NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Reinvigorates America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ACHIEVING AMERICAN ENERGY DOMINANCE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order reinvigorating America’s beautiful clean coal industry. The Executive Order:
    Directs the Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council to designate coal as a “mineral” under Executive Order 14241, entitling coal to all of the benefits of that prior Order.
    Directs relevant agencies to identify coal resources on Federal lands, lift barriers to coal mining, and prioritize coal leasing on those lands.
    Directs the Secretary of the Interior to acknowledge the end of the Jewell Moratorium, which paused coal leasing on Federal lands.
    Requires agencies to rescind any agency policies that seek to transition the Nation away from coal production or otherwise establish preferences against coal as a generation resource.
    Directs CEQ to assist agencies in adopting coal-related categorical exclusions under NEPA.
    Seeks to promote coal and coal technology exports, facilitate international offtake agreements for U.S. coal, and accelerate development of coal technologies.
    Calls for the Secretary of Energy to determine whether coal used in the production of steel meets the definition of a “critical material” and “critical mineral” under the Energy Act of 2020, and if so, add it to the relevant lists.
    Pushes for using coal to power new artificial intelligence (AI) data.
    INCREASING DOMESTIC ENERGY PRODUCTION: President Trump believes that coal is essential to our national and economic security.
    The coal industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and adds tens of billions to the U.S. economy each year.
    America’s coal resources are vast, with a current estimated value in the trillions of dollars.
    Coal-fired electricity generation is cleaner than ever, yet the previous administration waged war on coal.
    Coal will be critical to meeting the rise in electricity demand due to a resurgence of domestic manufacturing and the construction of AI data processing centers. 
    Supporting our coal industry will increase our energy supply, lower electricity costs, stabilize our grid, create high-paying jobs, support burgeoning industries, and assist our allies.
    FUELING THE NATION: By reinvigorating clean coal, President Trump is following through on his promise to once again unleash American energy.
    President Trump: “We will develop the liquid gold that is right under our feet, including American oil and natural gas and we will also embrace nuclear, clean coal, hydropower, which is fantastic, and every other form of affordable energy to get it done.”
    This Executive Order builds on actions President Trump has already taken to bring Americans the lowest-cost energy and electricity on earth. This includes:
    Withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement.
    Revoking Biden executive actions that hampered American energy production.
    Terminating the Green New Deal.
    Unleashing Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential.
    Declaring a national energy emergency.
    Reversing the pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permits.
    Cutting red tape to speed up the Federal permitting process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Strengthens the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    ENHANCING GRID RELIABILITY AND SECURITY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to strengthen the reliability and security of the United States electric grid. The Executive Order:
    Directs the Secretary of Energy to streamline, systemize, and expedite processes for issuing emergency orders under the Federal Power Act during forecasted grid interruptions.
    Requires the Secretary of Energy to develop a uniform methodology to analyze reserve margins across all regions of the bulk power system.
    The methodology will assess varied grid conditions and accredit generation resources based on historical performance.

    Requires the Secretary of Energy to incorporate such methodology into a process that assesses reserve margins on a regular basis and identifies which generation resources in a region are critical to system reliability.
    The Secretary of Energy will then utilize that process to prevent significant generation resources from leaving the grid or converting fuel sources if it would result in a net reduction in accredited generating capacity.
    POWERING AMERICA FOR GENERATIONS TO COME: This Executive Order is critical to meeting the Nation’s growing energy needs and protecting national security.
    Rapid technological advancements, an expansion of AI data centers, and increased domestic manufacturing are driving an unprecedented surge in electricity demand, placing a significant strain on our Nation’s electric grid.
    The Nation’s electricity is expected to rise 16% in the next 5 years—triple the growth forecasted just a year ago.
    The Nation’s 2,700 data centers, mostly operated by tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, and Apple, consumed over 4% of U.S. electricity in 2022 and are expected to reach 9% by 2030.
    An estimated 80 million transformers, averaging over 40 years old, are vital to keeping the grid running nationwide.
    Grid reliability is essential to maintaining our national and economic security.
    The United States’ ability to remain at the forefront of technological innovation depends on a reliable supply of energy from all available sources.
    MAKING AMERICA ENERGY DOMINANT: President Trump believes it is vital for America to be energy dominant and energy secure.
    On the campaign trail, President Trump warned, “you have a grid system in this country that’s obsolete and a disaster,” underscoring his urgency to act.
    On Day One, President Trump declared a National Energy Emergency to ensure the integrity of our Nation’s electrical grid. 
    He is revitalizing America’s big beautiful coal industry to support grid stability and American jobs.
    President Trump is cutting red tape and rolling back regulations that hinder coal, oil, and natural gas production.
    He is pushing to expand domestic energy production by investing in next-generation energy technologies and accelerating energy projects by streamlining the permitting process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Questions USDA Deputy Secretary and General Counsel Nominees During Agriculture Committee Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) participated in the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry confirmation hearing today for President Donald Trump’s Deputy Secretary of Agriculture nominee Stephen Vaden and General Counsel of the Department of Agriculture nominee Tyler Clarkson. 
    Stephen Vaden comes from a farming family and is currently a judge of the United States Court of International Trade which possesses exclusive jurisdiction over most of the United States’ trade matters. He served nearly the entirety of the first Trump Administration in the Office of General Counsel and clerked for two of our nation’s federal judges. Tyler Clarkson served as USDA’s deputy general counsel in the first Trump Administration and previously worked in President Trump’s first Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs.
    During the hearing, Senator Marshall questioned Mr. Vaden and Mr. Clarkson on conservation efforts, precision agriculture, Proposition 12, the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), and the United States’ international trade deficit.
    Senator Marshall is a fifth-generation farm kid and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Biotechnology.

    [embedded content]

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full line of questioning.
    Highlights from the hearing include: 
    On the United States’ international trade deficit:
    Senator Marshall: “Judge Vaden, I’ll close with my question for you, dealing with our trade deficit, $1.2 trillion trade deficit. For the first time in my lifetime, an agriculture deficit. We’re importing more food than we’re exporting… In your new role, what can you do to decrease the international trade deficit, and how will you be promoting strengthening domestic demand for agriculture products?”
    Stephen Vaden, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture nominee: “Senator, I think you hit on it in the verbs you used in your questions, we’ve got to promote, and that involves a salesmanship activity. I know the Secretary has committed to visiting six countries this year in terms of promoting more ag exports. That’s important. No one else is going to sell our stuff. We’ve got to sell it.
    “Secondly, we’ve got to keep track of foreign trade barriers, whether they be tariff or non-tariff-related, and we’ve got to remind the trade team that as they’re out there looking for new trade deals, as they’re standing up for other American industries, they need to stand up for American agriculture too and oppose these efforts that are trying to keep our wonderful farmers’ products out of the international market.” 
    On conservation efforts and precision agriculture:
    Senator Marshall: “Judge, my [family’s farm] goes back 100 years. I think yours were even 100 years older than my family’s. And I’d like to think that my great grandfather, your great, great, great were the original conservationists – that they wanted to leave this world cleaner, healthier, and safer than we found it, just like you and I want to leave it – for our future generations – cleaner, healthier and safer than we found it.
    “I’ll also note, though, that my farmers and ranchers depend upon certain pesticides and fertilizers, and there [are] great opportunities… for precision agriculture, we’re growing more with less every day. In your office, if confirmed, how can you help defend the crop protection and precision ag tools that our farmers rely upon?”
    Mr. Vaden: “Well, Senator, I thank you for the question, and I really appreciate how you have linked, because I think the linkage is proper, conservation with the scientific advancements and chemicals that make that possible. 
    “No-till agriculture was kind of launched in West Tennessee. I grew up going with my father to the Milan No-Till Festival, which still goes on and was kind of an initial effort at evangelizing this notion that you do not have to plow the field every year, which, as you know, is bad for soil health.
    “But that only becomes possible if you have in your toolkit as a farmer the amazing chemicals that are provided in order to clear the land so that you can plant. If you take those chemicals away, what you are doing is you are taking a tool out of the toolkit of the farmer and requiring him to revert, in my view, to the somewhat antiquated plow. That’s bad for soil health, and quite frankly, it threatens a lot of the work done by the old Soil Conservation Service, and now the Natural Resources Conservation Service, to instill best practices in farms. Because, as you know, if you’re destroying the soil, it’s the equivalent of eating into your principal to pay living expenses.”
    On the Commodity Credit Corporation:
    Senator Marshall: “Let’s talk about the [Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC)] for a second. It’s been used for different purposes and I was concerned with the last administration that the Secretary of Agriculture used it to promote Green New Deal type of initiatives, which I think feels like to me, was outside of the intention of the CCC.
    “Do you think that the use of the CCC by the previous administration was legal, and how do we ensure that the CCC is used for its intended use of supporting farmers and not backing special interest?”
    Tyler Clarkson, General Counsel of the Department of Agriculture nominee: “I do think that the prior administration’s use of CCC required quite a bit, quite a bit of legal creativity that strained the statutory text and practice in a manner that I don’t think I anticipate continuing were I confirmed as general counsel.”
    On California’s Proposition 12:
    Senator Marshall: “Proposition 12 dictates, in my humble opinion, tries to tell Kansas farmers how to grow pigs, and it’s really hard for that small producer. If Kansas, or if… California has a way they want us to grow them. If Texas has a way we want to grow them. If Ohio has a way they want to grow pigs. It’s really hard for my small producers. Is there anything that USDA could do to administratively ensure that certain states are not able to dictate production standards for livestock producers nationwide?”
    Mr. Vaden: “I’m well aware of the challenge that such state propositions provide to farmers who have to operate in a national market. As you know, when I was General Counsel, we were very active in supporting the efforts of those who challenged the proposition, and I’m happy to say those efforts ended up to be bipartisan, because, though it’s not frequently noted, both the first Trump Administration and the Biden Administration both opposed, in the federal courts, Proposition 12 on the grounds of our and their belief that it violated the Dormant Commerce Clause. 
    “The Supreme Court, unfortunately, came to a different conclusion, and in the opinion written by the Supreme Court, they basically put it in Congress’s hands and said that Congress has the power under the Commerce Clause to stop this if it wants. And so, when it comes to any administrative authorities that USDA might have, if any are in existence, they would have to be given [to] us by Congress.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Statement on Trump Coal Executive Actions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    U.S. President Donald Trump announced a series of actions at the White House to help the U.S. American coal industry. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee Chair and U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) attended the White House event. Following the event, Rep. Griffith issued the following statement:

    “The ‘War on Coal’, launched by the Obama Administration and continued by the Biden Administration, destroyed American jobs and devastated communities whose lifelines depended on coal. 

    “It is clear that coal is not going away anytime soon. Not only does the United States have the resources to be a leading coal supplier. But we can also make use of coal in a manner which is cleaner than anywhere else in the world.

    “I welcome President Trump’s actions to support American coal jobs, boost America’s energy independence and rein in harmful regulations.”

    BACKGROUND

    In the 118th Congress, Rep. Griffith chaired the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations.

    The 119th Congress is Rep. Griffith’s first term as the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee Chair.

    Rep. Griffith is Co-Chair of the Congressional Coal Caucus. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Stansbury Introduces Resolution of Inquiry Into DOGE’s Unsanctioned Use of Government Data, AI

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON—Rep Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee Committee on Delivering on Government Efficiency, led Committee Democrats in introducing   Resolution of Inquiry to investigate DOGE’s unsanctioned use of government data and artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on American privacy and national security. 

    “The American people demand to know why Elon Musk and DOGE are hacking our private and sensitive data and what they are doing with it. This includes Social Security, IRS, Treasury, and other highly sensitive data,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ranking Member of the DOGE Oversight Subcommittee. “Today, I dropped an oversight resolution demanding the Administration provide answers about what it is doing with our data and how it is using Artificial Intelligence to data mine our systems. It is our duty to fight for answers and get to the bottom of what exactly DOGE and Musk are doing with our data.” 

    A Resolution of Inquiry (ROI) would require the Administration to provide documents, communications, and factual information. Once introduced, the committee to which the ROI is referred has 14 legislative days to act on and report the resolution to the House or it will become privileged on the House floor. This action is necessary because the Administration has failed to provide clear information on how DOGE has risked the security of federal information systems, including through the use of AI. Instead, the Administration has deliberately kept DOGE’s actions shrouded in secrecy. 

    The resolution would require the Administration to provide documents, communications, and information regarding:  

    • How data and AI are being used by DOGE at federal agencies; 
    • The federal data and sources of federal data that may have been fed into any AI system; including details of whether any of this information contained sensitive data of American citizens; 
    • Any concerns raised by federal employees that the use of AI violates the Privacy Act or the security of Americans’ personal information; 
    • Any concerns raised by federal employees that the use of AI violated the Advancing American AI Act by failing to publicly disclose current and planned AI use cases; and
    • Lists of federal expenditures, programs, or personnel identified by AI for freezes or cuts.

    On March 12, 2025, Committee Democrats sent letters to 24 federal agencies requesting documentation that any potential use of AI at their agencies complies with federal laws, protects Americans’ sensitive and private data, and does not financially benefit Elon Musk. 

    Click here to read the Resolution of Inquiry. 

    Click here to read the one-pager explaining why this Resolution of Inquiry is necessary and how it works.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stansbury, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, Reintroduce Legislation to Permanently Protect Pecos Watershed from Mining in Northern New Mexico

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON D.C. — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) joined Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) as they reintroduced their Pecos Watershed Protection Act after the Trump administration confirmed to Source New Mexico that it will reverse the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.

    The Pecos Watershed Protection Act would permanently withdraw all federally managed minerals in the watershed from development — preventing the leasing, patent, or sale of all publicly owned minerals.

    “The Trump administration’s decision to reverse the community-driven Pecos Watershed withdrawal is disturbing and insulting, especially after they canceled the only public meeting on the proposal. This is a rural community that overwhelmingly supports protecting the Pecos River. The Trump administration just blatantly disregarded that, and the value of the Pecos River with it,” Stansbury, Heinrich, Luján, and Leger Fernández said. 

    “The Trump administration won’t have the last word: We will continue to push for permanent protection of the watershed through our Pecos Watershed Protection Act. New Mexicans deserve clean water free from harmful mining pollution. The Trump administration does not stand with the people of New Mexico, but we always will,” the lawmakers stated. 

    Background: 

    The Pecos Watershed Protection Act has been introduced every Congress since 2020 to protect portions of the Pecos Watershed in northern New Mexico from new mining claims.  

    In 1991, a toxic waste spill from a closed mine in the Upper Pecos Watershed caused more than 11 miles of fish kill in the river and resulted in decades and millions of dollars to clean up the mine. For years, there has been a community-led effort to protect the area from future mining claims to avoid similar threats and pollution. 

    In December 2024, Stansbury, Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández, and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service strongly urging the completion of the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process in the Upper Pecos Watershed. Completion of these initial steps was key to begin safeguarding the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos from the dangers of future mining claims for two years.  

    In response to their letter, President Biden’s BLM and Forest Service initiated a process to propose a 20-year withdrawal to help secure the region’s water and air quality, cultural resources, critical fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities.

    The withdrawal, for lands in San Miguel and Santa Fe counties, encompassed multiple Pecos River tributaries, including Dalton Canyon, Macho Canyon, Wild Horse Creek, Indian Creek, and Doctor Creek. 

    On December 16, 2024, the BLM and Forest Service initiated a 90-day public comment period to gather input on the proposal. During the comment period, the two agencies were scheduled to host a public meeting for the proposed Upper Pecos River Watershed Protection Area withdrawal on February 26, 2025.

    This public meeting was cancelled by the Trump Administration on February 19, 2025, with no further explanation. Local supporters speculated the action was in response to Secretary Burgum’s Order No. 3418, which requires agency reviews of all protected public lands. Despite the cancellation, the administration has received hundreds of public comments in support of the administrative mineral withdrawal.  

    On April 7, 2025, reporting from Source New Mexico revealed the Trump administration plans to reverse the BLM and the Forest Service’s decision to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from new mining operations.  

    Protection of the Upper Pecos Watershed has garnered widespread support from local leaders, farmers, business owners, acequia parciantes, Tribes, and recreationists alike. 

    The Village of Pecos, Santa Fe County, and San Miguel County have passed resolutions in support of the legislation.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stansbury Joins All House Democrats Defending Federal Workers’ Collective Bargaining Rights

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) joined Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Mark Pocan (WI-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Steven Horsford (NV-04) and Debbie Dingell (MI-06), alongside Vice-Chairs Reps. Glenn Ivey (MD-04) and Stephen Lynch (MA-08) to call on President Trump to rescind his executive order stripping collective bargaining rights from over 1 million federal employees.  

    The lawmakers highlighted the illegality of the order and called on the President to restore the collective bargaining rights that federal employees are statutorily entitled to. 

    A full copy of the letter can be found here. The letter was signed by every single House Democrat. 

    “Collective bargaining is the strongest tool that workers have available to create a fair workplace,” wrote the lawmakers. “This action strips away those hard-earned rights – which have been upheld by presidents from both parties for decades – from federal workers who keep our country running, including nurses who care for veterans, inspectors who keep our food safe to eat, teachers who educate our children, and so many more.” 

    “Furthermore, this EO not only undermines the principles of fair labor practices but also threatens the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal government, jeopardizing the delivery of critical services to the American people,” continued the lawmakers. “The freedom to join a union and collectively bargain is central to achieving the American dream for millions of American workers. This action is the single most anti-worker and anti-union presidential action since Ronald Reagan fired striking air traffic controllers in 1981, and it must be reversed immediately.”  

    “We urge you to immediately rescind this harmful, unlawful EO and to reaffirm the rights of federal workers to unionize and collectively bargain. The American people deserve a federal workforce that is protected, respected, and empowered to carry out its duties effectively,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    While Congress granted the President narrow authorities to exclude some agencies from collective bargaining, those exclusions can only be made if that agency has a primary function in intelligence, counterintelligence, investigative, or national security work, and only if the statute cannot be applied “in a manner consistent with national security requirements and considerations.” However, this Administration has made clear that the EO’s exclusions are not based on national security concerns, but instead as retaliation for labor unions defending their members’ rights and making it easier to fire federal employees. 

    The Congressional Labor Caucus is composed of more than 120 Members of Congress working to protect and advance workers’ rights. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury: Imposing Tariffs Will Hurt Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), issued the following statement after President Trump imposed more tariffs on the American people:

    “Once again, Donald Trump and his administration are using hard-working Americans as props in their trade war with other countries. Imposing tariffs will hurt Americans, full stop.

    “Trump’s handling of tariffs is not only reckless but shortsighted as it will hurt American farmers and manufacturers, crash markets, drive up prices, and undercut investments that keep jobs in America.

    “Coupled with reckless cuts to vital federal programs and the social safety net, Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans are putting the economy and American lives at risk. We must continue to push back on all fronts.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Mexico Delegation Continues Fight to Protect Federal Workers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    WASHINGTON D.C. — The New Mexico Congressional Delegation continues its fight to protect federal workers in the state by demanding transparency from the Trump Administration regarding the illegal purging of federal workers. 

    Read the full letter here. 

    Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) led a letter to Charles Ezell, the Acting Director of the Office of Personnel Management that was signed by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Reps. Teresa Leger Fernandez(NM-03) and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02).  

    “We write in strong opposition to the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to purge nonpartisan civil servants from the federal workforce. Our state is home to around 30,000 federal employees who are critical to managing and protecting the health, safety, and economic prosperity of New Mexico. These indiscriminate cuts threaten the effective functioning of critical federal services and will harm our states’ residents,” the members wrote. “The Administration’s executive overreach could cripple federal agencies, including in critical areas of disaster preparedness, public health, public safety, and national security.” 

    The delegation requests the administration provide detailed and complete information regarding federal employees in New Mexico that have been terminated, placed on leave, transferred, or been subject to a reduction in force (RIF). An answer from the administration is requested by April 14th, 2025.  

    The text of the letter is below:  

    Dear Acting Director Ezell, 

    We write in strong opposition to the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to purgenonpartisan civil servants from the federal workforce. Our state is home to around 30,000 federal employees who are critical to managing and protecting the health, safety, and economic prosperity of New Mexico. These indiscriminate cuts threaten the effective functioning of critical federal services and will harm our states’ residents. We request that you provide detailed and complete information regarding federal employees in New Mexico that have been terminated, placed on leave, transferred, or been subject to a reduction in force (RIF). 

    On January 28, 2025, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sent an email to more than 2 million federal employees with the subject line “The Fork in the Road.” The email outlined a “deferred resignation” offer for federal employees with a deadline for response of February 6, 2025. However, this deadline was eventually extended by court order.  

    The Administration then attempted to expand its purge by terminating en masseprobationary status employees, because these employees have fewer legal protections. On January 20, 2025, OPM issued a memorandum titled, “Guidance on Probationary Periods, Administrative Leave and Details,” which required agencies to identify and submit to OPM a list of employees within their probationary periods. According to public reporting, your agency directed federal agencies to prioritize terminations of individuals in their probationary period. 

    On February 11, 2025, President Trump, joined by unelected billionaire Elon Musk, 

    issued a sweeping Executive Order titled “Implementing the President’s “Department of Government Efficiency” Workforce Optimization Initiative,” which directed all agency heads to “initiate large-scale reductions in force.” Shortly thereafter, federal agencies across the government began imposing “widespread layoffs” of thousands of probationary employees. Another Executive Order sent out on March 14th, further reiterates the Administration’s desire to unlawfully withdraw congressionally mandated funding in an attempt to eliminate federal jobs. Agencies were required to submit the 2nd phase of their RIF plans to OPM signaling that more job cuts are being planned for the future. This comes as U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted a Preliminary Injunction broadening a temporary restraining order against the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and its Acting Director, Charles Ezell, finding the termination of probationary federal employees illegal because OPM had no authority to order it. The Administration’s executive overreach could cripple federal agencies, including in critical areas of disaster preparedness, public health, public safety, and national security. 

    Given the significant impacts of the Administration’s purge on our state, we request that you provide the following information by April 14, 2025: 

    1. The number of federal employees in New Mexico since January 20, 2025, that have been terminated, placed on administrated leave, taken early retirement, or been subject to a RIF broken down by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, and average length of federal service; 

    2. The number of veterans who held positions with the federal government in New Mexico since January 20, 2025, that have been terminated, placed on administrated leave, taken early retirement, or been subject to a RIF broken down by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, and average length of federal service; 

    3. The number of federal employees in New Mexico that have accepted the Administration’s “deferred resignation” offer broken down by agency, county, congressional district, GS level, and average length of federal service; 

    4. A detailed plan explaining how OPM will work with agencies and our state government to ensure that RIFs do not result in delays or disruptions to programs and benefits, including but not limited to Medicare, Social Security, and Medicaid, on which our constituents rely; and 

    5. Can you commit to providing a recurring update every week that highlights the impacts of federal personnel cuts to New Mexico? 

    6. How will New Mexico continue to access crucial services that our state relies on if they are impacted due to the personnel cuts in the federal government? 

    If you have any questions regarding this request, please contact any of our officesdirectly. Thank you for your prompt response to this matter. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Colleagues Release Bipartisan Legislation to Repeal Trump’s Ruinous Global Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee,joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in releasing a bipartisan resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs and reassert Congress’s trade authorities. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to apply tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. In the wake of Trump’s tariff declaration, markets have cratered, manufacturers have laid off thousands of workers and foreign countries have retaliated by imposing their own tariffs on U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. 
    “The President’s reckless global trade war has already gone far beyond everyone’s worst predictions. In just a matter of days, President Trump has thrown the economy into chaos and wiped out Vermonters’ retirement funds–all in an apparent attempt to achieve deeply misguided foreign policy goals,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must stand up and reassert our constitutional role in setting trade policy before Trump’s tariffs ruin more lives and livelihoods.” 
    “Trump is driving our economy into a recession, killing jobs and wiping out seniors’ retirement funds as we speak,” said Senator Wyden. “Enough is enough. No president should have the power to tax everything Americans buy without being accountable to Congress. Unless Republicans join with Democrats and take back Congress’s power over trade policy, the damage could take years to reverse.” 
    “Tariffs are taxes, and the power to tax belongs to Congress—not the president. Our Founders were clear: tax policy should never rest in the hands of one person,” said Senator Paul. “Abusing emergency powers to impose blanket tariffs not only drives up costs for American families but also tramples on the Constitution. It’s time Congress reasserts its authority and restores the balance of power.” 
    “Make no mistake – the president’s ill-conceived and chaotic trade war is nothing but a tax on American families,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump is leading America headfirst into a recession, with no plans on how to right the cratering economy. The Senate has the power and authority to stop this madness and we have a duty to act in a bipartisan way to repeal these tariffs, which is why I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation. It’s time for Republicans to stand up for American families, lower costs, save seniors’ retirement funds, and prevent a global economic crisis.”  
    “No President has the authority to unilaterally impose such sweeping across-the-board tariffs without congressional approval,” said Senator Kaine. “President Trump’s tariff strategy is raising costs on American families, threatening alliances our national security depends on, and creating opportunity for China and other adversaries to take advantage of global instability. The time is now for Congress to reassert its authority in matters of international trade, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join us.” 
    “The administration’s ill-considered, short-sighted tariffs are a historic tax hike on American families – jacking up the price of gas, fruit, coffee and other groceries, electronics, cars and everything in between,” said Senator Shaheen. “President Trump’s chaotic trade war targets close allies like Canada and Europe even while sparing adversaries like Russia — leaving America weaker, more isolated and distrusted around the globe. I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to force the administration to end these taxes before it does irreparable harm to American families and our international leadership role.”  
    “Donald Trump’s reckless agenda will hurt American families, small businesses, and manufacturers,” said Senator Warren. “The Trump tariffs are economic sabotage, and Congress has the power to stop them. Republicans can join Democrats and end this today.” 
    The resolution will be formally filed at a later point, when it will be treated as a privileged resolution that must receive a vote on the Senate floor. Read and download the full text of the resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Demands Answers from Trade Representative on Trump’s Trade War: “This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a contentious Finance Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) demanded answers from U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer on how President Trump’s destructive trade war has created global economic chaos and harmed Vermont businesses, farms, and families. Senator Welch pressed Ambassador Greer on how the Trump Administration’s reckless across-the-board tariffs are undercutting fair competition and creating an ‘access economy’ in which success is determined based on personal relationships with officials in President Trump’s inner circle. 
    “What is being rolled out and the way this is being done is so destructive, and so reckless, and so irresponsible, that it’s creating nothing but economic chaos, uncertainty, and suffering for a lot of people. These are really disastrous for Vermont…” said Senator Welch. “Let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.” 
    Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Ambassador Greer: 
    Read excerpts of their exchange below: 
    Welch: The issue of these tariffs—now the phone is ringing off the hook at the White House from countries wanting to get a break, right? 
    Greer: They want to talk about how to have reciprocal trade with us and how to get that deficit down. 
    Welch: That’s right. So, here’s the structural issue that is really alarming to me, and I hope to all of us. We are using these tariffs—or the President is using these tariffs—from going from an economy that’s based on competition to one that’s based on access. You know, in a competitive economy, your product, your service, determines the outcome and how well you do. In an access economy, it’s who’s got Donald Trump’s number, who’s got your number, who’s got [Commerce Secretary] Lutnick’s number. You call up and you get a break. That’s an access economy. Is this going to be the arbitrary authority of the President to decide: ‘Yes, we’ll cut the Vietnam tariff,’ and ‘No, we’ll sustain the tariff on Lesotho’? 
    Greer: The way this works, Senator, is we have long-standing relationships with trade officials in these foreign countries and they work with our staff, our career staff, and they develop—if someone comes to us with an offer, we review it, we analyze it, and we present it to the President… 
    Welch: They’re calling the President. I mean, you’ve got Donald Trump, as President, basically picking and choosing winners and losers—and who knows on what basis. That’s not a trade regime that anybody can count on. That’s something they can gain if they know you, they know Lutnick, they know Donald Trump…We’ve got farmers on the border with Canada, they get their grain—it’s going to be 25% hit. We’ve got consumers whose electricity bills are going up because of retaliation from Canada. Can they make a call to you, to Howard Lutnick, to the President, and ask for relief? 
    Greer: Well, we certainly talk to all kinds of constituents—we talk to labor unions, we talk to civil society, we talk to business. I would say with Canada and Mexico, they receive duty-free treatment for things that follow the rules of USMCA. If they bring in Chinese content and send it down, they won’t get a break. 
    Welch: Well, let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.
    During Greer’s nomination hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Welch demanded answers on the impact of the trade war on American businesses and consumers and outlined the cost of Trump’s new tariffs for Vermont industries.  
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing President Trump’s destructive trade war. On Tuesday, Senator Welch joined bipartisan colleagues in releasing a resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s chaotic global tariffs. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. Senator Welch has also supported legislation pushing back against Trump’s tariffs, including: 
    The Trade Review Act, bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy and reestablish limits on the President’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress. 
    The Tariff Transparency Act of 2025, legislation to require the United States International Trade Commission to conduct an investigation and submit a report on the impact on businesses in the United States of duties, and the threat of duties, on imports from Mexico and Canada. 
    A Joint Resolution of Disapproval terminating national emergency related to Canadian energy tariffs, passed by the Senate last week on a bipartisan basis. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, Levin Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral CA Delegation Push to Preserve ARCHES Hydrogen Hub Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, Levin Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral CA Delegation Push to Preserve ARCHES Hydrogen Hub Funding

    The network of hydrogen hubs promotes American energy independence, lowers costs for consumers, and creates hundreds of thousands of jobs across California
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.), along with Representatives George Whitesides (D-Calif.-27) and Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49), led a bipartisan, bicameral delegation of 45 lawmakers in urging the Department of Energy (DOE) to preserve funding for hydrogen production hubs, specifically California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES). The letter follows reports that DOE is considering eliminating funding for the development of four hydrogen hubs, including ARCHES.
    These cuts would break existing agreements while leading to significant job losses and a reduction in growth of new energy resources. With federal, private, and state matching funds, ARCHES is projected to create over 200,000 jobs in California and generate more than $2.95 billion annually in economic value by 2030.
    “As bipartisan members of the California delegation, we write with concern about reports that the U.S. Department of Energy is planning to cancel the hydrogen hub award commitment made to California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES),” wrote the lawmakers. “As the administration evaluates existing energy investments and pathways to make energy affordable, we respectfully urge you to continue supporting the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems Hub in California. ARCHES plays a critical role in securing American energy dominance, advancing world-leading energy technology, creating new manufacturing jobs, and lowering energy costs for American families.”
    “The investment is already being used to bring together private industry, local governments, and community organizations to collaborate and build a secure, American-made energy future,” continued the lawmakers. “We view ARCHES as a strategic investment in American energy innovation, an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and energy independence and competitiveness.”
    In addition to Padilla, Schiff, Whitesides, and Levin, the letter was also signed by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.-11) and Representatives Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.-33), Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Ami Bera (D-Calif.-06), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.-26), Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.-24), Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (D-Calif.-31), Lou Correa (D-Calif.-46), Jim Costa (D-Calif.-21), Mark DeSaulnier (D-Calif.-10), Vince Fong (R-Calif.-20), Laura Friedman (D-Calif.-30), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.-34), Adam Gray (D-Calif.-13), Josh Harder (D-Calif.-09), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.-02), Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.-37), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), Young Kim (R-Calif.-40), Sam Liccardo (D-Calif.-16), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18), Doris Matsui (D-Calif.-07), Dave Min (D-Calif.-47), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.-15), Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.-23), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.-19), Scott Peters (D-Calif.-50), Luz Rivas (D-Calif.-29), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25), Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.-38), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.-32), Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.-12), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.-14), Mark Takano (D-Calif.-39), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.-04), Norma Torres (D-Calif.-35), Derek Tran (D-Calif.-45), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22), Juan Vargas (D-Calif.-52), and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43).
    Senator Padilla has been a strong supporter of the development of clean hydrogen power in California. Padilla secured up to $1.2 billion for the ARCHES hydrogen hub from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and sent a letter to former Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm urging the Department of Energy to support ARCHES’ proposal as part of its Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program. Last week, Padilla, Senator Schiff, and 25 other Democratic Senators sounded the alarm on DOE’s “hit list” of key energy projects, demanding Secretary of Energy Chris Wright follow the law and preserve the hydrogen hub program. Padilla also questioned President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Energy on the hit list, highlighting the importance of the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program to “jumpstart” the national hydrogen economy and urging him to protect vital funding for ARCHES.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Wright:
    As bipartisan members of the California delegation, we write with concern about reports that the U.S. Department of Energy is planning to cancel the hydrogen hub award commitment made to California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES). As the administration evaluates existing energy investments and pathways to make energy affordable, we respectfully urge you to continue supporting the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems Hub in California. ARCHES plays a critical role in securing American energy dominance, advancing world-leading energy technology, creating new manufacturing jobs, and lowering energy costs for American families.
    In July 2024, the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) awarded $30 million to the California Hydrogen Hub through the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems to initiate hydrogen hub projects, following its selection as one of seven regional hubs in October 2023. These projects – and the economic growth and American jobs they support – are dispersed across the State of California from the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland to the reservation of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians to Lancaster, California. The investment is already being used to bring together private industry, local governments, and community organizations to collaborate and build a secure, American-made energy future. As California’s Hydrogen Hub, ARCHES anticipates the creation of 220,000 good paying jobs, from research and development (R&D) to manufacturing and maintenance of renewable hydrogen systems. This, in turn, promotes public-private partnerships to expand our STEM workforce.
    We view ARCHES as a strategic investment in American energy innovation, an all-of-the-above energy strategy, and energy independence and competitiveness. With that, we respectfully request that you continue supporting ARCHES and provide time for the California hub and its member organizations to further justify their vital role in meeting the energy goals of the administration.
    Thank you, and we look forward to your response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology Urge Swift Action to Boost Economy, Protect U.S. National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology Urge Swift Action to Boost Economy, Protect U.S. National Security

    Biotech Commission report emphasizes: Emerging biotechnology is key to continued U.S. dominance and securing future economic growth in a new era of global competition
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and the other Commissioners of the bipartisan National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) delivered their major report and action plan, urging Congressional action to bring the full weight of American innovation to improve and maintain U.S. global leadership in biotechnology. Padilla was appointed to serve as a Congressional Commissioner after Congress formed the Commission in the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act.
    For decades, the United States has been the global leader in biotechnology innovation. Today’s Commission report found that the United States is dangerously close to falling behind China. The Commission reports that the United States’ growing dependence on China for numerous critical supply chain elements is a national security vulnerability. Biotechnology is key to increasing supply chain security, resilience, and scalability by allowing the United States to control its own access to critical components.
    “Biotechnology holds immense potential to transform numerous key sectors of our economy and will create good-paying jobs at all skill levels in agriculture, health care, defense, industrial manufacturing, and more. I am proud to be part of this commission that is ensuring the United States maintains our national security and economic competitive advantages as biotechnology grows across industries,” said Senator Padilla.
    “The United States is locked in a competition with China that will define the coming century. Biotechnology is the next phase in that competition. It is no longer constrained to the realm of scientific achievement. It is now an imperative for national security, economic power, and global influence. Biotechnology can ensure our warfighters continue to be the strongest fighting force on tomorrow’s battlefields, and reshore supply chains while revitalizing our manufacturing sector, creating jobs here at home,” said Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.).
    The Commission found that emerging biotechnology is rapidly advancing, and the impact of biotechnology innovation already extends far beyond health, touching industries from agriculture and infrastructure to manufacturing and defense. The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology is accelerating this impact.
    The Commission also reported that biotechnology will drive the next wave of battlefield innovation and will be used to secure supply chains, enhance readiness, streamline logistics, improve resilience, and counter biological threats before they emerge.
    Furthermore, the Commission assessed that the future of American biotechnology leadership requires strategic federal action that encourages innovation by spurring private investment. This includes targeted investments and strategic government reforms to reduce regulatory bottlenecks.
    In addition to Senators Padilla and Young, the bipartisan Commission includes Representatives Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.-05) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.-17), as well as outside experts.
    “As emerging technologies transform the national security landscape, both the United States and our adversaries are gaining new capabilities. The United States must take the lead in biotechnology and propel us ahead of China in the 21st century,” said Representative Bice.
    “We must embolden the best and brightest in biotechnology to innovate boldly. American ingenuity is stifled by outdated regulations in this sector. Only Congress can open the door to the American-led biotechnological future,” said Representative Khanna.
    “Technology is not inherently good or bad, but who uses it matters. Biotechnology can have tremendous potential for good or tremendous potential for harm. The Chinese government has made biotechnology a strategic national priority for 20 years. The U.S. must reassert our global leadership to remedy this strategic weakness. We must be the ones driving the standards for how biotechnology is developed and used,” said NSCEB Vice Chair Dr. Michelle Rozo.
    The Commission’s report laid out six pillars for action and makes 49 recommendations. Full details can be found here.
    Pillar 1: Prioritize biotechnology at the national level
    Pillar 2: Mobilize the private sector to get U.S. products to scale
    Pillar 3: Maximize the benefits of biotechnology for defense
    Pillar 4: Out-innovate our strategic competitors
    Pillar 5: Build the biotechnology workforce of the future
    Pillar 6: Mobilize the collective strengths of our allies and partners
    Last year, Senators Padilla and Young introduced a bipartisan package of bills focused on protecting America’s food security and agricultural supply chains, which are critical to U.S. national security. Padilla also announced the Commission’s first round of findings and recommendations for policymakers in an interim report outlining the promise of biotechnology for U.S. national security and economic competitiveness and growth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Leads Push to Stop Sharing of Sensitive Data on Unaccompanied Children for Immigration Enforcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Leads Push to Stop Sharing of Sensitive Data on Unaccompanied Children for Immigration Enforcement

    Senators: “We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, led seven Senators in sounding the alarm on troubling reports that the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has unlawfully granted expanded access to sensitive data on unaccompanied children and their sponsors to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Senators raised serious concerns that ICE could misuse this confidential information to enact mass deportations and detain immigrant families and demanded DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. immediately cease this misguided practice.
    Under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA), ORR maintains sensitive information about unaccompanied children and their sponsors, including the immigration status of household members, but this information is not meant to be shared for immigration enforcement purposes.
    “Sharing of this information is subject to strict limits under several federal and state laws, regulations, and ORR policies in recognition of the severe harms to children and families that may follow from unauthorized use and disclosure,” wrote the Senators. “Reports that additional ICE personnel may now access ORR’s database raise serious questions about the authority and purpose for such use.”
    “We are deeply concerned that broad and unlawful information sharing practices may be renewed, with dire consequences for children’s safety, rights, and the fair administration of justice,” continued the Senators. “Therefore, we request that you provide detailed information regarding the purpose, nature, and authority for any expanded information sharing between ORR and ICE. We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.”
    Specifically, ORR’s confidential database contains information such as counseling notes, mental health information, and medical records, as well as private records of children’s trauma, physical and sexual abuse, and other harms they have experienced. The files also have detailed data about sponsors and other household members, which can include information about immigration status.
    Under the previous Trump Administration, ORR and ICE entered into a Memorandum of Agreement giving ICE similar data access, which ICE used to conduct immigration enforcement against sponsors. This harmful ICE arrangement resulted in many children being forced into prolonged stays in ORR custody due to fear among sponsors to come forward.
    In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter was also signed by Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).
    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. Padilla blasted the Trump Administration’s stop work order to organizations that provide legal services for unaccompanied children and demanded they protect Congressionally mandated legal representation for these children in the immigration system. He also recently cosponsored Senator Hirono’s Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025, which would provide unaccompanied children with legal representation when they appear in proceedings before an immigration judge.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Kennedy and Secretary Noem:
    We write in response to alarming reports that the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has authorized expanded access by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to an ORR database containing information about unaccompanied children and their sponsors.
    In the exercise of its responsibilities under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA) to provide for unaccompanied children’s care and placement, ORR maintains significant and often deeply sensitive information about children and their sponsors. Sharing of this information is subject to strict limits under several federal and state laws, regulations, and ORR policies in recognition of the severe harms to children and families that may follow from unauthorized use and disclosure. Reports that additional ICE personnel may now access ORR’s database raise serious questions about the authority and purpose for such use.
    ORR’s confidential case files include information ranging from counseling notes, mental health information, medical records, to information about incidents that may occur in care. Children’s files may include sensitive details about trauma, physical and sexual abuse, and other harm that a child has experienced in their country of origin, during their journey, or even while in government custody. ORR also maintains information and documentation about sponsors and other household members as part of the Family Reunification Application completed by potential sponsors. This may include information about immigration status.
    With limited exceptions, this information must be kept confidential and released by ORR only to individuals or entities providing appropriate authorization and documentation. Although ORR shares information with relevant ICE personnel in limited circumstances, like in the case of a child who is absent from or has been transferred out of a facility and in certain other instances relating to child safety, it generally requires the Department of Homeland Security, like other investigative agencies, to make a formal case file request detailing the scope of any relevant investigation and/or providing a warrant, court order, or subpoena to seek case file information. Further, consistent with prior congressional directives and outlined in ORR’s Policy Guide and the ORR Unaccompanied Children Program Foundational Rule, ORR “shall not share any immigration status information relating to potential sponsors with any law enforcement or immigration enforcement related entity at any time.”
    It is unclear what information ICE personnel will now be able to view and how broadly such information may be being shared. The potential for ICE personnel to maintain access to the full database at any time is particularly troubling, and it is especially disconcerting in light of recent reports that ICE will be implementing a multi-phased enforcement initiative against unaccompanied children and their families in the coming weeks that could potentially result in the placement of hundreds of thousands of children into removal proceedings and/or in family detention. Past information sharing during the prior Trump Administration resulted in harmful impacts for children and their families. With the recent issuance of an Interim Final Rule aimed at revoking the Foundational Rule’s provisions limiting information sharing, we are especially concerned about a repeat of harmful impacts for children and their families.
    In April 2018, ORR and DHS signed a Memorandum of Agreement providing for continuous information sharing about unaccompanied children from the time they arrived through release. Based on this information, ICE undertook enforcement actions against sponsors of unaccompanied children, which resulted in many children being left without potential sponsors, who had either been apprehended by ICE or declined to come forward to sponsor children in ORR custody out of fear of interacting with the federal government. Children spent longer periods in ORR custody, leading many to experience distress, compounding their previous trauma. Information sharing also resulted in new government inefficiencies and costs, as the number of children in care steadily increased and releases were stymied.
    The use of ORR’s child welfare functions to promote immigration enforcement were not only unlawful, but put children at greater risk of trafficking and exploitation. In response, Congress enacted critical directives to prevent ORR’s sharing of non-essential case information and children’s mental health records for immigration enforcement, and the 2018 Memorandum of Agreement was ultimately terminated.
    We are deeply concerned that broad and unlawful information sharing practices may be renewed, with dire consequences for children’s safety, rights, and the fair administration of justice. Therefore, we request that you provide detailed information regarding the purpose, nature, and authority for any expanded information sharing between ORR and ICE. We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.
    We look forward to your immediate response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Send Letter Urging Governors to Comply with President Trump’s Executive Order Protecting Women’s Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in sending a letter urging states to adhere to President Trump’s Executive Order and keep men out of women’s sports. While states like Alabama have taken decisive action to protect women’s sports, many governors have yet to do so, jeopardizing a fair playing field for female athletes.

    “State-level action is vital to ensure America’s female athletes receive the same assurance of fairness nationwide. We applaud the many states that have answered the call and taken meaningful action to support President Trump’s Executive Order. These efforts demonstrate a clear commitment to fairness, safety, and the future of women’s sports. However, it is imperative that every state step up to enforce these commonsense protections for female athletes,” wrote the senators. “Allowing biological men to compete in women’s categories directly undermines the opportunities and safety of our female athletes. We urge the states that have not yet taken action to safeguard the integrity of women’s sports to take the necessary steps to align with President Trump’s Executive Order immediately. The safety of women and girls in sports cannot be guaranteed as long as states continue to delay and obstruct the enforcement of this Executive Order.”

    Read the full letter to the National Governors Association here.

    BACKGROUND:

    During President Biden’s administration, more than 900 women lost medals to men competing in women’s sports. The issue of men in girls’ and women’s sports proved to be one of the top concerns of voters during the 2024 Presidential Election. A recent New York Times (NYT) poll found 79% of respondents said men should not be allowed to participate in women’s sports. This is a bipartisan issue—the same recent NYT poll found that 67% of Democrats agree that male athletes shouldn’t be allowed in women’s sports.

    In February, President Trump signed a historic Executive Order banning men from competing in women’s sports. President Trump has spoken about the need to keep men out of women’s sports on multiple occasions.

    Unfortunately, Executive Orders can be reversed. That’s why on Monday, March 3, 2025, the Senate voted on Senator Tuberville’s bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would make President Trump’s Executive Order permanent. 45 Democrats voted to block the bill from proceeding. 

    Earlier this year, Senator Tuberville also introduced a bill to ban men from competing in women’s U.S. Olympic sports, following USA Boxing’s announcement that it would allow men to box against women.

    Senator Tuberville has vowed to continue fighting until women’s rights to compete fairly and safely are protected.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Rogers Lead Effort to Expand the Talladega National Forest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    Legislation would strengthen conservation efforts and boost tourism in the area.

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL-03) in introducing the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act. The Talladega National Forest Expansion Act would expand the proclamation boundary of the Talladega National Forest by approximately 50,000 acres in three counties in East Alabama. This bill gives the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) the authority to purchase land from willing sellers—stimulating the local economies and promoting conservation in the surrounding areas.

    Alabama’s premiere hiking trail, the Pinhoti Trail System, would be greatly enhanced upon the USFS acquirement of these acres.

    “The Talladega National Forest is one of many reasons to visit Alabama,” said Sen. Tuberville. “From beaches to mountains to forests to lakes, we truly have it all in our state. But we have to make sure we take the right steps to conserve our resources. By expanding the proclamation boundary, we will boost tourism in surrounding towns and keep the forest beautiful for years to come. I’m thankful to be working with Rep. Rogers to expand the Forest’s boundaries and ensure continued economic and agricultural prosperity in our great state.”

    “I was glad to join Coach Tuberville in this effort to allow the expansion of the boundary of the Talladega National Forest by 50,000 acres,” said Rep. Rogers. “The proposed expansion to complete the southern portion of the Pinhoti Trail will provide a large boost to our local outdoor tourism industry. I was glad to work closely with our local leaders on this legislation and am hopeful to see an undivided Pinhoti Trail in the near future.”

    “The Alabama Trails Foundation applauds the leadership of Senator Tuberville and Congressman Rogers in introducing this important legislation,” said Paul DeMarco, President, Alabama Trails Foundation. “The expansion of the Talladega National Forest represents a legacy of commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation. It lays the foundation for making the Pinhoti Trail an even more popular destination and positions east Alabama to continue growing an outdoor recreation economy into a powerhouse that spotlights the importance of Alabama’s natural resources.”

    Talladega County Commission, Coosa County Commission, Clay County Commission, and Alabama Trails Foundation have endorsed this legislation.

    Read full text of the legislation here. 

    BACKGROUND:

    The Talladega National Forest was established in 1936 with two distinct proclamation boundaries: the Oakmulgee Division and the Talladega Division. Currently, the Talladega Division has a proclamation covering 400,000 acres with roughly 200,000 acres under ownership by the U.S. government. Since its establishment, the proclaimed boundary of the Talladega National Forest has been adjusted nine times, most recently in the 1990 Farm Bill.

    The Pinhoti Trail, part of the Talladega National Forest, is Alabama’s longest-distance hiking trail. Currently, the trail is interrupted by 15 miles of road walks between its southernmost portions. This legislation would allow those lands to be acquired by the USFS, improve trail maintenance efforts, and improve hiker safety by transforming the 15-miles of road walks into off-road trails.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Responding to the changing education system | Pour réagir à l’évolution du système d’éducation

    [. These changes would reflect the wide range of programming that private schools offer, strengthen democratic accountability in school boards and increase clarity and efficiency in the teacher discipline process. If passed, the act would also align school board and francophone school boards’ joint use and planning agreement requirements with their municipal partners. Finally, changes to the Education Act would allow displaced Jasper residents to vote and run in school board elections.

    “We are committed to a strong and reactive education system that meets the needs of students, teachers and communities. These proposed changes would respond to the ever-changing education landscape and the feedback we received from Albertans and education partners.”

    Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education

    Language change in legislation

    Proposed changes to the Education Act would change the term ‘private school’ to ‘independent school’ throughout legislation to reflect the wide range of programming and school choice independent schools provide for Alberta families. This proposed change is a result of feedback from the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta.

    “The Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta wishes to express its sincere gratitude for this change in language. The shift to the term ‘independent school’ more accurately reflects the reality that while our schools operate under independent school authorities, they are part of the collective system of education in Alberta. We welcome this adoption of more inclusive language that will bring us into alignment with our neighboring provinces.”

    John Jagersma, executive director, Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta

    Stronger democratic accountability

    Proposed changes would strengthen democratic accountability by removing the ability of school boards or francophone school boards to disqualify an elected trustee over code of conduct breaches, leaving those decisions in the hands of voters. These changes are proposed based on feedback from the public and education partners and would align with the Municipal Government Act.

    Improving the teacher discipline process

    Proposed changes to the Education Act would improve clarity and efficiency in the teacher discipline process by:

    • Allowing administrators to delegate reporting requirements and other complainant roles.
    • Eliminating duplicate reporting requirements to decrease administrative burden.
    • Enabling administrators to be informed about ongoing complaints when a teacher, principal or assistant principal becomes employed by a different school authority.
    • Clarifying that the chair of the hearing committee may apply to the court for an order of compliance when necessary.

    Additionally, changes to the Education Act would introduce a $250 fee for complainant appeals, which would be refundable if the appeal is successful.

    Clarifying joint use and planning agreements

    School boards and francophone school boards won’t have to enter joint use and planning agreements with municipalities that are exempt from this requirement by Municipal Affairs. The minister of education will have similar regulatory powers as the minister of municipal affairs, allowing them to set criteria, requirements and exemptions for joint use agreements. These changes are based on feedback from municipalities, school boards and francophone school boards to ensure better consistency and cooperation between education and municipal partners.

    “These changes pave the way for stronger collaboration and local flexibility, helping schools and communities thrive together. Empowering both education and municipal partners ensures smarter planning for the future.”

    Mike McMann, superintendent, Fort Vermilion School Division

    Ensuring voting rights for displaced Jasper residents

    Proposed changes to the Education Act would align with planned changes to the Local Authorities Election Act to ensure that Jasper residents displaced by the July 2024 wildfires can vote and run as candidates in the 2025 and 2026 school board and francophone school board elections.

    Changes to school property ownership

    The Education Act would also be changed to enable Alberta Infrastructure to own new kindergarten to Grade 12 schools and playgrounds and lease them to school boards, francophone school boards and charter schools for operation and maintenance.

     “Our priority is to ensure Alberta’s students have access as soon as possible to the state-of-the-art facilities they need to learn and succeed. The proposed changes would modernize public property management, enhancing accountability and transparency with public assets like new schools.”

    Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure

    Quick facts:

    • If passed, changes related to private school terminology, teacher discipline and joint use and planning agreements would come into effect upon proclamation.
    • If passed, amendments related to trustee accountability would come into effect on the day following the next local authorities’ general election, in October 2025.
    • Changes related to voting rights for Jasper residents would come into effect with the changes in Municipal Affairs’ Local Authorities Election Act that are part of Municipal Affairs’ Elections Statutes Amendment Act planned for spring 2025.
    • Changes related to school property ownership would come into effect at the same time as the Appropriation Act, 2025.

    Related information

    • Strengthening Alberta’s education system
    • Bill 51: Education Amendment Act, 2025

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    Les modifications proposées à l’Education Act répondraient aux changements survenus dans le système d’éducation et donneraient suite aux commentaires de la population albertaine.

    Si le projet de loi est adopté, l’Education Amendment Act 2025 donnerait suite aux commentaires émis par les parents et les partenaires en éducation. Ces modifications reflèteraient la vaste gamme de programmes offerts par les écoles privées, renforceraient la responsabilité démocratique des conseils scolaires et amélioreraient l’efficacité et la clarté du processus disciplinaire des enseignants. La loi, si elle est adoptée, harmoniserait également les exigences relatives aux ententes d’utilisation conjointe et de planification (joint use and planning agreements) conclues par les autorités scolaires et les autorités scolaires francophones avec celles de leurs partenaires municipaux. Finalement, les modifications à l’Education Act permettraient aux résidents déplacés de Jasper de voter et de se faire élire lors des élections scolaires.

    « Nous nous engageons à offrir un système d’éducation solide et réactif qui réponde aux besoins des élèves, des enseignants et des communautés. Les modifications proposées permettraient de s’adapter au paysage éducatif en constante évolution et donneraient suite aux commentaires que nous avons reçus des Albertains et des partenaires en éducation. »

    Demetrios Nicolaides, ministre de l’Éducation

    Changer le vocabulaire dans la législation

    Les modifications proposées à l’Education Act permettraient de remplacer le terme « private school » (école privée) par « independent school » (école indépendante) dans l’ensemble de la législation afin de refléter le choix d’écoles et le large éventail de programmes qu’offrent les écoles indépendantes aux familles albertaines. Cette proposition de modification fait suite aux commentaires formulés par l’Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta.

    « L’Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta tient à exprimer sa profonde gratitude pour ce changement de vocabulaire. L’utilisation du terme “école indépendante” reflète plus fidèlement la réalité : bien que nos écoles soient gérées par des autorités scolaires indépendantes, elles font partie du système collectif d’éducation de l’Alberta. Nous saluons l’adoption d’un langage plus inclusif qui nous permettra d’avoir un vocabulaire semblable à celui utilisé par nos provinces voisines. »

    John Jagersma, directeur général, Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta

    Accroitre la responsabilisation démocratique

    Les modifications proposées renforceraient la responsabilisation démocratique en retirant la capacité des conseils scolaires ou des conseils scolaires francophones de disqualifier un conseiller scolaire élu en raison de manquements au code de conduite, laissant cette décision entre les mains des électeurs. Ces modifications ont été proposées pour faire suite aux commentaires du public et des partenaires en éducation et elles permettraient d’harmoniser la loi avec la Municipal Governance Act.

    Améliorer le processus disciplinaire des enseignants

    Les modifications proposées à l’Education Act clarifieraient le processus disciplinaire des enseignants et le rendraient plus efficace :

    • en permettant aux administrateurs de déléguer à une autre personne le rôle de répondre aux exigences en matière de rapports et d’autres rôles de plaignant;
    • en éliminant les exigences redondantes en matière de rapports afin de réduire le fardeau administratif;
    • en autorisant les administrateurs à être informés des plaintes en cours contre un enseignant ou un leadeur scolaire quand celui-ci devient l’employé d’une autre autorité scolaire;
    • en précisant le fait que la présidence du comité d’audience peut demander au tribunal une ordonnance d’observation, si nécessaire.

    De plus, ces modifications à l’Education Act imposeraient des frais de 250 dollars pour toute demande d’appel d’un plaignant. Ces frais seraient toutefois remboursés si l’appel est accueilli.

    Clarifier les ententes d’utilisation conjointe et de planification

    Les autorités scolaires et les autorités scolaires francophones ne seront plus tenues de conclure des ententes d’utilisation conjointe et de planification (joint use and planning agreements) avec les municipalités qui sont exemptées de cette exigence par le ministère des Affaires municipales. Le ministre de l’Éducation aura des pouvoirs réglementaires similaires à ceux du ministre des Affaires municipales, ce qui leur permettra d’établir des critères, des exigences et des exemptions pour les ententes d’utilisation conjointe. Ces modifications donnent suite aux commentaires des municipalités, des autorités scolaires et des autorités régionales francophones visant une plus grande uniformité et une meilleure collaboration entre les partenaires éducatifs et municipaux.

    « Ces modifications ouvrent la voie à une collaboration renforcée et à une plus grande flexibilité à l’échelle locale, ce qui aidera les écoles et les communautés à s’épanouir ensemble. En autonomisant les partenaires éducatifs et municipaux, on favorise une meilleure planification à l’avenir. »

    Mike McMann, directeur général, Fort Vermilion School Division

    Protéger le droit de vote des résidents déplacés de Jasper

    Les modifications proposées à l’Education Act seraient harmonisées avec les modifications prévues à la Local Authorities Election Act afin que les résidents de Jasper qui ont été déplacés en raison des feux de forêt de juillet 2024 puissent voter et se porter candidats lors des élections scolaires 2025 et 2026, incluant celles des autorités scolaires francophones.

    Apporter des changements au droit de propriété des écoles

    L’Education Act serait également modifiée pour permettre au ministère de l’Infrastructure de devenir propriétaire des nouveaux bâtiments et terrains de jeux scolaires (maternelle à 12e année) et de les louer aux autorités scolaires, aux autorités scolaires francophones et aux écoles à charte pour qu’elles en assurent le fonctionnement et l’entretien.

    « Notre priorité est de s’assurer que les élèves albertains ont accès le plus rapidement possible aux installations de pointe dont ils ont besoin pour apprendre et réussir. Les modifications proposées permettraient de moderniser la gestion des biens publics, tout en renforçant la responsabilisation et la transparence pour les biens publics tels que les nouvelles écoles. »

    Martin Long, ministre de l’Infrastructure

    En bref

    • Si elles sont adoptées, les modifications concernant l’utilisation du terme « independent school », le processus disciplinaire des enseignants et les ententes d’utilisation conjointe et de planification entreraient en vigueur au moment de leur proclamation.
    • Si elles sont adoptées, les modifications relatives à l’imputabilité des conseillers scolaires entreraient en vigueur le jour suivant les prochaines élections générales scolaires, en octobre 2025.
    • Les modifications concernant le droit de vote des résidents déplacés de Jasper entreraient en vigueur avec celles proposées à la Local Authorities Election Act par le ministère des Affaires municipales qui font partie de l’Elections Statutes Amendment Act dont l’entrée en vigueur est prévue au printemps 2025.
    • Les modifications relatives au droit de propriété des écoles entreraient en vigueur en même temps que l’Appropriation Act, 2025 (loi de crédits).

    Renseignements connexes (en anglais seulement)

    • Strengthening Alberta’s education system
    • Projet de loi 51, Education Amendment Act 2025

    Multimédia (en anglais seulement)

    • Regarder la conférence de presse

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik, Wittman’s FACT Act Advances through Committee Following Markup

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

    Stefanik, Wittman’s FACT Act Advances through Committee Following Markup | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brazilian Man Who Entered U.S. Illegally Charged With Forcibly Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, Impeding, Intimidating, and Interfering with Federal Officer Who Had Taken Him Into Custody

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Previously Had Been Arrested and Jailed in Philadelphia, Including for Separate Allegations of Strangulation and Assaulting a Law Enforcement Officer, and Was Released From Local Custody Despite ICE Detainer

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Enmanuel Fernandes-Calixto, aka “Emanuel Fernandes” and “Emanuel Bartholomew,” 20, a citizen of Brazil with no legal status in the United States, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with forcibly assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, and interfering with an officer of the United States while engaged in the performance of his official duties. The defendant has been ordered detained in federal custody pending indictment and trial.

    The criminal complaint alleges that on or about April 2, 2025, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Officer arrested Fernandes-Calixto for immigration violations. During transport, the defendant attempted to escape. The defendant, while still handcuffed, attempted to strike the officer in the face and pushed the officer. The defendant ultimately escaped during the struggle and hid in a house in Northeast Philadelphia. He was apprehended later that evening, with the assistance of the Philadelphia Police Department SWAT team.

    The complaint further alleges that Fernandes-Calixto, after entering the United States illegally and on release from immigration detention, violated his conditions of release when he was arrested for other offenses in Philadelphia, including separate cases charging strangulation and related offenses; and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and related offenses, from alleged incidents in August of 2024. Those local charges are still pending.

    As detailed in court filings, despite the existence of an ICE detainer, the defendant was released from Philadelphia custody in March of 2025.

    The case is being investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: U.S. Trade Rep Jamieson Greer’s Opening Statement on President Trump’s Tariff Policy

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

    “The American working class in particular,
    has suffered concentrated losses…the President recognizes the urgency of the moment.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuYvzP8yICE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Questions Trump Trade Head on Tariffs That Have ‘Wreaked Havoc on the Economy’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.08.25

    Cantwell Questions Trump Trade Head on Tariffs That Have ‘Wreaked Havoc on the Economy’

    In committee hearing, USTR Jamieson Greer said Trump not backing off tariffs that caused global markets to plummet; Last Thursday, Cantwell introduced a bipartisan bill that would reassert Congress’ role in setting & overseeing U.S. trade policy; In less than a week, her legislation has picked up 12 new cosponsors, half Ds and half Rs, & received endorsement from world’s largest retail trade org

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, pressed United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the administration’s slapdash implementation of sweeping tariffs without sufficient input or accountability to Congress.

    Prior to President Trump’s implementation of the tariffs, there was no formal bipartisan briefing of Congress detailing how the tariff rates were set, analyzing on how they might impact the American economy, or even communicating what the White House was aiming to accomplish.

    “What did the Trump administration do to prepare [Congress], to communicate with us, to tell us about findings as it relates to these emergency orders by the President?” Sen. Cantwell asked during a hearing today in the Senate Finance Committee.

    “Our staff, the USTR staff, in the in the past two months that we’ve been in office, have had over 200 formal engagements with staff on the Hill,” Greer responded. “We also had the President issue very publicly his America First trade policy memorandum, which specifically said that he was going to look into the trade deficit and the possibilities of tariffs.”

    Cantwell responded: “So, we’ve wreaked havoc on the economy by having one of the largest drops of the market. We have people’s 401(k)s, in panic. We have retail organizations, like the retail industry, National Retail Federation, American Apparel Industry, Outdoor Association, Consumer Technology, Computer and Communications Industry, Main Street Alliance, Small Business Majority, all anxious, asking us to do something. And you’re saying, ‘Well, some people have passed some notes to staff.’”

    She continued: “We should be building alliances as a way to counter China, but the alliance building process now will become harder, and people are going to wonder, well, is the United States going to pull another fast one again and just wreak havoc?”

    Greer said the United States has seen “many times in past decades when we have had real robust trade disputes with our partners.”

    Sen. Cantwell responded: “I’m for trade. I represent trade. I represent a trade economy. I represent the success of what innovation and trade gets you. But you’re coming here this morning with this, not only tanking of the market and 401(k)s, now you’re coming here telling me that tariff is the tool. And I’m telling you — innovation is the tool!”

    The bill has since picked up 12 additional cosponsors – an equal mix of Republicans and Democrats – and been endorsed by multiple major U.S. business organizations, including the National Retail Federation, which is the largest retail trade association in the world.

    In addition, a bipartisan group has introduced a companion version of Sen. Cantwell’s legislation in the House of Representatives, also cosponsored by equal numbers of Republicans and Democrats.

    The bill restores Congress’ authority and responsibility over tariffs as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution by placing the following limits on the president’s power to impose tariffs:

    • To enact a new tariff, the president must notify Congress of the imposition of (or increase in) the tariff within 48 hours.
      • The Congressional notification must include an explanation of the president’s reasoning for imposing or raising the tariff, and
      • Provide analysis of potential impact on American businesses and consumers.
    • Within 60 days, Congress must pass a joint resolution of approval on the new tariff, otherwise all new tariffs on imports expire after that deadline.
    • Under the bill, Congress has the ability to end tariffs at any time by passing a resolution of disapproval.
    • Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are excluded.

    The full bill text is available HERE.

    For the past three months, President Trump has been sowing economic chaos across the country with unpredictable and ever-changing tariff announcements. His back-and-forth announcements and actions, which have whipsawed American businesses and consumers, as well as close neighbors and allies, include:

    • On January 31 –  citing punishment for failing to crack down on fentanyl trafficking — the Trump administration announced plans to impose a 25% tax on many goods imported into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tax on goods imported from China, then abruptly postponed those tariffs.
    • In February, he doubled down, announcing an additional 25% tax on all steel and aluminum imports.
    • At 12:01 a.m. ET on March 4, President Trump’s long-promised 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada and 10% tariff increase on goods from China took effect, causing stock prices in the United States to plummet.
    • Then, on March 5, he announced that automobiles from Canada and Mexico would be exempt from his tariffs for one month.
    • The morning of March 6, he announced that he would suspend the tariffs for some products from Mexico. Then, later that same afternoon, he announced he was suspending most new tariffs on products from both Mexico and Canada until April 2.
    • On March 11, Trump threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum – increasing them to 50% –  before reversing himself later the same day.
    • On March 13, he threatened 200% tariffs on alcoholic products from the European Union, including all wine and Champagne.
    • On March 27, he announced plans to impose a 25% tax on all imported sedans, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, cargo vans, and light trucks, as well as some auto parts, beginning on April 2.
    • On March 29, President Trump said, “I couldn’t care less,” if automakers raise the price of cars in response to his tariffs.
    • On April 2, he announced a “National Economic Emergency,” and signed an executive order declaring a 10% minimum baseline tariff on all countries as well as additional tariffs on nearly 60 countries.
    • On April 7, he threatened to impose an additional 50% tariff on China.

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s Q&A with Greer today is available HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 22 Colleagues Demand Answers On Abrupt Firing Of NSA Leaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 08, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 22 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to President Donald Trump regarding the firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble.

    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the senators wrote. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”

    The senators warned that ending the dual-hat arrangement—where one officer leads both NSA and CYBERCOM—could seriously undermine U.S. national security: “Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    The senators requested written justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear President Trump,

    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.

    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.

    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Jersey Man Sentenced for Prescription Opioid Conspiracy

    Source: US State of California

    A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a highly addictive controlled substance.  

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and March 2023, Chris Ruediger, 61, of Pennsauken, purchased prescription oxycodone pills from a relative and sold them to another relative involved in unlawfully distributing oxycodone. Ruediger admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 kilograms of opioids by converted drug weight. Ruediger also admitted that he attempted to obstruct the investigation by attempting to persuade one of his co-conspirators not to talk with law enforcement.

    In November 2024, Ruediger pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division.

    Trial Attorneys Paul J. Koob and Nicholas K. Peone of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube and Hill Introduce Catch-Up Act)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    April 08, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and French Hill (R-Ark.) today introduced the Catch-Up Act to expand eligibility for individuals to make catch-up contributions to the Health Savings Accounts of their spouse.
    Under current law, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are limited to the individual, their spouse, and their immediate family. While individuals are permitted to make catch-up contributions to their own respective HSA, married individuals younger than 55 years old are barred from making catch-up contributions to the HSA of their spouse. As a result, millions of Americans are denied the full benefits of investing in an HSA.
    The Catch-Up Act will relax this rule to permit families to invest more of their savings into HSAs through catch-up contributions. By allowing all married individuals to make catch-up contributions to their spouse’s HSA, families will have more financial security and freedom to respond to medical costs.
    “Health Savings Accounts have expanded access for millions of Americans to the quality healthcare their families deserve. However, existing laws have hamstrung the ability of families to respond to healthcare emergencies with pointless regulations blocking individuals from utilizing their HSA to cover a loved one’s medical expenses. It only makes sense for us to build upon the success of HSAs with a focus on family economics and freedom,” said Rep. Steube. “My bill with Congressman Hill will allow Americans to make catch-up contributions to their spouse’s HSA, ensuring financial security and better healthcare outcomes by expanding freedom.”
    “Health savings accounts are a smart way for families to plan for medical expenses, but the current rules do not reflect how real families make decisions and manage daily life. Right now, spouses can use their HSA to pay for each other’s medical care, but they cannot make catch-up contributions to each other’s accounts. It is a ridiculous rule that needs to be changed,” said Rep. Hill. “We need to give Americans the flexibility to plan, save, and make health care decisions that work for their families. That is why I am glad to partner with Representative Steube on this commonsense fix that will make it easier for families to support each other and take control of both their health and their finances.”
    Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Bringing manufacturing back from overseas isn’t an easy solution to Trump’s trade war

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    Shutterstock

    The past week has seen the United States single-handedly rewrite the underlying paradigm for global trade. And while it is fair to say that the methods are extreme, the underlying goal of the policy is not unique to the US.

    Indeed, the push to support, and expand, domestic manufacturing through policy intervention is experiencing a resurgence not seen since the 1970s.

    Many people believe the COVID pandemic exposed weaknesses in global supply chains. In reality, the pandemic simply accelerated an existing trend of slowing of integration.

    Growing concerns around trade wars and risks from climate shock existed prior to COVID with both policymakers and firms rethinking globalisation strategies.

    Countries were also becoming concerned about the manufacturing dominance of China and the potential weaponisation of economic activity.

    The risks of rising concentration

    The expansion of international trade has led to massive efficiencies in production.

    But it has also led to concentration of certain sectors in certain regions. Examples include software development in Silicon Valley, semiconductor manufacturing in Taiwan and critical minerals processing in China.

    The Apple campus in Silicon Valley: no other country has been able to match the tech hub.
    Shutterstock

    This geographic concentration started to raise concerns for many countries. Reasons include climate events disrupting supply chains, pandemics and increasingly, geopolitical concerns.

    In response to the rise in economic concentration, countries as diverse as Japan, South Korea, the European Union, India, Brazil and the US introduced policy actions to promote or return certain critical sectors to domestic production.

    Australia’s Future Made In Australia plan is a prime example of this.

    Trade disruptions

    Even before the Trump tariffs, the US and other countries were alarmed by China’s control over key manufacturing sectors, and its associated ability to disrupt trade and commerce.

    Australia experienced this first-hand when China imposed significant tariffs on wine and barley in response to Australia’s call for a COVID inquiry.

    China’s willingness to use its economic position was demonstrated on Friday when it announced not just retaliatory tariffs, but export restrictions on seven categories of rare earth minerals. These are critical to strategic US sectors affecting companies like Apple and defence contractor Lockheed Martin.

    Government support on the rise

    This shift to increased economic resilience through self-reliance has led to a big surge in government intervention through industrial policies.

    The objective of industrial policy is to target certain sectors in order to change the structure of economic activity within a country. It uses government policy to promote investment in sectors deemed under-served by markets.

    While all countries have used some level of industrial policy, historically it was mainly confined to developing economies. It has been used sparingly since the 1970s. Between 2009 and 2017, the total number of industrial policies used by countries was less than 200.

    Between 2017 and 2023 the use of industrial policy increased nine-fold. In 2023, there were roughly 2,500 industrial policy interventions put in place with two-thirds introduced by advanced economies. Almost 48% were concentrated in three: China, the EU and the US.

    Intervening in markets

    Generally, industrial policy has been out of favour with mainstream economists. It is very hard to get right as it relies on an in-depth knowledge of industries as well as an ability to predict the future.

    Providing funding for one sector means less funding available for others. This could undermine new technologies or other as-yet unseen opportunities. It involves shifting resources from existing, efficient uses to less efficient uses.

    It rarely works. A prime example are the many countries that have spent billions of dollars trying to recreate a domestic Silicon Valley with no success.

    However, Trump is trying to do just that, on an economy-wide scale, mainly through tariffs. The tariffs announced also imply the US will go it alone. The approach takes fragmentation to a new level, where bilateral negotiations are the name of the game.

    Shifting global alliances

    Meanwhile the response from other nations such as Canada, Southeast Asian economies and even Europe, is to diversify and form new alliances without the US.

    Indeed, the Canadian Prime Minister’s first trip overseas was not, as tradition dictates, to the US, but to Europe and the UK, whom he dubbed “reliable” partners.

    Becoming more isolated and pushing other countries to China may not be what the US intends, but it is happening.

    Last week, Japan and South Korea announced a joint strategy with China to promote regional trade. The EU’s trade representative went to Beijing shortly after the tariff announcement where the two nations announced plans to “deepen trade and investment” ties.

    The risks of highly integrated supply chains in the face of security concerns, or changes in a trading partner’s domestic policy, have become glaringly clear.

    How countries choose to address these concerns, especially through the widespread use of industrial policy, will create further disruption to markets. While it is considered politically expedient for security concerns, this will raise prices and limit choice in domestic markets. As the old adage reminds us, there is no free lunch.

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

    – ref. Bringing manufacturing back from overseas isn’t an easy solution to Trump’s trade war – https://theconversation.com/bringing-manufacturing-back-from-overseas-isnt-an-easy-solution-to-trumps-trade-war-253744

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra, LaHood Introduce Legislation to Build More Affordable Housing in Rural Communities and Nationwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Darin LaHood (R-IL) – alongside more than 100 original cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives – introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would support the financing and development of affordable housing in rural communities and nationwide.

    “In rural Iowa, access to affordable housing is critical for young families looking to plant their roots, local businesses attracting employees, and the long-term growth of our economy. However, with housing costs consistently increasing and construction projects being more difficult to finance in rural areas, we need to enact smart and cost-effective strategies to expand the housing supply and bring down prices,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m glad to work with my Ways and Means Committee colleague, Rep. Darin LaHood, to introduce the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to expand and improve incentives in the tax code to build more housing. This commonsense policy will pay dividends for affordable housing in rural Iowa and help our families find housing options that fit their budgets.”

    “As I travel throughout Illinois’ 16th Congressional District, I frequently hear how the shortage of affordable housing impacts our communities throughout central and northwestern Illinois,” said Rep. LaHood. “To address this growing crisis across the country, Congress must strengthen tools to drive investment into affordable workforce housing and expand housing options for hardworking families nationwide. I am proud to reintroduce the bipartisan Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act alongside Representatives DelBene, Tenney, Beyer, Feenstra, and Panetta to strengthen our communities and support economic development.” 

    Since its creation, the Housing Credit has built or restored more than 3.5 million affordable housing units, nearly 90% of all federally funded affordable housing during that time. Roughly 8 million American households have benefited from the credit, and the economic activity that it generated has supported 5.5 million jobs and generated more than $617 billion in wages.

    The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will support the financing of nearly two million new affordable homes across the country by:

    • Increasing the number of credits allocated to each state by 50 percent for the next two years and making the temporary 12.5 percent increase secured in 2018 permanent. These credits have already helped build more than 59,000 additional affordable housing units nationwide.
    • Increasing the number of affordable housing projects that can be built using private activity bonds. This provision stabilizes financing for workforce housing projects built using private activity bonds by decreasing the amount of private activity needed to secure Housing Credit funding. As a result, projects would have to carry less debt, and more projects would be eligible to receive funding.
    • Improving the Housing Credit program to serve at-risk and underserved communities, including veterans, victims of domestic violence, and rural Americans.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Modernizing municipal processes

    [. That is why Alberta’s government is proposing amendments through the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 to modernize and streamline municipal processes in the Local Authorities Election Act, the Municipal Government Act, and the New Home Buyer Protection Act. These amendments build upon previous legislative changes.

    “We’re proposing updates to legislation to ensure that Albertans’ local governments deliver them the best results by working collaboratively, and that their investments in new homes are protected. Our proposed amendments are based off consultations with industry and municipal partners and will help our government deliver just that for Albertans.” 

    Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs

    Aligning municipal campaign finance rules and enhancing voter accessibility

    Proposed changes to the Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) would improve fairness and transparency in local elections – especially in Calgary and Edmonton – by allowing campaign funds to be shared between local political parties and their candidates, just like at the provincial level. Parties would also be required to disclose their financial records ahead of the October 2025 municipal elections, giving voters better insight into campaign financing.

    Other LAEA amendments are specific to the Municipality of Jasper, where Alberta’s government remains committed to supporting residents as they recover from last year’s wildfires. As part of this work, proposed amendments will allow residents who remain temporarily displaced to vote and run in the upcoming local elections, provided they intend to return to the community.

    To preserve the voting rights of Albertans who live with disabilities, proposed amendments would also enable municipalities to use elector assistance terminals for the upcoming fall 2025 local elections. Elector assistance terminals do not count ballots, are not connected to a vote-counting network and do not replace paper ballots.

    “The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) fully supports the proposed amendment to the LAEA. This amendment will ensure that all Albertans who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision will have equal opportunity to vote secretly and with dignity in upcoming municipal elections.”

    Robert Fenton KC, chair, Canadian National Institute for the Blind

    Eliminating Council Codes of Conduct

    In recent years, municipal codes of conduct have been weaponized between elected members of some local councils in Alberta, resulting in mistrust, dysfunction and failure to serve Albertans. Proposed amendments would repeal the requirement for municipal councils to have a formal code of conduct and prevent them from implementing their own locally developed codes of conduct.

    This will help ensure council members are held accountable at the polls, every four years, by the voters who initially elected them. They may also be recalled by a petition of electors. If the bill passes, Alberta’s government will engage with municipalities on the establishment of common practices for municipal councils and an independent ethics commissioner to address ethics matters involving municipal council members.

    Updating Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks

    Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF) agreements foster collaboration between municipal neighbours to improve the delivery of intermunicipal services for Albertans, but some municipalities have expressed concern that some of the rules around ICFs create confusion and unnecessary red tape. Proposed amendments, based on feedback and engagement with municipal partners, would address these concerns by specifying which intermunicipal services must be included in an ICF, and strengthen the dispute resolution process to ensure ICFs are adopted and implemented effectively.

    “Alberta Municipalities is encouraged by the provincial government’s efforts to improve legislation related to Intermunicipal Collaboration Frameworks by clarifying rules and streamlining processes. We also welcome its efforts to improve the quality of newly built housing and make home warranties more effective.”

    Tyler Gandam, president, Alberta Municipalities

    Strengthening protections for new home builders and buyers

    If passed, the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 would also help safeguard the investments of hard-working Albertans by enhancing protections that ensure homes are built to meet construction safety and quality standards. Proposed amendments would streamline owner-builder applications, offer greater flexibility in warranty exemptions and enable the creation of an advisory group for homebuyer protections. This approach will strengthen consumer protection and improve affordability by making existing programs more effective, efficient and user-friendly while providing a safety net that helps protect all parties in the event of construction defects.

    Future changes to regulations will also introduce builder competencies and establish a robust system to resolve disputes.

    “The Government of Alberta and Municipal Affairs continue to show leadership in strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing affordability. The proposed changes will help ensure homes continue to be built to high safety and quality standards, while supporting increasingly efficient systems and procedures for administering new home warranty.”

    Scott Flash, chief executive officer, BILD

    Quick facts

    • The Local Authorities Election Act establishes the framework for the conduct of elections in Alberta municipalities, school divisions, irrigation districts and Metis Settlements.
    • The Municipal Government Act establishes the rules governing the conduct of local elected officials once on council, as well as the overall administration and operation of municipal authorities in Alberta, including any policy those authorities may wish to implement.
    • The New Home Buyer Protection Act makes home warranty coverage mandatory for new homes in Alberta.
      • This legislation applies to single-family homes, multi-family homes, duplexes, condominiums, manufactured homes and recreational properties constructed under a building permit applied for on or after February 1, 2014.

    Related information

    • Modernizing municipal processes
    • Bill 50: Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2025

    Related news

    • Accountable and transparent local elections (Oct. 18, 2024)
    • Strengthening Alberta’s local elections (April 25, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Energy and Commerce Committee Advances Latta’s ROUTERS Act and NTIA Reauthorization Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

    Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee has advanced Congressman Bob Latta’s (R-OH5) ROUTERS Act and the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA) Reauthorization Act, two bipartisan pieces of legislation that will safeguard and increase American taxpayer access to connectivity.

    The ROUTERS ACT would safeguard Americans’ communications networks from foreign-adversary controlled technology, including routers, modems, or devices that combine both. This legislation was previously passed by the House of Representatives in the last Congress.

    The NTIA Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the NTIA for the first time in 30 years and improve the management of spectrum as well as update the mission and functions of the agency. This legislation was previously passed by the House of Representatives in the last Congress.

    “I’m pleased that the Energy and Commerce Committee has advanced my legislation to protect Americans from cyber threats posed by foreign-adversary controlled technology and to reauthorize the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, a crucial agency that ensures the security and advancement of the U.S. telecommunications infrastructure,” Latta said. “I urge my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to support both of these important, bipartisan pieces of legislation when they come to the floor for a vote.”   

    To read the bill text of the ROUTERS Act, click HERE.  

    To read the bill text of the NTIA Resolution Act, click HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Pingree Slams Trump for Dismantling Wilson Center, Warns of Dire Consequences for U.S. Arctic Policy

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

    Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Wilson Center, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to abruptly fire more than 100 employees at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars—a critical foreign-policy think tank:

    “The illegal closure of the Wilson Center is the latest public-private partnership to be dismantled by the Trump Administration. Congress created this institution to advance independent thinking and thoughtful debate. President Trump has shuttered a renowned center for scholarly research and a forum for understanding and exploring current public policy challenges. At a time when the President himself is focused on the national and international security implications of Greenland, the Wilson Center’s Polar Institute—the premier Arctic policy institution in the country—is more important than ever. 

    Unless this action is reversed, our country—and our policymakers—will lose a valuable resource that bridges the world of learning with the world of public affairs.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree and Newhouse Relaunch Bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus to Renew Congressional Action on Food Waste

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

    As part of National Food Waste Prevention Week, U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) relaunched the bipartisan Congressional Food Recovery Caucus, renewing efforts in Congress to combat food loss and waste nationwide. Originally co-founded by Pingree in 2018, the caucus aims to spotlight commonsense, bipartisan solutions to reduce waste across the food supply chain. The Food Recovery Caucus will continue to educate Members of Congress and staff, support federal efforts to reduce food loss and waste, and uplift successful initiatives from across the country that are rescuing surplus food and fighting hunger.

    “Across the country, tens of millions of Americans face food insecurity—yet we’re throwing away perfectly edible food every day,” said Pingree. “Food waste is a moral, economic, and environmental crisis. I’m proud to relaunch the bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus with Congressman Newhouse to bring greater awareness to this issue and advance smart policies to reduce instances of food loss and waste. 

    “Food security is a real issue for millions of Americans, and the rate in which we waste food in the U.S. continues to climb,” said Newhouse. “I am proud to relaunch the Food Recovery Caucus alongside Rep. Pingree to tackle this issue in Congress and ensure those in need have access to the healthy food our farmers and ranchers work hard to deliver.” 

    “In the U.S., almost $400B worth of food goes uneaten every year, and reducing this waste has significant benefits for our communities, environment, and the economy,” said Pete Pearson, Steering Committee Member, Zero Food Waste Coalition. “Today’s relaunch of the Food Recovery Caucus demonstrates the strong potential for action on this bi-partisan issue.”  

    In 2018, Pingree launched Congress’s first-ever Bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus. The 2018 Farm Bill included Pingree’s provisions to create the first full-time food loss and waste liaison at USDA, a composting and food waste reduction pilot program, and the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) to reduce on-farm waste.

    Click here to learn more about Pingree’s efforts to reduce food waste.

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    MIL OSI USA News –