the purchase of new portable radios to replace outdated radios that are failing, allowing deputies to communicate clearly with dispatch and each other. ($600,000)
    • Orcas Senior Center’s Roof Replacement: This project will repair the failing roof of the facility, ensuring seniors can continue to access services. ($175,000)

    Investing in Education and Workforce Development

    • Edmonds College and Latino Educational Training Institute’s (LETI) Incubator for Family Success: This project will establish a comprehensive community center that includes a cultural retention and arts center, vocational school, commercial kitchen, deli-specialty store and child care circles. ($4,250,000)
    • Western Washington University’s (WWU) Shannon Point Marine Center Research Vessel: This project will support acquisition of a new research vessel for WWU marine and coastal science educational and research activities. ($1,490,400)

    Investing in Critical Infrastructure

    • Port of Everett’s South Marina Terminal Replacement Project: The project will replace the existing Dock 1 in the South Marina that has exceeded its useful life with a new structure that will provide greater utility capacity to serve potential small cruise and passenger ferry service. ($5,000,000)
    • Port of Edmonds’ North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction: This project will repair the Port’s seawall, which is urgently needed to protect the Port and surrounding community from flooding and extreme weather. The project will also create new public use spaces for recreational activity and replace the boardwalk to improve public access and increase economic development for the businesses on and surrounding the port. ($4,000,000)
    • Island County’s Recycling and Reuse Station: This project will build a new solid waste transfer station that will significantly enhance the efficiency of the county’s waste management processes, reducing costs for local rate payers and mitigating associated impacts to public health, safety and the environment. ($2,800,000)


    What Northwest Washington Community Leaders and Stakeholders Are Saying

    Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz on the Bus Replacement Project: “Community Transit ensures that people of all walks of life can easily and reliably get from where they are to where they want to be. In order to live up to this mission, it’s critical that buses are maintained and replaced according to schedule. We are grateful to Rep. Larsen for prioritizing the Bus Replacement Project, enabling us to serve customers with lower pollution buses that benefit everyone in Snohomish County.”

    Lynden Mayor Scott Korthuis on the Pepin Flood, Agriculture, Salmon and Safety Transportation (FASST) Project: “The Lynden FASST project (Flood, Agriculture, Salmon, Safety and Transportation) is a significant investment in infrastructure for the city to provide housing opportunities in what is a difficult area of the city to develop.  With the support of Representative Larsen on this project, we will continue to develop the needed infrastructure in this area of the city and provide a variety of housing types.  We greatly appreciate Representative Larsen moving this project forward and investing in Lynden.”

    Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers on the Everett Intermodal Yard and Curve Improvements Project: “We are grateful for Congressman Larsen’s support for this vital rail project. If we receive the funding, the renovated intermodal yard will allow us and our rail partners to continue a sustainable and low impact operation for our residents, ensuring public health and safety are prioritized.”

    Anacortes Mayor Matt Miller on the Anacortes Community Event Center project: “We are deeply grateful to Congressman Larsen for championing the Anacortes Community Event Center project. His support for this waterfront facility—developed in partnership with the Port of Anacortes—reflects a strong commitment to strengthening our community, our economy, and our shared public spaces. This proposed investment will help create a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike, and we appreciate the Congressman’s leadership in moving this vision forward.”

    Lopez Island Family Resource Center Executive Director Barbara Schultheiss on the Lopez Food Center Project: “The Lopez Food Center believes that a thriving local food system and strong economy are essential to a healthy, sustainable life here on Lopez. The construction of the food center will create a vital central gathering place—that will provide a much needed new space for the food bank; increase sales of local farm products with space for a communal farm stand and the San Juan Food Hub; creates opportunities for food businesses to grow/expand with storage, commercial kitchen and event space; and, provide critical trainings and supports for food businesses.  This shared facility will increase efficient food production and distribution and support the health and well-being of Lopez Island residents by increasing access to nutritious food and hands-on opportunities in the local food economy.”

    Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen on the Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space Project: “We greatly appreciate the leadership of Rep. Larsen to support the Edmonds Food Bank. We know that many people in our community are struggling with food insecurity, and sadly the numbers are increasing, so this funding request is vitally important.”

    Edmonds Food Bank Executive Director Casey Davis on the Edmonds Food Bank and Community Engagement Space Project: “We are incredibly grateful to Representative Larsen for continuing to advocate for our community. As the need for food assistance continues to rise and other critical funding sources are eliminated, this $2 million request is vital to help us build a new facility that meets the growing needs of the individuals we serve in a respectful and efficient way. A new food bank and community engagement space will allow us to provide not only nutritious and culturally relevant food, but also deeper connection, dignity, and resources for long-term stability for our entire community. We cannot do this alone, we need the strength of continued partnerships to make this vision a reality.”

    Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund on the Bellingham Central Library Renovation Project: “Our library is a well-loved institution that gives community members opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. We are grateful for Rep. Larsen’s request for funding, which would help us make the library more accessible, comfortable, and welcoming, especially for families and children.”

    Whatcom County Health and Community Services Co-Health Officer Dr. Amy Harley on the DVSAS Douglas Building Preservation Project: “Whatcom County Health and Community Services is pleased to support the rehabilitation of the Douglas Building, the home of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) in Bellingham. Washington. The Douglas building is used to provide critical counseling, legal support, and children’s programs for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation, and is an essential part of the continuum of care for this vulnerable population. The Douglas Building, however, is more than a building – it’s a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Whatcom County. Investing in its rehabilitation will ensure that DVSAS staff can continue to provide high-quality, trauma-informed care in a safe and trusted location, where individuals and families can begin the process of healing with dignity and respect.”

    Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County on the DVSAS Douglas Building Preservation Project: “Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) extends its deepest gratitude to Congressman Larsen and his team for their efforts in prioritizing funding to preserve our downtown support center. Securing this vital funding guarantees continued access to essential services for individuals experiencing domestic or sexual violence, ensuring survivors have a lifeline to safety and immediate access to crisis services. Congressman Larsen’s commitment to preserving our downtown support center ensures everyone in our community has access to safety and support, now and for years to come.”

    Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley on the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Department Portable Radio Replacement Project: “Great training and bullet-proof vests aren’t all that keep our Patrol Deputies safe. Portable radios ensure deputies can communicate hazards, status and needs in the field. During the upcoming World Cup – with matches in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. – increasing traffic through Whatcom County, it is vital that radios are interoperable with international agencies. Our current portables are not. We are grateful to Congressman Rick Larsen for his support of this essential need.”

    Orcas Senior Center Board Member John Ehrmantraut on the Orcas Senior Center Roof Replacement Project: “As Chair of Orcas Senior Center, I can’t stress enough how critical it is to replace our aging roof —not just to protect the building, but to safeguard the essential services and sense of community this space provides to Orcas Island residents. This center is a cornerstone of our island community, and protecting it means protecting the people who rely on it every day.”

    Edmonds College President Dr. Amit Singh on the LETI Incubator for Family Success Project: “Edmonds College is committed to our partnership with LETI in supporting first generation immigrants and their success. This resource center will empower individuals and families by providing assistance with everything from navigating social services to pursuing higher education. I am very thankful to Representative Larsen for his ongoing support of LETI and Edmonds College.”

    Founder & CEO of Latino Educational Training Institute Rosario Reyes on the LETI Incubator for Family Success Project: “We deeply appreciate Representative Larsen’s support for LETI’s Incubator for Family Success and are grateful to Edmonds College for joining us as a vital partner in this initiative. This new center will serve as a lasting community hub for Latino and low-income families in Snohomish County—a place to celebrate culture, host life events, and access essential services. With dedicated offices and classrooms, LETI will continue advancing its mission to empower Latino families through education, business development, family health, and support for financial advancement.”

    Western Washington University President Sabah Randhawa on the Shannon Point Marine Center Research Vessel Project: “Western Washington University appreciates Representative Larsen’s efforts to include funding for a new research vessel at Shannon Point Marine Center as part of the FY26 budget. If funded, this investment will significantly enhance our ability to study the Salish Sea and surrounding coastal ecosystems while expanding hands-on research opportunities for Washington’s next generation of scientists.”

    Port of Everett CEO Lisa Lefeber on the South Marina Terminal Replacement Project: “The reconstruction of Dock 1 will bring new commercial opportunities to the Everett waterfront, including possible passenger-only ferry service and small regional cruise visits for the first time to the area. This investment in transportation infrastructure will benefit jobs and recreation, therefore investing in our economy. The Port of Everett appreciates Congressman Larsen’s support of this infrastructure investment.”

    Port of Edmonds Commission President David Preston on the North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction Project: “We are grateful to Representative Rick Larsen for his continued support of the North Portwalk and Seawall Reconstruction Project. The Port will utilize funds to advance our project into its third and final phase. Vital repairs to the marina seawall will protect the Port and the surrounding area from flooding, erosion, and storm surges. At the same time, the improvements to the Port’s boardwalk will enhance the public’s use and experience on the waterfront.”

    Chair of the Board of Island County Commissioners Jill Johnson on the Island County Recycling and Reuse Station Project: “We are incredibly grateful for Representative Larsen’s leadership and support for Island County. Federal funding for the Island County Recycling and Reuse Station will improve upon and expand the county’s waste removal and recycling capacity, directly enabling growth and increasing environmental resiliency.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Leads Colleagues in Urging Meta Halt Deployment of Companion Bots to Children

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Kim Schrier (WA-08) and Lori Trahan (MA-03), member of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote to Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg to urge immediate action to halt the deployment of all AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of eighteen and any AI companion bot that simulates the likeness of a child or teen.

    “It is our understanding that Meta facilitates inappropriate ‘romantic role-play’ with these companion bots that alarms even employees of your own company. These inappropriate AI systems pose significant safety risks to children and teenagers who use Meta’s platforms. It is paramount that social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp keep wellness, safety and the best interests of its youngest users at the center of all designs, and we do not believe that these chatbots meet these criteria,” the lawmakers wrote.

    The lawmakers continued, “According to reporting, Meta staff specifically warned leadership that design choices ‘gave adult users access to hypersexualized underage AI personas and, conversely, gave underage users access to bots willing to engage in fantasy sex with children.’ Despite these internal warnings, Meta reportedly proceeded with deploying these technologies to maximize user engagement by loosening guardrails around sexual content in the process.”

    The lawmakers’ letter follows a Wall Street Journal investigation that uncovered Meta’s AI companion bots engaged in sexually explicit conversations with accounts registered to minors, and continued inappropriate interactions while acknowledging the user was underage. Some bots went on to incorporate the minor’s age into sexual scenarios and discussed ways to avoid detection by parents. The investigation further revealed that some of Meta’s most popular companion bots are designed to impersonate children and teens, enabling adult users to engage in sexual roleplay with simulated minors.

    Rep. Castor discussed the harms posed by chatbots on children in a recent Energy and Commerce hearing as House Republicans advanced their policy in a budget reconciliation package that included a ten-year state ban on regulating artificial intelligence.

    Read the full letter here:

    Dear Mr. Zuckerberg,

    We write with strong concern regarding reports of Meta deploying AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of 18, as well as deploying “companion bots” that simulate the likeness of children and teens. It is our understanding that Meta facilitates inappropriate “romantic role-play” with these companion bots that alarms even employees of your own company. These inappropriate AI systems pose significant safety risks to children and teenagers who use Meta’s platforms. It is paramount that social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp keep wellness, safety and the best interests of its youngest users at the center of all designs, and we do not believe that these chatbots meet these criteria.

    A Wall Street Journal investigation has documented alarming instances in which Meta’s AI companion bots engaged in sexually explicit conversations with accounts registered to minors. Even more disturbing, the investigation found that some bots continued these inappropriate interactions while acknowledging the user was underage, with some bots even incorporating the minor’s age into sexual scenarios and discussing ways to avoid parental detection. The investigation further revealed that some of Meta’s most popular companion bots are designed to impersonate children and teens, enabling adults to engage in sexual roleplay with these simulated minors.

    The dangers posed by these AI systems are substantial and immediate. Children and teens are especially vulnerable to forming unhealthy attachments to AI companions, which can lead to:

    • Psychological dependency and addiction to these technologies;
    • Disruption of normal social development and real-life human interactions;
    • Exposure to age-inappropriate sexual content and conversations; and
    • In the most tragic cases, serious harm or death. 

    This follows a troubling trend that we have seen from Meta over the years. According to reporting, Meta staff specifically warned leadership that design choices “gave adult users access to hypersexualized underage AI personas and, conversely, gave underage users access to bots willing to engage in fantasy sex with children. “Despite these internal warnings, Meta reportedly proceeded with deploying these technologies to maximize user engagement by loosening guardrails around sexual content in the process.

    This prioritization of profit and engagement over child safety follows a disconcerting pattern. Internal documents revealed in litigation have shown that Meta has knowledge of the negative impacts its engagement-maximizing features have on minors’ mental health and wellbeing, yet the company continues to push for increased usage among young users.

    We urge Meta to take immediate action to halt the deployment of all AI-powered social companion bots to users under the age of 18 and halt the deployment of any AI companion bot that simulates the likeness of a child or teen.

    Additionally, we request that you provide answers to the following questions by June 6, 2025:

    1. Please identify what factors or training have led Meta’s AI companions to speak explicitly with known minor users.
    2. Please identify what factors or training have led Meta’s AI companions that simulate the likeness of children and teens to speak explicitly with known adult users.
    3. Please provide all internal communications, reports and analyses regarding the safety risks of Meta’s AI companions.
    4. Please provide all internal warnings, concerns, or objections raised by Meta employees leading to deployment.
    5. Did Meta conduct any research into or test the mental health impact of launching its AI companion bots to underage users? Please provide all relevant internal research or testing into the safety of Meta’s AI companions.
    6. What safeguards will Meta implement to ensure that known adult users cannot engage in sexually explicit conversations with AI companions that simulate the likeness of children and teens.
    7. Please provide a comprehensive list of all AI companion bots available on Meta platforms that are designed to simulate minors or that could appeal specifically to children and teens.

    Almost a year and a half has passed since you publicly apologized to parents, many who’ve lost their children, for damage inflicted by Meta’s products and promised to undergo “industry-leading efforts to make sure that no one has to go through the types of things that your families have had to suffer.” Some of Meta’s youngest users have experienced sexual exploitation, been cyberbullied, or have developed unhealthy eating habits or suicide and self-injury behaviors that have been promoted to them by Meta’s algorithms. Despite this, Meta has deployed its new harmful companion bot feature, prioritizing profits over the safety and wellbeing of children and teenagers. It is Meta’s responsibility to facilitate an online environment that is safe, especially for your youngest users.

    We look forward to your prompt response and to working together to ensure the protection of children and teens online.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Seizure of 3D printed handguns

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Seizure of 3D printed handguns

    Friday, 30 May 2025 – 9:24 am.

    Police have seized two 3D printed handguns, ammunition and illicit drugs during a search of a Risdon Vale property.
    Officers from the Tasmania Police Southern Drugs and Firearms Unit, the Dog Handling Unit and specialist resources conducted the search on Thursday.
    As a result, a 29-year-old man has been charged with several drug-related offences, including possessing a controlled drug, possessing a controlled plant, cultivating a controlled plant and selling a controlled drug.
    He has also been charged with unlawful possession of property and with possessing ammunition when not the holder of an appropriate licence.
    Police investigations are continuing into the 3D printed firearms found at the property.
    Anyone with information about the possession of illegal firearms, or parts, can contact police on 131 444, or report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume Formally Announces Bid for Oversight Committee Ranking Member Seat

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    BALTIMORE, MD – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) issued the following statement regarding his decision to formally pursue the role of Ranking Member on the United States House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 

    “I am formally announcing my candidacy for Ranking Member of the U.S. House Oversight and Government Reform Committee,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. 

    Click here to access my full “Dear Colleague” letter to Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives announcing my bid.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amid Proposed Trump Threats, Rosen Fights to Keep Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center Open

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) is calling on the Trump Administration to reverse course on plans to eliminate federal funding and issue a stop work order for the Job Corps program, which would force the closure of the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center in Reno. This center has operated since 1979, serving approximately 25,000 Nevadans and helping students secure full-time employment by providing them with in-demand job skills training. In her letter to the Trump Administration, Senator Rosen highlighted the program’s critical role in addressing workforce shortages, supporting low-income youth, and boosting local economies—stressing that a shutdown would leave hundreds of Nevada students without housing or access to career training. She urged immediate action to preserve the program, resume student enrollment, and stop a reported nationwide order that would impact more than 300 students in Nevada by halting operations and evicting those who rely on the center for housing and job training.
    “At a time when our nation is facing skilled workforce shortages in key sectors, Job Corps plays a critical role in equipping at-risk youth with the skills they need to meaningfully contribute to their communities, fill needed labor gaps, and help boost local economies,” wrote Senator Rosen in the letter. “For decades, the Job Corps program has cultivated a strong and resilient workforce in Nevada, and eliminating the program will have detrimental consequences on the communities, employers, and youth that rely on it.”
    “A stop work order would have immediate and severe impacts in Nevada, cutting off our youth population from critical job training needed to build the skills necessary to secure and maintain good-paying jobs,” she continued. 
    The full letter to the Administration can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has long supported the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Program and championed investments in job training. She has helped lead the fight in the Senate to protect and fully fund the Job Corps program every year. In August 2024, she visited Sierra Nevada Job Corps to participate in their graduation ceremony. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $4 Million to Reimburse Costs for Emergency Repairs to Maine Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Published: May 29, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that multiple agencies in Maine have been awarded $4,079,583.91 in grant funding for emergency repairs to roads and transportation infrastructure that were damaged by severe storms between April 2023 and January 2024. The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Emergency Relief Program, which reimburses states agencies for the repair or reconstruction of federal-aid highways and facilities damaged by natural disasters.

    “Severe weather in recent years has caused serious damage to infrastructure across our state,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will help recoup the costs of emergency response efforts to restore critical transportation routes for Maine communities.”

    The grant funding is allocated as follows:

    1. MaineDOT (Franklin County): $1,813,478 to reimburse costs for repairs following the June 2023 heavy rainstorm that caused significant road washouts and damage to culverts.
    1. National Park Service (Hancock County): $1,000,000 to reimburse costs for road and trail repairs on Mount Desert Island following two coastal storms with record winds in January 2024.
    1. MaineDOT (Statewide): $967,103 to reimburse costs for emergency repairs in 35 locations across the state following storm and flooding events in April and May of 2023 that caused shoulder and roadway washouts and damage to pavement, embankments, and culverts.
    1. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Statewide): $299,003 to reimburse costs for repairs at multiple wildlife refuges in Maine following the December 2023 Nor’easter.

    Eligibility for the FHWA Emergency Relief Program is dependent on a presidential or gubernatorial disaster declaration, and it is the responsibility of individual states and federal agencies to request emergency relief funds for assistance in covering the cost of necessary repairs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Announces More Than $6.4 Million to Support Affordable Housing in Tribal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Published: May 29, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that five tribal communities in Maine have been awarded a total of $6,456,253 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG). These grants support the development and maintenance of affordable housing.

    “This funding will help address critical housing needs, improve quality of life, and strengthen tribal communities across our state,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain committed to working to ensure that tribal communities in Maine have the resources needed to provide safe, affordable housing.”

    The funding is allocated as follows:

    1. Penobscot Nation: $2,284,938
    1. Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township: $1,135,316
    1. Mi’kmaq Nation: $1,129,607
    1. Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point: $1,112,321
    1. Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians: $794,071

    The IHBG program provides funding for a various affordable housing activities, including construction, rehabilitation, and housing services tailored to the unique needs of tribal communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Wraps Up Tenth Stop of “Hands Off Medicaid” Tour in Superior

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    SUPERIOR, WI – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) made a tenth stop on her “Hands Off Medicaid” Tour, convening Wisconsinites whose health care coverage is in jeopardy under the Republicans’ plan to slash Medicaid to pay for corporate tax breaks. One analysis found nearly 230,000 Wisconsinites are at risk of losing their health care coverage in the plan that House Republicans voted to advance last week, including nearly 150,000 Wisconsinites on Medicaid.

    “Donald Trump came into office promising to lower costs on day one. Instead, he’s kicking hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites off their health care and jacking up costs on working families,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’ve travelled across Wisconsin meeting with families who rely on Medicaid to make ends meet and keep themselves or their loved ones safe and well. Every single one of them had a clear message to Congressional Republicans: ‘Hands Off Our Health Care.’ Working families don’t want their care ripped away so the wealthiest Americans can get richer, and I’m fighting to stop this plan dead in its tracks.”

    Senator Baldwin has hosted roundtables in La Crosse, Milwaukee, Wausau, Eau Claire, Green Bay, Racine, Waukesha, Superior, and twice in Madison to raise the alarms on Republicans’ plan to pass tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and corporations by making deep cuts to programs that Wisconsinites rely on like Medicaid.

    Last week, House Republicans advanced a plan that would give tax breaks to big corporations and the top one percent while cuts to Medicaid and the ACA would result in roughly 13.7 million people losing their health insurance by 2034. A new report shows that in Wisconsin, 228,659 people would lose their coverage, including 81,308 Wisconsinites who rely on Affordable Care Act tax breaks to afford their insurance and 147,351 Wisconsinites on Medicaid.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays expected following crash, Māngere East

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Motorists are being advised to expect delays following a two car crash in Māngere East.

    The crash, at the intersection of Massey Road and Gray Avenue, was reported to Police at about 10.54am.

    At this stage there are no reports of injury.

    Motorists are being advised to expect delays or seek an alternative route while the scene is cleared.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Over $2 Million in SBA Relief Approved to Help New Jersey Rebuild After Sinkholes on Interstate 80

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $1.8 million in federal disaster loans to support New Jersey businesses and private nonprofits (PNP) organizations affected by the sinkholes on Interstate 80 occurring Dec. 26, 2024. As of May 22, 2025, the SBA has provided over $2 million to businesses/EIDL in the wake of this disaster.

    “Surpassing $1.8 million in disaster loans reflects more than just numbers — it represents small businesses reopening, families returning home and communities rebuilding stronger,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “These loans provide vital support for recovery, and we encourage anyone still in need to apply before the deadline.”

    Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is still available to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations for working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDLs are available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage and may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return economic injury applications is January 2, 2026.

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    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nevada Man Who Stole Over $7M in Treasury Checks, Sentenced to Six Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Kyle Eugene Duncan-Carle, 41, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment and five years’ supervised release after he admitted to bank fraud in 2023.

    In addition to his term of imprisonment, Duncan-Carle, was ordered to pay $3,490,634.75 in restitution.

    According to court documents and statements made at Duncan-Carle’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, from January 2023 through September 2023 in the District of Utah. Duncan-Carle stole U.S. Treasury checks made out to individuals and companies, assumed the identity of the individuals whose names were on the checks, opened credit union accounts under the assumed identities, and then deposited the checks and withdrew the funds. Duncan-Carle admitted the scheme resulted in at least eight stolen treasury checks that totaled $7,975,621.22. As a result, Duncan-Carle cost the United States government, financial institutions, and a financial institution’s insurance provider $3,490,634.75.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah made the announcement.  

    The case was investigated jointly by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); the Internal Revenue Service Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA); and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.  

    Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen P. Dent and Luisa Gough of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case. 
     

    Release No. 25-71

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sovereign Health Group Founder and Ex-CEO Arrested on Indictment Alleging Long-Running, Massive Fraud Against Health Insurers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SANTA ANA, California – The founder and former CEO of the now-defunct Sovereign Health Group addiction treatment provider was arrested today on an eight-count federal grand jury indictment alleging he submitted more than $149 million in fraudulent claims to health insurers – including for fraudulent urinalysis claims – and, in addition, paid more than $21 million in illegal kickbacks for patient referrals.

    Tonmoy Sharma, 61, of Tustin, was arrested this afternoon at Los Angeles International Airport and is expected to make his initial appearance and be arraigned tomorrow in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. 

    Sharma is charged with four counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy, and three counts of illegal remunerations for referrals to clinical treatment facilities.

    Also arrested today was co-defendant Paul Jin Sen Khor, 45, of Irvine, who worked as Sovereign’s cash management and accounts payable supervisor. Khor is charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of illegal remunerations for referrals to clinical treatment facilities. Khor was arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in Santa Ana. He pleaded not guilty and a July 29 trial date was scheduled. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $20,000 bond.

    According to the indictment, the San Clemente-based Sovereign once was a prominent addiction treatment provider throughout Southern California and several other states. From 2014 to 2020, Sovereign billed private insurance companies for drug addicted and mentally ill patients often at high, out-of-network rates.

    At Sharma’s direction, Sovereign employees aggressively pursued patients through various forms of marketing, directing the patients to contact the company at its toll-free phone number. Once patients called in to Sovereign’s call center, employees used various tactics to enroll patients into the company’s treatment facilities, including misrepresentations. One such misrepresentation was that a patient’s treatment would be paid for by a foundation funded by donations from former Sovereign patients.

    In fact, the foundation was a sham organization and a ruse for Sovereign employees – at Sharma’s direction – to obtain patients’ names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers for use in surreptitiously obtaining health insurance coverage on their behalf. In order to obtain these private health insurance plans, Sovereign employees, at Sharma’s direction, made false representations on insurance applications, claiming qualifying life events that had not happened in order to obtain new insurance outside the enrollment period and inflating or underreporting their income so the patients would qualify for Affordable Care Act government-subsidized private insurance instead of Medicaid, whose reimbursement rates were significantly lower than private insurers.

    Patients generally did not know that Sovereign would enroll them into these policies or authorize Sovereign to do so. Sovereign employees at times even pretended to be the patients when calling into those insurance companies. Those insurance companies would not have covered any services under plans obtained by these fraudulent means.

    Sovereign also fraudulently billed insurers more than $29 million for urinalysis tests not authorized by the purported ordering health providers. At Sharma’s direction, Sovereign submitted fraudulent claims for comprehensive urinalysis screening, including through its laboratory, Vedanta Laboratories Inc. Sovereign patients were frequently drug tested through both cup testing and comprehensive panel testing. The cup testing returned results within minutes, while the panel testing was much more comprehensive, with results taking several days to return. The comprehensive panel testing screened for dozens of different substances and, accordingly, was billed at a significantly higher rate than cup testing.

    Sharma directed Sovereign employees to frequently administer cup testing and comprehensive panel testing on patients, including comprehensive panel testing up to three times a week. Sovereign submitted thousands of claims to insurance companies, including for comprehensive panel tests that purportedly were authorized by physicians when, in reality, the physicians did not authorize the tests. Sovereign also submitted numerous claims to the insurance companies, including urinalysis tests, after physicians were no longer working at Sovereign. 

    Finally, in addition to the patients obtained through the call center above, Sharma and Khor also procured patients for Sovereign by paying illegal kickbacks to patient brokers. To conceal the nature of these transactions, Sharma and Khor caused Sovereign to enter sham contracts that referred to the brokers’ services as “marketing hours,” a term the brokers used when sending invoices to Sovereign for payment. Sovereign paid more than $21 million in illegal kickbacks for patient referrals.

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

    If convicted, Sharma would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each wire fraud count. Both defendants would face up to five years in federal prison for the conspiracy count, and up to 10 years in federal prison for each illegal remunerations count.

    The FBI, the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the California Department of Health Care Services are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorney Solomon Kim of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Career Offender Is Sentenced To More Than 15 Years In Prison For Distributing Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. –Ronald Lee Peak, 45, of Hendersonville, N.C., was sentenced today to 188 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for distributing methamphetamine, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.

    According to court records and court proceedings, law enforcement learned that Peak was distributing firearms and methamphetamine in and around Asheville and Hendersonville. Investigators used a confidential informant (CI) to purchase firearms and methamphetamine from Peak at least two times between July and August 2022. The first time Peak sold the CI a 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number in Hendersonville, and later, sold 36.82 grams of methamphetamine in Asheville. The second time Peak sold the CI 27.175 grams of methamphetamine and a .32 caliber pistol.

    Peak pleaded guilty on August 16, 2024, to distribution of methamphetamine. Court records indicate Peak has prior state convictions and as a result he qualified for an increased sentence as a career offender. Peak will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons after he completes his state prison sentence.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Buncombe Country Sheriff’s Office, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Asheville Police Department for their investigation of the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher S. Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville handled the prosecution.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier calls for consolidation of poverty alleviation work

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

    BEIJING, May 29 — Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong on Thursday called for unremitting work to consolidate and expand China’s poverty alleviation achievements, and to guarantee a smooth transition to assisting rural areas on a regular basis.

    Continuous efforts must be made to prevent a large-scale relapse into poverty or the occurrence of poverty, Liu, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said at a related conference in Beijing.

    After declaring its eradication of absolute poverty in 2021, China established a five-year transition period dedicated to consolidating and building on the outcomes of its poverty alleviation campaign, and to integrating those outcomes with rural vitalization.

    Noting that this year is the final year of this transition period, Liu urged action to optimize screening and assistance processes, ensure stable employment for people who have emerged from poverty, enhance the quality and efficiency of supportive industries, and improve the long-term asset management of assistance projects.

    He stressed the need for strengthened collaboration between the country’s eastern and western regions, as well as the importance of improved targeted assistance, and called for solid work to provide regular assistance for rural low-income populations and underdeveloped areas in the post-transition period.

    Eight provincial regions of east China signed assistance agreements with 10 western provincial regions at the conference.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China invites SCO member states to jointly build AI application center

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

    TIANJIN, May 29 — China has invited member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to work together to build an AI application center, according to a plan unveiled on Thursday at the 2025 China-SCO AI cooperation forum in north China’s Tianjin Municipality.

    The China-SCO Member States AI Application Cooperation Center Construction Plan also proposes such goals as talent cultivation, enhanced industrial cooperation, and improved cooperation on the provision of open-source services.

    Themed “Intelligence Converges in China, Wisdom Benefits SCO,” the forum aims to boost practical AI development and governance cooperation between China and SCO member states.

    Huang Ru, an official of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, remarked at the forum that accelerating cooperation on AI technology and application will invigorate the SCO’s economic and social development, advancing inclusive global development and serving as a bridge to span the global digital divide.

    China stands ready to collaborate with other SCO member states to consistently uphold the “Shanghai Spirit” and enhance joint efforts to promote the beneficial, secure and equitable development of AI, Huang added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Scenery of Basum Tso in Xizang, SW China

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

    Scenery of Basum Tso in Xizang, SW China

    Updated: May 30, 2025 07:36 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. This lake nestled among snow-covered mountains is noted for limpid water and diversified vegetation, and has been a tremendous tourist attraction during the summer. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This drone photo taken on May 28, 2025 shows a view of Basum Tso, a lake in Nyingchi, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 30, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Historic Garden of England protected with new sparkling National Nature Reserve

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Historic Garden of England protected with new sparkling National Nature Reserve

    Eighth Kings Series National Nature Reserve to be announced

    Credit: Michael Charlton

    • The North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is home to around 1700 ancient and veteran trees, as well as a mosaic of natural habitats including wildflower meadows, rare arable plants and chalk grasslands.
    • Around 400,000 people live within 5 miles of the new reserve, and will have new opportunities to connect with this unique landscape.
    • First National Nature Reserve to include an organic and carbon-negative vineyard, bringing a boost for both nature recovery and the local economy.

    Kent has reaffirmed its reputation as the ‘Garden of England’ with the announcement of a new National Nature Reserve (30 May) boasting flagship species including, Man and Lady orchids, the Maidstone mining bee, Hazel dormouse and skylarks.

    The county is said to have been given its famous nickname by Henry VIII to acknowledge its beautiful green landscape and abundant supply of food and drink. While much has changed over the centuries, modern day visitors to the newly opened reserve will find that it is still worthy of this title. The site offers access to a rich mix of wildflower meadows, chalk grasslands and ancient woodlands which have maintained tree cover since the Tudor era.

    Many people have enjoyed the picturesque North Kent countryside, including Charles Dickens, who praised the fresh greenery and bustling wildlife of Kent, and frequently returned to the area in his writings, drawing inspiration from this idyllic landscape. The natural beauty of the area has now been put back in the spotlight with this declaration.

    Over 400,000 people live within five miles of the new North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve and 8 million people live just an hour’s drive away, making this opening an exciting opportunity for people to connect with internationally important nature. 

    The new National Nature Reserve covers 800 hectares, equivalent to over 1100 football pitches, and partners will be working to support conservation efforts beyond the boundary of the reserve, helping to create a joined-up approach to nature recovery for a further 1100 hectares in the surrounding area.

    Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England said:  

    Creating bigger, better and more joined up natural areas is one of the most vital and fundamental steps we must take in meeting our national targets for Nature’s recovery. This new reserve, with its hundreds of ancient trees set amid extensive chalk grasslands, lays the foundations for multiple partners to work together to improve Nature across a significant area of countryside. This reserve presents one further excellent example of the progress that can be made when people decide to work together across landscapes.

    Millions of people visit our National Nature Reserves and having a new one accessible to so many people and with such fantastic Nature is truly a cause for celebration.

    Nature Minister Mary Creagh said: 

    This new National Nature reserve will give people the opportunity to explore Kent’s magical landscapes from wildflower meadows to ancient woodlands.

    Reserves like this one, and others in the King’s Coronation Series, will deliver on our promise to improve access to nature and protect nature-rich habitats, as well as boosting the local economy in line with our Plan for Change.

    Alongside long-term management for the precious habitats found at the site, the declaration of the newest National Nature Reserve in the King’s Series also offers the prime example of how conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand. 

    The site is home to the Silverhand Estate, the largest single organic and carbon-negative vineyard in the UK. For organisations like Silverhand, a healthy natural environment is essential to business, which serves as a reminder that nature underpins all parts of our economy. 

    The creation of the reserve will offer a boost to tourism in the Garden of England, as National Nature Reserve status highlights the internationally important nature found in the area. More than 20 million people visit National Nature Reserves each year, helping to put the natural beauty and ecological importance of our landscapes in the spotlight and boost the visitor economy of the areas around them. 

    This new National Nature Reserve directly supports the government’s commitment to restore and protect our natural world by expanding nature-rich habitats where people can explore and wildlife can thrive.

    This is the 8th reserve to be launched as part of the King’s Series of National Nature Reserves, which will leave a lasting public legacy for people and nature by creating or extending 25 National Nature Reserves by 2027. 

    With support from Natural England and Kent Downs National Landscape, the Reserve will be managed by a number of partners including the National Trust, Woodland Trust, Kent County Council, Plantlife, Silverhand Estate (Vineyard Farms Ltd), and the West Kent Downs Countryside Trust. Affiliated partners include Gravesham Borough Council, Birling Estate, Shorne Parish Council, Tarmac and Forestry England. 

    ENDS 

    QUOTES PACK 

    Nick Johannsen, National Landscape Director, Kent Downs National Landscape:

    The North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is especially exciting because of the sheer scale, nearly 20 square kilometres of land managed for nature, people, its beauty and history and for scientific research and so close to the urban centres of Gravesend and the Medway Towns.

    Many partners from the public, private, community and charity sectors are working together here, on some of the very best sites for wildlife in England. Together we have committed to work for nature recovery and connect our land. Our partnership has worked for over 2 years to develop a vision for the NNR and carry out detailed research and development. This crucial stage has been supported by the National Highways Designated Funds. Our friends in Natural England guided the proposal through the legal processes and we’ve done it!

    A fantastic new National Nature Reserve in the Kent Downs National Landscape. This launch celebrates all of the work done so far, and will provide added momentum to make more positive change on the ground, securing more flourishing nature and engaging with more and more diverse communities.

    Ben Sweeney, Ranscombe Farm Reserve Manager, Plantlife:

    It is truly exciting that Ranscombe Farm, Plantlife’s flagship nature reserve, is now part of such a concerted effort to bring together conservation, community and sustainable land use at the landscape scale. Ranscombe Farm, a wonderful patchwork of arable fields, ancient woodland and chalk grasslands, is a globally significant place for wild plants and other wildlife.

    Not only is Ranscombe the last wild UK site for Corncockle, it also harbours the largest population of the endangered Broad-leaved cudweed and a wide variety of rare wild orchids. But it is much more than just a treasure trove of rare and threatened plants; visitors are welcome to enjoy 10 miles of footpaths through the mosaic of habitats covering over 600 acres and marvel at the stunning displays of poppies in June and July.

    Gary Smith, CEO, Silverhand Estate:

    We are delighted to be a part of and working alongside the NNR. Sustainability, regenerative farming and protection of the landscape is at the heart of everything we do on our Estate. The work our conservation team does has had an enormously positive impact on the local landscape and we are excited to be able to share this with the community going forward.

    Cllr Emma Morley, Gravesham Borough Council’s cabinet member for operational services:

    We are blessed to have such beautiful and historically significant landscapes within our borough, which are rightly being recognised through the creation of this NNR. Nature does not recognise human boundaries, and so we look forward to working with the various partners and colleagues to protect and nurture this extensive, beautiful and fascinatingly varied reserve, allowing generations to come to enjoy its beauty.

    Jenny Scholfield, Regional Director at the Woodland Trust: 

    We are delighted that Ashenbank Wood, a SSSI site with ancient woodland, veteran trees and home to rare and declining species including the hazel dormouse, is part of the new National Nature Reserve in North Kent.

    For over 40 years Woodland Trust has been caring for and managing this site for trees, wildlife and people and we are pleased that Ashenbank is recognised and protected as an important part of the Kent landscape as part of this initiative. We are looking forward to further collaboration with the NNR partners to strengthen our efforts for nature recovery across this unique landscape.

    Jonathan Ireland, Lead Ranger at National Trust, Cobham Woods:

    Cobham Wood’s inclusion in the North Kent Woods and Downs National Nature Reserve is a significant step in safeguarding one of Kent’s most precious landscapes. This ancient woodland, home to centuries-old veteran trees and a rich diversity of wildlife, provides a vital habitat for rare species, from saproxylic invertebrates to nesting birds.

    Through this pioneering partnership and shared learnings, we can ensure the continued restoration of its historic wood pasture, allowing nature to flourish while welcoming visitors to experience its beauty firsthand. By working together across a landscape scale, we are creating a connected and resilient environment where biodiversity can thrive, ensuring Cobham Wood is protected for future generations to explore and enjoy.

    Simon Jones, Corporate Director, Growth, Environment and Transport for Kent County Council, said:

    At the heart of the National Nature Reserve is a partnership working together as one area, sharing work, knowledge and planning for the whole ecosystem to be connected as opposed to working in individual areas. Shorne Woods and Trosley Country Parks are part of the NNR and are home to flagship species such as orchids, arable plants, dormice, great crested newts and spectacular veteran trees, each playing a vital role in the ecosystem.

    The ambition for the NNR partnership is to make a positive change at landscape scale and enhance the vitality of these communities, giving them greater access and awareness of first-class green spaces on their doorstep. Some of Kent’s more deprived areas fall within five miles of the NNR. The social ambitions of the partners include linking the landscape and its urban residents and inviting them to discover what is on their doorstep.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 30 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025
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