NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Warren Demands Secretary Bessent Recuse Himself from IRS Firing Decisions Given His Personal History of Tax Avoidance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    April 03, 2025

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent demanding that he recuse himself from any Internal Revenue Service (IRS) decisions relating to the agency’s hiring freeze and further IRS employee firings given his troubling history of tax avoidance.

    During Secretary Bessent’s Senate confirmation, reports revealed that he had engaged in extraordinary—and potentially illegal—efforts to abuse loopholes and avoid paying millions of dollars in taxes. Now, as head of the agency overseeing the IRS, he is responsible for implementing President Trump’s hiring freeze and layoffs at the IRS, which includes overseeing actions that recover unpaid taxes from tax cheats. 

    “Given your own history of skirting tax rules, I ask that you take steps to pay back the taxes that you owe to the American public and recuse yourself from any decisions regarding the hiring freeze and layoffs at the IRS,” wrote Senator Warren.

    This follows a letter that Senator Warren and her colleagues sent in January requesting that Secretary Bessent take additional steps to address his reported use of tax avoidance techniques. In response, Bessent said that he “faithfully endeavored” to follow the law but did not substantively answer any of Senator Warren’s questions about the allegations against him.

    The actions of the Treasury Secretary with respect to the IRS are even more important now, given President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ efforts to attack the IRS, including imposing a hiring freeze, firing thousands of employees, and rolling back progress that the IRS has made in auditing wealthy tax cheats. 

    “Slashing the agency in half would decimate collection efforts, including by emboldening tax evaders, the vast majority of which are ultra-wealthy individuals like yourself,” wrote the senator.

    Already, the wealthiest five percent of Americans evade an estimated $591 billion in taxes annually. It is estimated that cutting the IRS in half would lead to an additional $2.4 trillion in lost revenue over the next decade.

    “I am concerned that your own history of using abusive and potentially illegal tax avoidance techniques may impact your ability to objectively determine whether to fire additional IRS employees and when to lift President Trump’s hiring freeze,” concluded the senator.

    Senator Warren is requesting Secretary Bessent (1) recuse himself from any further Treasury Department discussion(s) or decision(s) related to further IRS firings and the lifting of the hiring freeze and (2) end the questions about his own adherence to tax law by paying back to the IRS the full amount of taxes that the Senate Finance Committee staff found that he did not pay because of questionable tax avoidance tactics.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PREPARED REMARKS: Sanders Speech on Senate Vote to Block $8.8 Billion Sale of Heavy Bombs to Israel

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, April 3 – After filing Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRDs) to block the sale of two of the most egregious Trump Administration offensive arms sales to Israel, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today rose to bring the JRDs up for a vote by the full Senate.

    The sales would provide almost $8.8 billion more in heavy bombs and other munitions to Netanyahu, including more than 35,000 massive 2,000-pound bombs.

    • The first resolution, S.J.Res 33, would block a sale of $2.04 billion for 35,329 MK 84 2,000 lb. bombs and 4,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads.
    • The second resolution, S.J.Res.26, would block $6.75 billion for 2,800 500-pound bombs, 2,166 Small Diameter Bombs, and tens of thousands of JDAM guidance kits.

    All of these systems have been linked to dozens of illegal airstrikes, including on designated humanitarian sites, resulting in thousands of civilian casualties. None of these systems are necessary to protect Israel from incoming drone or rocket attacks.

    The JRD is the only formal mechanism available to Congress to prevent an arms sale noticed by the administration from advancing.

    Sanders’ remarks introducing the vote today, as prepared for delivery, are below and can be watched live HERE:

    M. President, let me begin by telling the American people something they already know, and that is, as a result of the disastrous Citizens United Supreme Court decision, we now have a corrupt campaign finance system that allows billionaires to buy elections and to influence major pieces of legislation. That, I think, is not a secret to the American people.

    If you’re a Republican and you vote against the Trump administration in one way or another, you have to look over your shoulder and worry that you’re going to get a call from Elon Musk, the wealthiest man in the world. And he will tell you that if you vote against what he wants, he will spend unlimited amounts of money to defeat you in the next election. That’s not a great secret. That’s what Musk has been saying publicly. 

    If you’re a Democrat, you have to worry about the billionaires who fund AIPAC, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. If you vote against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his horrific war in Gaza, AIPAC will punish you with millions of dollars in advertisements to see that you’re defeated. AIPAC’s PAC and Super PAC spent nearly $127 million combined during the 2023-2024 election cycle, according to the Federal Election Commission.

    And I must confess that AIPAC has been successful. Last year, they defeated two members of the U.S. House who opposed providing military aide to Netanyahu’s extremist government.

    Given all of that, I would hope that Democrats and Republicans who understand that they were elected to protect the interests of their constituents, not billionaire campaign contributors, would support the ending of Citizens United and the movement toward public funding of elections so billionaires could not continue to control the political and legislative process.

    Further, I would hope that both parties would move to end super PAC funding in their primaries. I would hope that would be the case so that we can once again become a government of the people, by the people, for the people – and not a government run by the billionaire class. 

    M. President, I trust that every American – and certainly every member of the Senate – understands that Hamas, a terrorist organization, began this terrible war with its barbaric October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed 1,200 innocent people and took 250 hostages. The International Criminal Court was correct in indicting the leaders of Hamas as war criminals for those atrocities. Clearly, Israel had the right to defend itself against Hamas.

    But most Americans also understand that, while Israel had a right to wage war against Hamas, it did not and does have the right to wage war against the entire Palestinian population. Tragically, that is exactly what we have seen over the last year and a half.

    Let us be clear: Prime Minister Netanyahu’s racist and extremist government has waged an all-out barbaric war against the Palestinian people and made life unlivable in Gaza. Within Gaza’s population of just 2.2 million people, more than 50,000 people have been killed and more than 113,000 have been injured – 60 percent of whom are women, children, and elderly people. That is 7.4 percent of the population of Gaza killed or wounded. If those same percentages were applied to the United States, it would mean that over 25 million Americans would have been killed or wounded.

    In total, since the war began, 15,000 children in Gaza have been killed, and today there are more than 17,000 orphans. But it’s not just the dead and the wounded. Israel’s indiscriminate bombardment has damaged or destroyed two-thirds of all structures in Gaza, including 92 percent of the housing units.

    Almost no part of Gaza has been left unscathed. Most of the population now is living in tents or other makeshift structures.

    M. President, most of the territory’s hospitals and primary healthcare facilities have been bombed, leaving virtually all Gazans without basic medical care. Think about what that means. I have met repeatedly with American doctors and others who have served in Gaza. And they are treating hundreds of patients a day without electricity, without anesthesia, without clean water, including dozens of children arriving with gunshot wounds to the head. I have seen the photographs and the videos.

    Gaza’s civilian infrastructure has been totally devastated, including almost 90 percent of water and sanitation facilities. Most of the roads in Gaza have been destroyed and made impassable.

    Gaza’s educational system has been obliterated. Children are not going to school. According to the World Bank, more than 2,000 educational facilities, ranging from kindergartens to universities, have been destroyed. Hundreds of schools have been bombed, as has every single one of Gaza’s 12 universities.

    And M. President, there has been no electricity in Gaza for 17 months.

    Put simply, Netanyahu and his extremist government have killed or wounded over 7 percent of Gaza’s population and have turned Gaza into a wasteland unfit for human life.

    That is what has been going on over the last year and a half.

    M. President, in terms of where we are today: the Netanyahu government broke the ceasefire two weeks ago, endangering the well-being of the remaining hostages held by Hamas.

    Further, in the last two weeks, they have intensified their assault against the Palestinian people. According to UNICEF, since Netanyahu broke the ceasefire, more than 1,000 people have been killed, including over 300 children, and more than 600 children have been wounded. UNICEF says that most of these children were killed while sheltering in makeshift tents or damaged homes. Just in the last 24 hours, 97 more people have been killed in Gaza.

    Since Netanyahu broke the ceasefire, even more aid workers have been killed, putting the total over 400 since the war began. Earlier this week, the United Nations announced that they had recovered the bodies of 15 emergency aid workers, who were killed by Israeli forces while wearing their emergency responder uniforms and then dumped in a mass grave in southern Gaza. They were buried alongside their destroyed emergency vehicles – clearly marked ambulances, a fire truck, and a UN car.

    M. President, with the resumption of bombing, hundreds of thousands of Gazans are once again being forcibly displaced by bombing and evacuation orders. This week, Israeli authorities issued displacement orders for most of Rafah, where about 150,000 people were estimated to be sheltering.

    Think about what all of this means in human terms.

    Throughout this war, millions of desperately poor people in Gaza have been repeatedly driven from their homes. They have been forced to pick their way through a demolished landscape, again and again, with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. Families have been herded into so-called “safe zones,” only to face continued bombardment.

    The children of Gaza have suffered a level of physical and emotional torture that is almost beyond comprehension and that will clearly stay with each and every one of them for the rest of their lives.

    These children are hungry. They are thirsty. It is hard to get clean water. They have been denied healthcare, and have witnessed the death of their parents, their family members, their homes, and virtually everything around them. And they have been picked up and moved from one place to another, all the while drones are above them shooting or photographing what they are doing.

    M. President, throughout this war, Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid have left hundreds of thousands of people, including tens of thousands of children, facing malnutrition and starvation. Children have literally starved to death while aid sat just miles away, blocked by Israeli forces. The UN, the United States, and every aid organization working in Gaza has been clear throughout this war: Israel’s unreasonable and unnecessary restrictions on humanitarian aid have contributed to massive death and profound suffering.

    But as bad as the last year and a half has been, at least Israel let some aid through – not enough, but some.

    But what is happening now is truly unthinkable.

    Today, it is 31 days and counting with absolutely NO humanitarian aid getting into Gaza. Nothing. No food, no water, no medicine, no fuel for over a month. That is as clear a violation of the Geneva Convention, the Foreign Assistance Act, and basic human decency. It is a war crime.

    You don’t starve children. And it is pushing things toward an even deeper catastrophe.

    Earlier this week, 25 bakeries supported by the World Food Programme were forced to close because they ran out of flour and cooking gas. The UN is still trying to distribute its remaining stocks of food already in Gaza, but says that “the situation remains extremely critical since the cargo closure of the crossings almost a month ago.”

    M. President, all of this is unconscionable. What we are talking about is a mass atrocity.

    And what makes it even worse, why I am here today, and why I have introduced these resolutions that we will soon be voting on, is that we, as Americans, are deeply complicit in what is happening in Gaza.

    This is not some terrible event. This is not an earthquake in Myanmar. It’s not something that we had nothing to do with.  We are deeply complicit in all of this death and suffering.

    Last year alone, the United States provided $18 billion in military aid to Israel and delivered more than 50,000 tons of military equipment. It is American bombs and American military equipment being used to destroy Gaza, kill 50,000 people, and injure over 110,000 people.

    We cannot hide from that reality.

    M. President, if we condone the barbarism that is taking place in Gaza today, we will have no standing in the world to condemn the horrors and war crimes that other countries may commit. You’re not going to be able to look at China or Russia or Saudi Arabia or any other country. We will have no credibility.

    M. President, today is the day to stand up to barbarism in Gaza and to do our best to prevent future barbaric acts all over the world. 

    It is no secret to anyone how these U.S. weapons have been used.

    Israel has bombed indiscriminately, killing civilians, journalists, paramedics, children, and humanitarian workers in record numbers. They have used massive 2,000-pound bombs in densely-populated Gaza, despite the fact studies show that 90 percent of victims of explosive weapons used in a populated area are civilians. These bombs have a blast radius of more than 350 meters, yet Israel has dropped them into crowded apartment buildings, killing hundreds of civilians to take out a handful of Hamas fighters.

    All of that is illegal and immoral and against American law.

    The Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Export Control Act, what we’re talking about today, are very clear: the United States cannot provide weaponry to countries that violate internationally recognized human rights or block U.S. humanitarian aid.

    According to the UN, much of the international community, and every humanitarian organization on the ground in Gaza, Israel is clearly in violation of these laws. Under these circumstances, it is illegal for the United States government to provide Israel with more offensive weaponry. It is simply against our laws.

    Despite all of that, in the last month the Trump administration has announced its intention to transfer some $12.5 billion more in offensive weapons to Netanyahu’s government, in clear violation of U.S. law.

    M. President, that is why we are here today. Joint Resolutions of Disapproval are Congress’ tool to enforce American law.

    Today, we will vote on two resolutions to block two of the most egregious of these Trump administration offensive arms sales, which would provide almost $8.8 billion more in heavy bombs and other munitions to Netanyahu, including more than 35,000 massive 2,000-pound bombs that have killed so many civilians.

    The first resolution, S.J.Res 33, would block a sale of over $2 billion for 35,000 MK 84 2,000 lb. bombs and 4,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads.

    The second resolution, S.J.Res.26, would block almost $7 billion for 2,800 500-pound bombs, 2,100 Small Diameter Bombs, and tens of thousands of JDAM guidance kits.

    All of these systems have been linked to dozens of illegal airstrikes, including on designated humanitarian sites, resulting in thousands of civilian casualties. These strikes have been painstakingly documented by human rights monitors. There is no debate. And none of these systems are defensive, none of them are necessary to protect Israel from incoming drone or rocket attacks.

    M. President, for those of my colleagues who are ambivalent about these resolutions, let me say a word about how the Trump administration is ignoring the law in advancing these arms sales, in terms of the process. Unlike Biden, whose policies on Gaza I strongly opposed, President Trump is trying to circumvent Congress with these transfers, ignoring the Foreign Assistance Act by issuing a bogus “emergency declaration” to bypass Congressional review.

    There is no emergency to justify cutting Congress out of the process. In fact, some of the systems the Trump administration claims are part of this “emergency” sale have not yet been produced.

    This is also part of a broader Trump administration effort to cut Congress out of the arms sale process.

    M. President, it is no great secret that Congress is way out of touch with where the American people are on issue after issue. Everybody knows, Congress is way out of touch.

    The billions of dollars that we are providing to the Netanyahu extremist government is just one more example of how out of touch we are with the American people. 

    According to a recent Economist/YouGov poll in March, just 15 percent of the American people support increasing military aid to Israel, while 35 percent support decreasing military aid to Israel or stopping it entirely.

    To my Democratic colleagues, I would mention that just eight percent of Democrats support increasing military aid to Israel. 47 percent support decreasing military aid to Israel or stopping it entirely. Among Republicans, nine percent are for decreasing military aid and 15 percent are for stopping all. 

    M. President, I would ask that this poll be entered into the Congressional record. 

    And according to a J Street poll of Jewish voters in November, 62 percent of American Jews support withholding “shipments of offensive weapons like 2,000-pound bombs until Prime Minister Netanyahu agrees to an American proposal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for a release of Israeli hostages.” And 71 percent of Jewish voters support increasing humanitarian aid to the Palestinians.

    Finally, M. President, as unbelievably horrific as the situation in Gaza is and has been for the last year and a half, there is another development that could make it even worse.

    In recent months, President Trump and Israeli officials have openly talked about forcibly expelling the 2.2 million people who live in Gaza to make way for what Trump calls a “Riviera” – some billionaires’ playground.

    A few years ago, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner said that he felt “Gaza’s waterfront property could be very valuable,” floating the idea of redeveloping it. I think that many people at the time thought that was a weird and terrible joke. But it turns out that his father-in-law Donald Trump took it seriously.

    Here’s what Trump has said, repeatedly, in recent months:

    “The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip and we will do a job with it.”

    “We’re going to take over that piece, we’re going to develop it.”

    “I do see a long-term ownership position… Everybody I’ve spoken to loves the idea of the United States owning that piece of land.”

    I guess he didn’t speak to too many Palestinians who live on that land.

    On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The Gaza Strip would be turned over to the United States by Israel at the conclusion of fighting.”

    And what about the Palestinians who have lived in Gaza for their entire lives?

    Trump said, “I don’t think people should be going back to Gaza.” “They live like they’re living in hell. Gaza is not a place for people to be living.”

    Gaza could become “the Riviera of the Middle East … This could be something that could be so valuable, this could be so magnificent.”

    Throw 2.2 million people who have suffered incalculably out of the land in which they live in order to create a billionaire’s playground. 

    M. President, there is a name and a term for forcibly expelling people from where they live. It is called ethnic cleansing. It is illegal. It is a war crime.

    M. President, the United States must not continue to be complicit in the destruction of the Palestinian people in Gaza. History will not forgive us for this.

    The time is long overdue for us to tell the Netanyahu government that we will not provide more weapons of destruction to them. Instead, we must demand an immediate ceasefire, a surge in humanitarian aid, the release of the hostages, and the rebuilding of Gaza for the Palestinian people.

    For all of these reasons, I urge my colleagues to vote YES on these two resolutions which would prevent illegal and immoral arms sales to Netanyahu, would uphold Congressional power and the rule of law, and would protect innocent life.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tucson sex offender indicted for naturalization fraud following ICE Arizona investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    TUCSON, Ariz. — A man arrested for child sexual abuse was indicted for naturalization fraud by a federal grand jury in Tucson March 18, following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    According to the indictment, Juan Antonio Ruiz, 47, became a naturalized U.S. citizen in June 2015. The indictment alleges that Ruiz, during his citizenship process, falsely answered “no” to questions about any crimes he had committed but had not been arrested for.

    In May 2018, Ruiz was arrested for sexual conduct with a minor under the age of 15 and attempted child molestation — crimes he allegedly committed between September 2003 and January 2008, prior to his naturalization. He pleaded guilty to those charges in 2021.

    If convicted, Ruiz faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, loss of citizenship and cancellation of his naturalization certificate.

    An indictment contains only allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sydney Yew from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona in Phoenix is handling the prosecution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Post-Gazette Strikers Demand Healthcare for All After Court Victory as PG Attempts to Deny Improved Union Healthcare to Picket-Crossing Employees

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    PITTSBURGH – Members of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh TNG-CWA Local 38061 have demanded that their employer, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PG), comply with an injunction issued by the U.S. 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals and restore the healthcare it illegally took away from newsroom workers, addressing a core demand of the union workers who have struck for more than 29 months.

    On the day the ruling was made, the company publicly stated its intention to appeal the ruling. It has delayed its compliance with the court’s order by filing a motion to request that the court narrow the scope of the order to exclude current employees who are working jobs that are part of the union’s bargaining unit but have crossed picket lines to work for the Post-Gazette during the strike. The court’s order explicitly applies to all “employees in the bargaining unit.” Strikers continue to demand improved healthcare for all employees in the bargaining unit.

    “We’ve asked the company to put the health care plan in place as of April 1st for everybody,” said Ed Blazina, striking transportation reporter. “The PG wants the court to allow them to only put it in for the folks on strike—not for the people who are still working. But we will fight for every worker in our bargaining unit, whether they’re on strike or not, to get the dignified health care we all deserve.”

    The striking workers have further demanded that the company meet with the union for bargaining and update their proposal to the union for the first time since 2020, in compliance with the court’s order that includes requirements to submit bargaining progress reports to Region 6 of the National Labor Relations Board and negotiate with the workers’ union on any changes in wages, hours, or any other terms of employment.

    Following the injunction order, company representation made multiple irrelevant bargaining requests to the union in an effort to delay obeying the court’s order. As it was ordered by the court, there is nothing to bargain; the company simply needs to reinstate workers’ health care. Striking workers are willing to discuss contract bargaining once the company has implemented the health care plan ordered by the court.

    The striking newsroom workers are still fighting for their full strike demands: dignified healthcare and the restoration of their union contract, including paid time off, wages, employees having a guaranteed work week, and the right to question company discipline, among other issues, as well as back pay to workers for wage reductions and increased healthcare costs.

    “Our goal is unchanged,” said striking associate sports editor Rob Joesbury. “Not only do we want our health care. We want a full contract. That is the end goal.”

    In 2020, the company illegally and unilaterally tore up the editorial workers’ union contract, claiming they had bargained to an impasse. Both an administrative law judge and the National Labor Relations Board in D.C. ruled that the company broke federal labor law in this instance, in addition to bargaining in bad faith and illegally surveilling its workers.

    ###

    About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.

    cwa-union.org @cwaunion

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To 36 Months in Prison for Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Jesus Rene Villa, 31, of Tucson, was sentenced on March 25, 2025, by United States District Judge Raner C. Collins to 36 months in prison. Villa pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon on January 8, 2025.

    On March 1, 2024, Tucson Police Department officers searched Villa’s vehicle after arresting him for previously fleeing from law enforcement. During the search, officers located a loaded firearm in a black duffel bag on the back seat. An investigation revealed that Villa was a four-time convicted felon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) then assumed responsibility for the case in collaboration with the Tucson Police Department as part of the National Public Safety Partnership (PSP).

    The National PSP was established by the U.S. Department of Justice to provide an innovative framework to enhance federal support of state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecution authorities in enhancing public safety. PSP began as a pilot program, the Violence Reduction Network, in 2014 and is designed to promote interagency coordination by leveraging specialized law enforcement expertise with dedicated prosecutorial resources to promote public and community safety. PSP serves as a DOJ-wide program that enables participating sites to consult with and receive expedited, coordinated training and technical assistance, and an array of resources from DOJ to enhance local public safety strategies. This model enables DOJ to provide jurisdictions of different sizes and diverse needs with data-driven, evidence-based strategies tailored to the unique local needs of participating cities to build their capacities to address violent crime challenges. PSP has engaged with more than 60 sites since the program’s inception.

    The ATF and Tucson Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney, Caroline Allen, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:          CR-24-01319-TUC-RCC
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-049_Villa

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, 
    visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/

    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Human smuggler pleads guilty in fatal smuggling event

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 23-year-old Mexican national has admitted to alien smuggling resulting in death, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Jose Guadalupe Antonio-Arredondo admitted to assisting in the smuggling of an illegal alien July 12, 2024, by acting as a river guide. He guided the illegal alien and a brush guide across the river and to the border wall before he returned to Mexico.

    The brush guide and illegal alien continued on and crossed the wall. However, after doing so, the alien had trouble breathing and ultimately collapsed. The brush guide abandoned him in the brush and ran to a nearby house to attempt to conceal herself from law enforcement.

    Law enforcement later found the alien and arranged transportation to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased July 17, 2024.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the plea and set sentencing for June 20. At that time, Antonio-Arredondo faces up to life in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    “Human smuggling is a dangerous enterprise, one that doesn’t care about the lives or well-being of those that are being smuggled,” said Ganjei. “The loss of life in this incident is yet another example of why it is so vital to discourage people from risking their lives trying to enter this country illegally.”

    Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devin V. Walker is prosecuting the case.

    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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Illegal Alien for Possessing Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment yesterday charging an illegal alien with possessing a firearm.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, and Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Renan Josue Rodriguez-Rodriguez, age 29, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with possessing a firearm on March 16, 2024, in Jefferson County, Kentucky knowing he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by HSI, ATF, and ICE ERO.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Gomez is prosecuting the case.

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

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces Second Closing of Ninepoint 2025 Flow-Through Limited Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint”) is pleased to announce that the Ninepoint 2025 Flow-Through Limited Partnership (the “Partnership”) has completed the second closing in connection with its offering of Class A and Class F limited partnership units (the “Units”) pursuant to a prospectus dated January 30, 2025. The Partnership raised $15,428,900 on the sale of an additional 617,156 Units for aggregate gross proceeds of $37,005,700. The Partnership will have a third and final closing in respect of the Units on or about April 30, 2025. The Units are being offered at a price per Unit of $25.00 with a minimum subscription of 100 Units ($2,500).

    The Partnership intends to provide liquidity to limited partners through a roll-over to the Ninepoint Resource Fund Class in the period between January 15, 2027 to February 28, 2027.

    Investment Objective of the Partnership
    The Partnership’s investment objective is to achieve capital appreciation and significant tax benefits for limited partners by investing in a diversified portfolio of Flow-Through Shares (as defined in the Prospectus) and other securities, if any, of Resource Issuers (as defined in the Prospectus).

    Attractive Tax-Reduction Benefits
    Flow-through partnerships are one of the most effective tax reduction strategies available to Canadians. Ninepoint anticipates that investors participating in the Partnership will be eligible to receive a tax deduction of approximately 100% of the amount invested.

    Resource Expertise
    The Partnership will be sub-advised by Sprott Asset Management LP (“Sprott”), one of Canada’s leading investment advisors in small and mid-cap resource companies. Over its long history of investing in the resource sector, Sprott has developed relationships with hundreds of companies. Its experienced team of portfolio managers is supported by a team of technical experts with extensive backgrounds in mining and geology.

    Portfolio manager Jason Mayer will manage the portfolio of the Partnership and will be supported by Sprott’s broader team of experienced resource investment professionals.

    Agents
    The offering is being made through a syndicate of agents led by RBC Dominion Securities Inc. which includes
    CIBC World Markets Inc., TD Securities Inc., National Bank Financial Inc., Scotia Capital Inc., BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc., Manulife Wealth Inc., iA Private Wealth Inc., Raymond James Ltd., Richardson Wealth Limited, Canaccord Genuity Corp., Desjardins Securities Inc., Ventum Financial Corp. and Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc.

    About Ninepoint Partners LP
    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or for inquiries regarding the offering, please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, those identified by the expressions “expects”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “will” and similar expressions to the extent that they relate to the Partnership. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect the Partnership’s, Ninepoint’s and Sprott’s current expectations regarding future results or events. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. Although the Partnership, Ninepoint and Sprott believe the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. Neither the Partnership, nor Ninepoint or Sprott undertake any obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statement or information whether as a result of new information, future events or other such factors which affect this information, except as required by law.

    This offering is only made by prospectus. The Partnership’s prospectus contains important detailed information about the securities being offered. Copies of the prospectus may be obtained from one of the dealers noted above. Investors should read the prospectus before making an investment decision.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Moomoo and the NY Mets Announce Strategic Partnership to Elevate Fans Experience to the Next Level

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Moomoo, a global investment and trading platform, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the New York Mets in a multiyear multimillion-dollar sponsorship. This collaboration is set to enhance the sports experience for fans, athletes, moomoo customers and New York tri-state area communities through creative initiatives and joint efforts.

    As part of the partnership, moomoo will have both permanent and rotational signage during Mets games at CitiField including the moomoo bullpen! The New York Mets and Moomoo are teaming up to make this baseball season unforgettable! For every Mets win, $10,000 will be added to a special fund, culminating in a jaw-dropping $1 million grand prize for one lucky moomoo investor if the team reaches 100 victories. *

    Taglined as “from bullpen to bull-market, moomoo, your powerful trading platform,” moomoo’s US CEO Neil McDonald said, “We are very excited to partner with New York Mets, not only because I am a baseball fan, but also because we are committed to elevating the fan experience through various interactive games and promotions.”

    “The Mets are excited to partner with moomoo and bring a new, online trading platform to our fanbase,” said M. Scott Havens, President of Business Operations for the Mets. “As more fans become financially savvy and explore online trading, this is a great opportunity to utilize a new, user-friendly platform while also receiving select benefits for upcoming Mets games. The grand prize throughout the season, as well as moomoo Mondays, will bring another exciting element for fans to experience at the ballpark this year.”

    Anything can happen in sports. However analyzing game strategies and predicting winning outcomes add an exciting layer for fans, the same as investors evaluate market trends and make more informed decisions. “Both baseball and trading share the same thrill of combining logic with intuition to navigate uncertainty and potentially help achieve success,” said McDonald who has over 30 years of experience managing derivatives trading at several top Wall Street banks and hedge funds.

    In addition, the partnership will focus on adding to the world-class experience that Mets fans are accustomed to, we are planning special events, give-aways and meet-and-greets, many of which will be wrapped into “Moomoo Mondays”. By leveraging the strengths of both organizations, the alliance aims to deliver an unparalleled experience for Mets fans and the moomoo community.

    Given moomoo’s global presence of 25million users, this partnership will help connect global baseball fans to the New York Mets. Moomoo entered the Japan market less than two years ago, yet it has grown to 1.5 million users.

    “Together, we will drive innovation, inspire communities, and provide unforgettable experiences for sports fans,” McDonald concludes.

    *Terms and conditions apply. Limited to Moomoo Financial Inc customers residing in tri-state area (NY, NJ, CT).

    About moomoo

    Moomoo is a leading global investment and trading platform dedicated to empowering investors with user-friendly tools, data, and insights. Our platform is designed to provide essential information and technology, enabling users to make more-informed investment decisions. With advanced charting tools, pro-level analytical features, moomoo evolves alongside our users, fostering a dynamic community where investors can share, learn, and grow together.

    Founded in the US, moomoo operates globally, serving investors in countries such as the US, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Canada and Malaysia. As a subsidiary of a Nasdaq-listed Futu Holdings (FUTU), we take pride in our role as a global strategic partner of the Nasdaq, earning numerous international accolades from renowned industry leaders such as Benzinga and Fintech Breakthrough. Moomoo has also received multiple awards in the US, Singapore, and Australia for its innovative, inclusive approach to investing.

    Contact:

    For more information, please visit moomoo’s official website at www.moomoo.com or contact us at pr@moomoo.com

    For the New York Mets questions, please contact:

    Katie Agostin

    Manager, Communications

    New York Mets

    kagostin@nymets.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d08f8e3-d2a0-4ddd-bbaf-07a124890af3
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/936a6251-e23f-4e69-a59f-ebbd917edf9d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Acceptance Celebrates Being Named No. 34 on Fortune’s 2025 100 Best Companies to Work For® List

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Southfield, Michigan, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Credit Acceptance Corporation (Nasdaq: CACC) (referred to as the “Company”, “Credit Acceptance”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) has been named one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For® by Great Place To Work® and Fortune magazine in 2025. We received this accolade for the eleventh time, ranking #34, up five spots from last year. 

    “Our team thrives in an award-winning culture where they love coming to work because they know they can make a difference,” said Ken Booth, Chief Executive Officer of Credit Acceptance. “We foster this environment through key cultural practices such as remote work flexibility, actively listening to feedback and implementing meaningful changes, and embracing our PRIDE values—Positive, Respectful, Insightful, Direct, and Earnest.”

    With 93% of team members agreeing that Credit Acceptance is a great place to work, the Company is continuously ranked as one of the best places to work. We remain committed to fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive personally and professionally.

    Other workplace accolades we have received from Fortune include Best Workplace for Financial Services and Insurance™, Best Workplace for Millennials™, and Best Workplace for Women™. We have also been named a Top Workplaces USA Award winner, one of People Magazine’s Companies that Care®, and a Best Place to Work in IT by Computerworld, among many others.

    Great Place to Work® selected the 100 Best list by gathering and analyzing more than 1.3 million confidential survey responses representing the experiences of more than 8.4 million U.S. employees. Of those, over 670,000 responses were received from employees at eligible companies, and this list is based on that feedback. Organizations are assessed on their efforts to create generous, supportive, high-performance work experiences for every employee in the organization.

    About Credit Acceptance  

    We make vehicle ownership possible by providing innovative financing solutions that enable automobile dealers to sell vehicles to consumers regardless of their credit history. Our financing programs are offered through a nationwide network of automobile dealers who benefit from sales of vehicles to consumers who otherwise could not obtain financing; from repeat and referral sales generated by these same customers; and from sales to customers responding to advertisements for our financing programs, but who actually end up qualifying for traditional financing.  

    Without our financing programs, consumers are often unable to purchase vehicles, or they purchase unreliable ones. Further, as we report to the three national credit reporting agencies, an important ancillary benefit of our programs is that we provide consumers with an opportunity to improve their lives by improving their credit score and move on to more traditional sources of financing. Credit Acceptance is publicly traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol CACC. For more information, visit creditacceptance.com. 

    About Great Place To Work®

    As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place To Work® brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all. Its proprietary platform and Great Place To Work Model help companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified and receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ list.

    About Fortune

    Fortune upholds a legacy of award-winning writing and trusted reporting for executives who want to make business better. Independently owned, with a global perspective and digital agility, Fortune tells the stories of a new generation of innovators, builders, and risk-takers. Online and in print, Fortune measures corporate performance through rigorous benchmarks and holds companies accountable. Fortune creates communities by convening true thought leaders and iconoclasts — those who shape industry, commerce, and society — through powerful and prestigious lists, events, and conferences, such as the iconic Fortune 500, the CEO Initiative, and Most Powerful Women.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/3/2025 Blackburn, Warner Introduce Bill to Reestablish U.S. Leadership in International Standards Setting for Emerging Tech

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) introduced the Promoting United States Leadership in Standards Act to restore America’s position as a leader in international standards setting for emerging technologies.
    For decades, the United States led the world in developing new technologies, which allowed our country to set the rules of the road when it came to global standards for those technologies. However, in recent years, Chinese companies backed by the Chinese Communist Party have overtaken the U.S., which has allowed our adversary to influence standards in ways that further their own interests.

    “The Chinese Communist Party has made it their mission to undermine the U.S. and our interests around the globe by exploiting our deficiencies,” said Senator Blackburn. “As our adversary ramps up efforts to dominate global standards for emerging technologies, the U.S. must be a global leader in innovation, and that includes setting standards that reflect our interests and values.”

    “In recent years, the Communist Party of China has asserted their dominance in the global technology space, and as their status has risen, our authority and influence has fallen,” said Senator Warner. “This legislation clearly outlines steps we must take to reestablish our leadership and ensure that we are doing all we can to set the global standards for critical and emerging technologies.”
    BACKGROUND
    Standards-setting bodies make critical decisions not only relating to technical specifications, but also relating to values, such as openness, safety, and accessibility, embedded in emerging technologies.
    Specifically, the Promoting United States Leadership in Standards Act would:
    Require the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to submit a report to Congress that identifies current U.S. participation in standards development activities for AI and other Critical and Emerging Technologies (CETs);
    Create an easy-to-access web portal to help stakeholders navigate and actively engage in international standardization efforts. The portal would include a list of relevant standards and information about how to participate in standardization activities related to AI and other CETs;
    Establish a pilot program to award $10 million in grants over 4 years to support the hosting of standards meetings for AI and other CETs in the U.S.;
    Create a report to Congress, after the third year of the program, that identifies grant recipients, provides a summary of expenses, assesses the effectiveness of the program to grow the number of standards meetings in the U.S., and shows the geographic distribution of event attendees.
    Click here to read the bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Yukon school calendar dates finalized for 2025–26

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Yukon school calendar dates finalized for 2025–26
    zaburke
    April 1, 2025 – 3:44 pm

    A complete list of calendar dates for all Yukon schools for the 2025–26 school year is now finalized and available online at Yukon.ca. The calendar includes dates for all three school authorities: the First Nation School Board, Commission scolaire francophone du Yukon and Yukon Education.

    School calendars are developed in partnership with school administrators, school councils and school communities. Then, they are approved by the Minister and school boards for schools under their authority.

    There are six professional development days which apply to all schools. Commission scolaire francophone du Yukon (CSFY) and the First Nation School Board (FNSB) may choose to hold additional professional development days for schools under their authority.
     

    Quick facts

    • School calendars in the Yukon require 950 hours of instruction throughout the school year and school days must be between 300 to 330 instructional minutes according to the Education Act.

    • School calendar dates in rural communities vary to meet the unique needs of each community. 

    • School bell schedules are available through individual schools. 

    Media contact

    Bailey Staffen
    Communications, Education
    867-334-6367
    bailey.staffen@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:

    25-146

    Related information:

    2025-26 calendar for all Yukon schools
    Find school calendar and holiday dates
    First Nation School Board
    Commission scolaire francophone du Yukon

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Ministers on the start of the Celebration of Swans

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Statement from Ministers on the start of the Celebration of Swans
    jlutz
    April 1, 2025 – 9:41 am

    Minister of Environment Nils Clarke and Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker have issued the following statement:

    “We are proud to announce the beginning of the Celebration of Swans festival, one of the Yukon’s most cherished spring traditions. Each April, the skies above M’Clintock Bay at Marsh Lake come alive as tens of thousands of swans, ducks and geese pause to rest on their long journey north.

    “At the heart of this festival is the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre, which has served as a beacon of education and appreciation for these magnificent birds since its opening in 1994. Located on the Traditional Territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Carcross/Tagish First Nation, Swan Haven provides an incredible opportunity for visitors to witness the beauty of these migrations firsthand and learn about the critical role that early spring open waters play in sustaining migratory waterfowl.

    “Each year, more than 4,000 visitors make their way to Swan Haven to experience this magnificent spectacle. Swan Haven is open daily throughout April and offers a wealth of learning opportunities for people of all ages. Through interactive exhibits, knowledgeable guides and daily swan counts, visitors can deepen their understanding of the birds and their habitat.

    “This year, we are excited to announce the launch of a new addition, the Swan Haven audio tour: A walk with the swans. This 25-minute self-guided tour, available on your phone or tablet, leads you from the Swan Haven stairs to a beautiful viewpoint 500 metres along the shoreline of M’Clintock Bay.

    “We are also pleased to share that, as in previous years, the Government of Yukon will produce a collectible poster for the festival, featuring spring-themed artwork by a local artist. This year’s poster showcases a stunning image by photographer Takeshi Hanatani of a swan near the edge of the ice. These posters are available at the Department of Environment office at 10 Burns Road in Whitehorse and at the Swan Haven Interpretive Centre.

    “Beyond its role as an educational hub, Swan Haven stands as a testament to the Yukon’s commitment to conservation and stewardship. As we celebrate another year of the festival, we encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate the significance of the migration season and recognize the ongoing efforts to preserve these habitats.

    “Let us also remember the responsibility we share in safeguarding our environment for all who call it home – whether they walk upon the land, swim in the waters or take to the skies.”

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca

    News release #:

    25-144

    Related information:

    A Celebration of Swans 2025

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on the U.S. Consul General’s visit to Whitehorse

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Statement from Premier Pillai on the U.S. Consul General’s visit to Whitehorse
    zaburke
    March 31, 2025 – 3:52 pm

    Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “Last week, members of the Government of Yukon met with U.S. Consul General Jim DeHart.

    “This was an opportunity to raise Yukoners’ concerns about the unjustified tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Canadian goods and to reiterate that Canada will never be the 51st state. We also discussed the importance of the cross-border relationship between the Yukon and Alaska, particularly with respect to tourism, conservation, responsible mineral development, public safety and sport.

    “Consul General DeHart also took time to participate in the Canadian Institute for Arctic Security’s Conference Zero on March 27, 2025, and we appreciate his remarks on our shared priorities on Arctic security.”

    Media contact

    Jordan Owens
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-0615
    jordan.owens@yukon.ca  
     

    News release #:

    25-143

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with premiers to discuss next steps in Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met virtually with provincial and territorial premiers to discuss Canada’s co-ordinated response to the United States’ auto and reciprocal tariffs. The Prime Minister was joined by the Minister of International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the King’s Privy Council, Dominic LeBlanc.

    Canada’s First Ministers condemned the ongoing imposition of tariffs, which put thousands of good-paying jobs in both Canada and the U.S. at risk. While some important elements of the Canada-U.S. relationship have been preserved, Prime Minister Carney noted that the U.S. trade action will cause profound economic damage.

    First Ministers discussed how Canada is responding to the latest U.S. tariffs and defending the Canadian economy. Prime Minister Carney consulted with premiers on a response that maximizes impacts in the U.S., minimizes impacts on Canadians, and avoids escalating a trade crisis that Canada has worked hard to prevent. Canada will ensure that the proceeds of retaliatory tariffs will support workers and businesses affected by the U.S. tariffs. The Prime Minister noted the importance of maintaining resolve and unity as we confront this challenge.

    Prime Minister Carney shared updates with premiers on his recent conversations with U.S. and other international partners, including the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum.

    Prime Minister Carney committed to continuing to meet with the premiers in the weeks ahead.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman McCollum: Trump Tariffs Will “Liberate” Americans Only From the Money in Their Bank Accounts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Dean of the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s imposition of tariffs for his phony ‘Liberation Day’: 

    “As a candidate, Donald Trump promised he’d lower costs on ‘Day One.’ As President, Trump has done nothing to reduce prices, instead fueling rising prices by waging an unprompted trade war with our allies like Canada, Mexico, and Europe. President Trump has proclaimed this day as ‘Liberation Day’ but these tariffs will only “liberate” Americans from the money in their bank accounts. These trade wars will cost Americans when they heat their homes, feed their families, run their small businesses, or tend to their farm.

    “President Trump knows this escalating trade war will hit Americans hard. That’s why he’s announcing these new reciprocal tariffs at 4pm ET, after American financial markets close. If the President is so worried about what will happen to Americans’ 401Ks, I suggest that he work to deescalate these trade wars he started and recommit the United States to relationships with our allies. 

    “Not only will the President’s tariffs inflict financial pain on my constituents, but they will also damage our relationships with our allies in Europe and Canada. Canada is an ally, a partner, and for many—a good neighbor. I’m a former social studies teacher. I know that tariffs can be a useful tool to protect American industry when used in a targeted manner at the right point in the supply chain. But President Trump’s tariffs are reckless, unnecessary, and make no sense at all. As a Minnesotan, the only thing I want to argue with my Canadian neighbors about is who has the better hockey team and who can catch the most fish in the others’ waters.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Subcommittee Chairman Ezell Introduces Legislation to Establish Secretary of the Coast Guard

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    This week, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) introduced the Secretary of the Coast Guard Act of 2025, to provide the Coast Guard with a dedicated civilian leader, ensuring the service receives the resources and support necessary to continue its vital national security missions.

    Under this legislation, the Secretary of the Coast Guard will report directly to the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard will report to the newly established Secretary of the Coast Guard. This structure mirrors the leadership framework of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, which already have dedicated Service Secretaries.

    “The United States Coast Guard plays a critical role in protecting our nation’s security, from safeguarding our shores to conducting search-and-rescue operations and enforcing maritime law, our coasties are the pride of our nation,” Ezell said. “Creating a Secretary of the Coast Guard ensures they have the leadership, resources, and support they need to continue their vital missions. It’s time we give the Coast Guard the same level of recognition and advocacy that other military branches receive.”

    “The United States Coast Guard is the only armed service without the position of a confirmed Secretary to provide civilian leadership to the Service,” House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Graves said. “I commend Subcommittee Chairman Ezell for introducing this bill as part of the Committee’s ongoing initiative to raise the Coast Guard’s profile and provide the resources it needs to carry out its many missions, including maritime law enforcement, illegal drug and migrant interdiction, and search and rescue. I look forward to including this legislation as part of the larger Coast Guard authorization measure the Committee will move this year.”

    “The United States Coast Guard plays a vital role in our national defense, homeland security, and maritime safety – particularly in Alaska, where their presence is essential to our coastal communities,” Begich said. “I’m proud to co-sponsor this legislation to create a dedicated Secretary of the Coast Guard. This long-overdue step gives the Coast Guard an important seat at the table, strengthens accountability, and ensures the men and women of the Coast Guard have the leadership and support they need to carry out their critical missions.”

    “Establishing a Secretary of the Coast Guard is an important step toward ensuring the men and women of the Coast Guard receive the leadership and resources they deserve,” Buchanan said. “This bill brings parity to the Coast Guard with our other military branches and underscores the critical role the Coast Guard plays in safeguarding our national security. With this new position, we will provide the Coast Guard with the support necessary to carry out its crucial missions to secure our borders and protect our waters.”

    Ezell, who serves as the Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, has been a strong advocate for the Coast Guard and maritime security. He remains committed to advancing policies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of those who serve in uniform.

    Current co-sponsors of the legislation: Daniel Webster (R-FL-11), Nicholas Begich (R-AK), and Vern Buchannan (R-FL-16).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Enhancing cardiac services in southern Alberta

    Alberta’s government is committed to expanding access to cardiac services so that Albertans can get the care they need, when and where they need it. That is why Budget 2025 provides $5 million to advance plans for enhanced cardiac and intensive care services in southern Alberta, including a cardiac catheterization lab in Lethbridge and expanded intensive care units in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

    Last fall, Alberta’s government announced Lethbridge’s cardiac catheterization lab progression to functional programming, accelerating timelines by up to one year. Budget 2025 provides funding for detailed planning to prepare the cardiac catheterization lab for construction funding in a future budget.

    “Increasing cardiac and ICU capacity is critical, especially in areas where residents are currently travelling significant distances to receive care. These projects include a cardiac catheterization lab, which will improve health outcomes for residents and, ultimately, save lives.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    “Building these cardiac and intensive care facilities will help strengthen communities in southern Alberta. On top of creating jobs during construction, this work will literally save lives and enhance the overall quality of care for patients. I look forward to these important projects moving ahead as soon as possible.”

    Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure

    “Every heartbeat matters in saving lives. I’m so grateful the Lethbridge cardiac catheterization lab project is being accelerated to ensure patients can get the care they need, faster and closer to home.”

    Nathan Neudorf, MLA for Lethbridge-East

    In addition to a new cardiac catheterization lab at the Chinook Regional Hospital, Budget 2025 supports plans to redevelop and expand intensive care units and diagnostic capabilities at both the Lethbridge hospital and the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Pending the completion of the planning process, it’s anticipated that about eight new beds will be added at the Medicine Hat hospital and about 34 beds will be added at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge. These new beds will have the ability to be ICU or lower-acuity beds, depending on hospital needs at any given time.

    “Expanding intensive care services in Medicine Hat represents the Alberta government’s strong commitment to health care. As the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, I know this will address the health care needs of southern Alberta communities.”

    Justin Wright, parliamentary secretary for rural health

    “Increasing the scope of cardiac services in our city has been a top advocacy priority for several years. On behalf of Lethbridge city council, I want to thank everyone involved in making this a reality.”

    Blaine Hyggen, mayor, City of Lethbridge

    “These changes will reduce wait times, expand cardiac services for southern Albertans and keep patients close to home. ICU upgrades and enhanced cardiac care will greatly benefit the region.”

    Dr. David Stewart, interim South Zone medical director, Alberta Health Services

    Budget 2025 also includes $22 million for an interim cardiac catheterization lab at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. The interim lab will provide cardiac serves to Central Albertans until two permanent catheterization labs are built as part of the $1.8-billion Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre redevelopment project.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • In 2024, Alberta Health Services submitted a needs assessment for cardiac services in southern Alberta that recommended the construction of new intensive care units at Chinook Regional Hospital and Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, and the development of interventional cardiac services in Lethbridge.
    • The project was accelerated to functional programming in fall 2024.
    • The cardiac catheterization lab at Chinook Regional Hospital will help an estimated 1,500 to 1,700 patients per year once it is fully operational.

    Related news

    • Expanding cardiac services in southern Alberta (Oct. 22, 2024)
    • Expanding cardiac care at Chinook Regional Hospital (April 12, 2023)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon launches the Low Carbon Buildings Program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon launches the Low Carbon Buildings Program
    jlutz
    April 3, 2025 – 10:25 am

    The Government of Yukon is launching the Low Carbon Buildings Program, which supports local and national emissions reductions in commercial and institutional buildings.

    As part of the Good Energy rebates, the Low Carbon Buildings Program helps building owners save on energy costs, make their buildings last longer, reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

    The updated program will provide funding towards building upgrades that will result in significant energy savings and carbon reductions. Businesses, municipalities, First Nations governments and non-profit organizations play an important role in reducing the territory’s collective energy use and greenhouse gas emissions and supporting climate action and a net-zero future.

    This program was paused in May 2023 after successfully allocating all available funding for 209 projects from the Government of Yukon and the federal Low Carbon Economy Fund. In March 2025, the Government of Yukon secured a new funding agreement under a renewed Low Carbon Economy Fund, allowing the Government of Yukon to restart this popular program. The total joint investment of $21.8 million, $16.4 million from the Government of Canada and $5.5 million from the Government of Yukon, will fund the ongoing delivery of Good Energy rebate programs for buildings for 2025–2029.

    The Government of Yukon’s incentives program makes energy efficient retrofits accessible, affordable and achievable. These climate actions contribute to the Yukon’s green economy and build a cleaner, sustainable and resilient future for all Yukoners.

    Our government is excited to launch the Low Carbon Buildings Program. With renewed funding, this program will help building owners save on energy costs, reduce emissions and improve efficiency, supporting businesses, municipalities and organizations in creating more energy-efficient buildings. This is just one of the many Good Energy programs helping us meet emissions reduction targets by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

    Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker 

    Quick facts

    • Applicants can call or email the branch to get the new guide and to help them prepare project proposals.

    • To learn more, vist: yukon.ca/en/apply-commercial-institutional-energy-rebates

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca

    Kate Erwin
    Communications, Energy, Mines and Resources
    867-667-3183
    kate.erwin@yukon.ca

    News release #:

    25-148

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Rural Experiential Model returns to bring hands-on learning opportunities to rural students

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Rural Experiential Model returns to bring hands-on learning opportunities to rural students
    zaburke
    April 3, 2025 – 9:26 am

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government.

    The first Rural Experiential Model (REM) in nearly six years kicked off this week in Dawson, bringing together students and educators for a week of hands-on learning. From March 31 to April 4, students from four rural Yukon communities – Dawson, Faro, Mayo and Carmacks – are taking part in the immersive educational experience, designed to provide equitable learning opportunities outside of Whitehorse.

    The REM was developed to support rural students by expanding course options and fostering collaboration between students, educators, Elders and local experts. 

    The program is guided by four key principles.

    • Increasing course options: Expanding hands-on learning opportunities for rural students.
    • Supporting multiple pathways: Encouraging diverse learning journeys that align with student interests and future goals.
    • Fostering community: Creating connections among students across different rural schools.
    • Enhancing collaboration: Strengthening mentorship and professional development for rural educators.

    This year’s REM gives Grade 10–12 students the opportunity to earn two high school credits through intensive learning sessions. 

    The REM plays a vital role in building a sense of belonging and opportunity for rural students. By providing access to unique hands-on learning experiences, the REM helps foster stronger connections among Yukon communities and enhances collaboration among rural educators.
     

    The return of the Rural Experiential Model highlights our commitment to providing meaningful and equitable educational experiences for all Yukon students. I am deeply grateful to the dedicated staff from the Department of Education and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in government for their hard work and collaboration in making this important event possible. Together, we are fostering connections, enriching learning and empowering our rural youth.

    Minister of Education Jeanie McLean

    We are excited to be co-hosting the REM event in Dawson this week. This opportunity allows high school students to come together, share their experiences and immerse themselves in hands-on learning through a diverse range of engaging sessions. We want to express a mähsį cho to Flora and Rob at the Department of Education, the committed Robert Service School staff, our supportive community, the talented session leaders, knowledge holders, students and their families. It truly takes a village to make an event like this successful and we are thankful for everyone’s contributions to making REM a reality.

    Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government Education Manager Ashley Bower-Bramadat

    Quick facts

    • This year’s event is co-hosted by Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and the Department of Education. The REM is returning after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the last event taking place in Haines Junction in 2019.

    • This year’s learning sessions include culinary arts, dance and drama, esthetics, First Nations art, hair, sports camp, welding and woodworking. Daytime sessions will be complemented by evening learning activities and opportunities for students to socialize with their peers.

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Michael Edwards
    Communications, Education
    867-471-0902
    michael.edwards@yukon.ca

    Elaine Corden
    Director of Communications and Policy, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government
    604-345-2140
    elaine.corden@trondek.ca 
     

    News release #:

    25-147

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon updates tipping fees to support sustainable waste management

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon updates tipping fees to support sustainable waste management
    zaburke
    April 1, 2025 – 11:26 am

    The Government of Yukon has released an updated schedule of waste disposal site charges for its solid waste sites in unincorporated Yukon. 

    The fee schedule will be implemented at the Destruction Bay, Pelly Crossing and Champagne solid waste facilities starting May 1, 2025. This will be the first time that tipping fees are charged in these locations.

    Facility attendants will be in place in Pelly Crossing on April 1 to answer questions, help users sort their waste and provide information about the updated fee schedule. Facility attendants are already in place in Destruction Bay and Champagne.

    Also beginning May 1, the updated fee schedule will apply to tipping fees at the Deep Creek, Carcross, Mt. Lorne, Marsh Lake and Tagish solid waste facilities. These locations have had tipping fees since 2020.

    Tipping fees help cover facility costs, ensure proper waste disposal, extend landfill lifespans and encourage waste reduction.
    The updated fee schedule is consistent with rates set at municipal sites establishing consistent user pay fees at all solid waste sites in Yukon. 

    To encourage composting and to make disposing of waste more affordable, the Government of Yukon has eliminated tipping fees on organic waste. Currently five solid waste facilities have composting units. Recycling at Government of Yukon-run sites will remain free.
     

    Disposing of our waste appropriately is a responsibility every Yukoner shares. This next phase of regionalization ensures most Government of Yukon solid waste facilities throughout the territory will have gates, staff and tipping fees. These measures increase the lifespan of our landfills and promote waste diversion.

    Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn

    Quick facts

    • Tipping fees cover only a small portion of the actual costs of waste management. They are designed to ensure there is a fair user-pay model in place and that no one person is paying more than anyone else.

    • Since January, Community Services staff have conducted community visits and engagement sessions in, Mendenhall, Champagne, Pelly Crossing and Burwash Landing.

    • Recycling at Government of Yukon-run sites will remain free. 

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca

    John Tonin
    Community Services
    867-334-5816
    john.tonin@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:

    25-145

    Related information:

    Tipping fee prices

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon announces key changes for the 2025–26 hunting and fishing licensing year

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon announces key changes for the 2025–26 hunting and fishing licensing year
    zaburke
    March 31, 2025 – 2:35 pm

    The Government of Yukon is launching the 2025–26 hunting and fishing licensing year with important changes aimed at improving wildlife management, supporting conservation efforts and providing new opportunities for hunters across the territory.

    New hunting opportunities for the 2025–26 licensing year:

    • The number of deer permits will increase from 12 to 20. This includes two additional youth permits (for hunters aged 14 to 15), bringing the total to four permits for GMZ 1-15, 1-17 to 1-19, 1-21 to 1-72, 2, 3, 4 (except 4-03 and 4-51), 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11.
      • Adult permits will increase from 10 to 16, with the total number of regular permits split between two areas: 10 permits for Game Management Zones (GMZ) 5, 7, 8 and 9, and six permits for GMZ 1-15, 1-17, 1-19, 1-21 to 1-72, 2, 3, 4 (except 4-03 and 4-51), 10 and 11.
    • The government is increasing the number of moose permit hunt authorizations (PHA) in the Fish Lake and Mount Lorne Moose Management Units (MMUs) in the Southern Lakes region from 7 to 15.
      • Fish Lake will have four new permits, excluding Game Management Subzones 718, 719 and 721, bringing the total to seven permits.
      • Mount Lorne will see four new permits, excluding Subzone 904, bringing the total to eight.
      • Permit numbers for the Wheaton River Moose Management Unit (MMU) remain unchanged at four PHAs. However, the allocated PHAs will now apply to Game Management Subzones 722, 728 and 729.
      • These additional moose permit opportunities are well within sustainable harvest guidelines. Ongoing population inventories will provide additional data to assess trends in the moose population and ensure sustainable hunting opportunities.

    New conservation measures for the 2025–26 licensing year:

    • The Braeburn elk hunt will be closed for the 2025–26 season to protect and support the recovery of the local elk population.
    • Starting in 2026, the bison hunting season will be shortened by one week, closing on March 24. This change, recommended by the Aishihik Bison Technical Team, is designed to reduce pressure on pregnant cows and protect the bison herd during critical reproductive periods.
    • In response to concerns raised by Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN), hunting grizzly bears will be prohibited within 100 metres of the centreline along the Haines Road corridor (from Gribbles Gulch to Unnamed Creek #1). This closure will apply to the east side of the road (Game Management Zone 7), where grizzly bear hunting was previously allowed, while the west side of the road (Game Management Zone 6) remains closed due to existing restrictions on grizzly bear hunting. This measure addresses ongoing concerns raised by CAFN Elders about Grizzly bear hunting in proximity to Klukshu, a traditional village
    • Due to ongoing conservation concerns, the Kluane Wildlife Sanctuary sheep permit will not be offered for the 2025–26 season.
    • To protect the lake trout population, new regulations are in place for Little Atlin Lake. Anglers may only harvest lake trout between 585 mm and 650 mm in length. A seasonal harvest closure (July 1 to November 30) will help protect the species during critical life cycle periods. Additionally, all anglers must use single-point barbless hooks to reduce harm to fish populations.

    Upcoming lotteries:

    • The Special Guide Licence (SGL) application period will run from April 1 to April 17.
    • The Permit Hunt Authorization lottery will be open from April 17 to May 15. 

    The 2025–26 season brings exciting opportunities for hunters and anglers, while ensuring responsible management of the Yukon’s natural resources. Hunters and anglers are expected to review updated regulations and secure necessary permits and licences before heading out on the land. Responsible recreating and compliance help ensure the sustainability of the territory’s wildlife populations for years to come.
     

    Our government is committed to the responsible and sustainable management of the Yukon’s wildlife resources, ensuring their health and abundance for future generations. These changes reflect our ongoing collaboration with communities, wildlife experts and stakeholders. By balancing conservation efforts with hunting and fishing opportunities, we are supporting both the vitality of our ecosystems and the needs and lifestyle of Yukoners.

    Minister of Environment Nils Clarke

    Quick facts

    • The Government of Yukon closely monitors wildlife populations and implements regulations to protect species at risk and maintain healthy ecosystems. This includes setting harvest limits, regulating hunting methods and closing areas to hunting or fishing when necessary.

    • All hunters and anglers in the Yukon must obtain the appropriate licences before engaging in hunting or fishing activities. Licences are available for purchase online, in person at Environment offices or through authorized vendors. 

    • Regulations may vary across different regions of the Yukon. Hunters and anglers must review the specific regulations for their intended areas before planning their activities.

    • Bag limits are set each year to control the number of animals harvested and ensure sustainable populations. These limits vary by species and region.

    • The Government of Yukon encourages all anglers to submit their burbot sport fishing catch reports for the 2025–26 season. Reports can be submitted online through eLicensing accounts. Accurate catch data helps manage wildlife and fisheries effectively and anglers are encouraged to contribute to conservation efforts. 

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Mara De La Rosa
    Communications, Environment
    867-456-5565
    mara.delarosa@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:

    25-142

    Related information:

    Guide to hunting in the Yukon
    See fishing rules and regulations
    Apply for a special guide licence to guide a non-Yukon resident Canadian on a h…
    Apply for a Permit Hunt Authorization
    Where to buy Yukon angling, hunting and camping permits, seals or licences
    What We Heard report released on proposed Little Atlin Lake fishing regulation …

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Wildfire and flood preparedness reminders for April

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Wildfire and flood preparedness reminders for April
    zaburke
    April 3, 2025 – 10:49 am

    Wildfire season officially begins on April 1, bringing burning rules into effect regardless of snow coverage.

    In the Yukon, Yukoners are legally required to get permission to light an open fire between April 1 and September 30. This includes lighting an open fire for any purpose other than a campfire, burning grass, debris or brush in a burn barrel and burning on all public and private lands. To get permission, people must call their local Wildland Fire Management base.

    Wildfire prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Never leave a fire unattended and keep tools to put it out close by. Put it out by soaking it with water, stirring it with a stick and repeating until the coals are cold.

    As fire season begins, the Government of Yukon is providing more information on the Wildfire Hub. This year, the fire danger map will show the current fire restrictions for every part of the Yukon. The Hub will also have more information about wildfire mitigation work, such as fuel breaks. The Wildfire and Flood Hubs can be accessed through www.yukon.ca/emergencies.

    As spring approaches, Government of Yukon emergency planners have met with municipal and First Nations governments to update community emergency plans and conduct training exercises together. When there is an above-average snowpack, such as in the Klondike area this year, planners work with the affected communities to ensure response plans are up-to-date. This includes pre-positioning sandbags, sandbag machines and other response materials as needed.

    This spring, an emergency preparedness campaign will run in April and May, including radio, print and social media ads leading into Emergency Preparedness Week in May. The campaign will remind Yukoners to prepare for emergencies by creating an emergency plan for their family or household, making an emergency kit with supplies for 72 hours and tips on preparing your property for flooding or wildfires. These resources can be found online at www.preparedyukon.ca. 
     

    Emergency preparedness is a top priority for our government and a shared responsibility for everyone. We are working with our partners to review and update emergency plans to ensure we are prepared to respond if needed. I encourage Yukoners to think about their own personal preparedness. No matter the emergency, you need to have an emergency plan and an emergency kit. 

    Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn

    Quick facts

    • Burning is only allowed when the fire danger is low. If you live in Dawson, Whitehorse or Watson Lake you also need permission from your local government.

    • This spring, emergency planners have visited Southern Lakes communities including Tagish, Mount Lorne and Marsh Lake; Faro and Ross River; and this week, Whitehorse, Dawson and the Klondike Valley, with a visit to Watson Lake planned in April.

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Julia Duchesne
    Communications, Community Services
    867-332-4188
    julia.duchesne@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:

    25-149

    Related information:

    Get emergency updates
    Apply for a burn permit
    Keep your property safe from wildfires
    Get Yukon wildfire updates
    Preparing for a flood

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Smucker, Schneider To Co-Chair Congressional Candy Caucus

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker, R-PA, and Brad Schneider, D-IL today announced that they will co-chair the bipartisan Congressional Candy Caucus. 

    Originally formed in 2016, the Congressional Candy Caucus is a bipartisan coalition of members of Congress who support America’s chocolate and candy industry. The Caucus has several policy priorities including: creating a level playing field for confectioners by identifying solutions to supply chain challenges; supporting policies that allow U.S. food manufacturing to remain competitive on a global scale; and protecting good-paying American manufacturing jobs.

    “The U.S. confectionery industry has a remarkable economic footprint in all 50 states, and especially in my home state and district in Pennsylvania,” Rep. Smucker said. “We are proud of the many enjoyable chocolate and candy products made right here in America. I am honored to serve as co-chair of the Congressional Candy Caucus alongside my colleague Rep. Schneider to continue fostering a policy environment that ensures American chocolate and candy companies will thrive.”

    “Chocolate and candy make life sweeter—enhancing family traditions, special moments, and celebrations. At the same time, candy and chocolate manufacturing generates real economic momentum across the country and has kept countless family businesses in operation across generations,” Rep. Schneider said. “I’m proud to be joining Congressman Smucker in leading the Congressional Candy Caucus and championing the confectionery industry for future success.”

    “Under the leadership of Congressmen Schneider and Smucker, the Congressional Candy Caucus is poised to do great things in conjunction with our iconic industry,” John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “The confectionery industry is a great American manufacturing success story. The companies that make chocolate, candy, gum and mints employ nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities in all 50 states and support an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. In fact, for every one job that we create in confectionery manufacturing in the U.S., another 11 U.S. jobs are supported in other sectors – and that is the Power Of Sweet.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Dems Rebuke Largest Tax Increase in History on American Consumers and Businesses

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Today, New Democrat Coalition Chair Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Trade & Tariffs Task Force Chair Don Beyer (VA-08) issued a statement following President Trump’s announcement of 25 percent taxes on all automobile imports and between 10 and 50 percent taxes on virtually every good imported from every U.S. trading partner:

    “President Trump’s latest announcement of a massive tax increase in the form of sweeping tariffs will not ‘liberate’ working people or businesses in America – it will handcuff them to a sinking economy weighed down by the President’s reckless, costly, and destructive trade policy.

    “The President’s premise that imposing the largest tax increase in American history will strengthen our economy and lower prices will undoubtedly prove to be one of the dumbest economic policy blunders in decades. These across-the-board taxes will hit the bank accounts of hardworking families and the bottom lines of small businesses as the price of every goods increases, from consumer goods like gas, groceries, and cars to raw materials like lumber, minerals, and metals.

    “President Trump has no clear strategy to strengthen our economy – his own team didn’t even know his plan – and he sees these taxes on consumers not as a means to an end, but as the end goal itself. This approach simply ignores reality, and it’s why industry leaders, economists, and the stock market have been sounding the alarm for weeks.

    “It’s time Republicans join Democrats in taking urgent action to restrict the President’s ability to impose these taxes unilaterally. That’s why we introduced legislation to enforce Congress’s constitutional duty to oversee trade policy, and we call on our colleagues across the aisle to join us in standing up for the American people by ending President Trump’s harmful campaign.”

    New Dem Members have introduced several bills to counter Trump’s unilateral tariffs and reclaim congressional authority to levy taxes, including the:

    • Repealing Outdated and Unilateral Tariff Authorities Act (H.R.2464), 
    • Prevent Tariff Abuse Act (H.R.407),
    • Congressional Trade Authority Act (H.R.1903), and
    • Reclaim Trade Powers Act (H.R.2459).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko, Turner, Rutherford & Pettersen Introduce Bipartisan Reentry Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), Mike Turner (R-OH), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), and John Rutherford (R-FL) today introduced the Reentry Act, bipartisan legislation that empowers states to restore access to healthcare, including addiction and mental health treatment, through Medicaid for incarcerated individuals up to 30 days before their release. Representative Tonko, Turner, Pettersen, and Rutherford are joined by over 60 original cosponsors in introducing this legislation.

    Their bill addresses alarming data showing that individuals released from incarceration are up to 129 times more likely to die of a drug overdose during the first two weeks after release.

    “The overdose crisis has touched communities of every state across the nation, and few are at greater risk than those individuals returning home from incarceration,” Congressman Tonko, Co-chair of the Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery (ATR) Caucus said. “By restarting benefits for Medicaid-eligible Americans prior to release, our bipartisan Reentry Act takes swift, needed action to combat the disease of addiction and bring targeted treatment to the people who most need it. In short, our bill will save lives, lower costs, and reduce recidivism. I urge Congress to join us in advancing the Reentry Act without delay to combat the disease of addiction and provide hope to our communities.”

    “Too many individuals leaving incarceration face overwhelming challenges, with recidivism and overdose rates alarmingly high in the weeks following release,” said Congressman Turner. “The Reentry Act is a bipartisan solution that allows states to restore Medicaid coverage 30 days before release, ensuring access to critical substance abuse treatment and healthcare during this vulnerable transition. By providing continuity of care, we can save lives, reduce repeat offenses, and help communities in Ohio and across the country fight the opioid epidemic. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this commonsense legislation.”

    “Throughout my time in law enforcement, I saw many individuals reoffend time and time again as they struggled to break the cycle of substance abuse,” said Rutherford (R-FL-05). “Continuity of care for those leaving the prison system is important to help reduce instances of overdose deaths, suicides, and drug related crimes following reentry. That’s why I’m proud to join my bipartisan colleagues in supporting these important programs that help individuals who are released from prison to receive the mental health and addiction treatment they need right before and after they are released from incarceration. This legislation is smart on crime, saves lives, and reduces recidivism.”

    The Reentry Act:

    • Restarts benefits for Medicaid-eligible incarcerated individuals 30 days pre-release
    • Makes it easier for states to provide effective addiction treatment and services, allowing for smoother transitions to community care and a reduced risk of overdose deaths post-release
    • Does not change WHO is eligible for Medicaid or CHIP coverage, just ensures a warm handoff back for those already eligible.

    A fact sheet on the reentry act can be found HERE.

    More than 130 groups support the Reentry Act, including:

    A Little Piece of Light, Accompanying Returning Citizens with Hope, ACOG, Activate Your Life inc, Addiction Policy Forum, American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists, American Civil Liberties Union, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Correctional Association (ACA), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, Alliance for Rights and Recovery, American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD), Association for Behavioral Healthcare, Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, American Society of Addiction Medicine, Benevolence Farm, Big Cities Health Coalition, Black Male Initiative, BrainFutures, Breakthrough Alliance of Colorado, CADCA, Center for Justice and Human Dignity, Central Ohio Restored Citizens Collaborative, Christian Love Agency, Coalition on Human Needs, Community Catalyst, Community Oriented Correctional Health Services, DC Peace Team, Drug Policy Alliance, Each One Teach One Reentry Fellowship, EvergreenDaley, Exchanging Pathways, EX-incarcerated People Organizing (EXPO) of Wisconsin, Fabian Consulting Inc., Fair and Just Prosecution, Families Inspiring Reentry & Reunification 4 Everyone, Florida Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants, Florida Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee, Foundation for California Community Colleges, From the Block to the Boardroom, Future Stars of Tomorrow, Gateway Alliance Project, Grays House, Hinda Institute, HIV Medicine Association, Honest Jobs, HOPE for Prisoners, Illinois Alliance for Reentry and Justice, Indivior, InnerMission, Inseparable, Just Detention International, Just Future Project, Justice in Aging, JustLeadershipUSA, JustUS Coordinating Council, KLN Consulting LLC, Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime & Incarceration (LEL), Legal Action Center, Los Angeles Reentry Health Advisory Collaborative, Major County Sheriffs (MCSA), MATTERS Network, Mental Health America, Mississippi Impact Coalition, My Meta ReEntry Services, Inc., My Sisters Reunited Reentry Services Inc, NACo, NAMI Huntington, NASTAD, Nation Outside, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of Social Workers, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, National Black Harm Reduction Network (NBHRN), National Health Care for the Homeless Council, National League for Nursing, National League of Cities, National Nurses United, National Sheriffs Association, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New Beginnings Reentry Services, Inc, Overdose Prevention Initiative, Petey Greene Program, Phoenix House NY, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative, PrEP4All, Presbyterian Healthcare Services (PHS) of New Mexico, Prison Cells To PH.D., (P2P), Rainbow Connections LGBTQIA, REACH Medical Ithaca NY, Reason for Hope, Rebuild, Overcome, and Rise (ROAR) Center at the University of MD, Baltimore, Reentry Ready, Reentry Working Group, Reflections of a Reformed You (RoarYOU), Reframe Health and Justice, ReNforce, Reproductive Justice Inside, Restored Citizens FAITH Foundation, Returning Artists Guild, Safer Foundation, Settling Our Differences, Skillsets for life consulting LLC, Solution Partners, St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho Reentry Services, Survivors for Solutions, Süt&Tye luxury services llc, T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, The AIDS Institute, The Change Up: Midnight Coalition, The First 72+, The Justice Policy Institute, The Liberation Foundation, The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, The Productive Offenders of Society Foundation, The Returning Artist Guild, Treatment Communities of America, United Men of Color, Unlock Higher Education, Urban Community Unity Solutions LLC (U.C.U.S.), Vermont Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants, Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, Victory House for Women, Virginia Justice Alliance, Vital Strategies, We Are Revolutionary, Why not prosper, Women on the Rise, WorkingGroup512, Young People in Recovery, Youth First Justice Collaborative

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DURBIN, DUCKWORTH, KELLY INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO INCREASE YOUTH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) reintroduced two bills to expand and increase access to employment opportunities for underserved youth. The Helping to Encourage Real Opportunity (HERO) for Youth Act and the Assisting in Developing (AID) Youth Employment Act will increase federal resources for communities seeking to create or grow employment programs and provide tax incentives to businesses and employers to hire and retain youth from economically distressed areas.

    “Our youth is our future,” said Kelly. “I’m proud to partner with Senators Durbin and Duckworth once again to introduce two pieces of legislation that will invest in economic opportunities for our youth. Better job options can help break a cycle of poverty and address roadblocks that prevent young people from reaching their full potential.”

    “To invest in our future, we must invest in the next generation. Increasing youth employment opportunities can address poverty and crime across Illinois while setting up our state’s youngest residents for a brighter future,” said Durbin. “Congresswoman Kelly, Senator Duckworth, and I are reintroducing the HERO for Youth Act and the AID Youth Employment Act to boost federal resources for youth employment programs and incentivize businesses to hire, retain, and mentor youth.”

    “Far too many young Americans live in neighborhoods that lack good job opportunities and struggle with all-too-commonplace violence and danger,” said Duckworth. “It doesn’t have to be that way, but it’s not going to get better unless we work together to do something about it. I’m so proud to join Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Kelly to reintroduce these bills that would help open up new economic opportunities for every American, no matter where they live or what community they grew up in.”

    For many young people, lack of job experience is a prohibitive disadvantage for potential employers, which perpetuates vicious cycles of unemployment and poverty in their communities, further limiting potential for further economic growth. In 2022, 13 percent of youth between the ages of 18-24 were neither employed nor in school, and Native American, Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander, and Black youth, as well as youth with disabilities, were disproportionately impacted. Barriers to employment at a young age have devastating consequences on the long-term employment prospects of opportunity youth, including lower lifetime earnings, higher rates of incarceration, and opioid addiction. 

    There is clear evidence of a correlation in communities where high rates of poverty, gun violence, and chronic unemployment among youth are prevalent. A 2017 study found that among youth participating in Chicago’s youth summer employment program, violent crime arrests decreased by nearly 33 percent. Providing employment opportunity to youth can have a considerable impact in lowering recidivism and violent crime among youth while improving their long-term health, and economic and educational outcomes. 

    When youth are provided a pathway to employment and the workforce, employers benefit too because they are able to train and hire skilled workers. It is estimated that between 2022 and 2032, there will be an average of 20 skilled roles with job openings for every one new worker. 

    The HERO for Youth Act would encourage the business community to become a partner in addressing youth unemployment by hiring underserved youth who reside in communities with high rates of poverty. Specifically, the bill would provide a Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) of up to $2,400 for businesses that hire and train youth ages 16 to 24 who are out of school and out of work and youth ages 16 to 21 that are currently in foster care or have aged out of the system. The legislation would expand the summer youth program under WOTC, which provides a tax credit to businesses that hire for summer employment youth ages 16 to 17 who are enrolled in school and live in highly distressed rural and urban communities known as Empowerment Zones, by doubling the amount of the credit to $2,400 and expanding the program to include year-round employment.

    The AID Youth Employment Act will make it easier for local governments and community organizations to apply directly for federal funding to create and expand summer and year-round employment programs for young people. The legislation would establish a five-year competitive grant program for youth summer employment that also incorporate access to trauma-informed mentorship as well as job coaches. The program would provide planning grants of up to $250,000 for 12 months or implementation grants of up to $6 million over three years.

    The HERO for Youth Act has been endorsed by National Grocers Association, National Small Business Association, National Recreation and Park Association, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Youth Employment Coalition, Young Invincibles, Food Industry Association, and Youth Guidance.

    The AID Youth Employment Act has been endorsed by Young Invincibles, Youth Guidance, and Chicago Urban League.

    A one-pager for the HERO for Youth Act can be found here.

    A one-pager for the AID Youth Employment Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly, Senator Durbin Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Update Laws Governing Licensed Firearm Dealers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the Federal Firearm Licensee Act to update the laws governing licensed firearm dealers for the first time in over 30 years. Current laws inadequately meet the business, technological and cultural realities of the 21st century, ultimately insulating rogue firearms dealers from law enforcement.

    “While the gun industry profits $9 billion each year with deadlier and more advanced weapons, the gun lobby obstructs any updates to our laws,” said Rep. Kelly, Vice Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. “It is long-past time we bring our gun safety laws into the 21st century. It is simply commonsense for every gun dealer to be responsible for their product and ensure they do not unwittingly provide guns to people with dangerous intentions.” 

    “Our existing laws allow far too many guns to find their way into the hands of individuals who pose a threat to our communities. I’m teaming up with Congresswoman Kelly to introduce the Federal Firearm Licensee Act to ensure that people who shouldn’t have guns aren’t able to get them, including by requiring licensed firearm dealers to take steps to prevent the guns in their inventory from being stolen and trafficked for use in violent crimes,” said Durbin. “Passing this legislation is just one of many actions we must take to reduce gun trafficking and address the gun violence epidemic in Illinois and across the country.”

    U.S. Reps. Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Joe Morelle (NY-25), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Seth Magaziner (RI-02) also joined Rep. Kelly in leading the Federal Firearm Licensee Act.

    “Gun violence devastates every one of our communities — it is now the number one cause of death for children and teens in the United States — and as lawmakers, we have an obligation to end the epidemic and save lives,” said Rep. Dean. “We know that background checks are a crucial way we can prevent firearms from ending up in the wrong hands, but current loopholes in federal law allow individuals to buy firearms online and at gun shows without undergoing background checks. The Federal Firearm Licensee Act would close that loophole. I am grateful to Congresswoman Kelly for her partnership on this commonsense way to shield Americans from gun violence.”

    “We face an epidemic of gun violence in our country—it’s well-past time we put additional safeguards on licensed gun dealers to stop dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands,” said Rep. Morelle. “I have always been a staunch advocate for holding firearms dealers accountable for their role in gun trafficking, and I’m proud to sponsor this legislation—which includes provisions of my Gun Theft Prevention Act—to help reach the common-sense goal of stopping gun violence once and for all.”

    “Our outdated federal firearm licensing laws have not kept pace with the rise of rogue gun dealers and advancements in technology, which criminals exploit to obtain firearms illegally,” said Rep. Panetta.  “Our legislation would take a comprehensive, commonsense approach to strengthen background checks, enhance dealer accountability, and close loopholes that allow firearms to end up in the wrong hands. I’m proud to work with Rep. Kelly to advance responsible reforms that will help curb illegal gun trafficking and improve public safety.”

    “Keeping Rhode Islanders safe means making sure guns don’t end up in the wrong hands,” said Rep. Magaziner. “I’m joining my colleagues to support the Federal Firearm Licensee Act to update decades-old laws to crack down on rogue gun dealers and give law enforcement stronger tools to stop gun trafficking and violence in Ocean State and across the country.”

    The Federal Firearm Licensee Act is endorsed by several leading gun safety advocacy groups including GIFFORDS, Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady United, Community Justice, March for Our Lives and Moms Demand Action.

    “Every day, gun crime takes lives and hurts communities, made worse by weak, outdated laws that let firearms fall into dangerous hands,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director at GIFFORDS. “The Federal Firearm Licensee Act addresses this by modernizing our systems and closing dangerous loopholes. We thank Representative Kelly for her leadership and urge Congress to act swiftly to protect Americans from the next tragedy.”

    “It’s still way too easy for shady gun dealers to exploit cracks in the system and sell guns to criminals,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “This bill would give ATF more tools to hold rogue gun dealers accountable for putting profits ahead of public safety, and we applaud Representative Kelly and Senator Durbin’s tireless work to advance it.”

    “To free America from gun violence once and for all, we must address the issue at its source: the unfettered flow of guns into impacted communities,” said Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy at Brady United. “Regulating gun sales and holding negligent and irresponsible gun dealers responsible is essential to preventing the diversion of firearms into the criminal market and addressing the gun violence epidemic. Brady thanks Representative Robin Kelly for reintroducing the Federal Firearm Licensee Act to reform the gun industry and protect our communities.”

    “If we want to ensure that firearms are not sold improperly or trafficked across state lines, we must better regulate federally licensed firearms dealers,” said Adzi Vokhiwa, Vice President of Police at Community Justice. “We thank Congresswoman Kelly for introducing the Federal Firearm Licensee Act to modernize the law, better regulate the gun industry, and improve public safety.”

    The Federal Firearm Licensee Act modernizes regulations for existing licensed gun dealers by:

    • Requiring physical security measures to prevent firearm theft.
    • Clarifies the standards by which licensed dealers, and their employees, are assessed for purposes of license issuance and renewal.
    • Repeals long-standing Appropriations Riders that have impeded enforcement of existing law by barring the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) from using funds to require licensed dealers to conduct physical firearm inventories and prohibiting the public disclosure of firearms trace data.
    • Increases record retention and electronic data management and sharing for background checks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India calls on BRICS to Unite on ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’ to Mobilize USD 1.3 Trillion for Achieving NDC Goals, at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia

    Source: Government of India

    India calls on BRICS to Unite on ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’ to Mobilize USD 1.3 Trillion for Achieving NDC Goals, at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Brasilia

    India emphasizes on Collaborative Climate Action among BRICS Nations for Strengthening Global Sustainability and Just Transition for All

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 8:16PM by PIB Delhi

    India has vociferously advocated the need for a Collective Leadership for advancing the 2030 Climate Agenda at the 11th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting, held in Brasilia, Brazil, today. The Indian delegation was led by Sh. Amandeep Garg, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

    Session I: Advancing Environmental Cooperation amongst BRICS towards Sustainable Development and a Just Transition for All

    During the first session, India underscored BRICS’ pivotal role in shaping global sustainability and Climate action. Highlighting that BRICS nations collectively account for 47% of the world’s population and contribute 36% of global GDP (PPP), India emphasized the group’s responsibility in addressing climate change and sustainable development.

    India reaffirmed the significance of the New Delhi Statement from the 7th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting 2021, which advocates a holistic approach to climate action by integrating adaptation, mitigation, and means of implementation. Stressing the urgent need for equitable carbon budget utilization, India called for a balanced transition that prioritizes developing nations’ growth while ensuring sustainability.

    A key focus was the Baku to Belem Roadmap, aimed at securing USD 1.3 trillion in climate finance to support Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). India urged BRICS partners to strengthen climate financing mechanisms to meet global sustainability commitments effectively.

    On energy security, India reiterated commitments made in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration (2021), which promotes a diversified energy mix, including fossil fuels, hydrogen, nuclear, and renewables. India highlighted the Green Grids Initiative – One Sun, One World, One Grid, launched under the International Solar Alliance, as a transformative project for global renewable energy integration.

    India also emphasized the role of resource efficiency and the circular economy in achieving sustainability goals. The Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition, launched under G20, was cited as a model for global corporate collaboration in sustainable resource management.

    “A Just Transition must acknowledge the diverse economic realities of nations. Each country has a unique development pathway, and the provision of adequate means of implementation—in finance, technology, and capacity-building—is essential to ensuring that no nation or community is left behind in this transition. As BRICS nations, we must strengthen our engagements in multilateral forums, championing the interests of developing economies and advocating for a fair and equitable transition”, India’s statement read.

    Session II: Collective Leadership for Climate and the 2030 Agenda

    In the second session, India highlighted that the expansion of BRICS from five to eleven members strengthens its leadership in global climate governance. With BRICS nations facing common environmental challenges such as desertification, pollution and biodiversity loss, India stressed the importance of collective action and shared responsibility.

    Emphasizing the need for fair and equitable climate transition, India stressed for continued collaboration amongst BRICS Nations at multilateral forums such as UNFCCC, UNCCD, CBD, and UNEA. The country reiterated the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) as a fundamental guideline for climate negotiations.

    India also acknowledged BRICS’ leadership in sustainability through flagship initiatives, including the Partnership for Urban Environmental Sustainability, the Clean Rivers Programme, and Sustainable Urban Management. The country called for enhanced cooperation in tackling marine plastic pollution, improving air quality, and printing resource efficiency.

    On Climate Finance, India highlighted the urgent need for developed nations to fulfill their commitments, noting that the proposed USD 300 billion per year by 2035 under the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance is far below the required USD 1.3 trillion. India emphasized the importance of COP30, to be hosted in Brazil, as a critical milestone for advancing global adaptation and resilience efforts.

    India also reiterated its leadership in conservation and sustainability, mentioning initiatives such as the International Big Cat Alliance, a global effort for wildlife conservation. Furthermore, India urged BRICS nations to join global sustainability initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, Leadership Group for Industry Transition, and Global Biofuel Alliance to accelerate collective climate action.

    India reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with BRICS partners to drive transformative change in climate action, environmental cooperation, and sustainable development. The Indian delegation expressed gratitude to Brazil, the BRICS Chair, for hosting the meeting and emphasized the importance of continued engagement for a greener, more resilient future.

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    VM/GS
     

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor awards $2M for Washingtonians affected by Boeing layoffs

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded $2 million to Washington to help workers dislocated by Boeing’s companywide reductions. The funding will ensure impacted workers have access to needed resources, including employment and training services.

    Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, this National Dislocated Worker Grant enables Washington to provide job search assistance and follow-up services for workers affected by the layoffs, including more than 2,000 in King and Snohomish counties. The award will help support individualized training and guidance to prepare workers to reenter and advance in high-quality jobs within growing industries. 

    Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, National Dislocated Worker Grants provide a state or local board with funding for direct services and assistance in areas experiencing a major economic dislocation event that leads to workforce needs exceeding available resources. 

    MIL OSI USA News –