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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon releases What We Heard report on Identifying Barriers to Indigenous Recruitment and Retention and the new Breaking Trail Together Operational Plan 2023–2026

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    As part of the Government of Yukon’s commitment to reducing recruitment barriers and creating culturally safe work environments, the Government of Yukon has released two key documents, including a What We Heard report on Identifying Barriers to Indigenous Recruitment and Retention and the Breaking Trail Together Operational Plan 2023–2026.

    These documents follow public engagements with Indigenous people to identify and address challenges in the recruitment and retention of Indigenous employees within the Government of Yukon’s public service.

    • Read more about Government of Yukon releases What We Heard report on Identifying Barriers to Indigenous Recruitment and Retention and the new Breaking Trail Together Operational Plan 2023–2026
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    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes 2024 Article IV Mission to Timor-Leste

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 8, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Timor-Leste’s growth is expected to rise in 2024, supported by an increase in public spending and strong credit growth. From a high level in 2023, inflation has fallen sharply and is projected to continue easing with the moderation of global food prices.
    • A key policy priority is ensuring that Timor-Leste’s substantial savings are best utilized to support development while achieving fiscal sustainability. Improving the composition and quality of public spending would boost growth, while containing overall spending is needed to preserve fiscal sustainability.
    • Promoting private sector development requires well-sequenced structural reforms, and the authorities are rightly prioritizing an ambitious agenda of legal reforms of the financial sector.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Yan Carrière-Swallow visited Dili during September 25-October 8 to conduct discussions for the 2024 Article IV consultation with Timor-Leste. At the conclusion of the discussions, Mr. Carrière-Swallow issued the following statement:

    “Timor-Leste has made impressive progress since its independence. Yet, the economy remains under-diversified and highly dependent on the public sector. The IMF stands ready to continue providing capacity development to assist the government’s development and reform efforts.

    “Growth is expected to rise in 2024, supported by an increase in public spending and strong credit growth, and will maintain its momentum in 2025. From a high level in 2023, inflation has fallen sharply and is projected to continue easing with the moderation of global food prices. Risks to the outlook are balanced.

    “The draft 2025 budget contains an appropriate increase in spending on capital projects, health, and education, but also an excessive increase in recurrent spending. Large fiscal deficits are expected to persist as spending remains high, requiring excess withdrawals from the Petroleum Fund that will lead to its full depletion by the end of the 2030s. We recommend a 10-year reform scenario that supports economic diversification through structural reforms and gradually reduces fiscal deficits to stabilize the Petroleum Fund.

    “We welcome the government’s ambitious financial sector reform agenda to address structural impediments to lending, which is essential for private sector development. We recommend accelerating the issuance of land titles, which would offer a crucial source of collateral to households and businesses seeking credit from banks.

    “The team had fruitful discussions with Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Minister of Finance Santina Cardoso, Central Bank Governor Hélder Lopes, other senior officials, development partners, the private sector, and civil society. On behalf of the IMF team, I would like to thank the Timorese authorities for their hospitality and excellent cooperation.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pemba Sherpa

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/08/pr24360-timor-leste-imf-staff-completes-2024-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Touts Good Paying Jobs, Inflation Reduction Act at Array Technologies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Today, October 2, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) toured Array Technologies and spoke with executives, site leaders and New Mexico’s Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department officials about the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on solar manufacturing.

    “New Mexico’s homegrown company, Array Technologies, is creating domestic manufacturing jobs thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. These jobs are leading the way to securing our domestic energy supply and harnessing the power of our natural resources. Array’s new facility in my district will employ over 300 New Mexicans, powering the growth of the West Mesa,” said Vasquez. “Array’s expansion is expected to inject over $300 million into the local economy over the next decade. This is the kind of economic impact that strengthens our district and keeps families here in New Mexico.” 

    During the roundtable, they discussed plans for the new production facility in the district and how these investments will bring more good-paying jobs to the area. Array Technologies, an Albuquerque-based global leader in solar tracking systems, recently broke ground on a new production facility on Albuquerque’s West Side. 

    The IRA is a game changer for renewable energy. The 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit is directly supporting the growth of solar manufacturing at Array. This credit incentivizes domestic production, which means more investments in local workforces and supply chains. These efforts, along with the strategic investments in solar manufacturing, are part of Vasquez’s broader commitment to ensuring New Mexico remains a hub for renewable energy innovation.

    Once fully operational, Array’s new facility will increase production of solar tracker systems, key elements of utility-scale solar installations. Thanks to the domestic content bonus credit from the IRA, Array is on track to offer 100 percent U.S.-made solar trackers by 2025, strengthening local supply chains and creating more opportunities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Papua New Guinea on a Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) Arrangement and the Third Reviews Under the Extended Credit Facility and the Extended Fund Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    October 8, 2024

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country or a virtual staff visit. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The Papua New Guinea authorities and the IMF team reached staff-level agreement on the request for access under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) for about US$265 million to enhance resilience to climate change. The IMF Executive Board will consider the request in the coming weeks.
    • The authorities and the IMF team also reached staff-level agreement on the third reviews of the authorities’ reform program supported by the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility and the Extended Fund Facility.
    • Papua New Guinea’s outlook remains positive, with economic growth increasing to 4.5 percent in 2024, and the authorities continue to make progress in implementing their homegrown economic reform program.

    Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Mr. Tahsin Saadi Sedik, visited Port Moresby from September 26 to October 9, 2024, to review progress under the authorities’ homegrown economic reforms supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements of SDR684.3 million (about US$918 million), and to discuss the authorities’ request for access to the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Saadi Sedik issued the following statement:

    “I am pleased to announce that IMF staff and the Papua New Guinea (PNG) authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on (i) the policies needed to complete the third reviews of the ECF and EFF arrangements; and (ii) a new 24-month RSF arrangement with access of SDR197.4 million (about US$265 million), which will run in parallel to the ECF-EFF arrangements, to support the authorities’ policy agenda aimed at enhancing resilience to climate change.

    “To enhance PNG’s capacity to address challenges posed by climate change and reinforce its resilience, the proposed RSF arrangement, subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, would help build policy buffers and contribute to enhancing the effective implementation of PNG’s climate commitments. PNG would become the first Pacific Island country to benefit from RSF support. Building on these commitments, reforms under the proposed RSF arrangement will focus on strengthening disaster risk management capacity, supporting the inclusion of climate considerations in public investment decisions, encouraging the development of green finance, and enhancing mitigation policies. These reforms, which will be supported by capacity development activities from PNG’s international partners, are expected to catalyze financing for climate and sustainable development. 

    “The completion of the third reviews of the ECF-EFF, upon approval by the Executive Board of the IMF, would allow for the immediate disbursement of SDR94.75 million (approximately US$127 million) in financing, bringing the total IMF financial support disbursed thus far under the ECF-EFF arrangements to SDR321.12 million (about US$430 million). Adding the new RSF support, the total IMF commitment under all these arrangements would be SDR881.72 million (about US$1.19 billion).

    “Papua New Guinea’s economic outlook remains positive. Growth is expected to increase to 4.5 percent in 2024 from 2.9 percent in 2023, supported by the resumption of activities at the Porgera gold mine and improvements in access to foreign exchange. Average headline inflation is projected to remain historically low at 1.3 percent in 2024, while core inflation, which excludes volatile items such as betel nut, is projected to moderately increase to 3.9 percent in 2024, while staying below the historical average, mainly driven by food and transportation costs. Gross international reserves stood at US$3.2 billion at end-June 2024, providing space to continue implementing central banking reforms.

    “Performance since the start of the ECF-EFF arrangements has been strong. The government of PNG has continued to make progress in implementing its structural reform agenda, focused on advancing budget repair, modernizing central banking, and improving governance. These reforms are bearing fruit, with notable positive outcomes including: (i) the easing of foreign exchange shortages, which contributes to improving the business environment; (ii) the reduction of excess liquidity in the banking sector, which enhances monetary policy transmission; (iii) a lower fiscal deficit, which strengthens public debt sustainability; and (iv) progress in the operationalization of the anti-corruption framework.

    “The government remains committed to an ambitious fiscal consolidation strategy set out in its 13-year budget repair plan. After reducing the fiscal deficit by 0.9 percentage points of GDP in 2023, while creating space for more social spending, the authorities are on track to deliver an additional 0.4 percentage points of GDP reduction in 2024. The authorities remain committed to implementing their prudent borrowing strategy aimed at preserving debt sustainability.

    “The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has continued to actively implement its roadmap of reforms to help alleviate foreign exchange shortages, gradually return to kina convertibility, and modernize its monetary policy operations. The increased flexibility of the exchange rate under the de facto crawl-like arrangement, combined with the BPNG’s foreign exchange intervention strategy, has supported improved access to foreign exchange, particularly for essential import orders. The reduction of the structural misalignment of the kina will help enhance the competitiveness of PNG’s exports, including in the agricultural sector, and thus increase rural incomes and improve living standards. The BPNG continues monitoring developments in domestic financial markets and stands ready to calibrate its policy stance accordingly. The BPNG is also modernizing its monetary policy operations, enabling commercial banks to improve their liquidity management. Amendments to the Central Banking Act, adopted in September by Parliament, have significantly improved the mandate, governance, and autonomy of the BPNG.

    “The governance and anti-corruption frameworks are being strengthened. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), benefiting from a significant increase in funding, has successfully defined its operational procedures and set up more secure information systems.

    “The IMF will continue to work closely with the Papua New Guinea authorities and stands ready to help them, not only through financing and policy advice, but also through technical assistance.

    “The IMF staff team is grateful to the authorities for their warm hospitality, productive collaboration, and candid policy dialogue. The IMF team held meetings with Minister for Treasury Ian Ling-Stuckey, Governor of BPNG Elizabeth Genia, Secretary of Treasury Andrew Oaeke, and other senior government officials. The team also had constructive meetings with representatives from the private sector and development partners.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Randa Elnagar

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2024/10/08/pr24359-papua-new-guinea-imf-reaches-sla-rsf-arrangement-3rd-rev-ecf-eff

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Vasquez’s Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Wildfires, Support Ranchers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 24, 2024, the House passed U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) and Doug LaMalfa’s (R-CA-01) bill, the bipartisan Utilizing Grazing for Wildfire Risk Reduction Act, to help prevent wildfires through proactive grazing. The bill passed as part of the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act. Prior to passage, Vasquez spoke on the House Floor about the importance of his bill to New Mexico. 

    WATCH: Vasquez Delivers Remarks on the House Floor

    “We need to use every tool in our toolbox to lessen the frequency and severity of wildfires. Livestock grazing can help us accomplish that goal. Grazing targeted areas can help slow the spread of an intense burn and control the temperature of a fire by reducing the amount of flammable organic fuel,” saidVasquez. “In New Mexico, we know the cost of fighting wildfires is astronomical, so we must use every available resource to prevent future natural disasters.”

    Vasquez is committed to preventing and reducing wildfires that threaten New Mexican’s homes, land and livelihoods. The recent South Fork and Salt Fires, which tragically took the lives of three New Mexicans and destroyed hundreds of homes and tens of thousands of acres, underscores the importance of using every option available to prevent dangerous wildfires.

    This bill ensures that grazing can be used proactively to mitigate wildfires and keep New Mexicans safe. It helps cut through red tape and makes it easier for New Mexican farmers and ranchers to assist in preventing wildfires that could devastate their land and livelihood.

    Vasquez voted in support of the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act today, which improves local capacity to address wildfire impacts by allowing different agencies to work together to tackle wildfire risks. The bill advances research, supports local building codes, reduces wildfire impacts, encourages partnerships and offers technical and financial assistance. This allows the U.S. Forest Service to focus its resources more directly on fireshed management by hiring additional staff and conducting hazardous fuels management. 

    The Fix Our Forest Act also ensures that when Tribes conduct fire management efforts, such as trimming excess limbs off trees, they are able to sell the timber and use the profits for forest restoration activities. This will help support Tribal sovereignty and economic prosperity. It is endorsed by the National Congress of American Indians, the Citizens’ Climate Lobby and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. 

    Vasquez and LaMalfa originally introduced their bipartisan Utilizing Grazing for Wildfire Risk Reduction Act in March.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Hosts Second Rural Community Funding Summit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    SHREVEPORT – This morning, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) hosted his second Rural Community Funding Summit of 2024, together with Minden Mayor Nick Cox, the Louisiana Municipal Association, the Police Jury Association of Louisiana, and LITACorp. Cassidy encouraged local officials in attendance to take advantage of his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the opportunities it provides.
    “When I was negotiating the bipartisan infrastructure bill, I was thinking of mayors, police jurors and city council members gaining access to dollars to build roads, fix water and sewage issues and extend high-speed broadband throughout Northwest Louisiana,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This summit completes the connection between appropriating our federal tax dollars back to our state and these community leaders learning how to use this money.”
    Webster Parish alone will benefit from over $17 million in the IIJA as of last summer, including over $9.2 million to build a new overpass over Louisiana Highway 531, along with other improvements near the overpass. Improvements will also be made to the stretch of Louisiana Highway 159 between Country Club Drive and Benson Road, and to the Minden and Springhill Airports.
    Representatives from numerous federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the Delta Regional Authority, were present. Cassidy was thanked for his efforts by Mayor Cox.
    “Senator Cassidy’s infrastructure bill has been enormously helpful in improving our roads and upgrading our airports, and we appreciate the chance to learn more about the opportunities in his bill to improve the services we provide to our residents,” said Mayor Cox. “This is great for Minden and great for the region.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – Stats NZ media and information release: New Zealand’s environmental reporting series: Our air 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Motor vehicle improvements are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions – 9 October 2024 – Improvements to the motor vehicle fleet are helping to reduce air pollutant emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    That is one of the findings of the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ’s latest three-yearly update about air quality in Aotearoa. Our air 2024 brings together recently updated Stats NZ indicator data, as well as insights from research literature. The report shows that air pollutant levels have decreased at most monitoring sites over the last eight years. However, some sites showed worsening air quality, while pollutant levels at sites where air quality improved were at times above levels in World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

    MfE’s Deputy Secretary – Strategy, Stewardship and Performance, Natasha Lewis, says emissions from motor vehicles (as well as aviation, shipping and rail) were lower in 2019 than in 2012 for all monitored pollutants, except sulphur dioxide. “Air pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust emissions are reducing per kilometre as a result of vehicle emissions standards, lower-emissions vehicles and improvements in engine technology and fuel quality,” she says.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this news story and information release:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: During Children’s Health Month, New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Applauds More Than $19 Million Headed to New Hampshire to Protect Children from Lead Poisoning

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), applauded the announcement of more than $19 million headed to New Hampshire from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Lead Hazard Reduction Grant program to help protect families with small children from the dangers of lead-based paint exposure. Specifically, the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority is receiving $7.75 million, the City of Nashua is receiving $7.7 million and Sullivan County is receiving $4 million through the grant program.
    “Lead-based paint poses a serious health threat to children, and in states like New Hampshire where many of our neighborhoods have older housing stock, we must make every effort to protect families,” said Senator Shaheen. “This federal funding will help protect Granite State children from lead poisoning and exposure to other dangerous contaminants in their homes.”
    “New Hampshire’s children need safe places to live in order to thrive, but lead-based paint in older homes continues to jeopardize their health and development,” said Senator Hassan. “This federal funding to fix homes with lead paint is not only an important investment in the health of our children, but it also will preserve access to affordable housing in New Hampshire – giving more Granite Staters the safe homes and communities that they deserve.”
    “The science is clear: there is no safe amount of lead exposure—particularly for young children,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “I’m pleased to join the rest of the delegation in welcoming these resources heading to Nashua, Bedford, and Newport to help remediate older homes and apartments that contain lead paint and protect our communities from hazardous chemicals.”
    “The health of our children must always be a top priority, and protecting them from lead and other hazardous materials is essential in this effort,” said Congressman Pappas. “These funds will help New Hampshire families address lead-based paint and other health issues within our older housing supply to ensure our kids can grow up in a safe environment. I’ll continue working to address the needs of our children, families, and communities.”
    As a Senior Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Shaheen helps lead an annual letter with Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) to fellow appropriators requesting funding for the Office of Lead Control and Healthy Homes at HUD, which administers the Lead Hazard Reduction and Healthy Homes grant programs, as well as funding for the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Shaheen and Hassan helped negotiate, and the full delegation supported, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invested a historic $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Police issue please for all road users to take responsibility

    Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – 8:52 am.

    With four deaths on Tasmanian roads last week alone, police are pleading with all road users to slow down and take responsibility on our roads.Acting Inspector Justin Lawson, who is the State Road Safety Coordinator for Tasmania Police, said that over the past decade, Tasmania has faced a tragic toll from road crashes, with more than 3,000 people being seriously injured or killed on our roads.“These numbers mean that on average, 35 Tasmanians are dying from road trauma each year.“A total of 26 people have lost their lives on Tasmanian roads this year, with factors including speed, alcohol consumption, fatigue, and distracted driving continuing to feature strongly as contributors.“Sadly, another four people have died in the past week alone,” he said.“This compares to 25 fatalities at the same time last year. In addition, a total of 223 people have been seriously injured in 2024, compared with 242 in 2023.”Acting Inspector Lawson said that inattention and high-risk driving behaviour were the most common contributors to fatal and serious crashes, along with speeding, drink/drug driving, fatigue and not wearing seatbelts.“The devastating consequences of fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes extend beyond the immediate physical injuries – they ripple through families, friends, and communities, leaving long-lasting emotional and psychological scars,” Acting Inspector Lawson said.“Each incident represents a life altered, a family heartbroken, and a community left counting the cost.“We implore drivers not to become a statistic. We all have a choice when we get behind the wheel and we call upon all Tasmanians to join us in making our roads safer.“Whether you are a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, your choices matter and can assist in reducing the number of crashes.”“We will continue to conduct targeted and random patrols on rural roads to curb high-risk behaviours like speeding, drink driving, inattention and not wearing seatbelts, because we know these factors overwhelmingly contribute to serious and fatal crashes on our roads.“We also encourage members of the public to report dangerous driving and traffic offending to police on 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.”“You can also report dangerous driving through our website at https://www.police.tas.gov.au/services-online/dangerous-driving-report/”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISIS

    Source: United States Attorneys General 5

    Note: View the unsealed criminal complaint here. 

    The Justice Department today announced charges against a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO).

    According to a criminal complaint filed today, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, conspired and attempted to provide material support to ISIS and obtained firearms and ammunition to conduct a violent attack on U.S. soil in the name of ISIS. As part of the plot, the defendant allegedly took steps to liquidate his family’s assets, resettle members of his family overseas, acquire AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, and commit a terrorist attack in the United States.

    “As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”

    “This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “I am proud of the men and women of the FBI who uncovered and stopped the plot before anyone was harmed. Terrorism is still the FBI’s number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people.”

    “Thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI, National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and federal prosecutors in my office, the alleged plan to commit an attack on Election Day was disrupted and Mr. Tawhedi was arrested,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Fighting terrorism remains the top priority of the Justice Department. We will continue to pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable those who plot to commit acts of terrorism against our country and our people.”

    According to the criminal complaint, as part of the investigation into Tawhedi, the FBI searched Tawhedi’s phone and obtained communications between Tawhedi and a person who facilitated recruitment, training, and indoctrination of persons who expressed interest in terrorist activity and who Tawhedi understood to be affiliated with ISIS. Tawhedi was also seen in a video recorded on July 20 reading to two children text that describes the rewards a martyr receives in the afterlife. Tawhedi also allegedly accessed, viewed, and saved ISIS propaganda on his iCloud and Google account, participated in pro-ISIS Telegram groups, and contributed to a charity which fronts for and funnels money to ISIS.

    The complaint alleges that while liquidating their family’s assets prior to the attack, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator, who is a juvenile, advertised the sale of the family’s personal property on Facebook. At the FBI’s direction, a confidential human source responded to inquire if a computer was still for sale. The FBI source noted that he needed the computer for a new gun business he was starting, which ultimately led Tawhedi and the juvenile to meet with the source and other FBI assets at a rural location to test firearms. Tawhedi expressed interest in purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from the source.

    According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 7, Tawhedi and the juvenile met with the FBI assets at a rural location in the Western District of Oklahoma and purchased, received, and took possession of two AK-47 assault rifles, ten magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition. Upon receipt of the rifles and ammunition, Tawhedi and the juvenile were arrested.

    In his seized communications, Tawhedi allegedly indicated that his attack was planned for Election Day, and in a post-arrest interview, Tawhedi allegedly confirmed the attack was planned for Election Day targeting large gatherings of people, during which he and the juvenile were expected to die as martyrs.

    Tawhedi was charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and receiving a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years, if convicted.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Moore, Oklahoma Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry, Matt Dillon, and Mark Stoneman for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorneys George C. Kraehe and Everett McMillian of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Businesses and Residents Affected by the Boyles Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by the Boyles Fire that occurred Sept. 8–11, announced Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman of the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward of the California Office of Emergency Services, on Oct. 1.

    The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Mendocino, Napa, Sonoma and Yolo counties.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help California’s small businesses and residents impacted by the Boyles Fire,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help businesses and communities recover and rebuild.”

    “When disasters strike, our Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    “Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged or destroyed by this disaster,” continued Sánchez. “Beginning Thursday, Oct. 10, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Sánchez added. The center will be open on the days and times indicated below. No appointment is necessary.

    LAKE COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Clearlake City Hall
    14050 Olympic Dr.
    Clearlake, CA  95422

    Opens 12 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10

    Closed Monday, Oct. 14 in observance of Columbus Day

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Closes 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31

    Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

    For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

    “SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez said. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”

    Disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at 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 deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 6, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    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, 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 http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Virtual reality separates the wood from the trees in forestry industry

    Source: University of South Australia

    09 October 2024

    Virtual reality is set to revolutionise Australia’s $24 billion forestry industry by training workers risk-free, remotely, and much faster.

    A VR immersive training tool developed by the University of South Australia with the support of the Green Triangle Forest Industry Hub is also expected to save the industry millions of dollars in the long term.

    Lead researcher and immersive technology expert Dr Andrew Cunningham and developer Jack Fraser have spent the past year working on the VR tool to support training in South Australia’s forestry mills, and hope to roll it out nationally.

    The ‘Mills Skills VR’ tool uses virtual reality across a range of scenarios, immersing users in a 3D environment that simulates all aspects of forestry practices, training them in a risk-free setting.

    “For the untrained, the forest industry is inherently risky, especially in the mills because it involves large, heavy machinery,” Dr Cunningham says. “It is also a fast moving and busy environment, so if we can train workers to recognise the hazards and equip them with the skills before they step into the mill, it’s better for everyone.”

    A significant benefit is that the trainees can use the VR tool anywhere in Australia, with a virtual reality headset, saving time and costs in flying them halfway across the country.

    Workforce Development Manager at the Green Triangle Forest Industry Hub, Josh Praolini, says the VR training model could reshape how training is delivered to forest industry workers in Australia.

    “At the moment, we rely on access to trainers and machinery that is an essential part of the mill operations. By training new recruits on these machines, you slow or halt production, and expose them to potential risks,” Praolini says.

    “This virtual reality tool allows us to safely introduce recruits to multiple scenarios they could encounter in the mill, as well as offering updated training to existing workers without impacting day-to-day operations of the mill.”

    Beyond the VR training, UniSA researchers are using immersive analytics tools to gather data on plantations and view the trees virtually in a 3D environment, checking for defects, wood quality and growing conditions.

    “The ability to track, monitor and interact in virtual environments opens the door to an exciting future for Australia’s forest industry,” Mr Praolini says.

    Dr Cunningham is confident the industry’s willingness to embrace new technology will also make it an appealing career choice for high school and university students.

    “The forest industry currently supports around 80,000 direct jobs in Australia, but we still need a lot more workers. Virtual reality can take people into a mill and a plantation, showcasing what is involved and the opportunities that lie ahead for a progressive and satisfying career.”

    The next step is to adapt the training tool to other industries where safety is important, including building and manufacturing.

    A video explaining the VR training tool is available at: https://youtu.be/fVDVOG_1H8w

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    Lead researcher: Dr Andrew Cunningham E: andrew.cunningham@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – search following serious crash, SH2, Waioeka

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Richard Miller, Acting Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander

    Police are continuing to monitor river conditions after the serious crash in Waioeka on Friday that has left one person unaccounted for.

    About 10.20am on 4 October, emergency services were alerted that a single vehicle had gone down a bank and into the Waioweka River, about 2.5km south of the Tauranga Bridge, on State Highway 2.

    Search and rescue teams, including a boat, helicopter and Coastguard jet skis continued sweeps of the river and riverbank on Friday. Unfortunately, the person and vehicle were unable to be located.

    Since that time, conditions on the river have remained dangerous; rain in the headwaters of the Opato and Waioweka has kept the river levels high, making it unsafe to enter the river.

    A jet boat has continued to make sweeps of the river each morning and afternoon, monitoring river flow, depth and clarity of the water.

    Police Search and Rescue and the Police National Dive Squad continue to assess all information available and will deploy as soon as conditions permit.

    Police and rescue agencies remain committed to returning their loved one to whānau as soon as it is possible.

    We urge people who might be considering undertaking their own search activity in the river to please refrain from doing so given the risks posed by the conditions.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Idaho Small Businesses Economically Impacted by Wildfires, including the Bench Lake and Wapiti Fires

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses economically impacted by wildfires, including the Bench Lake and Wapiti Fires that began July 11, SBA’s Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced today. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Brad Little on Oct. 4.

    The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Blaine, Boise, Butte, Custer, Elmore, Lemhi and Valley counties in Idaho.

    “SBA’s mission-driven team stands ready to help Idaho’s small businesses impacted by wildfires, including the Bench Lake and Wapiti Fires,” said Administrator Guzman. “We’re committed to providing federal disaster loans swiftly and efficiently, with a customer-centric approach to help these businesses.”

    “When disasters strike, our virtual Business Recovery Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet said Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration. “At these virtual centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”

    “Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 9, SBA customer service representatives will be available at the following virtual Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their application,” Sánchez continued. The virtual center will be open on the days and times indicated below. No appointment is necessary.

    VIRTUAL BUSINESS RECOVERY CENTER
    Monday – Friday
    8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time
    FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    (916) 735-1501

    Opens at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 9

    “Small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred,” Sánchez added.

    “These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Disaster loans can provide vital economic assistance to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing,” Sánchez said.

    Eligibility is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent for small businesses and 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years and are restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship.

    Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at 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 deadline to apply for economic injury is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    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, 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 http://www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Alford Joins Chairman Jason Smith at Ways & Means Event in Kansas City to Prevent the Harris 2025 Tax Hike

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

    RAYMORE, Mo. – This week, U.S. Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) joined Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) and U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (KS-04) to host a roundtable discussion at Superior Linen Supply Company in Kansas City.
     
    During the discussion, the Representatives heard from local business leaders across various industries about how Congress can build on the success of the 2017 Trump tax cuts and prevent the Biden-Harris administration’s promised $7 trillion tax hike next year.
     

    “It was an honor to join Chairman Jason Smith and the Ways and Means Committee for a critical roundtable discussion at Superior Linen Supply Co. in Kansas City. This meeting allowed us to directly speak with local business and insurance leaders, whose firsthand experiences are vital in shaping our legislative efforts. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has been a fundamental tool in easing business constraints and cutting taxes. Hearing from the folks who are directly impacted by this key law is critical in providing Congress with real-world insights that guide our decisions as we work on a tax package next year,” said Congressman Alford.
     
    “After more than 100 Tax Teams events in 19 states, one thing is clear – American families, small businesses, and farmers who are already struggling in the Biden-Harris economy cannot afford a tax increase next year. I appreciated the opportunity to meet with local job creators in my home state of Missouri to hear their perspectives on how disastrous the Biden-Harris tax hikes would be and discuss how Congress can build on the success of the Trump tax cuts in 2025 to not only prevent the Democrats’ planned tax increases, but also deliver real relief to workers, families, and businesses,” said Chairman Smith. 
     
    The roundtable in Kansas City is the latest in over a hundred events the Ways and Means Committee Tax Teams have held in communities across the United States to prepare legislative solutions before the expiration of key provisions of President Trump’s signature 2017 tax law.
     

    During the event, Representatives Alford and Estes and Chairman Smith heard directly how vital provisions from the Trump tax cuts, including the Section 199A small business deduction and Opportunity Zones, are to American businesses’ ability to expand, hire new employees, invest in their communities, and grow wages.
     
    Roundtable participants underlined the consequences they will face if the Trump tax cuts’ small business provisions were allowed to expire, which would increase the tax rate paid by small businesses to over 43 percent.
     
    Roundtable attendees included:

    -Superior Linen
    -H&R Block
    -Lockton Companies
    -Xtreme Gymnastics & Motus Ninjas
    -Rieger Distillery
    -Crossland Construction
    -Burns & McDonnell
    -T-Mobile
    -4-State Supply
    -Black & Veatch
    -J.E. Dunn
     
    To learn more about the work of the Ways and Means Committee Tax Teams, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media Release: Euthanasia’s ‘Safeguards’ Are Failing

    Source: Family First

    MEDIA RELEASE – 9 October 2024

    Family First is appalled, but not surprised, to read the testimony of two whistleblowers from the End of Life Review committee.

    Potentially wrongful deaths; incomplete or conflicting reports; reports that won’t even include a patient’s diagnosis; and a Ministry of Health unprepared to provide information are just some of the worrying issues raised.

    In a NZ Herald report today, Dr Jane Greville (a palliative care specialist) and Dr Dana Wensley (an ethicist) shared deeply worrying issues of how the review committee is operating. Both were inaugural members of the committee but having raised concerns during their tenure, they found their roles un-renewed by the Ministry of Health and the Minister responsible – David Seymour, the architect of the End of Life Choice Act.

    The article noted that a patient who spoke no English was assessed and approved for death without an interpreter present. Reports given to the committee did not include such information as a patient’s diagnosis or prognosis. They also asked for information about when the lethal drugs were administered and how long after the patient died, but this was denied to the committee.

    These are all aspects that opponents of the law – including Family First – have raised concerns about, and are now the very failures on full public display.

    Family First’s concerns around the inequity of access to palliative care have also been highlighted by the whistleblowers. They noted a much greater demand and use of euthanasia in rural areas, where palliative care access is often more limited than in urban areas. When the reviewers asked the Ministry for more information, their request was denied.

    “Why would any Ministry be reluctant to share more information when it comes to matters of life and death?” asks Simon O’Connor, spokesperson for Family First NZ and former MP.

    Family First is calling on the government to take their accusations seriously and not wait for the outcome of the euthanasia review that is currently underway.

    “We are talking life and death, and with these grave issues now public, it is beholden on the Ministry to address in haste and not delay any further” says Mr O’Connor.

    “We also echo Dr Greville’s statement to the Herald, ‘there is no consequence greater than death’.”

    Family First is calling on the Minister of Health to remove David Seymour’s delegation to oversee the End of Life Choice Act and current review.

    “That he has overseen these failures and dismissed those experts is bad enough, but that he is also the person who introduced the law creates an unacceptable conflict of interest.  It is very much the fox in charge of the hen house,” says Mr O’Connor.

    For More Information and Media Interviews, contact Family First.
    Simon O’Connor – Spokesperson / Director – External and Strategic Engagement

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence – Yarrawonga

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have arrested a 49-year-old man in connection with a serious assault that occurred on 1 October 2024, following a proactive and coordinated operation by the Serious Crime Squad and Dog Operations Unit.

    The incident, which took place in the Parap area, involved a domestic assault in which the victim, a woman in her 40s, sustained head lacerations and a punctured lung, before a witness intervened and the man ran from the area. Shortly after, a second witness found the injured woman and called an ambulance.

    Strike Force Lyra members and Serious Crime Detectives have been actively investigating the case and following all leads to locate the offender, who had been evading police. Yesterday, officers received information about the man’s whereabouts near bushland in Yarrawonga. In response, Patrol Dog Daly and his handler were deployed to the area.

    Patrol Dog Daly successfully tracked and located the suspect, who attempted to flee through thick bushland before surrendering without incident when confronted by the dog and handler team. The man was subsequently taken into custody.

    He has since been charged with unlawfully causing serious harm, engaging in conduct that contravenes a Domestic Violence Order, and going armed in public.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Kren from the Serious Crime Squad commended the swift response by the Dog Operations Unit and the assistance provided by the community. “This is a prime example of how proactive policing and collaboration between units can quickly resolve serious incidents, ensuring the safety of our community,” he said.

    The man has been remanded and is scheduled to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Police are continuing to investigate the matter and are calling for any further witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Busiest hospitals in Australia to treat thousands more patients from comfort of home

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Busiest hospitals in Australia to treat thousands more patients from comfort of home

    Published: 9 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health

    Some of the nation’s busiest hospitals – including Liverpool and Campbelltown – will be treating thousands more patients from the comfort of their own home rather than a hospital bed, relieving pressure from our busy emergency departments.

    The NSW Government is investing $31.4 million to expand the capacity of the Hospital in the Home program (HITH).

    HITH reduces a patient’s length of stay in hospital, with people discharged early, where clinically appropriate, to continue to receive care in their home.

    In some instances, patients can avoid coming to the hospital altogether.

    It can be revealed that some 5,300 patients have been treated through this service over the past year.

    The NSW Government’s ramping up of the service will see it expand to an additional 3,500 patients a year – which could  release almost 9,000 hospital bed days annually. 

    The NSW Government will ramp up staff as well as roll out virtual care infrastructure to support the scaling up of this service.

    The improvement and increased adoption of virtual care technology allows hospitals and health staff to conduct videoconferencing as well as remote patient monitoring.

    NSW Health will also increase the eligibility of patients to use HITH, to allow more of them to be cared for safely at home.

    A range of clinical conditions can be effectively and safely managed without a person needing to stay in hospital.

    These include many cases of cellulitis, pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and urinary tract infections.

    To access a local HITH program, patients should speak to their doctor about whether their condition can be treated at home.

    Treating thousands more people from the comfort of their own home is part of a range of measures the Minns Labor Government is embracing to relieve pressure on our busy emergency departments including:

    • $171.4 million to introduce three additional virtual care services helping 180,000 avoid a trip to the ED;
    • $100 million in our urgent care services to become a mainstay and key instrument of the health system in providing a pathway to care outside of our hospitals preventing more than  114,000 ED presentations;
    • $70 million to expand emergency department short stay units to improve patient flow to reduce ED wait times by nearly 80,000 hours;
    • $15.1 million for an Ambulance Matrix that provides real time hospital data to enable paramedics to transport patients to emergency departments with greater capacity and reducing wait times;
    • $53.9 million to improve patient flow and support discharge planning by identifying patients early on that are suitable to be discharged home with the appropriate supports in place; and
    • Empowering pharmacists to consult and provide medications for an extended range of health conditions.

    Quotes attributable to NSW Health Minister Ryan Park:

    “Our emergency departments are confronted with record pressure.

    “To relieve the pressure on our emergency departments, we are creating more pathways to care outside the hospital, as well as improving patient flow within the hospital.

    “The Hospital in the Home program has allowed over five thousand patients to recover safely from the comfort of their own home, and this expansion means three thousand more patients a year will benefit.

    “It’s reducing wait times – not just for the patients who can be treated at home, but for the patients who need to be treated in the hospital.

    “The additional funding will free up more hospital beds – releasing almost 9,000 hospital bed days each year.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: World first vehicles boost capability for NSW Ambulance

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 9 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Health

    NSW Ambulance will roll out eight specially designed vehicles known as Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulances (HARA), the first of their kind in the world, optimising response capabilities during natural disasters and in difficult terrain.

    Minister for Health Ryan Park said the community will benefit from the specialist capabilities of the HARA Mercedes-Benz Unimog vehicles, as part of a major $14.8 million funding package by the NSW Government to further build the state’s flood rescue capabilities.

    The HARAs are designed to drive through flood waters up to 1.2 metres and are equipped with safety features for operation in hazardous environments. The vehicles have also been made to operate around fire grounds, with the inclusion of a burn-over crew protection system, replacement of flammable components, and by wrapping critical vehicle infrastructure in fire-retardant material.

    The rear of the vehicle is a fully operational ambulance, with a specially designed stretcher loading system to assist paramedics in patient handling and for patient comfort.

    The HARAs are equipped with the latest technology and purpose-built features, improving the organisation’s capability to deliver the very best outcomes for patients.

    The vehicles have been purpose modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments with enhanced safety features including a reinforced exoskeleton to protect paramedics and patients from falling trees.

    HARAs will be rolled out over the coming months, with the vehicles proposed to be strategically stationed at NSW Ambulance heavy rescue stations based in Tamworth, Rutherford, Cowra, Wagga Wagga and Bomaderry, as well as special operation team locations in Point Clare and Sydney.

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:

    “I’m so pleased our Ambulance service will be the first in the world to get these vehicles.

    “These high-tech vehicles, will mean our world class clinicians will be even better prepared for any scenario they face – which could include floods or bushfires.

    “Once they’re rolled out these vehicles will be an invaluable addition to NSW Ambulance.”

    Quotes attributable to Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart:

    “I am proud to join the Minister for Health, Ryan Park MP in Heathcote today and see these innovative vehicles ahead of the rollout. They are long overdue and I’m so appreciative that a Minns Labor government has delivered on these essential vehicles. 

    “They will ensure communities across Heathcote with our challenging landscape and right across NSW receive world-class care and will be an invaluable resource during natural disasters.”

    Quotes attributable to NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

    “The HARA vehicles are the first of their kind and an essential addition to our fleet giving clinicians greater access to patients during natural disasters, such as in fire grounds and floods.

    “The 4WD vehicles will be operated by our highly trained special operations paramedics and have been specifically modified by NSW Ambulance to withstand harsh environments.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Charges – Murder – Malak

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have charged a 34-year-old man in relation to a death in Malak on Monday.

    Detectives from Major Crime charged him last night and he was further remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Garcia Issues Statement Reaffirming Position on National Abortion Ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Garcia (CA-25)

    SANTA CLARITA, CA– In response to an increase in constituent outreach on the issue of a national abortion ban, Representative Mike Garcia (CA-27) issued the following statement:

     “I want to be absolutely clear: I do not and will not support a national abortion ban,” said Rep. Garcia. “After the Dobbs decision in 2022 – which reaffirmed the authority of states to make their own abortion laws – California voters approved a constitutional codification of full access to abortion via Prop 1.”

    “As your representative in Congress, I fully respect that the people of California have made their decision on this issue, and that law will stand,” said Rep. Garcia. 

    “Despite what you may have heard, House Republicans have not, and will not, consider a national abortion ban – and I do not believe that it is the role of Congress to weigh in on this issue,” said Rep. Garcia. “Deciding if, when, and how to start or grow your family is one of the most important and personal decisions any woman can make. I’ll keep fighting to ensure women have access to the care they need, like contraception and IVF, so they can make those decisions on their own terms,” Rep. Garcia concluded.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Earthquakes – When the earth moves for you in bed – stay protected – NEMA

    Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)

    If the earth moves for you while you’re in bed, it’s important to stay safe and protected, says the National Emergency Management Agency.

    Most people who felt last Sunday morning’s 5.7 magnitude earthquake near Wellington were in bed at the time – and NEMA’s Chief Science Advisor Professor Tom Wilson says that’s exactly where you should remain until the shaking stops.

    “If you’re in bed when an earthquake happens, stay in bed. Stay, cover and hold – cover your head and neck with your pillow. Hold on until the shaking stops.”

    Tom Wilson says research using ACC injury data (Nicholas Horspool, 2022) shows that people are far more likely to get injured trying to get elsewhere during an earthquake.

    “Moving around during an earthquake increases your likelihood of getting hurt. This is why we urge people to Drop, Cover and Hold – or if you’re in bed, Stay, Cover and Hold.”

    Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake Chief Resilience and Research Officer, Dr Jo Horrocks says keeping your home quake-safe is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your whānau during an earthquake.

    “If you know your baby’s nursery is secured, for example, you’re less likely to feel the need to rush in during the shaking. Simple actions like securing heavy furniture and removing items that could fall above your bed can make a big difference in preventing injuries.

    “By preparing your home now, you’re helping to keep everyone safe when the next earthquake hits.”

    NEMA and the NHC Toka Tū Ake are encouraging people to practice their Drop, Cover and Hold during the ShakeOut National Earthquake Drill this month on October 24 at 9.30am. You can sign up at http://www.shakeout.govt.nz – already half a million participants have registered.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida

    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida

    WASHINGTON — FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Milton beginning Oct. 5 and continuing.

    The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. 

    This declaration allows emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, at 75% federal funding for the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Additional designations may be made later if requested and warranted at the results of further damage assessments. 

    Leda M. Khoury has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. CLARKE CONDEMNS TRUMP’S FALSEHOODS AND CONSPIRACY THEORIES REGARDING FEMA’S RECOVERY AND RESPONSE EFFORTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    October 8, 2024 

    MEDIA CONTACT: 

    e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov 

    c: 202.913.0126 

    Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement regarding the falsehoods and conspiracy theories former president Donald J. Trump is spreading about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the wake of Hurricane Helene: 

    “The recent surge in dis- and misinformation surrounding Hurricane Helene, largely propagated by former President Donald Trump and his allies, is endangering lives and hampering FEMA’s response and recovery operations after this natural disaster impacted six states and killed over 227 people – including within eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, where many are still unaccounted for, whole towns have been washed away, and communities remain cut off from the world. 

    “I am very concerned by Mr. Trump’s twisted efforts to politicize a natural disaster and benefit from the misery of communities and individuals reeling from one of the deadliest hurricanes on record. He and his far-right allies continue to engage in their ongoing disinformation campaign that is centered in asinine claims that FEMA has diverted relief funds from storm survivors to assist migrants, that Democrats can somehow control the weather, as well as a myriad of other absurdities, which are simply untrue and irresponsible distractions. Moreover, they are gravely endangering and misleading the many individuals who are still without a water supply, electricity, navigable roads, or vital supplies.  

    “Even more troubling, these falsehoods and conspiracy theories are circulating across social media platforms, escalating a volatile situation that stands to further worsen when the nation faces Hurricane Milton in a matter of days. As I’ve mentioned previously in my letter to top social media executives, their inability and inaction to stop the spread of dis- and misinformation across their platforms represents a serious threat to American lives and the sanctity of our elections. 

    “We must continue to work together to stop the continued spread of dis- and misinformation, for the consequences of our inaction are dire.” 

     ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Biden-Harris Administration’s Continued Response for Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    The Biden-Harris Administration has deployed thousands of federal personnel to join National Guard in supporting communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, including active duty troops to get commodities to isolated communities and FEMA personnel to register survivors for Federal assistance. We’ll be with these communities for as long as it takes.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpW5rz0d00c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam, Union Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam, Union Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

    Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam, Union Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As the state of Florida and FEMA prepare for Hurricane Milton, President Biden approved seven additional counties for assistance for Hurricane Helene.

    Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam and Union counties who had uninsured or underinsured damage or loss caused by Hurricane Helene can apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, essential personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. These counties along with Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties are authorized for FEMA Individual Assistance.

    Homeowners and renters can apply to FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube. 

    What You’ll Need When You Apply

    • A current phone number where you can be contacted.
    • Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
    • Your Social Security number.
    • A general list of damage and losses.
    • Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
    • If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

    If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

    For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    kirsten.chambers

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

    FEMA Maintains Focus on Recovery for Helene Survivors While Preparing for Impacts of Hurricane Milton

    WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Federal assistance for survivors of Helene has now surpassed $286 million with an additional $180 million in mission assignments to federal partners. FEMA continues to coordinate recovery efforts while preparing for the anticipated landfall of Hurricane Milton along Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

    Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground directing FEMA’s response and recovery operations for the impacted states. The combined efforts of federal, state and local partners ensure that every available resource is mobilized to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

    As FEMA maintains its focus on Helene response and recovery, the agency is also fully engaged in support of local, tribal and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. Residents in the storm’s projected path are urged to stay informed and prepare now. 

    Hurricane Helene Response

    The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. Nearly 7,000 federal personnel are deployed, including FEMA staff. To date, FEMA has shipped over 16.2 million meals, more than 13.9 million liters of water, 210 generators and more than 505,000 tarps to the region. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

    Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. 

    Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.   

    There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:  

    Voluntary Organizations

    Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. 

    People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.  

    Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes: 

    Support for North Carolina

    Financial Support: FEMA has approved more than $40 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 30,000 households.

    Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Over 1,000 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. President Biden ordered an additional 500 active-duty troops equipped with advanced technological assets to the area to further strengthen recovery operations in Western North Carolina. This brings the total number of active-duty military personnel supporting the response to 1,500. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts. 

    Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 18 shelters housing just under 800 occupants. Over 2,100 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

    Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, more than 86% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 85% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

    Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell, and Watauga counties. 

    The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to more than 2,400 people. To date, The Salvation Army has served over 34,000 meals, 14,500 drinks, and 10,200 snacks. The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

    Resources: 

    • Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
    • Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.  

    Support for Florida 

    Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton. FEMA has approved more than $129 million for over 35,000 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

    Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

    Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. 

    Support for South Carolina

    In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $65 million for more than 80,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.  

    Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. 

    Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. 

    Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website. 

    Support for Georgia

    FEMA has approved over $48 million for more than 59,000 households.

    Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.  

    Support for Virginia

    To date, FEMA has approved over $850,500 for over 123 households.

    Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website. 

    Support for Tennessee

    FEMA has approved more than $3.1 million for disaster assistance for 192 households. 

    Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  

    Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website.

    mashana.davis

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA, Collaborators Announce a New Student Lunar Autonomy Challenge! 

    Source: NASA

    Space is hard, but it’s not all hardware.  
    The new Lunar Autonomy Challenge invites teams of students from U.S. colleges and universities to test their software development skills. Working entirely in virtual simulations of the Moon’s surface, teams will develop an autonomous agent using software that can accomplish pre-defined tasks without help from humans. These agents will be used to navigate a digital twin of NASA’s ISRU Pilot Excavator (IPEx) and map specified locations in the digital environment. The IPEx is an autonomous mobility robot engineered to efficiently collect and transport lunar regolith, the loose rocky material on the Moon’s surface.     
    Autonomous systems allow spacecraft, rovers, and robots to operate without relying on constant contact with astronauts or mission control. Before hardware is trusted to operate independently on location, which for Artemis missions includes the Moon, it must be tested virtually. High-fidelity virtual simulations allow NASA to anticipate and improve how systems, both software and hardware, will function in the physical world. Testing in virtual simulations also allows technologists to explore different mission scenarios, observe potential outcomes, and reduce risks. 
    In the Lunar Autonomy Challenge, students will develop their knowledge of autonomous systems by working with the same simulation tools created in-house by Caterpillar Inc. of Irving, Texas, over decades of research and development. Teams will need to utilize the IPEx digital twin’s cameras and orientation sensors to accurately map surface elevation and identify obstacles. Like with real lunar missions, teams must also manage their energy usage and consider the Moon’s harsh terrain and low-light conditions. Through the competition, participants will learn more about autonomous robotic operation, surface mapping, localization, orientation, path planning, and hazard detection. 

    Teams must be comprised of at least four undergraduate and/or graduate students and a faculty advisor at a U.S. college or university.

    The challenge will take place between November 2024 and May 2025 and will include both a qualifying round and a final round. Interested teams must apply by Thursday, Nov. 7.

    Round 1: Selected teams will develop and train their agent using provided virtual environments. Teams will have three opportunities to submit their agent to run in a qualification environment. For each submission, their agent will be scored based on performance.The top scoring teams will be invited to continue.

    Round 2: Teams will work to further refine the agents. Teams will have multiple opportunities in total to submit their agents to the competition environment. The top three teams will be named challenge winners.   

    Interested teams should carefully review the Challenge Guidelines and the Lunar Autonomy Challenge site for more details, including proposal requirements, FAQs, and additional technical guidance. 

    The top three highest-scoring teams on the leaderboard in the finals will be awarded cash prizes: 
    First Place: $10,000 
    Second Place: $5,000 
    Third Place: $3,000 

    Applications must be submitted to NASA STEM Gateway by Nov. 7, 2024.  Learn more about the challenge: https://lunar-autonomy-challenge.jhuapl.edu

    The Lunar Autonomy Challenge is a collaboration between NASA, The Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), Caterpillar Inc., and Embodied AI. APL is managing the challenge for NASA. 

    Authored by: Stephanie Yeldell, Education Integration LeadSpace Technology Mission DirectorateNASA Headquarters, Washington, DC

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

    BRISTOL, Va. — Residents of Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Pittsylvania, Russell, and Wise counties and the city of Radford are now eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA under the Individual Assistance Program. FEMA assistance can help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.  

    Residents of the city of Galax, as well as Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pulaski, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties, remain eligible for assistance. 

    FEMA may be able to help you pay for essential items, temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including:

    • Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation;
    • Financial assistance to help pay for hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit as well as rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster;
    • Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer;
    • Books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment; and
    • Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses.

    For more information about the types of FEMA assistance available under the Individual Assistance Program, visit: fema.gov/ia.

    You can apply for disaster assistance today: 

    To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance – YouTube.

    FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response | FEMA.gov. 

    For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov,  the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

    To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

    erika.osullivan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswomen Gwen Moore Applauds Biden-Harris Administration Continuing Work to Address Lead as a Public Health Hazard

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04)

    Congresswomen Gwen Moore Applauds Biden-Harris Administration Continuing Work to Address Lead as a Public Health Hazard

    Today, President Biden visited Milwaukee touting $2.6 billion in bipartisan infrastructure law (BIL) funds to address water infrastructure needs, including the removal of lead pipes.  This year alone, Milwaukee received $30 million in federal funds to replace 3,400 lead service lines. During his visit, President Biden announced an Environmental Protect Agency (EPA) update to the Lead and Copper rule which would call for affected entities to replace all lead pipes in 10 years.  In addition, the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced more than $416 million in grants to protect children from lead exposure through paint and other home hazards, including $7.5 million for Milwaukee County to address lead and other hazards in 142 housing units. In response, she released the following statement:

    “Every child should have access to clean drinking water and a safe lead-free home in which to grow and thrive.  Unfortunately for too many children in Milwaukee and elsewhere nationwide, that is not the case and too many remain exposed to lead which can lead to lifelong adverse impacts.

    I thank the Administration for its focus since Day One on the threat lead poses to our children, including fighting to secure the first pool of funding to address lead pipes in the BIL. President Biden helped make sure that funding for state and local governments in the American Rescue Plan Act could explicitly be used for lead pipe replacement. At its current pace, it would take the city of Milwaukee an estimated 70 years to remove every lead pipe. With additional federal resources, we can accelerate these efforts.

    I also applaud the Biden-Harris administration’s new Lead and Copper rule, which calls for municipalities to identify and remove every lead pipe in the next decade, a request that my Congressional colleagues and I have been pushing for. This rule includes stricter standards which will help keep babies and young children from experiencing the harmful effects of lead exposure on their health and neurological development. No baby should experience inequities before they have a chance to grow. This rule will make important federal interventions for the future of some of our most vulnerable children.

    I also remain focused on removing all sources of lead from our communities, including lead paint, the primary source of lead exposure for many children. That’s why I have and continue to advocate for additional funding for HUD’s Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes program, which supports efforts to remove and remediate lead paint. I am so pleased that HUD is devoting hundreds of millions of dollars toward addressing lead paint exposure. These resources will especially help low-income and communities of color in cities like Milwaukee that have older housing stock, who face a high risk of exposure and who often lack the means to address this hazard on their own.

    I have long made addressing the lead crisis a priority, and I thank the Biden-Harris for sharing the same urgency. All our children should have the chance the reach their full potential. And today’s announcements help get us closer to the day that we all dream about—where lead pipes will truly be a relic of the past rather than a public health threat to our children.”

    MIL OSI USA News –