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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree Leads 86 Lawmakers in Demanding Restoration of Manufacturing Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Sarah McBride (D-Del.) led more than 80 of their House colleagues in calling on the Trump-Vance Administration to reverse its abrupt and harmful decision to eliminate federal funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers in ten states—including Maine.

    In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Acting Under Secretary Craig Burkhardt, Pingree and her colleagues pressed the administration to restore MEP funding that Congress already authorized and appropriated. These centers provide small and mid-sized manufacturers with the tools they need to modernize, grow, and compete in a global economy—supporting good-paying jobs and local economies across the country.

    “Given the Trump Administration’s goals to revive and advance American manufacturing, we believe funding MEP centers remains essential. If we want to build at home, we must equip American manufacturers of all sizes with the tools, funding, and technology to compete and thrive,” Pingree and her colleagues wrote.

    “Simply put, to manufacture at home we must support American manufacturers. Denying American workers and small businesses from the resources they need to develop their talents, modernize their operations, and grow their business is counterproductive,” the lawmakers continued. “At a time when we must harness the power of technology to be effective and competitive producers, we must continue to fund MEPs and provide American businesses with the tools they need. We call on the Administration to reverse course, renew funding for the ten MEP centers that lapsed April 1st, and continue to support the MEP program to advance American manufacturing.”

    The full text of the letter is available here and copied below.

    The Maine MEP has a direct and powerful impact on Maine’s economy. In 2024 alone, Maine MEP supported $60.5 million in new investments, generated $95.5 million in new and retained sales, and helped create and retain more than 1,100 manufacturing jobs. Eliminating federal funding and access to the national MEP network threatens Maine MEP’s ability to continue delivering these critical services.

    Congress recently appropriated $175 million for the MEP program through the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, maintaining the levels enacted in FY2024. Despite this, on April 1st, the Department of Commerce informed MEP centers in Delaware and nine other states that it would not renew their funding—circumventing both the intent of Congress and the statutory guardrails on transferring or impounding funds.

    Since 1988, MEP centers have worked with over 150,000 manufacturers and helped create and retain more than 1.6 million jobs. Every federal dollar invested in the program generates more than $27 in new client investment and nearly $25 in new sales growth for small manufacturers.

    The letter also asks the administration to clarify whether it plans to shutter the entire MEP program and demands transparency around the decision-making process, including whether any impact assessments or stakeholder consultations were conducted.

    +++

    Dear Secretary Lutnick and Acting Under Secretary Burkhardt,

    We are writing to express support for continued funding of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. Recently, MEP centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wyoming, were notified by the U.S. Department of Commerce that it would not renew their funding — despite Congress authorizing and appropriating funding for this purpose.Given the Trump Administration’s goals to revive and advance American manufacturing, we believe funding MEP centers remains essential. If we want to build at home, we must equip American manufacturers of all sizes with the tools, funding, and technology to compete and thrive.

    The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership was established by Congress in 1988 in response to a growing concern over the loss of manufacturing jobs and a decline in industrial productivity. A public-private partnership, MEPs continue to evolve and to provide U.S. manufacturers with timely and dynamic support. Today there are 51 centers across the United States. This robust network provides small and medium-sized manufacturers with the tools, training, and expertise they need to improve their processes, increase their manufacturing capacity, and bolster their workforce development, cybersecurity, technology adoption, and supply chain management activities.

    Since 1988, MEPs have worked with more than 154,000 manufacturers and helped create and retain more than 1.6 million jobs. The network has over 1,440 trusted advisors and experts across 460 MEP Center service locations nationwide. MEPs have also helped create $148.7 billion in sales and $31.6 billion in cost savings. Furthermore, the return on investment for American taxpayers is indisputable – for every federal dollar invested in FY 2023, MEP generated more than $27 in new client investment and nearly $25 in new sales growth for small and medium-sized manufacturers.

    The Administration has talked about bringing manufacturing and supply chains back to the United States. To reach this goal, it is crucial that decision-makers have access to accurate information about supply chain dynamics across the country. Through the Supply Chain Optimization Intelligence Network, authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, the MEP program has collected insightful data and nurtured relationships to help the Commerce Department make strategic decisions affecting the supply chain. The MEP program also uses this information to help small and medium-sized companies respond to supply chain shocks from regional and global events, like severe weather events or fluctuations in trade.

    Finally, the Administration cited a refocus on “agency science and technology priorities” as the reason for the funding cuts. It is crucial that MEPs remain funded to ensure this very priority is met. Through MEP, small and medium-sized manufacturers have access to the MEP-Assisted Technology and Technical resource (MATTR) Program. This program provides small and medium-sized manufacturers with access to “laboratory’s core scientific and engineering capabilities, in advanced manufacturing technology, collaborative robotics, additive manufacturing, materials design and characterization, nanotechnology, information and communications technology, quantum information, biosciences, industrial standards, cybersecurity, and other fields.” This effort is proven to move the results of science and technology out of the lab and into use to the benefit of the U.S. economy.

    Simply put, to manufacture at home we must support American manufacturers. Denying American workers and small businesses from the resources they need to develop their talents, modernize their operations, and grow their business is counterproductive. At a time when we must harness the power of technology to be effective and competitive producers, we must continue to fund MEPs and provide American businesses with the tools they need. We call on the Administration to reverse course, renew funding for the ten MEP centers that lapsed April 1st, and continue to support the MEP program to advance American manufacturing.

    As the Administration continues to evaluate funding for MEPs across the country, we ask that you provide the following information:

    • Has the Administration assessed how closing the MEP centers will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the 10 states, including those in rural communities? If so, please provide the analysis.
    • Is the Administration planning to shutter the entire MEP program? If so, has the Administration assessed how ending the MEP program will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the country, including those in rural communities? If so, please provide the analysis.
    • In making this decision, has the Administration consulted with the MEP centers, the MEP advisory committee, businesses who use these centers, or other relevant stakeholders? If so, please elaborate.

    We request your prompt and detailed response to the questions outlined above no later than April 11, 2025.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington man indicted on 11 counts of sex trafficking children, production of child sexual abuse material, and forced labor, following ICE, law enforcement partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    RICHLAND, Wash. – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Murphy and acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 2, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Jonathan Michael Atkinson, age 34, with 11 criminal counts including Sex Trafficking Children, Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography, Online Enticement of a Minor, and Forced Labor, following an ICE HSI, law enforcement partner investigation.

    The criminal charges against Atkinson carry a maximum sentence of up to a lifetime in prison.

    “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships,” said Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle. “HSI is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims, bring traffickers to justice, and put an end to this exploitation.”

    Atkinson was arrested on April 8 by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, consisting of HSI, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Additional assistance was provided by Pasco Police Department, ATF and DEA. Atkinson will be arraigned in federal court on April 10.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice for the most vulnerable among us.”

    If members of the public have any information regarding this case, please contact the Pasco Police Department.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter.

    Early intervention is critical. If you suspect a child may be a victim of online CSEA, call the Know2Protect Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTiplineTM. If you believe a child has been abducted or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement and the NCMEC Tipline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

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

    Know2Protect (K2P) is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. K2P’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults, and policymakers to prevent, combat, and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit our YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on the DHS main channel. Additional resources are available at know2protect.gov and @Know2Protect on Instagram, Facebook and X).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trump Follows Baldwin’s Lead to Crack Down on China, Close Trade Loophole for Fentanyl, Counterfeit Goods

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced his administration will close a trade loophole for China and Hong Kong that allows illegal substances and counterfeit goods to enter the country, a fix that she has championed for years. Currently, small-dollar imports with a value of less than $800 are allowed into the U.S. duty-free and with little customs scrutiny. However, this loophole has been abused by countries like China that are sending hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of products into the U.S. market, undermining U.S. manufacturers and retailers, and letting illicit substances into our communities. Senator Baldwin has led on this issue, introducing the bipartisan De Minimis Reciprocity Act in 2023 to close this loophole by excluding countries like China from using the de minimis channel.
    “There is a whole lot of Donald Trump’s reckless trade policy that is wrong and will only jack up costs for working families, but on this, President Trump and I agree. I am glad the President is following my lead to close this loophole that undercuts our Wisconsin manufacturers and allows deadly drugs onto our streets,” said Senator Baldwin. “I have fought to close this loophole for years to keep our families safe and stand up for Wisconsin workers, and I’ll continue to push Donald Trump to tackle the fentanyl epidemic, level the playing field for our businesses, and give Wisconsin workers a fair shot.”
    According to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), more than 1.36 billion packages came into the U.S. under the de minimis rule that lacks customs scrutiny in Fiscal Year 2024.
    Senator Baldwin has long championed closing or amending the de minimis loophole to protect Wisconsin families and businesses. Senators Baldwin and Bill Cassidy (R-LA) lead the De Minimis Reciprocity Act to close the de minimis loophole by excluding untrustworthy countries like China from using the de minimis channel. The bipartisan legislation would also require more information on every package entering the U.S. and use the revenue proceeds to establish a fund for reshoring industry from China. Senator Baldwin also leads the Ensure Accountability in the De Minimis Act with former Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), bipartisan legislation to give clarity for what kind of small-dollar products and packages can enter the country through the expedited process that has minimal customs scrutiny.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Seeks to Protect Consumers from High Overdraft Fees

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 other attorneys general sent a letter to the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives and the House Financial Services Committee urging the House to vote against a resolution that would overturn the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) 2024 rule limiting overdraft fees imposed by the country’s largest banks. The rule prevents big banks from charging excessive overdraft fees that can hurt their customers’ credit and sometimes lead to account closures.

    “Overturning this rule will only do one thing: help big banks profit at your expense,” said Attorney General James. “Accidentally overdrawing your checking account by a few dollars shouldn’t result in an outrageous fee. The CFPB took action to protect consumers from outrageous overdraft fees, and Congress should do the same. At a time when working families are struggling to make ends meet, our leaders should be protecting Americans’ wallets, not empowering big banks to charge junk fees.”

    House Joint Resolution 59 would overturn a 2024 rule issued by the CFPB that applies only to banks with over $10 billion in assets. The rule imposes reasonable limits on the overdraft fees these big banks may charge when customers overdraw their accounts. Nevertheless, late last month, the Senate narrowly passed its version of the resolution overturning the CFPB’s rule by a vote of 52-48, with Republican Senator Josh Hawley joining Senate Democrats to vote against it.

    The average overdraft fee imposed by banks is about $35 and is usually significantly larger than the overdraft itself. Overdraft fees are also a major profit center for banks, accounting for about $5.8 billion in revenue in 2023. As Attorney General James and the coalition state in their letter, under the CFPB’s rule, if banks intend to continue profiting from such fees, they must treat them as interest on a loan, which is what they effectively are. Given that most overdraft fees are paid back in less than three days, a typical fee of $35 on an average overdraft of $26 is the equivalent of an annual interest rate of 16,000 percent.

    As Attorney General James and the coalition argue in the letter, the CFPB’s rule plays a valuable role in protecting bank customers from excessive and often unexpected charges that can sometimes lead to involuntary account closures, damaging customers’ credit and even driving them out of the banking system altogether. In addition, excessive overdraft fees are unnecessary. As Attorney General James and the coalition point out in the letter, many banks – including Citigroup, Capital One, and Ally Bank – have already eliminated overdraft fees while still providing the convenience of overdraft protection.

    Joining Attorney General James in sending this letter are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection also joined the coalition.

    Attorney General James is a national leader in protecting consumers. In January 2025, Attorney General James secured more than $1 million from Netspend corporation, a provider of reloadable debit and payroll cards, based in part on the wide range of illegal fees Netspend charged its customers. In August 2024, Attorney General James sued predatory lender Acima for misleading consumers about the cost of its financing, including usurious “rental” fees. In April 2024, Attorney General James led a group of 17 state attorneys general in drafting a comment in support of passing the CFPB overdraft rule that is now threatened with reversal. In February 2024, Attorney General James obtained a $77 million judgment against three merchant cash advance companies and their principals for charging usurious interest rates and undisclosed fees. In January 2024, Attorney General James, along with the CFPB and six other state attorneys general, sued a debt relief company and its affiliates and principals in connection with a scam to trick consumers into paying exorbitant fees while providing nearly no useful services in return. In April 2022, Attorney General James led a coalition of 18 state attorneys general to call on the CEOs of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo to eliminate all overdraft fees on consumer bank accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Funding Suicide Prevention for Uniformed Personnel

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the award of 18 grants to expand resiliency and suicide prevention efforts among military veterans and uniformed personnel, including law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical service personnel, correction officers and emergency dispatchers. Administered through the New York Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Center of New York, the CARES UP initiative will provide $60,000 over two years to four law enforcement agencies; three fire departments; three EMS services; three emergency communications organizations; two corrections agencies and three organizations serving veterans.

    “New York’s first responders and uniformed personnel routinely go above and beyond the call of duty, and often at great personal expense,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding will ensure these organizations and agencies are better equipped to cultivate resilience and mental wellness among their ranks to help properly address stress and trauma they encounter in the line of duty.”

    In addition, the Office of Mental Health (OMH) also provided awards of $40,000 over two years to 11 organizations previously funded through CARES UP to sustain their mental health and wellness initiatives. These sustainability awards were made possible after Governor Hochul successfully increased funding for the program in the FY25 Enacted Budget to $3 million annually.

    The CARES UP program provides organizations with $30,000 annually to increase suicide prevention efforts and wellness programming in their agencies. First responder agencies work closely with the Suicide Prevention Center to receive training from national subject matter experts on topics such as resiliency, mental health and wellness, suicide prevention and peer support and implement agency-specific actions to address their unique needs.

    The initiative also provides these grants to support veterans’ organizations via Onward Ops. Recipient organizations use the funding to promote social welfare of service members transitioning back to their communities after their tour of duty ends.

    New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “It is important to recognize the stress and cumulative trauma first responders and veterans experience as they do their jobs and the toll that this can take on their mental health. CARES UP works with their organizations to mitigate this stress, build resilience and support mental wellbeing. By building and expanding this program, Governor Hochul is demonstrating her commitment to the mental wellness of our veterans, first responders and their families.”

    Studies have shown the cumulative stress and trauma are common in uniformed personnel professions and have placed these individuals at greater risk of suicide. To better understand the mental health-related challenges facing individuals working in public safety fields, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services partnered with SUNY New Paltz’s Institute for Disaster Mental Health to complete a first responder needs assessment survey of more than 6,000 individuals in law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire services, emergency communications and emergency management from every region.

    The assessment showed more than half of the participants experience high levels of stress, burnout, anxiety and depression related to their jobs, and that they may not seek help due to their fear of facing stigma. Thoughts of suicide were reported by 16 percent of respondents — a level four times higher than the general population of the state.

    Likewise, New York veterans die by suicide at a rate nearly two times higher than civilians — a rate that has remained relatively unchanged since 2012. Veterans under the age of 55 consistently experience the highest rates of suicide in New York.

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Our first responders encounter unimaginable situations at work on a daily basis that most of us will never face, and then they go home and try to manage the normal activities of everyday life. It is vital that we work to ensure they have the resources they need to take care of themselves at work and at home. While the results of the First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment may not be surprising, we now have specific details about the toll this work can take on people’s mental health and can work together on developing the kind of help that can make a positive difference in their lives.”

    New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohensaid, “Our courageous Service Members and Veterans are our best, brightest and bravest. Yet they often carry invisible burdens long after the uniform comes off. This critical support acknowledges those challenges and delivers real tools for healing and mental wellness. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our Veterans and Service Members. This vital funding — and the essential services it enables — will ultimately save lives.”

    New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “Our law enforcement officers and first responders demonstrate remarkable strength and bravery every day, but we know that their professions are filled with stress and trauma, often helping people during their worst moments. It is vital that these professionals can access the help that they need, such as confidential services and support that address their unique experiences. At DCJS, we prioritize officer wellness in our basic training requirements for law enforcement, as well as our professional development offerings. I commend Governor Hochul’s steadfast leadership and commitment to our officers and first responders and am pleased to work with the Office of Mental Health, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and other agencies on this important issue.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC’s Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Forest Rangers, put their lives on the line to protect New Yorkers and our critical natural resources. There’s no such thing as a routine call, they encounter unexpected and, at times, tragic circumstances in their work. We know that can take a toll on the mental well-being of our first responders that effects them at work and at home. Governor Hochul, DEC and our partners know that we need to take care of our first responders, as they care for us. We are committed to provided mental wellness tools and resources to meaningfully support our first responders and their families.”

    State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “As Chair of the Senate Committee on Mental Health, I have observed how peer support can dramatically improve mental health outcomes for individuals in crisis. The CARES UP program utilizes the power of peer support and suicide prevention efforts to address the unique needs of our first responders and veterans. I applaud Governor Hochul for her continued investment in expanding mental health services for individuals who serve our communities.”

    Assemblymember Steve Stern said, “As the Chairman of the New York State Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I applaud Governor Hochul’s announcement that our local heroes, who serve all of us, will have access to the services they need and deserve. Far too many of our soldiers, veterans, first responders and law enforcement professionals have struggled with mental health challenges and take their own lives. That is absolutely unacceptable, and these grants to improve resiliency, wellness, support and suicide prevention will be an important part of saving lives.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “Our veterans and uniformed personnel face a growing mental health crisis, and we must meet this moment with support and sustained investment. These grants will help address the unique mental health needs of those who have served and sacrificed by expanding access to suicide prevention and wellness programs. Thank you to Governor Hochul for supporting the organizations on the front lines of this crisis as New York State strives to strengthen our mental health services.”

    This year’s CARES UP recipients include:

    Capital Region:

    • Albany County Corrections*
    • Albany City Police Department*
    • Albany County Sheriff’s Office
    • Clifton Park & Half Moon Emergency Corps*
    • Colonie EMS*
    • Veterans and Community Housing Coalition
    • Watervliet Fire Department*

    Central New York:

    • Eastern Paramedics Inc.
    • Onondaga County Department of Communication Services

    Mid-Hudson:

    • Clarkstown Police Department*
    • Village of Mamaroneck Police Department*
    • New Windsor Police Department
    • Pleasant Valley Fire District
    • Port Chester Police Department*
    • Orange County Emergency Services Emergency Communications
    • Orange County Emergency Services – Police Services Division
    • Orange County Emergency Services – Fire Services Division
    • City of Rye Fire Department

    Long Island:

    • Nassau County Sheriff’s Department
    • Sayville American Legion Post 651
    • Suffolk County Police Department
    • Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department*

    Mohawk Valley:

    • Utica Center for Development Inc.

    North Country:

    • St. Lawrence County Correctional Facility

    Southern Tier:

    • Village of Liberty Police Department
    • Sullivan County Division of Public Safety

    Western New York:

    • Allegany County Sheriff’s Department*
    • City of Olean Fire Department*
    • Town of West Seneca Police Department

    * Denotes organizations receiving sustainability funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Recommendations on Fish Consumption for Parts of the Pawcatuck River and Grills Preserve Pond Due to PFAS Contamination

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is recommending that the public limit consumption of native fish caught in certain areas of the Pawcatuck River downstream of Burdickville Road in Hopkinton and to avoid eating any fish from the Grills Preserve Pond in Bradford. Fish caught in these areas have had high levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).

    RIDOH is issuing the following fish consumption recommendations to protect public health:

    – Do not eat any fish caught from the Grills Preserve Pond.

    – Eat no more than 1 meal per month of native fish (i.e., perch, bass, and pickerel) caught from the Pawcatuck River downstream of Burdickville Road in Hopkinton.

    – Since PFAS tend to accumulate more in organs compared to muscle tissue, do not eat the organs of fish caught from the Pawcatuck River downstream of Burdickville Road in Hopkinton.

    – RIDOH does not currently have the data needed to make a health-based recommendation on the safety of consuming stocked trout in this section of the Pawcatuck River. Individuals concerned about PFAS should know that these species can accumulate PFAS. People can be exposed to PFAS from a variety of sources and can lower their intake from one or more sources by limiting or replacing them.

    Stocked trout were not collected in this study, so RIDOH does not have data to show how much PFAS they contain. Generally, research shows that fish take up PFAS quickly from the environment. Stocked trout are raised in a separate location and do not spend as much time in the river. Right now, there is not enough data about how fast PFAS levels increase in stocked trout. For stocked trout in the Pawcatuck River, RIDOH cannot determine if PFAS will reach levels of concern before they are fished. RIDOH is currently working with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) to get better data on whether PFAS reaches levels of concern in stocked trout. RIDEM has also changed the stocking schedule so that PFAS in stocked trout are less likely to reach levels of concern.

    “Fishing is a valued tradition in Rhode Island, and fish are a good source of protein and nutrients. However, fish in some areas can have high levels of pollutants that can harm our health,” said Director of Health Jerome Larkin, MD. “While we are still learning about the sources and effects of PFAS, it is important to take steps to lower our exposure to these chemicals. After careful consideration of the data and health risks, we are recommending that people eat only one meal per month of native fish (i.e., perch, bass, and pickerel) caught from the Pawcatuck River downstream Burdickville Road in Hopkinton.”

    RIDOH has posted signs at the Grills Preserve Pond advising people not to eat the fish. RIDOH is planning to post signs at popular fishing spots along the Pawcatuck River in the area of the advisory. The Department is also planning two public meetings to discuss the findings, hear community concerns and input, and provide guidance on reducing exposure risks. The community meetings will be scheduled in spring 2025. Sign up to be notified when the meetings are scheduled at health.ri.gov/fish.

    About PFAS PFAS are a class of chemicals that repel oil and water. They have been used since the 1940s to make products water-, grease-, and stain-resistant and in certain fire-fighting products. Some PFAS take centuries to break down in the environment. PFAS that don’t break down build up in and pollute the environment. PFAS can also build up in our bodies. People can be exposed to PFAS by eating food, drinking water, accidentally swallowing dust, or breathing air polluted with PFAS.

    Studies have shown certain PFAS can contribute to negative health effects, including: higher cholesterol levels; lower infant birth weights; weakened immune response; and increased risk of some cancer, including kidney cancer.

    More Details About the Advisory and Data RIDOH is making these recommendations based on the known health risks of PFAS and data on PFAS in fish that is available today. RIDOH, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, researchers from Roger Williams University, and the Environmental Protection Agency recently worked together to test several fish species that are native to the Pawcatuck River and Grills Preserve Pond for PFAS. The fish tested included sunfish, largemouth bass, and chain pickerel.

    Fish caught from the Grills Preserve Pond had very high levels of PFAS that could increase the risk of health effects. Based on the level of PFAS, RIDOH advises the public not to eat fish from the Grills Preserve Pond.

    Fish were collected from the Pawcatuck River in the area of the former Bradford Dyeing Association facility also had high levels of PFAS. However, levels of PFAS were lower in fish from the Pawcatuck River than the Grills Preserve Pond. Therefore, RIDOH advises the public to eat only one native fish meal per month from the Pawcatuck River downstream of Burdickville Road in Hopkinton. Upstream of this point, RIDOH does not have data to make a recommendation on the amount of fish that is safe to eat.

    Currently, there is no data on how quickly stocked trout in the Pawcatuck River accumulate PFAS from the river. There is limited data from other states and scientific studies that shows stocked trout can accumulate PFAS quickly. However, studies on this topic have used conditions that are not reflective of conditions in the Pawcatuck River. RIDOH may change this guidance if data show that stocked trout in the Pawcatuck River do accumulate PFAS to levels that cause health concerns. Similarly, RIDOH does not have the data needed to make a health-based recommendation on the safety of eating wild game and bird species near Bradford Dyeing Association. People concerned about PFAS should know that these species (e.g., stocked trout and game birds) can accumulate PFAS. People can be exposed to PFAS from a variety of sources. You can lower your exposure to PFAS by limiting or replacing common sources of PFAS. PFAS is common in many products like grease-resistant food packaging, non-stick pots and pans, and stain-resistant carpeting.

    For more information about fish consumption guidance, visit health.ri.gov/fish or contact the RIDOH Health Information Line at 401-222-5960. The full health consultation report and addendum on stocked trout are available on the RIDOH website at health.ri.gov/ehrap. For more information on PFAS and health risks, visit health.ri.gov/pfas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta to the U.S. House of Representatives: Protect American Consumers from Predatory Overdraft Fees

    Source: US State of California

    Why would we help the big banks at the expense of working people? 

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined 23 attorneys general in sending a letter to the U.S. House of Representatives urging policymakers to reject an effort to overturn a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) rule that would protect American consumers from predatory overdraft fees. If allowed to take effect, this rule will limit overdraft fees to $5 and will save Americans struggling with high prices billions of dollars each year by preventing the largest banks from exploiting consumers in order to rake in profits. Last month, Attorney General Bonta issued a statement after the Senate voted to overturn this rule. 

    “High overdraft fees serve no purpose other than to help the wealthy get wealthier, while American families who are already struggling get poorer. Banks aren’t shy about how these fees pad their wallets: a big bank CEO named his yacht Overdraft,” said Attorney General Bonta. “President Trump has promised to make life for Americans affordable — allowing expensive overdraft fees would do the complete and total opposite. Americans are counting on their elected leaders to protect them. My fellow attorneys general and I urge the House, the last line of defense, to protect its constituents’ wallets by voting “no” on the Resolution and preserving the CFPB’s overdraft rule.” 

    The largest U.S. banks generate billions of dollars in profits by charging burdensome fees whenever customers overdraft their accounts. In 2023, banks generated $5.8 billion in revenue from overdraft fees. These fees average around $35 for each overdraft — and are applied even where the overdraft is minimal. For example, many consumers have reported paying overdraft charges of over $30 after purchasing a $5 cup of coffee. Overdraft fees are effectively extremely high-interest loans. Most overdrafts are less than $26 and are repaid within three days. That means overdraft protection with a typical $35 fee amounts to a loan with a 16,000% APR. 

    Banks can manipulate the timing of deposits and withdrawals to maximize fees, charging customers even when they have enough money for an approved transaction. By creating significant barriers to maintaining a positive account balance, overdraft fees can contribute to involuntary account closures, thereby driving consumers out of the banking system altogether and damaging their credit. 

    In submitting today’s letter, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. 

    Attorney General Bonta has been an outspoken advocate of the CFPB and its essential work protecting for American consumers and their financial future. 

    • In February, Attorney General Bonta filed amicus briefs (here and here) in lawsuits challenging the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the CFPB, arguing that the shuttering of the agency would cause catastrophic and irreparable harm to consumers nationwide.
    • In April 2024, Attorney General Bonta supported a rule that would close a regulatory loophole that enables banks to extract billions of dollars from consumers by charging overdraft fees without adequately disclosing basic credit terms.
    • In February 2024, Attorney General Bonta warned smaller banks and credit unions that overdraft fees disproportionally penalize lower-income consumers and consumers of color and may violate consumer protection laws.

    A copy of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Vasquez Calls on VA Secretary to Protect Access to Abortion for American Heroes

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to halt all efforts to roll back access to reproductive health services, including abortion care for veterans.

    “America’s veterans deserve our utmost respect, and it is unconscionable that they are facing barriers to reproductive healthcare,” Vasquez said. “Abortion is healthcare, period. I will not stand by as medical treatment is being stripped away from veterans who served our nation to protect these rights.”

    The letter to Secretary Collins opposes the VA’s attempt to rescind the March 2024 rule entitled “Reproductive Health Services,” which was initially put in place to ensure the VA fully upholds its obligation to promote veterans’ health and provide the comprehensive care they’ve earned. 

    This letter by Vasquez follows a long record of opposing restrictions to reproductive care for military members. As a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, he led the charge in getting restrictions on abortion removed from the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act.

    You can find the text of the letter to Secretary Collins here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Welch Introduce Legislation to Prevent Costly Falls

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Peter Welch (D-VT) are introducing legislation to help prevent dangerous and costly falls. The Home Accessibility Tax Credit Act would establish a refundable tax credit for eligible home modifications designed to improve accessibility — saving both Americans with the highest risk of falling, as well as taxpayers, from the high medical costs associated with falls.
    “I often say, ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and the cheapest way to treat a broken hip is to prevent it from happening in the first place,” said Senator King. “The Home Accessibility Tax Credit Act is important legislation that would ease the financial burden of accessibility-focused home improvement projects — such as modifying doorways or installing grab bars. This is a commonsense step forward to help save Maine people from the physical danger and financial costs that can result from all-too-common falls.”
    “Accessible living spaces can make a big difference when it comes to preventing falls — but making structural changes to a home doesn’t come cheap. We need to do more to meet the needs of aging Vermonters, including helping folks pay for lifesaving home modifications that keep them safe,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to partner with Senator King on this legislation to ensure New Englanders can live safely in their homes.” 
    The tax credit would be equal to 35% of the cost of the qualified home modification, with a cap of $10,000 per taxable year and $30,000 in lifetime limit across all taxable years. The tax credit is targeted toward middle income families and will become phased out in generosity above $400,000 for joint filers and $200,000 for single filers or heads of households.
    Eligible home modifications would include zero-step entrances, ramps, widened doors and hallways, modified counters, bathroom accessibility improvements, and the installation, replacement, or modification of appliances to make them more accessible to individuals with a vision impairment. The list of approved modifications could be updated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Health and Human Services (HHS).
    Three groups would be eligible to receive the tax credit:
    Individuals 60 and older; 
    Individuals under retirement age but entitled to social security disability insurance (SSDI), supplemental security income (SSI) or veterans disability compensation; or
    Individuals at any age with a disability certification.
    As an extension of his longtime focus on prevention efforts, Senator King has been leading the charge in the “Stand Strong” space. He previously introduced a legislative package to encourage proactive home modifications and to increase access to preventative screenings for older Americans to keep them thriving while avoiding costly injuries. The package included the reintroduction of the Preventative Home Visits Act and the WELL Seniors Act to expand Medicare benefits to cover home modifications, ensure the accessibility of telehealth services and include comprehensive screenings during Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement: Warner, Kaine, Griffith Welcome Major Disaster Declaration for Southwest Virginia Following February Winter Storms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (D-VA) along with Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09) issued a statement on the formal approval of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in response to the February winter storms that caused widespread flooding and damage to Southwest Virginia. This declaration triggers the release of Public Assistance for Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Grayson, Lee, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, and Wise Counties and the independent city of Bristol. The Commonwealth’s request for Individual Assistance remains under review.  
    “After weeks of pushing at the federal level, we are glad to see this crucial assistance approved for Southwest Virginia,” said the lawmakers. “This is a strong first step towards supporting recovery efforts and we will continue pushing for Individual Assistance to help deliver resources to the families most hard-hit by this devastating flooding.”
    This approval comes more than six weeks after the Senators and Rep. Griffith originally wrote to President Trump in support of Virginia’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Doubling down on Alberta’s regional economies

    In 2024-25, Alberta’s government invested a ground-breaking $9.8 million in 81 projects through the Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program, creating new opportunities and strengthening Alberta’s local economies. This investment triples the program’s annual $3-million budget and doubles the number of grants awarded from the previous fiscal year. NRED grants now provide up to $300,000 in funding for projects designed to help businesses, municipalities and organizations expand, communities grow and industries innovate.

    Alberta’s government recognizes that regional communities face unique challenges. Workforce shortages, aging infrastructure and barriers to investment attraction can threaten long-term economic opportunity. By investing in northern and regional communities, the government helps build stronger, more resilient communities that contribute to the overall prosperity of the province.

    “The NRED program is empowering communities to attract investment, grow economies and create high-value, stable jobs for Albertans. This program unlocks new opportunities for Albertans in every corner of the province, ensuring Alberta remains the best place to live, work, invest and raise a family.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    Through NRED grants, Alberta’s government allows communities to apply for programming that suits their unique needs. Some of the 2024-25 projects funded through the NRED program include:

    • The Town of Taber received $17,500 for its “Think Taber” project to attract global investment to the community.
    • Slave Lake Regional Tourism Society received $38,400 for a regional promotional project.
    • NeurAlberta Tech’s project received $250,000 to unite students, graduates, SMEs and partners to drive innovation in neurotechnology and AI.
    • Chiniki First Nation received $281,300 for infrastructure planning for an Indigenous affordable housing plan.
    • Lethbridge Economic Development Initiative Society (LEDI) was awarded two grants, one for $50,000 and one for $97,600, for building creative industries and for business retention programming.

    Alberta’s government has listened to and learned from northern and regional communities who have called for the NRED program to be expanded. Not only did Alberta’s government expand the number of programs receiving NRED grants this year, but some key enhancements were made to make NRED grants more accessible and flexible. Specifically, the application process has been simplified, the maximum funding amount per project was increased by $100,000, the grant amount range was expanded to between $10,000 and $300,000, and grant applicants can now apply for up to three years of funding.

    By broadening eligibility and improving access, Alberta’s government is enabling communities to pursue both large-scale economic initiatives and targeted programs that address unique local needs.

    “Our government’s investment in the NRED program strengthens local businesses, creates jobs and enhances tourism opportunities across Alberta. This program is making a real difference in communities, especially in northern Alberta, by fostering innovation and economic resilience.”

    Tany Yao, parliamentary secretary, small business and northern development

    “Support from the NRED program is helping us lay the foundation for long-term economic success in Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo. It’s enabling us to attract new investment, expand tourism initiatives, and support local businesses that are driving growth and diversification in our region.”

    Lisa Sweet, interim CEO, Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism

    The NRED program is driving long-term growth by investing in local businesses, infrastructure and job creation across Alberta’s regions. This funding empowers communities to thrive, attract investment and build a stronger, more resilient economy for future generations.

    Quick facts

    • In 2024-25, the NRED program invested a total of $9.8 million in 81 projects that supported regional economic growth and diversification. This one-time increase includes:
      • $2.7 million to 27 municipalities
      • $4.8 million to 41 not-for-profits 
      • $1.4 million to eight First Nations
      • $0.9 million to five Metis Settlements
    • Twenty-nine of these projects are considered northern, with total grant funding of $3.8 million.
    • The program provides up to 50 per cent of total eligible project costs.
      • Projects led by Indigenous communities will receive up to 75 per cent of total eligible project costs.
    • Budget 2025 commits $3 million annually over the next three years to the NRED program, ensuring ongoing support for communities looking to grow and diversify their economies.
    • Since its launch in 2022, the NRED program has supported 225 economic initiatives that have fostered local business success, boosted tourism and built long-term capacity for economic growth.

    Related information

    • Northern and Regional Economic Development Program

    Related news

    • Investing nearly $5B in Alberta’s north (March 18, 2025)
    • Sparking opportunity in northern Alberta (Dec. 9, 2024)
    • Alberta fund gets major boost to drive regional growth (Aug.21, 2024)
    • Regional economic growth bolstered by grant program (Apr. 9, 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Traffic Advisory – Inverness County

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    INVERNESS COUNTY: MacKay Bridge, Aberdeen

    The MacKay Bridge on Highway 105, about 200 metres west of Route 223, will be reduced to one lane for repairs from Thursday, April 10, until Friday, May 16.

    Work takes place from sunrise to sunset.

    NOTE: For the most up-to-date provincial traffic notices, follow @511ns on X at https://x.com/511ns, call 511 or visit: https://511.novascotia.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sec Kennedy: “I’m not going to take people’s vaccines away from them.”

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

    HHS Secretary Kennedy: “I’ve always said during my campaign and every public statement I’ve made, I’m not going to take people’s vaccines away from them. What I’m going to do is make sure that we have good science so people can make an informed choice.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=825YlRXgSAQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Edit-obernolte.house.gov/user

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results.

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | April 9, 2025  

    Contact: Connor Chapinski, (202) 225-5861  

      

    Rep. Obernolte Introduces the Election Results Accountability Act to Restore Public Trust in Federal Elections 

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results. 

    The bill amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require all states to count and publicly report no less than 90% of ballots cast in federal elections within 72 hours of polls closing. Additionally, it mandates that states complete the ballot count and certify the final results within two weeks of election day. 

    “Some states took over a month to certify the results of the 2024 elections. That length of delay erodes the public’s trust in our electoral system,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Timely certification of federal election results is not only critical for public confidence but also essential for ensuring that newly elected members can fully participate in key activities such as orientations, leadership elections, and committee assignments.” 

    “California took longer than virtually any other state in the nation to certify the results of the 2024 elections. This ridiculous delay fosters distrust and confusion about the direction of our government and responsiveness to voters,” said Rep. Kiley. “Other states manage to complete election results faster and without incident- there’s no reason California can’t get this job done in a more timely manner. Enough is enough.” 

    “Having accurate and timely results for our elections is critical to strengthening the integrity and confidence in our democracy,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am proud to cosponsor the Election Results Accountability Act and thank Rep. Obernolte for introducing this important legislation.” 

    “For years, several states – including California – have turned election day into a month of voting that has singlehandedly damaged the credibility of our democracy,” said Rep. Issa. “That’s why I’m supporting Rep. Obernolte’s bill establishing a commonsense standard giving every American voter enduring confidence in the timely counting of valid ballots and the ultimate results of our federal elections.” 

    “In California it can take weeks to certify election results, which undermines the public trust necessary for free and fair elections,” said Rep. Valadao. “Californians—and all Americans—deserve to know the results of their elections in a timely and transparent manner. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill which will help restore some confidence in our democratic process.”

    “Establishing clear procedures for the timely and transparent certification of federal election results is long overdue,” said Rep. Fong. “Americans deserve to have confidence in the election process that defines our country, which is why I am proud to support this legislation. For us in California, this is critically important.” 

    The legislation includes commonsense exceptions for circumstances outside of a state’s control—such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, cyberattacks, or technical failures—as well as allowances for recounts and for the first-time implementation of new election procedures. 

    To enforce compliance, states that fail to meet the deadlines without qualifying exemptions may be denied federal election funds unless they submit a corrective compliance plan to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The EAC and DOJ must jointly certify both the failure and the adequacy of a state’s plan before federal funding is restored. 

    The Election Results Accountability Act will apply to all federal elections held 90 days after enactment. Read the full bill here.  

     ## 

      

    Obernolte.house.gov  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Capital Tax Treatment for Life Insurers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) introduced the Secure Family Futures Act, bipartisan legislation that would repeal the outdated capital tax treatment of debt investments held by life insurers, such as bonds, and apply ordinary tax treatment to them.  
    “This commonsense legislation ensures debt investments made by insurance companies are treated equally under our tax code,” said Senator Tillis. “By making these critical changes, insurance companies will be able to promote economic growth and investment in communities in North Carolina and across our country.” 
    “Life insurance provides peace of mind, and we should make that peace of mind more accessible and affordable, especially when there’s a commonsense fix in our tax code,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “That’s why the bipartisan Secure Family Futures Act is so important, and I’m proud to partner with Senator Tillis on this bill.”
    “Life insurers protect families and help power the American economy,” said David Chavern, President & CEO, American Council of Life Insurers. “The $8 trillion they invest in businesses, infrastructure, and job creation adds life to communities across the United States. And the returns from these investments help families and businesses access the financial protection they need to succeed and thrive. Senator Tillis’s and Senator Warnock’s bill offers much needed changes to the tax treatment of life insurers’ bond investments that will foster further economic growth and help more people and businesses secure their financial futures.”
    “Principal Financial Group, a leading financial institution with a workforce of nearly 1,000 dedicated employees across the state of North Carolina, wholeheartedly supports the efforts of Senators Tillis and Warnock to bring about pragmatic and much-needed change to the U.S. Tax Code,” said Chris Payne, Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Principal Financial Group. “The proposal to assign ordinary treatment to debt investments, such as bonds, is a pivotal step towards rectifying the existing tax mismatch within the Code. It will pave the way for insurers like us to excel in our primary mission: creating opportunities for families and small businesses to achieve financial security.” 
    A letter of support from MetLife is available HERE. 
    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Administration Reverse Course on Tariffs, Provide Relief for Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 12 of her Senate colleagues in a letter demanding that Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and President Donald Trump immediately reverse course on the sweeping tariffs that are devastating small businesses in Nevada and across the nation. In the letter, the senators emphasized how these new taxes on imported goods are raising prices for hardworking Americans and creating additional challenges for small businesses at a time when high costs are already making it difficult for them to operate. 
    In addition to Senator Rosen, this letter was signed by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Maria Cantwell (D-WA).
    “At a time when our nation is experiencing an unprecedented affordability crisis, President Trump’s decision to impose sweeping tariffs on goods from virtually every country in the world will send a chill through small businesses across the country,” wrote the senators. “Given this, we urge you to work with the President to immediately reverse course on these broad-based tariffs to end the needless suffering this administration has imposed on small businesses across the country.”
    “With small businesses already being crushed under the weight of high costs and interest rates, we must do all we can to cut red tape and help them thrive – not create additional affordability challenges and uncertainty,” they continued. “To that end, we respectfully ask that you work with the President to reverse course on the 10 percent tariffs on all countries, as well as the exorbitantly high reciprocal tariffs placed on others. Failure to do so will raise costs, rob our small businesses of the certainty they rely on and undermine the economic security of small businesses across the country.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against President Trump’s reckless tariffs and the destructive impacts they’re having on Nevada’s economy. Last week, she took to the Senate floor to oppose President Trump’s tariffs and highlight a letter she received from a small business owner in Reno outlining the devastating impact these tariffs will have on his business. Senator Rosen also helped pass a Congressional resolution to reverse President Trump’s devastating tariffs on virtually all Canadian goods that have raised prices for families and hurt Nevada’s businesses and economy. Senator Rosen also sent a letter urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico to prevent housing prices from rising even further.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Trust-Building ‘Fundamental to Fostering Stable, Prosperous Future for All Communities in Kosovo’, Special Representative Tells Security Council

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Several Members Debate Future of UN Mission, Urge European Union Maintain Objective, Neutral Position between Pristina, Belgrade

    The Security Council met today to consider the role of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, with some members advocating for its restructuring or gradual drawdown, while others emphasized its ongoing relevance in supporting regional stability and facilitating dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

    “Trust-building remains fundamental to fostering a stable and prosperous future for all communities in Kosovo,” said Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), as she introduced the Secretary-General’s latest report on the Mission (document S/2025/200) covering developments from 16 September 2024 to 15 March 2025.

    UNMIK was established in 1999 through Security Council resolution 1244 (1999) to provide an interim civilian administration, following a brutal conflict in the Western Balkans and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) military intervention.  It now primarily focuses on political monitoring, facilitating intercommunal dialogue and regularly reporting to the Council, particularly on issues affecting peace and stability.

    “Despite the continued challenges which reflect a sense of lack of confidence in institutions and concerns over intercommunal relations, UNMIK stands steadfast in its commitment to bridging divides,” the Special Representative said, detailing the Mission’s initiatives to promote interethnic dialogue and countering divisive narratives to “address the trust deficit”, including the Barabar Centre, which hosted more than 100 events.

    She welcomed the peaceful holding of a recent election in Kosovo, expressing hope for the timely formation of the next Government.  However, she went on to voice concern about the closures of Serbia-run institutions there, and the consequences they are having on economic and social rights, especially for persons in vulnerable situations.  “UNMIK will continue to closely monitor their impacts,” she said, reiterating her call to refrain from unilateral actions and urge outstanding issues to be discussed constructively and in good faith within the European Union-facilitated dialogue.

    She also voiced alarm over the destruction of religious symbols, most recently an attack on the Serbian Orthodox Church, as well as violence and security incidents in northern Kosovo.

    Serbia, Kosovo Trade Accusations

    Marko Đjurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, underscored the need to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of internationally recognized States, including his own.  “I believe that today — whether we want to admit it or not — we are all aware of the consequences of the precedent set in 2008 by the unilateral declaration of independence of Kosovo,” he said, noting that — since 2008, “we have seen an increasing number of situations questioning statuses of various regions, provinces, territories of sovereign countries, members of this Organization”.  He added: “In fact, in the aftermath of the Kosovo precedent, this very Security Council has been overwhelmed with dealing with the consequences thereof.”

    He then turned to Pristina’s actions to “systematically dismantle institutions of Serbs throughout Kosovo and Metohija”; to hold elections in which conditions for Serb participation “were anything but free or fair”; and to initiate a “widespread campaign of persecution against prominent Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija for their participation in protests in late 2022”.  He underscored:  “What [Albin] Kurti is doing to the Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija is not an act of care for citizens — it is targeted, deliberate and systematic ethnic revanchism.” He added that, while Serbia will always support dialogue, “we must not forget that the ‘di’ in ‘dialogue’ stands for participation of two sides”.  Against these backdrops, “UNMIK’s role is not only relevant, it is indispensable”, he stressed.

    Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz of Kosovo then recalled the NATO intervention on 24 March 1999 “to stop a genocide in Europe”.  Now, 26 years later, she said that “the republic of Kosova is a true example of how international intervention against genocide, with sustained international support, has enabled the flourishing of a full European and Western democracy”. However, she said that “Serbia has not changed very much — it continues trying to destabilize our democracy”.  It does this not only through rhetoric, but concrete, violent actions.  On that, she spotlighted an armed incursion in 2023 led by Milan Radoičić — “a man publicly known to be linked to Serbia’s political leadership”.

    This, she stressed, was an “act of open aggression against a neighbouring country, carried out by a military group with military training, equipment and logistics from Serbia”.  She also pointed to the November 2024 use of “military-grade explosives” against the Ibër-Lepenc canal.  “The objective was unmistakable, designed to terrorize our population, disrupt daily life and cause widespread harm,” she stressed.  Calling on Serbia to fully cooperate with international investigations and hand over Mr. Radoičić, she also called on UNMIK to “finally address the reality on the ground:  Serbia’s current regime continues to undermine peace — not only in Kosova, but throughout the region”.  She added that — given the current state of Kosova’s development — “UNMIK no longer serves a purpose that justifies its continued presence”.

    European Union’s Role

    “The future of the Western Balkans is in our European Union,” said the bloc’s representative, speaking in his capacity as observer, welcoming that Belgrade and Pristina reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue facilitated by the Union and the process of normalizing their relations — essential conditions for the parties to join the European Union.  He urged both sides not to risk losing this opportunity.

    However, the Russian Federation’s delegate questioned the European Union’s role as an “honest broker”.  Brussels ignores the tragedy of anti-Serb ethnic cleansing in Kosovo and encourages Pristina to continue oppressing the Serbian population. “The [European Union] mediation has completely failed,” he said, also warning against continued deliveries of military products to Kosovo from NATO countries in violation of resolution 1244 (1999).  “Given the lack of progress in the settlement, the international community’s attention to Kosovo should not wane,” he said, rejecting any attempt to reduce the frequency or changing the format, of Council meetings on Kosovo.  He also opposed reducing UNMIK’s budget and personnel.

    China’s delegate also called on the European Union to maintain an objective, neutral position, underscoring the need for the United Nations and the Security Council to maintain their attention on the Kosovo issue and respect the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Serbia.  Greece’s delegate supported the continuation of UNMIK’s mandate “as necessary”, arguing that its coordination with the NATO-led peacekeeping force and the European Union rule of law mission in Kosovo is vital for achieving long-lasting peace and stability in the region.  Similarly, Panama’s representative said that UNMIK and the European missions on the ground remain crucial for progress towards peacebuilding in the region.

    The representative of France, Council President for April, spoke in his national capacity to state that the Mission’s mandate is “linked to the normalization of Serbia and Kosovo”.  He therefore expressed support for the Mission’s extension.

    Calls to Draw Down UN Kosovo Mission

    However, “the time to draw down UNMIK has arrived”, the representative of the United States said, recommending that the Mission transfer its functions to other UN agencies on the ground so the process towards ultimately terminating the Mission is deliberate and gradual, rather than sudden.  Washington, D.C., is committed to rooting out unnecessary spending in international organizations.  “UNMIK is a peacekeeping mission without peacekeepers, with 81 per cent of its budget going to staff salaries,” he pointed out.  Future meetings on UNMIK should be held in a closed format to foster a more candid and less performative discussion.  These briefings should be further reduced to annual meetings, he added.

    The United Kingdom is “a long-standing friend of Kosovo”, said its representative, expressing its support for Kosovo’s statehood, Euro-Atlantic aspirations and an inclusive and multiethnic democracy.  Welcoming Kenya’s recent recognition of Kosovo, he encouraged other States to do so if they haven’t.  With conditions on the ground that existed in 1999 now unrecognizable, “it is time for the Council to review UNMIK’s role and responsibilities to ensure it can continue to effectively support security, stability and human rights in Kosovo in a way that reflects the world of 2025”, he added.  On that, the Republic of Korea’s delegate said that a “more streamlined division of roles” between UNMIK and partners “could enhance overall effectiveness”.

    The representative of Denmark said that 10,000 Danish soldiers have served in Kosovo since 1999.  She also emphasized that Denmark was among the first countries to recognize Kosovo as an independent State, adding:  “We fully support its European path and integration in the international system.”  Concurring, the representative of Sierra Leone stated that accession to the European Union is the “most viable route” for Kosovo’s development.

    The representative of Slovenia welcomed the “peaceful, competitive and inclusive” parliamentary elections held in Kosovo in February as a “positive step forward in strengthening Kosovo’s democratic credentials”. He also highlighted the role of youth: “If for no one else, it is for Kosovo’s youth that things need to start moving forward.”  The representative of Guyana welcomed a new election law designed to promote transparency and greater representation for women, but expressed concern over “reports of harsh rhetoric — including hate speech — and attempts to politicize key institutions”.

    Caution against Unilateral Actions

    The representative of Algeria underscored:  “Maintaining peace and security in Kosovo is critical to avoid any escalation of tensions.”  It is therefore important, he stressed, to refrain from any steps that could lead to escalation — “including unilateral actions that affect the socioeconomic situation of non-majority communities”.  Pakistan’s delegate welcomed the European Union’s continued efforts to facilitate dialogue, calling on Belgrade and Pristina to “demonstrate their sincere commitment to the political process”, fulfil their obligations under relevant agreements and “refrain from unilateral actions that could escalate tensions”.

    “Lasting stability requires not only patience and sustained commitment but also the wisdom to choose diplomatic engagement over unilateral measures,” stressed Somalia’s representative.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Launches American Physician Recruitment Campaign

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 9, 2025

    Advertising Campaign Targets Medical Professionals from the United States 

    The Government of Saskatchewan is kicking off a digital recruitment campaign today in partnership with the Saskatchewan Healthcare Recruitment Agency (SHRA) encouraging physicians from the United States to consider practising in Saskatchewan. 

    “We want to showcase to Americans why Saskatchewan offers them a new direction by being an excellent choice for physicians who want to practice in a secure, stable and supportive environment,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “We are committed to ensuring that physicians in Saskatchewan are well-compensated for their hard work, enjoy career fulfillment and have a positive work-life balance with a lower cost of living.”

    The campaign highlights current career opportunities, upcoming physician-focused information webinars, and will promote the many benefits such as competitive compensation, lower cost of living, work/life balance and stability offered in Saskatchewan. Acknowledging the uncertain political climate in the United States, the advertisements note the stability and security doctors, and their families can experience here. 

    “Saskatchewan offers one of the quickest pathways to medical licensure for physicians who have American Board certification and have, or are eligible to obtain, a full license in the United States,” SHRA CEO Terri Strunk said. “We regularly showcase our opportunities in the United States, but this campaign is a bit different, designed to capture the attention of physicians who may be looking north for a new opportunity.”

    The digital campaign will be directed to physicians currently practising in several states. Emergency medicine physicians, anesthesiologists, and family physicians are part of the focus of these recruitment efforts. 

    Saskatchewan is currently developing a more in-depth physician recruitment campaign that features practising physicians based in Swift Current, Saskatoon, and North Battleford. The profiled physicians explain in their own words why Saskatchewan is a great choice to build your practice and your life exploring advantages such as team-based care; a strong, supportive physician network, opportunities for career growth, and many other benefits including their connection to helping Saskatchewan patients. 

    The “Saskatchewan is Calling” campaign will be launched in early spring and placed in provincial, national, and international markets, including the United States. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Jayapal’s Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on the Consequences of Trump’s Chaotic and Lawless Immigration Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, delivered opening remarks at the subcommittee hearing on Donald Trump’s reckless and lawless immigration enforcement, which is undermining local law enforcement and threatening public safety.

    Below are Ranking Member Jayapal’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the subcommittee hearing.

    WATCH Ranking Member Jayapal’s opening statement.

    Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal

    Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement

    Hearing on “Sanctuary Jurisdictions: Magnet for Migrants,

    Cover for Criminals”

    April 9, 2025

    Ever since President Trump came into office, my colleagues have been happy to sit back and let him run roughshod over our laws. President Trump, Tom Homan, and Stephen Miller led you to believe that this was about criminal immigrants who threaten public safety, despite the fact that research clearly shows that immigrants commit fewer crimes than Americans. They led you to believe that they were FOR the immigrants who did things legally, those folks had nothing to worry about. They even led you to believe that somehow getting rid of immigrants would be good for American jobs, for bringing down costs for the American public, and that this was all about caring about YOU versus them.

    Well, as people’s 401K accounts plummet with Trump’s crazy and chaotic economic policies and as costs of everything Americans need to buy keep going up instead of down, the effects of Trump’s unconstitutional and unlawful actions against ALL immigrants are causing fear and havoc in communities across the country.

    Let me be clear: Trump has targeted immigrants who are here lawfully—suspending refugee admissions—a program once hailed by both parties and the faith community everywhere as the cornerstone of humanitarian assistance. They are revoking the very programs that created legal pathways for immigrants to enter that effectively brought down numbers at the border.

    In revoking student visas and green cards of legal permanent residents, many of whom are married to U.S. citizens, they are going after every single immigrant, fabricating stories about these immigrants being “criminals,” even deporting them to other countries in violation of judicial orders.

    All of this leads us to ask once again, as the 4th circuit said earlier this week in the case of a Maryland father who was “mistakenly” deported to a Salvadorean prison by the Trump administration, “If due process is of no moment, what is stopping the Government from removing and refusing to return a lawful permanent resident or even a natural born citizen?”

    This obsession to weaponize every part of the U.S. government against immigrants is hurting Americans. It’s taking away critical resources for crime prevention, counterterrorism, drug interdiction, and other law enforcement at the Department of Justice and Homeland Security Investigations and terrorizing all immigrants and their US citizen family members, including those with no criminal background and with legal status.

    Now, they want to coerce state and local law enforcement to help them round up immigrants by threatening to cut off their transportation and law enforcement funds if they do not comply—even though multiple courts have held that this is illegal and numerous research studies and law enforcement officials have confirmed that keeping the longstanding distinction between federal immigration and local law enforcement actually helps keep communities safer.

    In 2019, my home state of Washington passed the Keep Washington Working Act with bipartisan support. It is a commonsense law to ensure that local policy remains focused on public safety rather than enforcing federal immigration law.

    We know that when local police act as immigration agents, immigrant communities and their families are less likely to come forward to report a crime when they are a witness or even a victim. It destroys the trust police rely on to preserve public safety in communities. Courts have ruled multiple times that states have the right to enact laws like the Keep Washington Working Act.

    And despite what you might hear today the law does allow information sharing with the federal government when necessary for an ongoing criminal investigation, or pursuant to a court order or judicial warrant.

    As the Trump administration continues to bully and intimidate the country to bend the knee, we won’t be intimidated. I fully support Attorney General Nick Brown’s efforts to ensure that everyone in our state follows our laws.

    The Major Cities Chiefs Association has repeatedly reaffirmed that, across the country, if law enforcement officers are viewed by members of the immigrant community as colluding or working with immigration law enforcement officers, this would “result in increased crime against immigrants in the broader community, create a class of silent victims and eliminate the potential for assistance from immigrants in solving crimes or preventing future terroristic acts.”

    The Major Cities Chiefs Association also explained that cooperation with the immigrant community is a crucial part of solving crime and preventing further criminal activity within the entire community, including ensuring protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Instead of trashing the rights of every American and destroying communities and our economy, this subcommittee should be holding hearings on why Mahmoud Khalil remains detained, simply for expressing pro-Palestinian views that Trump doesn’t like. Or why Alfredo Juarez, a longtime labor leader, has been detained in my state apparently simply for organizing farmworkers for fair wages. Or why a local roofing company just had a raid where 37 immigrants who are longtime residents and building affordable housing for our communities were picked up and jailed. Or why the Administration refuses to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the US to reunite with his US citizen wife and three children, even after admitting to mistakenly deporting him to a Salvadorean gulag.

    Let’s have a hearing on the disappearing and kidnapping of people across this country, instead of hurting public safety by undermining policies of local jurisdictions.

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on Trump Administration Stripping UW Students of Lawful Status Without Due Process or Notice

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, released the following statement after it was reported that over a dozen University of Washington students had their student visas revoked without notice or warning.

    “The Trump administration’s stripping University of Washington Students of their lawful status with no due process or notice is just the latest attack by this administration on legal immigration.

    “The Trump administration is out of control with indiscriminately cruel immigration actions. Across the country, students are having their legal status revoked and being snatched and disappeared – in some cases by masked immigration agents in unmarked cars – and being held in detention facilities with no warning and limited information as to why they are being deported.

    “The Trump administration’s heavy-handed and politically motivated immigration enforcement is turning university campuses into places of fear rather than learning. This is not about national security. It is about using immigration enforcement as a weapon to stifle political dissent, restrict due process, and enforce an exclusionary and nativist vision of America that runs counter to everything our institutions of higher learning stand for.”

    For any help with government agencies or immigration cases, please reach out to Congresswoman Jayapal’s office: https://jayapal.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency/

    Issues: Arts & Education, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sherrill Fights to Rein In Trump’s Tariff Powers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), alongside top House Democrats, introduced legislation that will end President Trump’s abuse of “emergency” trade authorities, which he is using to impose sweeping tariffs that are crashing the economy and increasing costs by almost $4,000 for New Jersey families.

    The legislation would end Trump’s declared national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), an authority he is using to levy a blanket 10% tariff on all imports, along with additional massive tariffs on dozens of key U.S. allies such as the European Union, Japan, and Taiwan. The IEEPA is designed to allow presidents to impose financial sanctions on hostile foreign powers that pose a direct and immediate threat to the United States, not impose tariffs on critical U.S. allies without congressional oversight.

    “Trump’s tariffs are the largest tax hike on New Jersey families since the 1960s — and they are already putting pressure on families’ budgets, jeopardizing retirement savings for hardworking Americans, and driving our economy towards a recession. Trump does not care, because he and billionaires like Elon Musk are able to line their own pockets with tax cuts paid for by hardworking New Jersey families. I’m fighting back — by reasserting Congress’s tariff authority, which will rein in Trump’s decision to declare a national emergency on a whim in order to implement his massive tax hike on the American people,” said Rep. Sherrill. 

    Read the full text of the resolution here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Sánchez, Connolly, Beyer Demand Trump Trade Official Resign from Holding Multiple Positions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Amid Mass Firings, Ethics Violations, and Reckless Trade War, Pressley Sounds Alarm on US Trade Rep’s Triple Appointment to Lead Key Watchdog Agencies

    Clear Conflicts of Interest Threaten to Further Harm Federal Workers

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-38), House Oversight Ranking Member Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), and Congressman Don Beyer (VA-08) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer, who was recently appointed as Acting Special Counsel of the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), a key watchdog agency charged with protecting federal workers, and Acting Director of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), the agency responsible for Executive Branch ethics programs. Citing the conflicts of interest among these three appointments, Congresswoman Pressley and her colleagues questioned how Greer will be able to oversee Trump’s trade war while also holding multiple roles—and calls on him to resign from his roles as Acting Special Counsel and Acting Director.

    Congresswoman Pressley has led efforts in Congress to protect federal workers, and her letter comes as the Musk-Trump Administration continue their unjust and unlawful terminations of federal workers across the country and accumulation of numerous ethics complaints.

    “Since President Trump has launched a global trade war, it is critical that you remain focused on mitigating the economic turmoil that has already began. Taking on at least two other jobs is misguided and a disservice to the public who expect a competent and effective USTR, OSC, and OGE. We urge you to immediately relinquish your roles as Acting Special Counsel, Acting Director, and any other positions,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer.

    In their letter, the lawmakers questioned the ability of Ambassador Greer to fulfill the massive responsibilities of each role, as well as the unethical conflicts of interest that the triple role present. The lawmakers emphasize that as USTR, Ambassador Greer should remain focused on mitigating the economic turmoil that has already begun. While in his OSC role, Greer would also be responsible for protecting more than 2.2 million federal workers in the civil service from discrimination, political coercion, and retaliation for exposing wrongdoing. In addition, in his OGE role, Greer would lead ethics programs in more than 140 agencies in the Executive Branch. However, since OSC’s and OGE’s jurisdictions include oversight of USTR, where cases of wrongful termination, ethics complaints, and whistleblower reprisals may arise, these responsibilities are impossible to carry out impartially.

    “Given these concerns, we do not have confidence in your ability to impartially or effectively fulfill the demanding responsibilities of each office,” the lawmakers continued. “We urge you to immediately resign as Acting Special Counsel and Acting Director. Anything less fails to meet the ethical and professional standards required to preserve the independence and effectiveness of both offices.”

    The lawmakers requested Ambassador Greer provide the following information by April 16, 2025:

    • In addition to your positions as USTR, Acting Special Counsel, and Acting Director, what other roles do you hold in the Trump Administration?
    • In the course of a normal day, how many hours are you spending working on USTR matters compared to OSC matters and OGE matters?
    • Have you recused yourself from any OSC or OGE investigations involving the Office of the United States Trade Representative? If not, why not? If so, who is responsible for handling those complaints?
    • Were ethics officials at any of the agencies consulted before you assumed multiple roles? If so, please provide a copy of any guidance or recommendations you received.
    • Has any information regarding OSC or OGE complaints related to DOGE been shared with DOGE staff?

    A copy of the letter is available here.

    In February, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in writing to the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) urging OSC to ensure all unfairly fired civil servants are immediately rehired and protected from greater abuse, and she has applauded numerous court rulings mandating their reinstatement.

    In March, Rep. Pressley led her colleagues in the Massachusetts congressional delegation in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.

    Congresswoman Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress speaking out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s unprecedented assault on our democracy and federal agencies, and she has been a steadfast advocate for protecting the essential services that federal workers and agencies provide.

    • On March 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s executive order to end collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees.
    • On March 21, 2025, Rep. Pressley led Massachusetts lawmakers in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley spoke out against the U.S. Department of Education’s mass layoffs of over 1,300 workers, which effectively guts the agency.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley voted against Republicans’ shameful government budget bill, which would harm vulnerable families and provide a blank check for Elon Musk and Donald Trump to continue their unprecedented assault on our democracy. She later issued a statement condemning its final passage in the Senate.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined 13 of her colleagues on a letter to the Department of Homeland Security demanding answers and the immediate release of Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil, whose illegal abduction is an attack on his constitutional right to free speech and due process.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley walked out of the House chamber in protest during Donald Trump’s presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley welcomed Claire Bergstresser, an Everett constituent, dedicated public servant, AFGE union member, and former HUD worker who was unjustly terminated as part of Musk and Trump’s assault on federal agencies as her guest to the presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in a letter urging the Office of Special Counsel to immediate reinstate and expand protections for all unfairly fired federal workers.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined over 200 Democrats in filing an amicus brief defending the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before a U.S. District Court.
    • On February 26, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed what true government efficiency looks like and denounced Elon Musk and Donald Trump for utilizing DOGE to gut the essential services that keep people safe, fed, and housed.
    • On February 25, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley condemned Elon Musk’s abuse of government efficiency through the fraudulent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
    • On February 25, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she railed against Republicans’ cruel budget resolution that would slash Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion.
    • On February 20, 2025, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
    • On February 13, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley emphasized the critical role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in safeguarding consumers and sharply criticized Donald Trump and Elon Musk for halting the critical work of the agency.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied with Senator Elizabeth Warren, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, and advocates to protest Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful takeover of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
    • On February 11, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley criticized the Trump-Musk administration for halting the critical work of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with crypto scams on the rise.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Trump Administration’s harmful cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to support hospitals, universities, and research institutions conducting lifesaving research.
    • On February 10, 2025, as Trump and Musk threaten to dismantle the essential work of the U.S. Department of Education, Rep.  Pressley delivered a powerful floor speech to affirm the role of public education in American democracy.
    • On February 6, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful rebuke of Republicans’ efforts to gut diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and eliminate essential services for vulnerable communities.
    • On February 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied outside the U.S. Department of Treasury to protest Elon Musk’s unlawful assault on federal agencies and our democracy.
    • On January 30, 2025, Rep. Pressley slammed Donald Trump for blaming the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which killed over 60 people, including some families from Massachusetts, on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
    • In January 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s illegal freeze on federal grants and loans and its harmful impact on vulnerable communities.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned floor speech condemning Republicans’ cruel anti-abortion bill that criminalizes providers and denies families care.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues to reintroduce the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, a bill to repeal an outdated law that has been used to target innocent immigrants without due process rights.
    • On January 22, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s harmful executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Wyoming Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by August Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Wyoming of the deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning on Aug. 6 and 13, 2024, respectively.

    The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

    Declaration Number

    Primary
    Counties

    Neighboring
    Counties

    Incident Type

    Incident Date

    Deadline

    WY 20763

    		 Fremont, Hot Springs, Park, Sublette and Teton Big Horn, Carbon, Lincoln, Natrona, Sweetwater and Washakie in Wyoming;
    Bonneville, Fremont and Teton in Idaho;
    Carbon, Gallatin and Park in Montana.    		 Drought Beginning Aug. 6, 2024, and continuing 5/30/25

    WY 20772

    		 Lincoln Sublette, Sweetwater, Teton and Uinta in Wyoming;
    Bear Lake, Bonneville and Caribou in Idaho;
    Rich in Utah.    		 Drought Beginning Aug. 13, 2024, and continuing 6/9/25

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    For disaster declaration WY 20763, submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 30, and for WY 20772, submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Oklahoma Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by September Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Oklahoma of the May 9, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning Sept. 3, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Caddo, Comanche, Cotton, Grady, Kiowa, Stephens and Tillman.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Colorado Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by July Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Colorado of the May 9, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning July 16, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Gilpin, Jefferson, Morgan, Park, Teller, Washington and Weld.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by July Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana of the May 9, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning July 16, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Broadwater, Flathead, Gallatin, Jefferson, Lewis and Clark, Lincoln, Meagher and Sanders in Montana, as well as Bonner and Boundary counties in Idaho.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SCOR successfully sponsors a new catastrophe bond, Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release
    09 April 2025 – N° 07

    SCOR successfully sponsors a new catastrophe bond, Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1

    SCOR has successfully sponsored a new catastrophe bond (“cat bond”), Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1, which will provide the Group with multi-year risk transfer capacity of USD 240 million to protect itself against named storms in the US and the Caribbean, earthquakes in the US and Canada, and European windstorms. The risk period for Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1 will run from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2028. The transaction has received the approval of the Irish regulatory authorities. The cat bond offering integrates ESG-related considerations to support investors’ due diligence.

    The cat bond was priced on 3 April 2025 with an interest spread of 7.25% and was issued on 9 April 2025. Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1 was well received and benefited from high investor demand. GC Securities1 acted as Sole Structuring Agent and Sole Bookrunner for the deal. Willkie Farr and Walkers advised SCOR as legal counsels.

    Atlas Capital DAC Series 2025-1 is an aggregate, index-based trigger cat bond issued by Atlas Capital DAC, a multi-arrangement special purpose vehicle approved in Ireland under Solvency II. This vehicle was created in 2023 for the Series 2023-1 cat bond issuance, and it may be utilized by the Group to sponsor cat bonds covering various perils in both L&H and P&C. The benefits of this vehicle were again visible this year, as it allowed for a fast and cost-effective issuance process. In particular, the transaction was offered to investors around two months in advance of the start of the risk period, allowing SCOR to benefit from the currently favorable conditions in the cat bond market.

    The size of the Series 2025-1 issuance is in line with the Group’s cat exposures and with its retrocession strategy under the Forward 2026 strategic plan, which identifies risk partnerships – including capital market solutions like cat bonds – as one of the Group’s levers for value creation.

    François de Varenne, Group CFO and Deputy CEO of SCOR, comments: “SCOR is pleased to sponsor a new cat bond this year, securing multi-year protection against peak natural perils from the ILS market at favorable pricing conditions. SCOR has been a regular sponsor of cat bonds over the last 25 years, and we are delighted by the strong and continued investor demand, as cat bonds remain an integral part of our risk partnerships strategy under the Forward 2026 plan. We are also very pleased with the efficiency gains made by reusing Atlas Capital DAC for a third year.”

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    SCOR, a leading global reinsurer

    As a leading global reinsurer, SCOR offers its clients a diversified and innovative range of reinsurance and insurance solutions and services to control and manage risk. Applying “The Art & Science of Risk”, SCOR uses its industry-recognized expertise and cutting-edge financial solutions to serve its clients and contribute to the welfare and resilience of society.

    The Group generated premiums of EUR 20.1 billion in 2024 and serves clients in more than 150 countries from its 37 offices worldwide.

    For more information, visit: www.scor.com

    		 Media Relations
    Alexandre Garcia
    media@scor.com

    Investor Relations

    Thomas Fossard
    InvestorRelations@scor.com

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    All content published by the SCOR group since January 1, 2024, is certified with Wiztrust. You can check the authenticity of this content at wiztrust.com.

    Forward-looking statements

    This press release may include forward-looking statements, assumptions, and information about SCOR’s financial condition, results, business, strategy, plans and objectives, including in relation to SCOR’s current or future projects.

    These statements are sometimes identified by the use of the future tense or conditional mode, or terms such as “estimate”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “have the objective”, “intend to”, “plan”, “result in”, “should”, and other similar expressions.

    It should be noted that the achievement of these objectives, forward-looking statements, assumptions and information is dependent on circumstances and facts that arise in the future.

    No guarantee can be given regarding the achievement of these forward-looking statements, assumptions and information. These forward-looking statements, assumptions and information are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements, assumptions and information (including on objectives) may be impacted by known or unknown risks, identified or unidentified uncertainties and other factors that may significantly alter the future results, performance and accomplishments planned or expected by SCOR.

    In particular, it should be noted that the full impact of the inflation and geopolitical risks including but not limited to the Russian invasion and war in Ukraine on SCOR’s business and results cannot be accurately assessed.

    Therefore, any assessments, any assumptions and, more generally, any figures presented in this press release will necessarily be estimates based on evolving analyses, and encompass a wide range of theoretical hypotheses, which are highly evolutive.

    These points of attention on forward-looking statements are all the more essential that the adoption of IFRS 17, which is a new accounting standard, results in significant accounting changes for SCOR.

    Information regarding risks and uncertainties that may affect SCOR’s business is set forth in the 2024 Universal Registration Document filed on 20 March 2025, under number D.25-0124 with the French Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) posted on SCOR’s website www.scor.com.

    In addition, such forward-looking statements, assumptions and information are not “profit forecasts” within the meaning of Article 1 of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/980.

    SCOR has no intention and does not undertake to complete, update, revise or change these forward-looking statements, assumptions and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Disclaimer

    This communication does not constitute or form part of any offer or invitation to sell or issue or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for the securities mentioned herein in any jurisdiction. The securities mentioned herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act, and may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Atlas Capital DAC and the securities mentioned are not and will not be registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

    Rule 144A offerings are offerings of securities conducted on a private placement basis for the purposes of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and that limit initial distribution and secondary sales of the securities to entities that are Qualified Institutional Buyers as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act. The offering of securities in a Rule 144A offering does not require registration of the issuer or the securities with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission.

    Catastrophe bond transactions provide sponsoring insurers and reinsurers protection against catastrophe risks through the release to the sponsor of a portion or the whole principal amount upon the occurrence of pre-defined events (namely triggers). Triggers can be determined in different ways: an industry loss trigger provides for payment once the losses to the industry generated by specific natural events (typically) are higher than a certain specified amount provided for in the terms of the transaction.

    1 GC Securities is a division of MMC Securities LLC, a US registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA/NFA/SIPC.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins on Foreign-Owned Farmland in the U.S.

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

    “This is a massive, massive challenge, I believe, for our country — and it isn’t just a challenge for our farmers and our farmland. It’s a national security issue… We’ve already begun to think through what solutions look like.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pushc8Vcy9I

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Torres, Fitzpatrick Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Recognize 9-1-1 Dispatchers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    April 09, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to recognize the critical contributions of public safety telecommunicators in keeping communities safe and saving lives. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed during the second full week of April, honors 9-1-1 dispatchers for their dedication and service as first responders to emergencies nationwide.

    “For 17 years, I was the voice on the other end of a 9-1-1 call—listening to people in their darkest moments, calming terrified parents, and guiding callers through life-or-death situations. Dispatchers are more than operators; they are lifelines, holding steady when everything else feels out of control,” said Congresswoman Torres. “Yet, their work too often goes unseen. This resolution honors their service, but they deserve more than recognition—they deserve action. Passing my bipartisan 911 SAVES Act will ensure they are classified for what they truly are: lifesaving professionals. Public safety telecommunicators give so much of themselves to protect others, and I urge my colleagues to stand with them and fight for the status and support they deserve.”

    “When every second counts, it’s the voice of a public safety telecommunicator that begins the chain of survival. These professionals are more than a calm presence—they are highly trained experts who manage emergencies with speed, clarity, and composure under immense pressure. Having served as an FBI Special Agent, I know their decisions can mean the difference between life and death. Our resolution is about more than recognition—it’s a call to action. We must ensure these frontline heroes are properly classified, fully supported, and honored for the indispensable role they have in protecting our communities,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.

    The Senate version of this bipartisan resolution is being led by Senators Klobuchar (D-MN) and Budd (R-NC). The measure urges Congress to acknowledge the vital role of public safety telecommunicators and provide them with the resources and recognition they need to continue their lifesaving work.

    The full text of the resolution can be found here.

    Congresswoman Norma Torres, a longtime advocate for 9-1-1 dispatchers, co-introduced the bipartisan 911 SAVES Act with Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) in the 116th and 117th Congresses. The bill seeks to reclassify dispatchers as protective service workers instead of clerical staff—recognizing their vital, lifesaving role in emergency response. Congresswoman Torres also serves as Co-Chair of the bipartisan NEXTGEN911 Caucus, where she continues to lead efforts in Congress to modernize 9-1-1 systems and support public safety professionals. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Businessman Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for evading more than $5.5 million in taxes, interest, and penalties that he owed the IRS.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, David Albert Fletcher, of Deltona, owned and operated furniture liquidations businesses, including Century Liquidators. For tax years 2004 through 2013, Fletcher did not timely file his federal income tax returns or pay the taxes he owed. After an audit, the IRS assessed a total of $1.7 million in taxes, interest, and penalties against him.

    To evade collection of these taxes, Fletcher concealed his income and assets from the IRS. For example, Fletcher used nominees to hide his purchases of luxury vehicles, including Rolls Royces. Fletcher also filed false income tax returns that understated his income by several million dollars, and when an IRS special agent interviewed him, Fletcher falsely represented the amount of income he earned.

    In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger for the Middle District of Florida ordered Fletcher to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $7,112,689 in restitution to the United States.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Zachary A. Cobb and Charles A. O’Reilly of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –