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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Hageman Rebrand ESA to Highlight Recovery Over Endless Listings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY) today introduced the Endangered Species Recovery Act, legislation that would rename the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to better reflect the law’s original intent.

    “Washington bureaucrats have lost sight of the original mission of the Endangered Species Act,” said Sen. Lummis. “Instead of celebrating recovery success by removing federal intervention, they’ve created a system that keeps species listed indefinitely. The Endangered Species Recovery Act refocuses this law on its original purpose: recovering species and then getting the federal government out of the way. States like Wyoming have proven track records in wildlife management, and when species recover, we should celebrate that success by allowing appropriate local management to resume.”

    “For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has operated under a misleading title and a failed model, with only 3% of listed species ever delisted,” said Rep. Hageman. “This is land control, not conservation. By renaming it the Endangered Species Recovery Act, we are reflecting the law’s true intent, actually recovering species. This change is long overdue. With this legislation, we are putting action and accountability back into environmental policy.”

    The Endangered Species Recovery Act has received support from:

    “The Endangered Species Act is a remarkable law that was created to protect and recover species,” said Angi Bruce, Director of Wyoming Game and Fish. “While this landmark act has primarily focused on species protection over the past 50 years, this revision in the name of the Act is necessary to refocus how we think about listed species and better reflect its original intent. Changing the name sets the stage for emphasizing future work on recovery. With over 1600 species listed, now is the time to focus on actions needed for delisting. Special thanks to Senator Lummis for her leadership on endangered species reform.”

    “The ultimate goal of federally listing a species as endangered or threatened has always been the recovery of that species to a level where the species is no longer imperiled and can thrive without the need of federal protections,” said Judy Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. “Successfully recovering and delisting species allows limited resources to be focused on the species most in need of attention. State fish and wildlife agencies are dedicated partners in species recovery and management, and we appreciate Senator Lummis’ acknowledgment of the importance of species recovery and raising its prominence by including it in the title of the Endangered Species Recovery Act.”

    “The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) thanks Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Member Senator Lummis for introducing the Endangered Species Recovery Act,” said CSF Senior Vice President Taylor Schmitz. “Despite the Endangered Species Act (ESA) becoming an endless place of entrapment for many listed fish and wildlife species, the intent behind the ESA was and remains to recover species and return the management of the species to state wildlife agencies, who have the primary authority over the majority of fish and wildlife across the country. This legislation reaffirms the intent of the ESA to recover species rather than needlessly keeping them on a list once they have met population recovery goals.”

    “I commend Senator Lummis for her legislation and trying to focus the Endangered Species Act (ESA) more on recovery,” said James L. Cummins, Executive Director, Wildlife Mississippi. “Many in our nation want the ESA to go away.  Others say don’t change one word.  That is like owning an International Scout with two plans: one is sell it and the other is never changing the oil.  Neither of those are helpful at the hunting club unless walking is your goal.  I think we need to keep and use the Scout but fix it when it needs fixing. The ESA should be treated no differently.  The ESA has been effective in preventing some species from becoming extinct; however, it can be significantly improved by creating new recovery efforts.  As long as the status quo of not increasing habitat, therefore not increasing populations, is maintained, the recovery and delisting of many species will not occur.”  

    “Renaming the Endangered Species Act as the Endangered Species Recovery Act is a thoughtful way to refocus national attention on what matters most—recovering imperiled wildlife,” said David Willms, associate vice president, public lands at the National Wildlife Federation. “This bill emphasizes outcomes over process, reinforcing that the goal isn’t to manage decline, but to return species to healthy, sustainable populations that don’t require the Act’s protections. It’s a commonsense update that aligns the name of the law with its original purpose.” 

    Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), and Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) are Senate cosponsors. 

    Read the entire bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer, Cortez Masto Introduce MAP for Broadband Funding Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Provides fresh oversight over FCC’s Broadband Funding Map, originally created by Fischer, Cortez Masto

    Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced the Modernization, Accountability, and Planning (MAP) for Broadband Funding Act, to provide oversight of the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Funding Map to ensure it is functioning effectively for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers.

    Fischer and Cortez Masto originally created the Broadband Funding Map as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. With oversight needed to ensure federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential, the MAP For Broadway Funding Act will ensure that these agencies are reliably reporting their funding data to the FCC.

    “I have worked diligently for years to close the digital divide for unserved and underserved communities. My work with Senator Cortez Masto was underscored by the Broadband Funding Map, which we created in 2021. While I’m pleased the FCC launched the Map in 2023, it is clear oversight is needed here to ensure all federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential. I won’t relent in my efforts to expand Internet connectivity for those who lack access—this is a critical step in that mission,”     Fischer said. 

    “As we work to expand broadband access across the country, it’s critical that we do with as much transparency, accountability, and coordination as possible. Reliable access to the internet is already so important for people to work and take care of their everyday tasks. Congress must ensure we continue to expand its access efficiently,” Cortez Masto said.

    “Big thanks to Senators Fischer and Cortez Masto for their work in bringing about the MAP for Broadband Funding Act. By improving the accuracy and transparency of the Broadband Funding Map, we can more effectively target federal funding for broadband deployment where it’s truly needed. Plus, requiring federal agencies to report broadband deployment data to the FCC and NTIA will strengthen coordination and accountability across programs,” USTelecom President and CEO Jonathan Spalter said. 

    “Senator Fischer should be commended for marshaling the Federal Communications Commission and the Government Accountability Office to ensure that precious federal broadband dollars are spent as efficiently as possible. CostQuest appreciates the Senator’s data-driven approach to ensuring accountability for broadband spending across the government,”CostQuest Associates said.

    Background    :

    The MAP for Broadband Funding Act provides fresh oversight for the FCC’s Broadband Funding Map to ensure the Map is functioning effectively, efficiently, and transparently as possible for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers alike.

    To meet this goal, the bill:
     

    1. Directs the FCC to conduct a Notice of Inquiry on the Map’s function and data it displays for maximum usability, assessing any necessary updates from a user-experience perspective, and 
    1. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate how well federal agencies are populating the Map in compliance with current law, identifying any gaps in reporting for its optimum functionality. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Lower Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs for Seniors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced a bipartisan bill to reduce prescription drug costs for seniors. The Reducing Drug Prices for Seniors Act would directly reduce out-of-pocket costs by requiring that coinsurance payments for prescription drugs for seniors on Medicare be determined based on the lower net price of the medication as opposed to the higher list price.
    For example, if a senior has a 50 percent coinsurance and their medication’s list price is $200, they currently pay $100 out-of-pocket at the pharmacy – even if the insurance company only paid $150 for the medication. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that, in this example, the senior ends up only paying $75.
    “For far too long, Nevadans have been forced to pay extremely high prices for prescription drugs, and I believe no one should have to break the bank to pay for life-saving medication,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’m introducing a bipartisan bill to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs for Nevada seniors and reduce the amount of money they have to pay at the pharmacy counter. I’ll keep working with anyone – Republican, Democrat, or Independent – to bring down costs for families in our state.”
    “Countless seniors in Texas face challenges with high out-of-pocket prescription drug costs,” said Senator Cornyn. “I am proud to support the Reducing Drug Prices for Seniors Act, which aims to ease this financial burden by lowering costs and improving access to potentially life-saving medications.”
    Senator Rosen has been actively working to lower health care and prescription drug costs for families. She helped pass the bill that gave Medicare the power to negotiate for lower prescription drugs and cap the price of insulin at $35 a month. At the beginning of this year, Senator Rosen announced the start of a cap on prescription drug prices for Nevada seniors that she helped pass. She also announced that more medications now qualify for Medicare price negotiations. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Lancement du Mois du patrimoine acadien

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    À partir de la gauche, Kyle MacQuarrie, député d’Inverness; Allister Surette, sénateur; Tim Houston, premier ministre; Colton LeBlanc, ministre des Affaires acadiennes et de la Francophonie; Jules Chiasson, directeur général de la Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse; et Réjean Aucoin, sénateur. (Province de la Nouvelle-Écosse)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Acadian Heritage Month Launch

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    From left, Kyle MacQuarrie, MLA for Inverness; Sen. Allister Surette; Premier Tim Houston; Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie; and Jules Chiasson, Executive Director of the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse; and Sen. Réjean Aucoin (Province of Nova Scotia)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Georgiaville Pond

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are recommending people avoid contact with Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally present in bodies of water, but under certain environmental conditions will form harmful algae blooms?(HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

    Use caution in all areas of Georgiaville Pond as cyanobacteria HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies.?Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. ? Skin contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with cyanobacteria HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.?

    If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:

    – Rinse your skin with clean water right away.

    – Shower and wash your clothes when you get home.

    – If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur.

    – Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day.

    – If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or?DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov?and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom. For more information and the Freshwater Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard that lists current advisories and data, visit:?www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “Free Money” Gang Members Indicted for Committing Murder at Local Shopping Center

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Two alleged members of Free Money, a violent Houston-based street gang, were indicted yesterday in the Southern District of Texas for their alleged roles in the murder of one individual and attempted murder of another during a gang-related ambush.

    According to court documents, Free Money members and associates engage in robbery, home invasions, drug distribution, and murder. The defendants, Terry Ardoin, 24, and Travonte Ardoin, 27, both of Houston, allegedly committed the murder in connection with an ongoing gang war with a rival group.

    On June 24, 2022, in broad daylight, surveillance footage captured the Ardoins following a Chevrolet Equinox into a shopping center parking lot in a Black Nissan Altima. As alleged in court documents, the driver of the Equinox entered a nearby store while the passenger remained in the vehicle. When the driver returned, the Ardoins allegedly exited the Altima wearing masks and opened fire on both individuals.

    Witnesses reported hearing numerous gunshots and described the distinct sound of a fully automatic weapon, believed to have been modified with a machine gun conversion device commonly referred to as a “switch.” 

    Multiple rounds struck the vehicle’s passenger compartment. Houston Police Department officers responded within minutes and found one victim deceased.

    Terry and Travonte Ardoin are charged with murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and causing death through the use of a firearm. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of life in prison or a death sentence. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Brown for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Houston. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas have partnered, along with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes committed by gang members and associates through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute the violent offenders and prevent further violence.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amid Partisan Attempts to Gerrymander Texas, Warner and Kaine Join Colleagues to Restore the Voting Rights Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined all of their Senate Democratic colleagues in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, legislation to update and reinforce safeguards in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that have been eroded in recent years by federal court rulings. The legislation would strengthen our democracy by re-establishing preclearance for jurisdictions with a pattern of voting rights violations, protecting minority communities subject to discriminatory voting practices and defending election workers from threats and intimidation. It is named in honor of voting rights champion and former Congressman John Lewis.

    This legislation is especially relevant in Texas where, following historic disapproval of congressional Republicans’ megabill, Texas state lawmakers are attempting to redistrict before the 2026 elections to pick up additional Republican House seats. The move comes in direct response to President Trump’s fears that voters may flip the House in the 2026 midterms.

    “The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy and we have a moral obligation to ensure that every American can make their voice heard at the ballot box,” said Sens. Warner and Kaine. “In the years since the Supreme Court gutted key provisions of the Voting Rights Act, we’ve seen a wave of state-level efforts, like the one underway in Texas, designed to disenfranchise voters and rig the rules for partisan gain. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is a critical step toward protecting access to the ballot while honoring the legacy of a civil rights hero who dedicated his life to the fight for full participation in our democracy.”

    In the wake of the Supreme Court’s damaging Shelby County decision in 2013 – which gutted the federal government’s ability under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to prevent discriminatory changes to voting laws and procedures – states across the country have unleashed a torrent of voter suppression schemes that have systematically disenfranchised tens of thousands of American voters. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee (2021) delivered yet another blow to the Voting Rights Act, by making it significantly harder for plaintiffs to win lawsuits under the landmark law against discriminatory voting laws or procedures.

    The John R. Lewis Voting Advancement Act is supported by 178 organizations. Text of the legislation is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Opening Remarks at Full Committee Mark Up of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s opening remarks***

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered the following opening remarks as the committee meets to consider the draft fiscal year 2026 Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations acts.

    Senator Murray’s opening remarks, as delivered, are below:

    “As I have said, these are not the bills I would have written on my own—but they nevertheless represent serious bipartisan work to make some truly critical investments in families and our country’s future.

    “From defense funding that supports our military and keeps our country safe to funding for health care, child care, schools, seniors, medical research, public health, workforce training and safety—and many other programs that keep our communities strong.

    “The priorities laid out in both of these bills are fundamental to our nation’s security and Americans’ livelihoods and health.

    “So I’m glad this Committee was able to deliver and reach a bipartisan compromise to write these bills that deliver essential funds to help people, solve problems, and reject many of the absolutely devastating cuts and much of the chaos that President Trump was pushing for.

    “It remains clear as ever to me that we cannot afford to go down the path Trump and Russ Vought want to push us down. Their vision is one where this Committee becomes less bipartisan and less powerful. Where the president and the OMB director call the shots and some Republicans in Congress spend their time cutting what they are told to cut, even at the expense of their own constituents. Where instead of securing new investments for folks back home through bipartisan agreements, lawmakers have to plead their case to this administration to unlock funds we have already delivered or secure special exceptions for spending cuts. Where biomedical research and education funding gets held up for no reason at all. Where we gut investments in working families while letting Trump’s corruption run rampant.

    “That’s what Trump and Vought want.

    “We can—and we must—reject it.

    “Because, there is no comparison between having a bipartisan process, that gives our constituents a say in how their tax dollars are spent. Or another slush fund CR that forfeits our power and lets Trump rob some states, and pick winners and losers regardless of what our communities actually need or the law says.

    “The bills we are voting on today really show how big of a difference there is here. Anyone who has doubts about that, can just look at the LHHS bill.

    “It rejects Trump’s cuts that would have devastated our work to fight substance use disorders, HIV, and pandemics, eliminate women’s health investments like Title X funding and the Teen Pregnancy Prevention program and essentially saw the CDC cut in half.

    “It rejects backward proposals from Trump that would hurt our students and workers—like eliminating preschool grants, or slashing PELL, gutting public school funding, or ending Job Corps and AmeriCorps.

    “It rejects efforts to gut agencies that protect the rights of patients, students, and workers.

    “And, I’m especially pleased to note it rejects Trump’s 40% cut to lifesaving medical research—and increases the NIH budget by $400 million so we continue to make progress against cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and so much more.

    “To the scientists wondering if there will even be an NIH by the end of this administration: this committee’s resounding message is ‘yes.’

    “Congress has your back—we’re not going to give up the fight against cancer, Alzheimer’s, or rare diseases.

    “We support you and we need you to stay here and keep this research going.

    “But I want to be clear—at the end of the day, this isn’t about rejecting Trump, it is about investing in our families.

    “Investing in our schools, in medical research, in workforce training, and community health.

    “In fact, this bill even increases funding for crucial programs with new investments to allow the Social Security Administration to actually help people and undo some of the damage that Trump and DOGE have recklessly caused and increased investments in child care—something I will never stop fighting to make more progress on.

    “Now, one thing this bill does not do, unfortunately, is fund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

    “As everyone knows, Republicans rescinded bipartisan funding we provided for CPB in the first ever partisan rescissions package.

    “It is a shameful reality—and now communities across the country will suffer the consequences as over 1,500 stations lose critical funding.

    “I really hope Republicans will join us to restore this funding down the line—and I want you to know I am going to keep pushing to do that. 

    “Before I close, I want to say: I am clear-eyed: the investments we make in these bills today are really only half of the equation.

    “Because the fact of the matter is we have an administration right now that is intent on ignoring Congress, breaking the law, and doing everything it can without any transparency to dismantle programs and agencies that help families.

    “There is no magic bullet that will change that unfortunate reality.

    “Our bills reject devastating cuts—and reject many of this administration’s absurd proposals—like dismantling the Department of Education, like destroying HHS, and more.

    “But I still want to see us to do much more when it comes to demanding accountability, demanding transparency, and demanding the administration actually follow our laws.

    “We all know President Trump cannot dismantle the Department of Education or ship education programs to other agencies. Authorizing laws prevent that. Appropriations laws prevent that. Yet, that has not stopped him from shipping CTE and adult education programs to DOL in violation of our laws.

    “And Secretary McMahon says she wants to do the same for Title I and IDEA. 

    “So I am very glad our LHHS bill takes new steps to ensure she cannot do that, and Title I and IDEA programs students depend on do not get dismantled or moved out of ED.

    “But I’d like this bill to also do the same for every other education program that states administer, to prevent states from having to deal with the chaos of these dismantling efforts, and I’m disappointed there was not bipartisan support to do that. Still, I am going to keep making the case for more accountability and transparency.

    “We need more members across the aisle to not only reject the cuts but to speak up and speak out against what this administration is already doing to defy our laws and hurt the people we represent.

    “Because, as we speak now, Trump and Vought are holding up billions of dollars we have secured on a bipartisan basis. They are on course to impound billions of taxpayer dollars while agencies fail to meet basic requirements of law.

    “Right now, they are illegally hiding apportionments data that would let us know whether funds we passed are being spent as intended and help us strengthen the bills we are in the middle of writing on. It is absurd we have to mark up bills—while being kept in the dark.  And just this week, we learned Russ Vought—through a footnote—paused $15 billion in NIH funding.

    “One footnote, from an unelected bureaucrat—overruling Congress and even NIH, to block $15 billion in funding for things like cancer research.

    “That is not transparency. It is not what Congress intended. And it is not acceptable. 

    “We need our Republican colleagues to join us in insisting that all blocked funding gets out—not just the programs most important to them.

    “So, in sum: these are critical, solid bills we are considering today that deliver vital funds for families and reject many devastating proposals.

    “And of course I would have liked to do even more, and I will not stop discussing how we make that happen with my colleagues, I will be voting yes to advance both of these bills today.

    “And I am glad we are on track to continue making progress on bipartisan bills that reject devastating cuts and invest in our communities and in our global strength.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Secures Over $70.3 Million for Louisiana in Latest FY 2026 Appropriations Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced he secured $70,286,000.00 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) in the latest Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Appropriations bills advanced by the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. These projects, included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) and Interior & Environment bills, fund critical infrastructure improvements across Louisiana.
    “To make Louisiana even better, we must fix outdated sewer systems, congested roadways, and aging infrastructure,” said Dr. Cassidy. “I worked to return our federal tax dollars, supporting communities in 14 different parishes with better roads, better sewer systems, and stronger infrastructure.”
    Since taking office, Cassidy has been one of the most effective U.S. Senators at directing federal dollars home to Louisiana, despite not serving on the Appropriations Committee. In FY2024, Roll Call reported Cassidy was one of the top 20 senators in total funding secured for his state—and one of only five in that group who does not sit on the committee. That year, he secured a record $1.3 billion for Louisiana, the highest of any member of the state’s congressional delegation.
    This latest round of $70 million builds on the $49 million Cassidy announced earlier this month, bringing the total secured so far in FY2026 to over $115 million with more expected in the coming weeks.See below for a list of the funding secured by Senator Cassidy.

    Funding Amount
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $8,000,000.00
    Jefferson Parish
    This funding will support the West Bank Rail Alignment Project.

    $7,500,000.00
    City of Lafayette
    This funding will support Johnston Street Safety Mitigation and Enhancements.

    $7,000,000.00
    City of Kenner
    This funding will support stabilization and improvements to the city’s sewer and wastewater treatment plant.

    $6,500,000.00
    Nicholls State University
    This funding will support the Engineering Workforce Development Center in Thibodaux.

    $5,000,000.00
    Tangipahoa Parish
    This funding will support the Airport Road and Highway 3158 Roundabout Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Livingston Parish
    This funding will support the Browns Road Improvement Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    City of Covington
    This funding will support the US 190 Widening Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Baton Rouge
    This funding will support the McKinley Diversion Canal Retrofit Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District
    This funding will support harbor and terminal district improvements.

    $5,000,000.00
    Ascension Parish
    This funding will support the Airline Highway Raising Project.

    $4,500,000.00
    City of Monroe
    This funding will support improvements to the Benoit Community Center.

    $2,000,000.00
    City of St. George
    This funding will support safety improvements along Burbank Drive.

    $1,700,000.00
    Chennault International Airport
    This funding will support their Hangar and Apron Development Project.

    $1,500,000.00
    University of New Orleans
    This funding will support upgrades to the Shea Penland Coastal Research Educational Facility.

    $1,500,000.00
    City of Lake Charles
    This funding will support the North Lake Charles Water Rehabilitation Project.

    $86,000.00
    Kisatchie National Forest
    This funding will support cooperative law enforcement in adjacent parishes (Grant, Vernon, Winn).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Legislation to Crack Down on Money Laundering, Terror Financing in Art Market

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Art Market Integrity Act to require art dealers and auction houses to comply with anti-money-laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing regulations under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). Currently, the art market, a $25 billion industry in the United States and the largest of its kind globally, is one of the last major markets not required to meet these standards, making it vulnerable to exploitation by criminals, terrorist financiers, and other sanctioned individuals.
    “Criminals and terrorists use art sales to fund their crimes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We have similar rules for jewelry, precious metals, real estate, and more. Let’s do it for art too.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), David McCormick (R-PA), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) in introducing the legislation. 
    Background
    In recent years, the U.S. Department of the Treasury identified the art market as particularly susceptible to money laundering and sanctions evasion. High-profile cases have spotlighted the urgent need for reform, including the indictment of Hezbollah financier Nazem Ahmad using art as part of his scheme to launder over $160 million. Multiple Kremlin cronies have used art to evade sanctions: Arkady and Boris Rotenberg used $18 million worth of art to get around sanctions, Roman Abramovich transferred almost $1 billion in art to his wife ahead of new sanctions, and last year the DOJ indicted Anastasia Simes for laundering money on behalf of sanctioned Kremlin crony Aleksander Udadov.
    The bill is endorsed by the Antiquities Coalition, Transparency International U.S., the FACT Coalition, FDD Action, the American Jewish Committee, Razom for Ukraine, American Coalition for Ukraine, the Initiative for the Recovery of Venezuelan Assets(INRAV), the National Border Patrol Council, and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Long-term repairs set to begin on North Beach rockslide

    A major step toward long-term stabilization of the slope beside Highway 97 between Callan Road and Okanagan Lake Provincial Park is underway, ensuring the reliability of the highway for Okanagan residents and visitors.

    A $23.2-million contract has been awarded to Emil Anderson Construction Inc. to complete the next phase of work. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 and finish in spring 2027.

    Long-term stabilization work will return the highway to its original four-lane configuration. This includes building a retaining wall and catchment area at the base of the slope, along with a concrete wall next to the highway for added reinforcement. Additional rock anchors will also be installed to secure the slope, followed by repairs to the road’s surface and drainage improvements.

    This work will provide lasting support for the hillside and help prevent rockfall impacts, ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of this key transportation corridor.

    This investment builds on extensive geotechnical work following the rockslide in August 2023, which deposited significant rock and debris onto the highway and forced an immediate closure.

    Between October 2023 and June 2024, crews removed unstable rock through controlled blasting, easing pressure on the slope. By fall 2024, more than 100 rock anchors were installed as part of Phase 1 of stabilization efforts.

    Any impacts to Highway 97 traffic during construction will be communicated via traffic advisories and posted to Drive BC: https://www.drivebc.ca/

    Drivers are asked to use caution through the area, obey posted speed limits and follow the directions of traffic-control personnel.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: One Arrow First Nation and Canada reach farming benefits settlement

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 31, 2025 — One Arrow First Nation, Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatchewan — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and One Arrow First Nation

    Today, Chief Janine Baldhead of One Arrow First Nation and the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced a settlement agreement resolving the Nation’s Agricultural Benefits claim, also known as a Cows and Plows settlement. 

    Under this agreement, the Government of Canada will pay $124 million in compensation to One Arrow First Nation for failing to fulfill its Treaty 6 obligations to provide the Nation with farming tools, plows, crop seeds, livestock, and other supplies. 

    These agricultural benefits were meant to facilitate One Arrow First Nation’s transition to a strong, self-sustaining community through farming. However, as a result of Canada’s failure to meet its Treaty obligations, the Nation did not have the equipment it needed to support its members. 

    Settling specific claims is an important part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to advance reconciliation by rebuilding trust and strengthening its relationships with First Nations. By providing fair compensation in recognition of unkept promises, Canada is taking responsibility and working toward a better future. This work is guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint Statement on Iranian State Threat Activity in Europe and North America

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 31, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    The following statement is released by the governments of Albania, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States:

    “Albania, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States condemn the growing number of state threats from Iranian intelligence services in our respective territories.

    “We are united in our opposition to the attempts of Iranian intelligence services to kill, kidnap, and harass people in Europe and North America in clear violation of our sovereignty. These Services are increasingly collaborating with international criminal organisations to target journalists, dissidents, Jewish citizens, and current and former officials in Europe and North America. This is unacceptable.   

    “We consider these types of attacks, regardless of the target, as violations of our sovereignty. We are committed to working together to prevent these actions from happening and we call on the Iranian authorities to immediately put an end to such illegal activities in our respective territories.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor cuts ribbon on new $25M bridge in Church Rock – Infrastructure upgrade creates safter pedestrian access

    Source: US State of New Mexico

    SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) today marked the opening of a new $24 million bridge on NM 566 near Church Rock that creates safer access for pedestrians with a dedicated walking trail.

    The steel girder bridge spans the BNSF Railway and delivers pedestrian infrastructure that keeps community members off the highway and out of harm’s way. The project includes full bridge replacement, roadway reconstruction, improved lighting, upgraded drainage systems, and a new pedestrian trail that directly serves the Church Rock community.

    The project was completed over 29 months and was funded through a combination of federal and state National Highway Performance Program funds. The project was a collaborative effort between NMDOT District Six, the City of Gallup, and the Navajo Nation.

    “This project demonstrates our commitment to protecting New Mexico families and improving access to every corner of our state,” said Lujan Grisham. “Every bridge we build, every trail we construct, and every safety improvement we make helps ensure no family has to experience the tragedy of losing a loved one in a preventable pedestrian accident.”

    New Mexico’s pedestrian fatality rate consistently ranks among the highest in the nation. By creating safe, dedicated pathways for pedestrians, NMDOT is taking concrete action to protect lives and strengthen communities.

    “By working closely with the Navajo Nation and the City of Gallup, we’ve created safer, more direct access for the Church Rock community,” said NMDOT Secretary Ricky Serna. “New Mexico has long faced an urgent need to improve pedestrian safety, and this bridge delivers real solutions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State of Emergency Ahead of Heavy Rainfall

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today will declare a State of Emergency for several New York counties and urges New Yorkers to prepare for heavy rain and the potential for localized flooding, as parts of the state are forecast to be impacted by periods of heavy rain today into Friday. Beginning this afternoon, torrential rain is forecast to impact downstate New York, primarily in the Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island Regions. With the forecast enhanced to moderate risk, flash flooding becomes more likely with significant flooding possible. Flood Watches in Place for New York City, Long Island, and Hudson Valley through Friday afternoon. Significant rainfall is also expected in the Southern Tier and Capital Regions. Roadway and rail travel will be impacted during the Thursday evening commute, and employers in the affected areas are recommended to release employers early to avoid long delays and ensure safe travel home.

    The State of Emergency includes the Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester and contiguous counties. The State released non-essential employees in New York City, Sullivan, Rockland, Orange, Ulster, Dutchess, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties at 1:00 p.m.

    “I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “State agencies are on standby for heavy downpours and localized flooding and will be monitoring the situation in real-time to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers in the path of the storm.”

    A widespread one to three inches of rain is expected with locally higher totals up to five inches possible. Average rainfall rates of a half inch per hour are expected with rates of one to two inches likely. Isolated rates over two inches per hour are possible, most likely Thursday afternoon or evening. Most of the rain will fall in as little as three to six hours from Thursday afternoon through Thursday night. Up to two inches of rain may impact the Southern Tier, Capital Region, and Upper Mid-Hudson Regions.

    The Thursday evening commute will be impacted with areas of flash flooding possible and minor to moderate water level rises could occur on some waterways. Some roads may become impassable from flooding, most likely around underpasses and roads with little or no drainage. The heaviest rainfall rates may be capable of producing subway flooding and overwhelming NYC sewers. Flooding in basements and subterrain floors is also possible.

    Residents are encouraged to monitor their local forecasts, weather watches and warnings. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

    New Yorkers should ensure that government emergency alerts are enabled on their mobile phones. They should also sign up for real-time weather and emergency alerts that will be texted to their phones by texting their county or borough name to 333111.

    Agency Preparations

    Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

    The Division’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. OEM is in enhanced monitoring status and the Office of Fire Prevention and Control has activated the State Fire Operations Center.

    Water rescue teams from the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, New York State Police and Department of Environmental Conservation are staged in Orange County and Ulster Counties.

    State stockpiles are ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely.

    Department of Transportation

    The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,428 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 1,430 large dump trucks
    • 337 large loaders
    • 92 chippers
    • 87 tracked and wheeled excavators
    • 33 water pumps
    • 32 traffic and tree crew bucket trucks
    • 28 traffic tower platforms
    • 16 vacuum trucks with sewer jets

    The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event. For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.

    Thruway Authority

    The Thruway Authority has 669 operators and supervisors prepared to respond to any wind or flood related issues across the state with small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders, portable Variable Message Signs (VMS) boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures. VMS and social media are utilized to alert motorists of weather conditions on the Thruway.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 337 Large and Small Dump Trucks
    • 63 Loaders
    • 31 Trailers
    • 5 Vac Trucks
    • 14 Excavators
    • 8 Brush Chippers
    • 99 Chainsaws
    • 24 Aerial Trucks
    • 22 Skid Steers
    • 86 Portable Generators
    • 65 Portable Light Units

    The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway, follow @ThruwayTraffic on X, and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

    Department of Public Service

    New York’s utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. The utilities will work with the local, county, and state transportation agencies to navigate closed roadways in any areas experiencing flooding. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    New York State Police

    State Police instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service, and all watercraft and specialty vehicles are staged and ready for deployment.

    Department of Environmental Conservation

    The Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to heavy rainfall and flooding.

    DEC swift water teams are activated and pre-staged in the Hudson Valley.

    DEC reminds local officials to watch for potential flooding in their communities. Municipalities are encouraged to undertake local assessments of flood-prone areas and to remove any accumulating debris. DEC permits and authorization are not required to remove debris unless stream banks or beds will be disturbed by debris removal and/or the use of heavy equipment. Municipalities and local governments are advised to contact DEC’s Regional Permit Administrators if assistance is required and to help determine if a permit is necessary.

    If a permit is necessary, DEC can issue Emergency Authorizations to expedite approval of projects in place of an individual permit. DEC approves Emergency Authorizations for situations that are deemed an emergency based on the immediate protection of life, health, general welfare, property, or natural resources.

    Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

    New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

    Metropolitan Transportation Authority

    The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure safe, reliable service. MTA employees will be poised to respond to any weather-related issues. To reduce the likelihood of flooding and respond to any instances of flooding, MTA crews will inspect drains in flood-prone areas to ensure they are functional, and supervisors will monitor flood-prone locations for any reports of flooding to ensure quick response. Elevator and escalator specialists will be deployed to flood-prone locations to attend to any weather-related elevator and escalator troubles.

    Customers are encouraged to check mta.info for the latest service updates, and to use caution while navigating the system. Customers should also sign up for real-time service alerts via text or email. These alerts are also available via the MTA app and the TrainTime app.

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is closely monitoring weather forecasts and is working with airport terminal operators and other airport partners in preparation. Air travelers should check with their airlines for updated information on their flights or check the Federal Aviation Administration website for any FAA programs that may affect flight operations at their departure airport before leaving for the airport and allow for additional travel time. Motorists who use the Port Authority’s six bridges and tunnels are strongly encouraged to sign up for email alerts, bus riders can use the MyTerminal app for real-time alerts on bus service at the Midtown Bus Terminal, or for PATH riders, check train service information via the PATH mobile app, RidePATH.

    Before and During the Storm

    • Stay Informed: Monitor your local weather forecast and follow any warnings that may be broadcast.
    • Follow Instructions from Local Officials: If you are advised by emergency officials to take immediate action such as evacuation, do not wait – follow all orders promptly.
    • Do Not Walk, Swim or Drive Through Floodwaters: One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. If you have doubts, remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”
    • Know your evacuation route and how to get to higher ground
    • Know your area’s type of flood risk — visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
    • Have a flood emergency plan in place that includes considerations for your children, pets and neighbors.
    • Have an emergency go bag ready to grab for you, your family and your pets that includes any medications you may need.
    • Check in with elderly neighbors or those who may have mobility issues.
    • Do not touch downed power lines
    • Keep your phone charged
    • Keep a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.

    After Flood Waters Have Receded

    • Wait until an area has been declared safe before entering. Be careful driving, since roads may be damaged and power lines may be down.
    • If your home or apartment has been flooded, DO NOT turn on electrical appliances until an electrician has checked the system and appliances.
    • Throw out any medicine or food that may have had contact with flood waters.
    • Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days.
    • Do not touch downed power lines.

    For more preparedness information and safety tips from DHSES, visit dhses.ny.gov. The National Weather Service website also includes Flood Safety Tips and Spring Safety Resources.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Migrant Crossings at the Darien Gap Continue to Plummet, Crossings Are Down 99.98%

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    In May, only 13 crossings were recorded—June dropped further to just 10

    WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced migrant crossings at the Darien Gap have dropped 99.98% for the months of May and June 2025 compared to a peak under the Biden Administration in August 2023.  

    Under the Biden Administration, crossings in a single month exceeded 82,000. In May 2025, there were only 13 crossings and the number fell again in June 2025 to just 10. This is a massive decline in illegal migration through one of the key channels normally utilized by would-be illegal aliens to invade our country.  

    “The dangerous Darien Gap trek is notorious for exposing migrants, including children and the most vulnerable, to sexual abuse, trafficking, and exploitation,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “In Panama’s Darien Gap, migrants are now turning BACK before they even reach our border— only 10 migrants crossed in June. This is more than a 99.98% drop from the Biden high when 82,000 illegal aliens crossed in a single month. The world is hearing our message that America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, we have the most secure border in American history.” 

    With the most secure border in American history, DHS is focused on deporting those who break our nation’s laws. If you are here illegally, use the CBP Home App to take control of your departure and receive financial support to return home. Illegal aliens who use the CBP Home App to self-deport also receive cost-free travel and a $1,000 exit bonus, paid after their return is confirmed through the app. 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Vancity reports strong Q2 results, early evidence of transformation to Vancity 2.0

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TERRITORIES OF MUSQUEAM, SQUAMISH AND TSLEIL-WAUTUTH NATIONS and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vancity delivered strong financial results at the end of the second quarter that ended on June 30, 2025, highlighting growth across key areas for the credit union. This solid performance reveals wins for a new strategy aimed at growing with impact and delivering exceptional member experience. 

    Core revenues climbed to $307.5 million by June 30th, representing a 24% increase compared to 2024 and marking continued growth in revenues and profitability in 2025. This includes $157.6 million added in the second quarter. Income before tax and distributions grew to $46.6 million year-to-date, with the second quarter adding $25.1 million. Member deposits increased by $97.8 million — $63.5 million in the second quarter — with a notable increase in both retail and commercial demand deposits, while net retail mortgage lending jumped by $387.2 million since the beginning of this year. This improving financial performance means more resources available to support people in these uncertain times, as 30% of Vancity’s net profits go back to members and communities.

    “Vancity 2.0 is our vision to be an industry leader delivering outstanding member experience, while staying fiercely committed to making a big difference in this world,” said Wellington Holbrook, President and CEO of Vancity. “These results are telling us our strategy is working — we’re restoring profitability after a challenging year in 2024 and building a stronger credit union to be an innovative leader for the future.” 

    Vancity’s work has also yielded real, positive impacts in 2025 on vital issues facing members and communities. Year-to-date growth in net retail mortgages supported more than 3000 families and individuals with their home-ownership needs, including 452 loans to help first-time home buyers enter the housing market. At the same time, in the first half of this year alone Vancity financed 900 units of affordable housing — that’s 900 more families who will be able to access a home they can afford.

    Vancity has also been focused on building a more resilient local economy in light of economic uncertainty and trade concerns. Reflecting this commitment, Vancity provided $689.7 million in financing for local businesses in 2025, as of June 30th. This includes support extended to 188 women or non-binary small-business owners with loans through its women’s entrepreneurship program in Q2, bringing the total to 320 so far this year. A partnership with WeBC that provides financing and wrap-around supports for women and non-binary entrepreneurs, this program means more people have fairer access to financing while also supporting the diversity of Canada’s economy at a critical time.

    “For Vancity, results aren’t just about numbers — they’re about people, “said Holbrook. “Strong financial results mean we can do more — fund more units of affordable housing, extend more support for the Indigenous economy, drive more investment back into communities, and support more entrepreneurs building local small businesses that make our economy more resilient. At a time when people need support more than ever, we’re here for them.”  

    This marks the first time Vancity has released its quarterly results, a move the credit union will replicate going forward as it continues its transformation.

    Amidst this strong performance, Vancity remains focused on connecting with members and communities in neighbourhoods across its service areas and beyond. In the second quarter, Vancity sponsored major events like the Vancouver Sun Run and Vancity Innovation House, a partnership with Frontier Collective during Web Summit Vancouver. Vancity branches participated in local community events across the lower mainland and on Vancouver Island, as well as participated in significant community celebrations like Surrey Vaisakhi, Vancouver Vaisakhi, Qmunity Pride Breakfast, and more.

    Vancity is also doubling down on serving and supporting members through uncertain times and re-investing in the experience of members as a central priority — including investing in a new digital platform expected to launch by the end of this year. This comes on the heels of enhancements in technology in 2024 to better serve members, from new products to improvements to existing services, as well as operational efficiencies to create smoother, member-centred experiences for everyone Vancity serves.

    About Vancity
    Vancity is a values-based financial co-operative serving the needs of its 570,000 member-owners and their communities, with offices and more than 50 branches located in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Victoria, Squamish and Alert Bay, within the territories of the Coast Salish and Kwakwaka’wakw people. With $36 billion in assets plus assets under administration, Vancity is one of Canada’s largest credit unions. Vancity uses its assets to help improve the financial well-being of its members while at the same time helping to develop healthy communities that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

    Media Relations | Vancity
    mediarelations@vancity.com
    T: 778-837-0394

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements that reflect Vancity’s current expectations regarding future events, performance, and results. Those statements are based on assumptions, estimates, and projections that management considers reasonable in light of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments. However, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Vancity’s control, including but not limited to changes in economic and geopolitical conditions, interest rates, regulatory requirements, and competitive factors. Actual results may differ from those expressed or implied in these statements. Vancity does not undertake any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NCS Multistage to Acquire ResMetrics, Further Expanding Tracer Diagnostics Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:NCSM) (“NCS” or the “Company”) today announced that it has acquired ResMetrics LLC (“ResMetrics”), a leading provider of chemical tracer diagnostics services used by oil and gas operators to validate reservoir development strategies, improve hydraulic fracture stimulation designs, evaluate inter-well connectivity, and optimize enhanced oil recovery injection programs, complementing and further strengthening NCS’s tracer diagnostics capabilities.

    “I am excited to welcome the ResMetrics team to NCS,” said Ryan Hummer, NCS’s Chief Executive Officer. “ResMetrics brings trusted chemical tracer technologies that complement our existing capabilities, enhancing our ability to deliver actionable insights that help customers maximize well performance and financial returns.”

    “ResMetrics has built a strong reputation for delivering high quality and reliable tracer diagnostics services to our customers,” said Sharad Behal, Chief Executive Officer of ResMetrics. “We expect that joining together with NCS will accelerate our growth and increase the breadth of diagnostics and other solutions available to our customers.”

    ResMetrics was built in conjunction with CSL Capital Management. Charlie Leykum, Founding Partner and CEO of CSL, expressed his admiration for the achievements of the ResMetrics team, stating, “I am incredibly proud of the dedication and innovation demonstrated by ResMetrics since its founding. Their commitment to advancing tracer diagnostics and delivering value to customers has solidified their leadership position in the industry. We are excited to see ResMetrics enter this next chapter with NCS and look forward to all that the future holds for the company and its talented team.”

    Shook, Hardy and Bacon L.L.P. served as legal advisor to NCS. Piper Sandler acted as exclusive financial advisor and Winston Strawn LLP served as legal advisor to ResMetrics.

    NCS will provide additional details on the ResMetrics acquisition during its second quarter earnings conference call scheduled for August 1, 2025.

    NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc. is a leading provider of highly engineered products and support services that facilitate the optimization of oil and natural gas well construction, well completions and field development strategies. NCS provides products and services primarily to exploration and production companies for use in onshore and offshore wells, predominantly wells that have been drilled with horizontal laterals in both unconventional and conventional oil and natural gas formations. NCS’s products and services are utilized in oil and natural gas basins throughout North America and in selected international markets, including the North Sea, the Middle East, Argentina and China. NCS’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “NCSM.” Additional information is available on the website, www.ncsmultistage.com.

    ResMetrics, LLC is a leading provider of oilfield tracer services, leveraging robust quality control systems and its state-of-the-art analytical laboratory to ensure accurate results. ResMetrics provides its customers with valuable data to assess and improve completion designs and to efficiently optimize reservoir development and production, including in enhanced oil recovery and high-temperature applications. ResMetrics provides its services primarily in the United States, the UAE and Kuwait.

    Contact:
    Mike Morrison
    Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
    +1 281-453-2222
    IR@ncsmultistage.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Presses for Release of Epstein Files

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – This week, President Trump’s former personal defense attorney and current high-ranking DOJ lawyer Todd Blanche was dispatched to conduct a private jailhouse interview with Jeffrey Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who President Trump knew personally. Ms. Maxwell is serving a 20 year federal sentence for her role in the sex trafficking of young women and girls, and President Trump has refused to rule out a presidential pardon for her. During the 2020 campaign, Trump said that he “wishes her well.”

    In an effort to restore public trust and ensure the American public knows what information is in the Epstein files, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) is teaming up with Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and several colleagues on legislation to direct the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to publicly release all files relating to the investigation of dead sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. There would be common-sense protections against disclosure of information that would compromise the privacy and safety of victims and witnesses. However, information could not be withheld to protect someone’s reputation or for political sensitivities—on both sides of the aisle.

    The Epstein Files Transparency Act would provide full transparency for the American people, accountability for individuals involved with Epstein, and justice for all victims harmed. The bill mandates that within 30 days of its enactment, the U.S. Attorney General must release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials related to the Jeffrey Epstein case held by the Department of Justice, including files from the FBI and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.

    “The rich and powerful cannot use their influence, money, and connections to cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable,” said Senator Merkley. “We have a government of ‘We the People,’ not ‘We the Powerful.’ To restore the public’s trust, the American people deserve the truth about Jeffrey Epstein and those connected to him.”

    “Like his promise to lower prices, President Trump wants to renege on his pledge to release the Epstein files. Once again, he’s failed to deliver. The American people deserve answers, the victims deserve justice, and it’s past time for Congressional Republicans to hold the Executive branch accountable,” said Senator Reed. “Instead of lifting a finger to release the Epstein files, President Trump is doing everything he can to prevent them from coming out. The American people deserve truth and accountability. The records should be transparently released and there should be zero tolerance for abuse of power and sex trafficking of innocent underage victims.”

    The Senate bill compliments the bipartisan House bill (H.Res.581) introduced by Congressmen Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA).

    Last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) suspended all House business until September rather than endure a vote on the Massie-Khanna resolution calling for transparent disclosure of the Epstein files.

    In addition to Merkley and Reed, the Epstein Files Transparency Act is also co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

    Sponsors of the bill are working to ensure the Senate considers it in a timely manner and before the Senate Republicans adjourn the chamber for its August district work period.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newly Declassified Appendix to Durham Report Sheds Additional Light on Clinton Campaign Plan to Falsely Tie Trump to Russia and FBI’s Failure to Investigate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today is making public the formerly Classified Appendix (“Durham annex”) to John Durham’s 2023 Special Counsel report. The Unclassified Report and the Classified Appendix form the entirety of Durham’s Special Counsel Report.

    The Durham annex contains previously classified information exposing a reported Clinton campaign plan to falsely tie President Donald Trump to Russia.

    The annex also goes into further detail on matters discussed in the Unclassified Report, specifically:

    • The FBI’s failure – under the leadership of then-Director James Comey – to investigate intelligence that the Clinton campaign may have created the Russia collusion hoax. Meanwhile the Comey-led FBI used the Steele Dossier – a Clinton campaign creation – to obtain FISA warrants on Carter Page.

    Attorney General Pam Bondi, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel and Intelligence Community elements declassified the Durham annex at Grassley’s request. In requesting its declassification, which included declassification of information by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and National Security Agency (NSA), Grassley argued that “the overriding public interest demands the release of this information, and doing so would benefit public transparency and accountability.”

    “Based on the Durham annex, the Obama FBI failed to adequately review and investigate intelligence reports showing the Clinton campaign may have been ginning up the fake Trump-Russia narrative for Clinton’s political gain, which was ultimately done through the Steele Dossier and other means. These intelligence reports and related records, whether true or false, were buried for years. History will show that the Obama and Biden administration’s law enforcement and intelligence agencies were weaponized against President Trump. This political weaponization has caused critical damage to our institutions and is one of the biggest political scandals and cover-ups in American history. The new Trump administration has a tremendous responsibility to the American people to fix the damage done and do so with maximum speed and transparency,” Grassley said.

    “For years, I’ve fought to assemble and publicize all the facts surrounding Durham’s investigation, Crossfire Hurricane and related matters. The American people shouldn’t be shortchanged or strung out on matters of significant public interest, and that firm belief fuels my tireless oversight. It’s been a refreshing change to see Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel’s increased efforts to bring transparency to a very dark corner of the people’s government. I hope that attitude continues, and you can be sure my oversight work will continue as well, because there’s much work yet to be done,” Grassley concluded.

    Read the Durham annex HERE.

    Key Findings of the Durham Annex:

    The Clinton Campaign Plan

    In 2016, the Obama administration obtained intelligence information from a source contained in two separate memoranda – one memorandum from January 2016 and another from March 2016. The two memoranda “described ‘confidential conversations’ between then-Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz and two individuals at the [Soros] Open Society Foundations (i) [Leonard] Benardo and (ii) Jeffrey Goldstein.” (Pgs. 2-3)

    • This memo stated, in part, that “[the Democratic Party’s] opposition is focused on discrediting Trump…. [a]mong other things, the Clinton staff, with support from special services, is preparing scandalous revelations of business relations between Trump and the ‘Russian Mafia’”. (Pg. 4)

    • According to the Durham annex, based on an analysis and translation of the intelligence, FBI analysts believed that, at the time, the “special services” in the March 2016 memorandum could refer “to the FBI and the CIA or more broadly to the intelligence and law enforcement communities” in the United States, or, analysts speculated, it could refer to “Trump dossier author Christopher Steele.” (Pg. 5)

    • When the Obama administration received this intelligence in March 2016, Fusion GPS was preparing open source opposition research regarding purported ties between Trump and Russians. The research was paid for by Clinton’s campaign and the DNC. (Pg. 5).

    • Notably, on April 15, 2020, Grassley released Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG) footnotes showing that Russian intelligence was aware of Steele’s anti-Trump research in early July 2016. Further, the FBI had reports in hand in 2017 that the Dossier may have Russian sources and was potentially Russian disinformation.

    On March 31, 2016, FBI personnel, including then-Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, shared the intelligence regarding the potential Clinton Campaign Plan with high-ranking career officials at DOJ. (Pg. 5)

    FBI Receipt of Additional Intelligence Information on the Clinton Campaign Plan

    The Durham annex describes that, in July 2016, the FBI received additional intelligence regarding a possible Clinton Campaign Plan, including documents with purported emails allegedly sent by Leonard Benardo, Senior Vice President of Soros’ Open Society Foundations. The intelligence included data providing specificity on the plan and the attempt to smear then-candidate Donald Trump by falsely linking him to Russia, while apparently counting on the support of the FBI to open up an investigation. (Pgs. 7-11)

    The intelligence the FBI received also included information and analysis from purported Leonard Benardo emails that stated, in part:

    • “During the first stage of the campaign, due to lack of direct evidence, it was decided to disseminate the necessary information through the FBI-affiliated…technical structures… in particular, the Crowdstrike and ThreatConnect companies, from where the information would then be disseminated through leading U.S. publications.” (Pg. 8)

    • “The point is making the Russian play a U.S. domestic issue… In absence of direct evidence, Crowdstrike and ThreatConnect will supply the media, and GRU [Russia’s Main Intelligence Directive] will hopefully carry on to give more facts.” (Pg. 11)

    Assessment of Authenticity of the “Benardo Emails” Intelligence

    • The Durham annex states, “Analysts and officers whom [Durham’s team] interviewed, and who were well-versed in the Sensitive Intelligence collection, stated that their best assessment was that the Bernardo emails were likely authentic.” (Pg. 11)

    Durham’s team conducted investigative work to inform their assessment. Per the Durham annex:

    • Communications the Durham team reviewed provided additional support that the Clinton campaign was engaged in a plan to tie Trump to Russia and that the campaign wanted or expected the Office of the Vice President, the FBI or other parts of the Intelligence Community, such as the State Department’s Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR), to aid that effort. (Pgs. 16-17)

    • The Durham annex states, “The Office’s best assessment is that the … emails that purport to be from Benardo were ultimately a composite of several emails that were obtained through Russian intelligence hacking of the U.S.-based Think Tanks, including the Open Society Foundations, the Carnegie Endowment, and others.” (Pg. 17)

    • The Durham annex concludes, “It is a logical deduction [redacted] [Julianne] Smith was, at minimum, playing a role in the Clinton campaign’s efforts to tie Trump to Russia,” and that the communications it reviewed “certainly lends at least some credence that such a plan existed.” (Pg. 17)

    The Obama-Biden Administration’s Response to Intelligence on the Clinton Campaign Plan

    • According to the Durham annex, following the receipt of this intelligence, multiple high-ranking U.S. officials were briefed on the matter, including an August 3, 2016 briefing in the White House by CIA Director John Brennan to President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, FBI Director Comey, among others. As described in Durham’s Unclassified Report, ultimately, the CIA sent the FBI an investigative referral that included the “purported Clinton campaign plan.” (Pg. 18)

    • In 2017, the “CIA prepared a written assessment of the authenticity and veracity of the above-referenced intelligence. The CIA stated that it did not assess that the above [redacted] memoranda, or [redacted] hacked U.S. communications, to be the product of Russian fabrications.” (Pg. 19)

    • The Durham annex notes that “FBI was fully alerted to the possibility that at least some of the information it was receiving about the Trump campaign might have its origin either with the Clinton campaign or its supporters, or alternatively, was the product of Russian disinformation.”

    • The Durham annex concludes, in part, that “[d]espite this awareness, the FBI appears to have dismissed the [intelligence information] as not credible without any investigative steps actually having been taken to either corroborate or disprove the allegations.” (Pgs. 22-24)

    The Threat of Foreign Election Influence and Assessment in FISA Renewal Applications

    As the Unclassified Durham Report noted, “[b]eginning in late 2014… the FBI learned from a well-placed Confidential Human Source that a foreign government (“Foreign Government-2”) was planning to send an individual (“Non-U.S. Person-I”) to contribute to Clinton’s anticipated presidential campaign, as a way to gain influence with Clinton should she win the presidency.”

    The Durham annex notes that “Non-U.S.Person-I” was “directly tasked by the leader of Foreign Government-2” with facilitating this plan, but had indicated plans to travel to the U.S. in late 2014.

    • However, as known from the Unclassified Durham Report, the FISA “application lingered because ‘everyone was super more careful’ and ‘scared with the big name [Clinton]’ involved.”

    • Ultimately, after four months, the FISA authority was authorized following a commitment that Clinton and others targeted by Foreign Government-2 would receive defensive briefings. (Pgs. 23-24)

    The remainder of the Durham annex reinforces that the FBI provided false and misleading information to the FISA court in pursuit of FISA renewals, and at least one Confidential Human Source lied to his handlers.

    The information in the Durham annex, taken together with previously released details in the Unclassified Report, reinforce the FBI’s disparate treatment of Trump versus Clinton. Despite lacking probable cause and relying on false information, the FBI secured a FISA warrant and multiple renewals to surveil Carter Page and did not provide Trump a defensive briefing equivalent to Clinton’s briefings.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Questions Senior USDA Official on Reorganization Proposal

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a lifelong family farmer and member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, submitted questions for the record to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden following a committee hearing on USDA’s reorganization proposal Wednesday.

    In his questions, Grassley asked Vaden to explain why Congress was not notified or consulted about the plan ahead of the announcement. He requested the agency share its view on the role of Congress in the reorganization process, including possible consultation on decisions like USDA hub locations.

    Grassley highlighted the impact of USDA’s presence in Ames, including the Agriculture Research Service’s National Animal Disease Center, which is a world leader in animal health research, and the National Laboratory for Agriculture and The Environment, which leads cutting edge research on watershed management and soil health. Grassley asked if the agency plans to move any positions or projects to Ames.

    Senators submit Questions For the Record (QFRs) to hearing witnesses to receive detailed, written responses.

    The following are Grassley’s questions:

    1. Why was Congress not notified or consulted of plans for the reorganization despite so many in Congress supporting these plans?
    2. Will there be any flexibility for Congress to weigh in on the hubs that have been designated, the movement of positions to certain locations, or the vacating of certain properties such as the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center?
    3. Ames, Iowa is home to the Agriculture Research Service’s National Animal Disease Center and the National Laboratory for Agriculture and The Environment among others. Will USDA move any positions or projects to Ames, Iowa?
    4. What do you see as Congress’s role in this process? Will there be closer consultation with Congress moving forward?

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Grassley Joins America’s Newsroom to Discuss His Release of the Durham Annex

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined “America’s Newsroom” on Fox News to discuss his successful efforts to secure the declassification and release of the formerly Classified Appendix (“Durham annex”) to John Durham’s 2023 Special Counsel report.

    The Durham annex exposes a reported Hillary Clinton campaign plan to falsely tie President Donald Trump to Russia, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) failure to investigate intelligence suggesting the Clinton campaign fabricated the Russia collusion hoax.

    Video and excerpts of Grassley’s remarks follow:

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    On the reported Clinton Campaign Plan to generate the Russia collusion hoax:

    “[The Durham annex] gives us information that the FBI had eight to 10 years ago that they never followed up on. It actually brings attention to the fact that there was either a Clinton conspiracy to make this happen, or Russia disinformation. Either way, it was an attempt to stop Trump, and it proves that the FBI had a hand in it.

    “And now, after these eight years, three years of mine trying to get the document, we know that the Steele dossier [was] paid for by the Democrats and the Clinton campaign. That it was all an effort of total distraction and to make it look like Russia was playing a very major role in helping Trump be elected. Now we know none of that was true, and now with this Durham report annex out, it finally proved that the FBI was covering up.”

    On the classified Durham annex being discovered inside burn bags at the FBI:

    “I think it’s evidence of the great depth that the deep state will go to cover up weaponization that was going on in the FBI and the executive branch of government, generally, under the Obama administration.

    “I want to thank Kash Patel of the FBI and Pam Bondi, our Attorney General, for releasing these documents. Because, after eight years – and it took us three years to get this information – but after eight years, I think we need maximum transparency on all the schemes that were going on 10 years ago to either stop Trump from being elected or, after he’s elected, to ruin his presidency. And that’s what this Durham report is all about.”

    On former Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan’s and former Director of National Intelligence Director James Clapper’s attempts to cover up their involvement in the Russia collusion hoax:

    “I think that they have been in the news so often recently, along with [former FBI Director James] Comey, [for being] in the center of this conspiracy. They’re trying to cover their hind end.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Presses President Trump’s New NTIA Administrator on Day One: Stop Delaying Broadband Funds for New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, called on Arielle Roth, the recently confirmed Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to fulfill her responsibility to fully implement programs authorized and funded by Congress – specifically, the Digital Equity Act and the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Senator Luján urged Roth to make her first act as Administrator the immediate restoration of suspended digital equity grants and the release of approved federal funding to connect all New Mexicans to broadband.

    “Now that you have been confirmed as Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), I urge you to fulfill your commitments to Congress that you will ‘follow the law,’ ‘act impartially,’ and ‘deliver the best broadband service possible for all Americans,’” said Senator Luján. “Your first act as Administrator should be to immediately restore the suspended digital equity grants and swiftly approve and release BEAD funding to states like New Mexico.”

    “Congressionally appropriated funds for the Digital Equity Act and the BEAD program are not optional – they are essential.  They represent not only a historic investment in our infrastructure, but a statutory obligation to the people of New Mexico and every unserved and underserved community across this country,” concluded Senator Luján.

    As Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Senator Luján is a strong champion for 100% broadband connectivity. Senator Luján has  pressed Commerce Secretary Lutnick multiple times and called on President Trump directly to release funding for the BEAD program.

    In the 118th Congress, Senator Luján introduced the bipartisan Tribal Connect Act to make it easier for Tribes to secure high-speed internet access at Tribal Essential Community-Serving Institutions through the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Fund (USF) Schools and Libraries Program, or E-Rate program. 

    In the 117th Congress, Senator Luján introduced legislation to help close the homework gap by equipping school buses with Wi-Fi technology and improving financing options for broadband deployment.

    The full letter can be found here or below:

    Dear Ms. Roth: 

    Now that you have been confirmed as Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), I urge you to fulfill your commitments to Congress that you will “follow the law,” “act impartially,” and “deliver the best broadband service possible for all Americans.”

    This responsibility includes fully implementing programs authorized and funded by Congress under the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), specifically the Digital Equity Act and the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Your first act as Administrator should be to immediately restore the suspended digital equity grants and swiftly approve and release BEAD funding to states like New Mexico. 

    The Digital Equity Act represents a Congressionally mandated $2.75 billion investment to advance digital inclusion for historically underserved populations across this county. New Mexico, a state with deep rural divides, Tribal lands, and persistent poverty, was awarded more than $8 million to launch programs such as digital navigators, workforce development, and cybersecurity training. These funds were designed to reach nearly two million residents who still face significant barriers that prevent them from fully participating in the digital world. 

    As you noted, “[m]aking sure Americans have the resources and skills they need to participate in the digital economy was part of the IIJA and I will follow the law.” 2 You also stated that once confirmed you would “commit to implementing NTIA’s statutory requirements, including with respect to the Digital Equity Act.” 3 Distribution of these digital equity funds is not a discretionary choice, it is a statutory obligation. You must uphold your commitment to follow the law by immediately reinstating and resuming the disbursement of funds awarded under the Digital Equity Act.

    Congress also created the $42.45 billion BEAD Program to finish the job of connecting nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for affordable, high-speed, reliable internet service. The BEAD program is our once-in-a-century opportunity to finish closing the digital divide and states have already invested years in developing implementation plans tailored to local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress. 

    As NTIA Administrator you must uphold the statutory flexibility given to the states. This includes:

    1. No new delays. The BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice should not be used to further delay approvals or revisit established allocations—such as the over $675 million allocated to New Mexico.
    2. A meaningful low-cost service option. Internet service providers that win BEAD funding must offer a low-cost service option that is affordable and high-speed, not just a box checking exercise. 
    3. Deference for local expertise. States are best suited to determine what technology is appropriate for their terrain and therefore must be afforded deference on priority project determinations, so long as they meet the speed, latency and scalability requirements of IIJA.

    Failing to adhere to these statutory requirements and current approval timeline risks setting broadband deployment back by years.

    Moreover, Congress also explicitly authorized states to use BEAD funding for a variety of uses beyond deployment. These uses include data collection, broadband mapping, planning, installation of Internet connections within multifamily residential buildings where low-income residents live, broadband adoption efforts, including programs to provide affordable internet-capable devices, and other uses as determined by the Assistant Secretary. It is important to follow the law and release non-deployment guidance as soon as possible.

    I request that you respond to these questions by August 15, 2025.

    1. The IIJA included $2.75 billion to support three grant programs under the Digital Equity Act to equip individuals and communities with the skills and tools needed for full participation in all aspects of society. Earlier this year, the states’ Capacity Grants were wrongfully terminated as were the Competitive Grant grantees and the others recommended for an award. In accordance with the law, when will you reinstate the grant programs under the Digital Equity Act? Please provide a specific date.
    2. States would already have shovels in the ground if not for the delays this administration introduced with the initial 90 day extension and subsequent June 6th Public Notice. Will you commit to no further delays and approve States’ BEAD Plans within 90 days of submission?
    3. Congress authorized BEAD funds for non-deployment uses, including affordability and adoption. Further guidance from NTIA should not hinder states’ ability to exercise discretion granted by statute to use funds for non-deployment. When will you release the updated guidance for these uses? Please provide a specific date.

    We share the goals of connecting every American to broadband and ensuring that broadband is affordable to low-income Americans. Congressionally appropriated funds for the Digital Equity Act and the BEAD program are not optional – they are essential. They represent not only a historic investment in our infrastructure, but a statutory obligation to the people of New Mexico and every unserved and underserved community across this country. 

    I look forward to your response.

    Respectfully,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Bill Blocks Federal Judges from Appointing U.S. Attorneys

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation today to restore the President’s right to appoint acting United States Attorneys, a power usurped by Democrats and handed to judges under arbitrary time limits, creating conflicts of interest and power imbalances within courts. U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) cosponsored the legislation.

    “President Trump deserves to pick the people working for him,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Judges shouldn’t get to choose the US Attorney who will be arguing cases before them, just as they would never let a President name their law clerks. Congress took this provision out once before, and Democrats revived it to hamper the Bush administration almost 20 years ago. It’s time we restored this prerogative to the leader of the Executive Branch.”

    Background

    U.S. Attorneys are appointed by the President and subject to approval by the Senate. While awaiting Senate approval, the Attorney General selects an interim U.S. Attorney to serve for 120 days. If the presidential appointee is not confirmed within those 120 days, current law allows district courts to then select yet another interim U.S. Attorney – an opportunity sometimes exploited for political retaliation.

    This shift of appointment authority away from the executive branch to the courts creates a conflict of interest, weakening the separation of powers by allowing courts to select their own interim U.S. attorneys.

    Senator Lee’s legislation will correct this miscarriage of justice by restoring the authority to make U.S. attorney appointments to the executive branch.

    Read exclusive coverage by The Federalist here.

    Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: British Columbia harvester fined over a million dollars and receives a six-year jail sentence for illegal fishing and sale of sea cucumber

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 31, 2025                                                                

    Nanaimo, BC – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is committed to the enforcement of the Fisheries Act and is working with partners to strengthen surveillance, monitoring, and prosecution of serious fisheries violations.

    The Honourable Justice Crerar of the British Columbia Supreme Court has sentenced Scott Steer, a repeat offender with a history of serious violations under the Fisheries Act, for illegal sea cucumber harvesting and sale. The sentencing follows Mr. Steer’s conviction on January 8, 2025, on multiple counts related to the unlawful harvest and sale of sea cucumbers between July 2019 and June 2020. 

    Penalties include:

    • a six-year jail sentence for Scott Steer to be served consecutively;
    • a global fine of $1,105,718 dollars ($1,005,718 and an additional $100,000 fine for the corporate offenders) for which Mr. and Mrs. Steer are jointly liable which is to be paid by monthly installment over 20 years; and
    • forfeiture of all items seized during the investigation, other than Mrs. Steer’s two phones, including two vessels, two vehicles, a trailer and many items related to fishing.

    Mr. Steer has an extensive history of fisheries violations that have resulted in numerous convictions, prohibitions, fines, and jail sentences. He had previously been prohibited by the Courts in 2016 from possessing or acquiring fishing gear, being onboard any fishing vessel, or applying for a fishing license until 2038. Despite these prohibitions, he actively orchestrated an illegal fishing operation, acquiring and outfitting vessels, recruiting crew, forging DFO records, and selling unlawfully harvested sea cucumbers.

    The court found that Mr. Steer’s illegal activities resulted in the sale of over 87,000 pounds of sea cucumbers, generating more than $1 million in revenue through fraudulent transactions with a Vancouver-based processing company. Justice Crerar determined that 1215419 B.C. Ltd. was a sham corporation used to circumvent Mr. Steer’s prohibitions and court orders, and that Mrs. Steer was fully involved in the scheme.

    Fisheries and Oceans Canada reminds the public that illegal fishing threatens the sustainability of Canada’s fisheries and urges anyone with information on potential violations to report them to DFO’s toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336 or by email at DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Non-Partisan Watchdog: President Trump and Russ Vought Continue to Steal from America’s Students and Schools

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, OH — Today, the non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a decision finding that the Department of Energy violated the Impoundment Control Act. After investigating delayed awards for the Department of Energy’s Renew America’s Schools Program, GAO confirmed what we already knew: President Trump and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought’s theft of appropriated funds violates the Impoundment Control Act.

    This decision respects Congress’s constitutional primacy over appropriations and the Congress’s role in passing annual appropriations Acts, including appropriations to provide funding for schools to help schools decrease energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments.

    “GAO’s legal determination confirms the illegality of DOE’s wider pattern of freezing appropriated funds for energy programs. DOE’s delays of critical energy funding for policy reasons lay bare an appalling betrayal of working families,” said Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “These program freezes cede our global clean energy leadership to Communist China and force Americans to pay higher energy bills. DOE’s partisan overreach must end now. They must release the funds immediately so communities and families can drive down costs, improve our infrastructure, and secure America’s energy independence in perpetuity.”

    “President Trump, Russ Vought, and Secretary Wright continue to steal from Americans to concentrate absolute power in the executive branch. This time, they are stealing from our nation’s schoolchildren, who deserve a healthy environment to learn in – and from school districts looking to lower their energy costs. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), our government’s preeminent nonpartisan watchdog, has yet again plainly demonstrated that the Department of Energy is engaged in a broad pattern of unlawfully freezing critical energy investments, forcing Americans to pay higher energy bills,” said House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03). “Their unlawful impoundments are not limited to Renew America’s Schools; they are threatening vital clean energy and efficiency initiatives that help drive down costs and modernize our infrastructure. I will continue to say it: Russ Vought is behind the lawless destruction and upheaval of our government and must be removed from his position. Russ Vought is an unelected bureaucrat, much like those he professes to detest, and he has decided that his views, and his priorities, are superior to the priorities, directives, and decisions of the Democratic and Republican representatives in the United States Congress. He has shown time and again that he is willing to break the law and hurt Americans in order to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. He must be stopped.”

    The US Department of Energy (DOE) launched the $500 Million Renew America’s Schools Program to promote the implementation of energy improvements at K-12 public schools across the country. This first-of-its-kind investment aims to help school communities make energy upgrades that will decrease energy use and costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments. To date, the Renew America’s Schools Program has invested hundreds of millions in public school districts across America, supporting capacity-building initiatives for energy management at over two dozen Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), and funding improvement projects at more than 400 facilities across 36 states – directly benefitting over 197,000 students and 14,000 teachers.

    In April, Ranking Member DeLauro and Vice Chair Murray first released a joint tracker on the funds President Trump and Russ Vought are stealing from American communities. This tracker — the first of its kind — puts a spotlight on the frozen funds across our government, including the $77 Billion for Department of Energy programs. See the updated tracker here.

    Ranking Member DeLauro has been sounding the alarm on impoundment since President Trump was reelected. In December 2024, she released this fact sheet laying the groundwork on President Trump’s uninformed and unconstitutional impoundment plan.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Quigley, Pingree Call for Trump Administration to Preserve Legal Status for Ukrainians

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, OH – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Congressman Mike QuigleyCo-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, together with Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), led 33 members of Congress in calling on the Trump administration to rapidly address applications for legal status and work authorization by Ukrainians currently in the United States.

     “Murderous Dictator Putin continues his unprovoked war of aggression, unleashing daily barrages of rockets and terror on innocent Ukrainian civilians. The United States and the Free World have a moral obligation to protect those who may yet fall under his murderous rampage. Since the full scale escalation of Russia’s war in Ukraine in February, 2022, more than 270,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in America. For more than 3 years, Ukrainian refugees have contributed greatly to communities nationwide, including in the greater Toledo and Cleveland areas in my home state of Ohio.” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “The success of the U4U program is unquestioned, with more than 175,000 Ukrainian nationals currently in the United States through this program. I was pleased to hear and echo President Trump’s sentiment earlier this week that we must continue to grant them the safety and shelter that prevents them from being forced back into the setting of war. America has long been a refuge for those whose lives are threatened by immediate danger, and we must continue serving as a shining light for Liberty for those fleeing tyranny and terror.” 

    Since Russia invaded Ukraine, tens of thousands of Ukrainians have sought refuge in the United States through the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program. Now, many are seeing their statuses lapse as a massive backlog has developed within US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Following President Trump’s recent encouraging comments about the U4U program, the bipartisan group of members is urging the administration to adjudicate outstanding requests for legal status and work authorization and to extend parole for Ukrainians with expiring statuses.

    The members wrote, in part in their letter, “After years of being employed, paying taxes, and contributing to our neighborhoods, Ukrainians in our districts now live in uncertainty–a state of limbo that hurts communities and employers alike who’ve sought to help this population.”

    Other signers of the letter include Representatives: Ukraine Caucus Co-Chair Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Danny Davis (IL-07), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Nikema Williams (GA-05), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Adam Smith (WA-09), Dina Titus (NV-01), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Bill Keating (MA-09), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Greg Casar (TX-35), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Jason Crow (CO-06), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), and Jim Costa (CA-21). 

    A copy of the signed letter is available HERE. The full text of the letter is available below:

    Dear Secretary Noem and Director Edlow,

    We write to express our continued support for Ukrainians who have been granted temporary status in the United States through the Uniting for Ukraine program. We ask your administration to take swift, decisive actions to preserve legal status and work authorization for Ukrainians who have found safety in the United States amid the devastating conflict brought upon their homeland.

    Five months ago, we marked three years since Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale, unprovoked, and illegal invasion of Ukraine. This brutal assault on Ukraine’s sovereignty and democracy has forced millions to flee their homeland in search of safety. Since February 24, 2022, tens of thousands of Ukrainians have sought refuge in the United States. For many of them, the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program has provided a vital humanitarian lifeline, offering a pathway to safety, dignity, and hope.

    Many individuals and families from Ukraine received travel authorization to the United States, a lawful status and temporary basis for work authorization through the Uniting for Ukraine program for up to two years. However, Ukrainians in our districts are increasingly seeing their statuses and work authorization lapse under expiring grants of parole offered under the program. After years of being employed, paying taxes, and contributing to our neighborhoods, Ukrainians in our districts now live in uncertainty–a state of limbo that hurts communities and employers alike who’ve sought to help this population. We believe a series of limited, concrete actions within your authority could protect this population as hostilities continue in Ukraine, such as:

    1)      Adjudicate outstanding requests for lawful status, work authorization: Many Ukrainians have applied for re-parole, Temporary Protected Status, and work authorization but have not had their applications adjudicated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) under an administrative hold. We urge USCIS to swiftly adjudicate outstanding employment authorization and other benefits requests from U4U beneficiaries under the June 9 “Adjudication of Requests filed by Parolees Under Specified Parole Programs” memo. Backlog reduction efforts would make a substantial difference in providing certainty and clarity to thousands of Ukrainian individuals and families who sought relief in a timely manner.

    2)      Re-parole and/or parole extensions for Ukrainians with expiring parole: Under the operational lifting of the USCIS administrative pause, DHS should accept, consider, and adjudicate new applications for re-parole from U4U beneficiaries, or deploy a limited parole extension process on a case-by-case basis. These processes would provide an orderly framework for Ukrainians to preserve an expiring status and/or work authorization outside of the backlogged asylum system.

    We are grateful for your administration’s support for peace in Ukraine. Until that is achieved, we ask you to preserve protections for those affected by this terrible war.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal, Cut Flower Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Bipartisan Bills to Bolster U.S. Flower Growing Industry

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) led Congressional Cut Flower Caucus co-chairs Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), and Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03) in introducing the Don Young American Grown Act. 

    The bipartisan bill requires any cut flowers or cut green plants officially on display in public areas of the Executive Office of the President, Department of Defense, or Department of State be grown in the United States, District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory. 

    In addition, the lawmakers introduced a bipartisan resolution to officially recognize the month of July 2025 as “American Grown Flower and Foliage Month’’.

    “California produces nearly three quarters of all American-grown cut flowers, and I’ve seen firsthand the vital role these farms play in supporting local jobs, small businesses, and the long-term strength of our agricultural sector,” said Rep. Carbajal, co-chair of the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus. “The Don Young American Grown Act will uplift domestic cut flower growers, bolster our specialty crop sector, and honor the legacy of the late Congressman Young.”

    “Maine’s flower farmers and the cut flower industry nationwide create jobs, support local economies, and bring natural beauty to our communities,” said Rep. Pingree, co-chair of the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus. “As Co-Chair of the Cut Flower Caucus, I’m proud to reintroduce the Don Young American Grown Act, alongside the resolution designating July as American Grown Flower and Foliage Month. This bipartisan legislation honors Don’s legacy, while ensuring federal agencies lead by example in purchasing American-grown flowers. It’s a commonsense way to support our domestic growers year-round.”

    Representative Don Young of Alaska, who passed away in 2022, was the lead sponsor of the Don Young American Grown Act in both the 116th and 117th Congresses. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) leads companion, bipartisan legislation in the U.S. Senate. 

    The text of the Don Young American Grown Act can be found HERE.

    The text of the American Grown Flower and Foliage Month resolution can be found HERE. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) leads a companion resolution in the U.S. Senate. 

    Founded in 2014, the Congressional Cut Flower Caucus was created to help address, support, and represent the economic interests and opportunities facing America’s flower farmers.

    The Congressional Cut Flower Caucus is a bipartisan coalition established to set the agenda and educate Congress on the cultural and economic value of flower and green farms.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bimini Capital Management Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VERO BEACH, Fla., July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bimini Capital Management, Inc. (OTCQB: BMNM), (“Bimini Capital,” “Bimini,” or the “Company”), today announced results of operations for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025.

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net income of approximately $43 thousand, or $0.00 per common share
    • Book value per share of $0.74
    • Company to discuss results on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET

    Management Commentary

    Commenting on the second quarter results, Robert E. Cauley, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “When we announced our first quarter results, the second quarter of 2025 was off to a very rough start.  Markets were in turmoil as a result of the extensive reciprocal tariffs announced by the Trump administration. While these conditions abated gradually, all the companies in the mortgage REIT sector that have reported second quarter earnings to date reported losses for the quarter. Our MBS segment produced a loss of $1.3 million as well but our advisory services segment generated earnings of $1.9 million and Bimini as a whole generated modest net income of approximately $43 thousand.  For the six months ended June 30, 2025, Bimini recorded net income of $0.6 million, or $0.06 per share, representing a return on stockholders’ equity of 8.7%, unannualized.

    “Our advisory service revenues for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2025 increased by 20% and 21%, respectively, over the comparable 2024 periods. While we sold $9.8 million of MBS early in the second quarter in response to the adverse market conditions mentioned above, our interest revenues for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2025 increased 23% and 24%, respectively, over the comparable 2024 periods. As our cash positions have increased over the past few months, we anticipate resuming growth of the RMBS portfolio in the near-term.

    “As the third quarter unfolds markets are considerably calmer than when the second quarter was starting, and Agency RMBS are still trading at attractive levels.  Market conditions generally are quite favorable for RMBS – a positive development for both Bimini and Orchid Island as well.  As long as we have no new adverse developments with respect to reciprocal tariffs and interest rate volatility remains low, the sector should perform well.  With respect to the macroeconomic backdrop, the economy has remained surprisingly resilient, but in the event that conditions deteriorate, the Federal Reserve appears likely to act and reduce over-night rates, which should buttress the economy.”

    Details of Second Quarter 2025 Results of Operations

    Orchid reported a net loss for the second quarter of 2025 of $33.6 million and generated a (4.66)% return on its book value for the quarter – not annualized. Orchid also raised $139.4 million during the quarter and its stockholders’ equity increased from $855.9 million at March 31, 2025 to $912.0 million at June 30, 2025. As a result, Bimini’s advisory service revenues of approximately $3.8 million represented a 20% increase over the second quarter of 2024 and a 6% increase over the first quarter of 2025. 

    Royal Palm sold approximately $9.8 million of its MBS portfolio in the second quarter of 2025 after increasing its MBS holdings throughout 2024. Interest revenue increased 23% over the second quarter of 2024, but decreased 9% from the first quarter of 2025.  With funding costs down as a result of Fed rates cuts late in 2024, net interest income, inclusive of dividends from holdings of Orchid common shares, increased approximately 78% over the second quarter of 2024, but decreased by approximately 7% from the first quarter of 2025 owing primarily to the sale of assets in the MBS portfolio.  These amounts represent the net interest income from the investment portfolio and do not include interest charges on our trust preferred or other long-term debt.

    Interest charges on the trust preferred and other long-term debt of $0.54 million were virtually unchanged from the first quarter of 2025 and were down 11% from the second quarter of 2024. Expenses of $2.82 million decreased by 4% from the first quarter of 2025 and increased by 1% over the second quarter of 2024.  Bimini recorded an income tax provision of $6.5 thousand for the second quarter of 2025.

    Management of Orchid Island Capital, Inc.

    Orchid is managed and advised by Bimini. As Manager, Bimini is responsible for administering Orchid’s business activities and day-to-day operations. Pursuant to the terms of a management agreement, our subsidiary, Bimini Advisors, provides Orchid with its management team, including its officers, along with appropriate support personnel. Bimini also maintains a common stock investment in Orchid, which is accounted for under the fair value option, with changes in fair value recorded in the statement of operations for the current period. For the three months ended June 30, 2025, Bimini’s statement of operations included a fair value adjustment of $(0.3) million and dividends of $0.2 million from its investment in Orchid common stock. Also, during the three months ended June 30, 2025, Bimini recorded $3.8 million in advisory services revenue for managing Orchid’s portfolio, consisting of $3.0 million of management fees, $0.6 million in overhead reimbursement, and $0.2 million in repurchase, clearing and administrative fees.

    Book Value Per Share

    The Company’s book value per share on June 30, 2025 was $0.74. The Company computes book value per share by dividing total stockholders’ equity by the total number of outstanding shares of the Company’s Class A Common Stock. At June 30, 2025, the Company’s stockholders’ equity was $7.4 million, with 10,005,457 Class A Common shares outstanding.

    Capital Allocation and Return on Invested Capital

    The Company allocates capital between two MBS sub-portfolios, the pass-through MBS portfolio and the structured MBS portfolio, consisting of interest-only and inverse interest-only securities. The table below details the changes to the respective sub-portfolios during the quarter.

    Portfolio Activity for the Quarter
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    Market Value – March 31, 2025 $ 118,704,355     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 120,965,124  
    Securities purchased   –       –       –       –       –  
    Securities sold   (9,786,053 )     –       –       –       (9,786,053 )
    (Losses) gains on sales   (178,140 )     –       –       –       (178,140 )
    Return of investment   n/a       (79,850 )     (379 )     (80,229 )     (80,229 )
    Pay-downs   (3,198,435 )     n/a       n/a       n/a       (3,198,435 )
    Discount accreted due to pay-downs   (42,251 )     n/a       n/a       n/a       (42,251 )
    Mark to market (losses) gains   (65,709 )     10,292       (970 )     9,322       (56,387 )
    Market Value – June 30, 2025 $ 105,433,767     $ 2,183,340     $ 6,522     $ 2,189,862     $ 107,623,629  

    The tables below present the allocation of capital between the respective portfolios at June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, and the return on invested capital for each sub-portfolio for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025. Capital allocation is defined as the sum of the market value of securities held, less associated repurchase agreement borrowings, plus cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash associated with repurchase agreements. Capital allocated to non-portfolio assets is not included in the calculation.

    Capital Allocation
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    June 30, 2025                                      
    Market value $ 105,433,767     $ 2,183,340     $ 6,522     $ 2,189,862     $ 107,623,629  
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   6,583,906       –       –       –       6,583,906  
    Repurchase agreement obligations   (101,742,000 )     –       –       –       (101,742,000 )
    Total $ 10,275,673     $ 2,183,340     $ 6,522     $ 2,189,862     $ 12,465,535  
    % of Total   82.4 %     17.5 %     0.1 %     17.6 %     100.0 %
    March 31, 2025                                      
    Market value $ 118,704,355     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 120,965,124  
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   5,500,438       –       –       –       5,500,438  
    Repurchase agreement obligations   (115,510,999 )     –       –       –       (115,510,999 )
    Total $ 8,693,794     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 10,954,563  
    % of Total   79.4 %     20.5 %     0.1 %     20.6 %     100.0 %

    The returns on invested capital in the PT MBS and structured MBS portfolios were approximately (4.1)% and 1.9%, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2025. The combined portfolio generated a return on invested capital of approximately (2.9)%.

    Returns for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2025  
              Structured Security Portfolio          
                  Inverse                  
      Pass     Interest-     Interest-                  
      Through     Only     Only                  
      Portfolio     Securities     Securities     Sub-total     Total  
    Interest income (net of repo cost) $ 357,713     $ 33,052     $ 23     $ 33,075     $ 390,788  
    Realized and unrealized losses (gains)   (286,100 )     10,292       (970 )     9,322       (276,778 )
    Hedge losses   (430,791 )     n/a       n/a       n/a       (430,791 )
    Total Return $ (359,178 )   $ 43,344     $ (947 )   $ 42,397     $ (316,781 )
    Beginning capital allocation $ 8,693,794     $ 2,252,898     $ 7,871     $ 2,260,769     $ 10,954,563  
    Return on invested capital for the quarter(1)   (4.1 )%     1.9 %     (12.0 )%     1.9 %     (2.9 )%
     
    (1)   Calculated by dividing the Total Return by the Beginning Capital Allocation, expressed as a percentage.


    Prepayments

    For the second quarter of 2025, the Company received approximately $3.3 million in scheduled and unscheduled principal repayments and prepayments, which equated to a 3-month constant prepayment rate (“CPR”) of approximately 9.9%. Prepayment rates on the two MBS sub-portfolios were as follows (in CPR):

      PT   Structured    
      MBS Sub-   MBS Sub-   Total
    Three Months Ended Portfolio   Portfolio   Portfolio
    June 30, 2025 10.3   7.3   9.9
    March 31, 2025 7.5   6.2   7.3
    December 31, 2024 10.9   12.5   11.1
    September 30, 2024 6.3   6.7   6.3
    June 30, 2024 10.9   5.5   10.0
    March 31, 2024 18.0   9.2   16.5


    Portfolio

    The following tables summarize the MBS portfolio as of June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024:

    ($ in thousands)                                      
                              Weighted          
              Percentage             Average          
              of     Weighted     Maturity          
      Fair     Entire     Average     in     Longest  
    Asset Category Value     Portfolio     Coupon     Months     Maturity  
    June 30, 2025                                      
    Fixed Rate MBS $ 105,434       98.0 %     5.60 %     333       1-Aug-54  
    Structured MBS   2,190       2.0 %     2.87 %     277       15-May-51  
    Total MBS Portfolio $ 107,624       100.0 %     5.25 %     332       1-Aug-54  
    December 31, 2024                                      
    Fixed Rate MBS $ 120,056       98.1 %     5.60 %     341       1-Jan-55  
    Structured MBS   2,292       1.9 %     2.85 %     281       15-May-51  
    Total MBS Portfolio $ 122,348       100.0 %     5.26 %     340       1-Jan-55  
    ($ in thousands)                              
      June 30, 2025     December 31, 2024  
              Percentage of             Percentage of  
    Agency Fair Value     Entire Portfolio     Fair Value     Entire Portfolio  
    Fannie Mae $ 30,700       28.5 %   $ 32,692       26.7 %
    Freddie Mac   76,924       71.5 %     89,656       73.3 %
    Total Portfolio $ 107,624       100.0 %   $ 122,348       100.0 %
      June 30, 2025     December 31, 2024  
    Weighted Average Pass Through Purchase Price $ 102.99     $ 102.72  
    Weighted Average Structured Purchase Price $ 4.48     $ 4.48  
    Weighted Average Pass Through Current Price $ 100.84     $ 99.63  
    Weighted Average Structured Current Price $ 14.01     $ 13.71  
    Effective Duration (1)   2.931       3.622  
    (1) Effective duration is the approximate percentage change in price for a 100 basis point change in rates. An effective duration of 2.931 indicates that an interest rate increase of 1.0% would be expected to cause a 2.931% decrease in the value of the MBS in the Company’s investment portfolio at June 30, 2025. An effective duration of 3.622 indicates that an interest rate increase of 1.0% would be expected to cause a 3.622% decrease in the value of the MBS in the Company’s investment portfolio at December 31, 2024. These figures include the structured securities in the portfolio but not the effect of the Company’s hedges. Effective duration quotes for individual investments are obtained from The Yield Book, Inc.


    Financing and Liquidity

    As of June 30, 2025, the Company had outstanding repurchase obligations of approximately $101.7 million with a net weighted average borrowing rate of 4.49%. These agreements were collateralized by MBS with a fair value, including accrued interest, of approximately $107.8 million. At June 30, 2025, the Company’s liquidity was approximately $5.7 million, consisting of unpledged MBS and cash and cash equivalents.

    We may pledge more of our structured MBS as part of a repurchase agreement funding but retain cash in lieu of acquiring additional assets. In this way, we can, at a modest cost, retain higher levels of cash on hand and decrease the likelihood that we will have to sell assets in a distressed market in order to raise cash. Below is a list of outstanding borrowings under repurchase obligations at June 30, 2025.

    ($ in thousands)                              
    Repurchase Agreement Obligations
                      Weighted     Weighted  
      Total             Average     Average  
      Outstanding     % of     Borrowing     Maturity  
    Counterparty Balances     Total     Rate     (in Days)  
    Marex Capital Markets Inc. $ 22,925       22.6 %     4.47 %     53  
    DV Securities, LLC Repo   18,420       18.1 %     4.48 %     28  
    Mirae Asset Securities (USA) Inc.   18,238       17.9 %     4.53 %     136  
    South Street Securities, LLC   15,806       15.5 %     4.47 %     85  
    Clear Street LLC   15,696       15.4 %     4.48 %     84  
    Mitsubishi UFJ Securities (USA), Inc.   10,657       10.5 %     4.52 %     15  
      $ 101,742       100.0 %     4.49 %     69  


    Summarized Consolidated Financial Statements

    The following is a summarized presentation of the unaudited consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2025, and December 31, 2024, and the unaudited consolidated statements of operations for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2025 and 2024. Amounts presented are subject to change.

     
    BIMINI CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Unaudited – Amounts Subject to Change)
     
      June 30, 2025     December 31, 2024  
    ASSETS              
    Mortgage-backed securities $ 107,623,629     $ 122,348,170  
    Cash equivalents and restricted cash   6,583,906       7,422,746  
    Orchid Island Capital, Inc. common stock, at fair value   3,989,188       4,427,372  
    Accrued interest receivable   525,593       601,640  
    Deferred tax assets, net   15,743,570       15,930,953  
    Other assets   4,281,649       4,122,776  
    Total Assets $ 138,747,535     $ 154,853,657  
                   
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY              
    Repurchase agreements $ 101,742,000     $ 117,180,999  
    Long-term debt   27,357,495       27,368,158  
    Other liabilities   2,231,331       3,483,093  
    Total Liabilities   131,330,826       148,032,250  
    Stockholders’ equity   7,416,709       6,821,407  
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 138,747,535     $ 154,853,657  
    Class A Common Shares outstanding   10,005,457       10,005,457  
    Book value per share $ 0.74     $ 0.68  
     
    BIMINI CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (Unaudited – Amounts Subject to Change)
     
      Six Months Ended June 30,     Three Months Ended June 30,  
      2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Advisory services $ 7,393,135     $ 6,096,316     $ 3,810,846     $ 3,167,055  
    Interest and dividend income   3,733,656       3,091,156       1,786,616       1,492,191  
    Interest expense   (3,575,435 )     (3,577,794 )     (1,731,415 )     (1,762,116 )
    Net revenues   7,551,356       5,609,678       3,866,047       2,897,130  
    Other (expense) income   (1,025,540 )     646,728       (997,795 )     (280,003 )
    Expenses   5,743,131       5,811,971       2,818,974       2,782,576  
    Net income (loss) before income tax provision   782,685       444,435       49,278       (165,449 )
    Income tax provision   187,383       505,172       6,546       108,396  
    Net income (loss) $ 595,302     $ (60,737 )   $ 42,732     $ (273,845 )
                                   
    Basic and Diluted Net (Loss) Income Per Share of:                              
    CLASS A COMMON STOCK $ 0.06     $ (0.01 )   $ 0.00     $ (0.03 )
    CLASS B COMMON STOCK $ 0.06     $ (0.01 )   $ 0.00     $ (0.03 )
      Three Months Ended June 30,  
    Key Balance Sheet Metrics 2025     2024  
    Average MBS(1) $ 114,294,375     $ 87,539,021  
    Average repurchase agreements(1)   108,626,500       83,737,499  
    Average stockholders’ equity(1)   7,395,343       8,203,927  
                   
    Key Performance Metrics              
    Average yield on MBS(2)   5.54 %     5.88 %
    Average cost of funds(2)   4.39 %     5.53 %
    Average economic cost of funds(3)   3.97 %     5.32 %
    Average interest rate spread(4)   1.15 %     0.35 %
    Average economic interest rate spread(5)   1.57 %     0.56 %
    (1) Average MBS, repurchase agreements and stockholders’ equity balances are calculated using two data points, the beginning and ending balances.
    (2) Portfolio yields and costs of funds are calculated based on the average balances of the underlying investment portfolio/repurchase agreement balances and are annualized for the quarterly periods presented.
    (3) Represents interest cost of our borrowings and the effect of derivative agreements attributed to the period related to hedging activities, divided by average repurchase agreements.
    (4) Average interest rate spread is calculated by subtracting average cost of funds from average yield on MBS.
    (5) Average economic interest rate spread is calculated by subtracting average economic cost of funds from average yield on MBS.


    About Bimini Capital Management, Inc.

    Bimini Capital Management, Inc. invests primarily in, but is not limited to investing in, residential mortgage-related securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). Its objective is to earn returns on the spread between the yield on its assets and its costs, including the interest expense on the funds it borrows. In addition, Bimini generates a significant portion of its revenue serving as the manager of the MBS portfolio of, and providing certain repurchase agreement trading, clearing and administrative services to, Orchid Island Capital, Inc.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Statements herein relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The reader is cautioned that such forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time and on management’s good faith belief with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences are described in Bimini Capital Management, Inc.’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Bimini Capital Management, Inc.’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Bimini Capital Management, Inc. assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except as may be required by applicable law.

    Earnings Conference Call Details

    An earnings conference call and live audio webcast will be hosted Friday, August 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET. Participants can register and receive dial-in information at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI93827b97dab34b2f8cabd3a04f5bddd5. A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/jgk2gti4 or via the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://ir.biminicapital.com. An audio archive of the webcast will be available on the website for 30 days after the call.

    CONTACT:
    Bimini Capital Management, Inc.
    Robert E. Cauley, 772-231-1400
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
    https://ir.biminicapital.com

    The MIL Network –