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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: REPS. KHANNA AND BEYER REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO SET SUPREME COURT TERM LIMIT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17) and Don Beyer (VA-08) reintroduced the Supreme Court Term Limits and Regular Appointments Act to establish 18-year term limits on any Supreme Court Justices approved after the bill is signed into law. 

    Current justices would be exempt from the term limits. Going forward, the bill would then create a regular appointment process to allow every president to nominate a new justice to the Supreme Court during each odd year, guaranteeing each president the opportunity to nominate two justices per four-year term.

    An Annenberg Public Policy Center poll found that 68% of Americans support term limits for Supreme Court Justices. A Fox News poll found that 78% of Americans support an 18-year term limit for the justices. 

    “The public’s trust in the Supreme Court has plummeted. Extreme conservatives on the Court have stripped away Americans’ fundamental rights,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. “Term limits and a binding code of ethics will rebalance the Court and rebuild confidence in our institutions. I’m proud to have led this effort with Rep. Beyer and my colleagues.” 

    “Rampant, blatant ethics violations and increasing politicization have made it clear that the U.S. Supreme Court is broken – and that reform is urgently needed to restore Americans’ faith in the integrity of the Court,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “Our legislation would restore meaningful balance and public trust in our nation’s highest Court by establishing term limits and ending lifetime tenures.”

     “Rep. Khanna’s and Rep. Beyer’s legislation obligating senior status for future Supreme Court justices after 18 years on the high court is both constitutional and prudent,” said Gabe Roth, Executive Director, Fix the Court. “The Court itself has upheld the creation of senior status in the lower courts, and no one in a democracy should serve in such a powerful position as justice for 30-plus years as is now the norm. (It’s a fitting moment to introduce the bill since just last month, Justice Breyer followed in the footsteps of many retired justices before him and heard cases on a lower federal court.) At a time when poll after poll shows the American people are hungry for change at the Supreme Court, I applaud Reps. Khanna and Beyer for once again demonstrating that Congress can assert its Article I power to set reasonable constraints for what’s become a woefully antiquated and unaccountable institution.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: MeidasTouch Pops on Podcast Charts as Progressives Search for Answers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    New York Times 

    By Ken Bensinger and Reid J. Epstein

    Last week, Representative Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, invited Carlos Eduardo Espina, a left-wing influencer who delivers news updates in Spanish and has 12.3 million followers on TikTok, to be his guest for Mr. Trump’s speech to Congress and to post videos commenting on the event. The 11 videos Mr. Espina uploaded to the site about the event have racked up more than 17 million views.

    But Mr. Khanna argues that until more members of his party begin to see social media influencers as an integral part of the movement, it will be impossible to catch up.

    “I think the right has really created a space in the digital world where people feel they’re part of a community,” he said. “And the left has not done that.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Democrats organize digital creators to counter Trump’s speech

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Semafor 

    By Max Tani

    Other Democrats individually have taken engagement with left-leaning podcasters and posters a step further. Rep. Ro Khanna this week invited Carlos Eduardo Espina, a human rights advocate with over 13 million followers, to be his guest at Trump’s speech to Congress.

    In an interview with Semafor on Tuesday, the California congressman said that Democrats need to view left-leaning creators like Espina as part of Democrats’ political movement, not simply as vehicles to get the party’s message out. He said that while he believed the recent initiatives are a step in the right direction, the relationship between the party and creators is still a one-way street. His decision to invite Espina to the speech on Tuesday was meant to signal to his followers that they are important parts of the political conversation.

    “That’s what the right does better than us. We treat our podcasters, our influencers, as, ‘Oh, there’s an election coming up. We got to get to the young voters, let’s go schedule a bunch of interviews with them,’” he told Semafor, referring to content creators. “The right takes their podcasters, whether it’s Charlie Kirk or whether it’s Ben Shapiro or others, and says, ‘You’re part of our actual movement. You’re going to help determine who makes up our Cabinet, and take part in the governing of this country.’ And that’s what I think we need to do with our base of influencers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REP. KHANNA ANNOUNCES NEW BILLS TO MAKE MEDICARE TELEHEALTH COVERAGE PERMANENT & TO “DRAIN THE SWAMP” WITH ETHICS REFORM

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representative Ro Khanna (CA-17) announced that he will introduce the Drain the Swamp Act, a new bill to ban White House officials from accepting gifts from lobbyists or becoming lobbyists during the Trump term. He also announced The Telehealth Coverage Act that he will soon introduce to make Medicare coverage for telehealth permanent. See Rep. Khanna’s remarks announcing the legislation below. 

    The Telehealth Coverage Act

    Mr. Speaker, the Trump administration is stripping millions of American seniors of their coverage of telehealth on March 31. That’s right, if you’re a senior on Medicare starting April 1, your doctor’s visits on video conference or zoom or phone will no longer be covered. This is going to impact over 12 million Americans, and the crazy thing is that the inspector generals have found that there’s only 0.2% of fraud in telehealth. So why are we taking telehealth away from millions of seniors who are homebound or who have difficulty leaving their homes. It is most devastating for rural Americans. That is why today I’m introducing the Telehealth Coverage Act. It will require Medicare to pay for telehealth services permanently. Let us pass this act in a bipartisan way so that millions of American seniors aren’t deprived of telehealth services because of the actions of the Trump administration. 

    The Drain the Swamp Act

    Mr. Speaker, President Trump campaigned around the country to drain the swamp, yet one of the first things he did was reverse President Biden’s executive order that banned White House officials from accepting gifts from lobbyists. So today I am introducing the Drain The Swamp Act. It’s pretty simple. It will ban any White House official from accepting gifts from lobbyists, and it will ban White House officials from becoming lobbyists during the Trump term. I believe that this bill will have support, not just from progressives, not just from independents, but from the MAGA movement. That is why I’m calling on my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats, to pass the drain the swamp act and send it to President Trump’s desk so he can fulfill his promise.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Khanna, Lee, Colleagues Unveil Bill to Abolish Super PACs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Abolish Super PACs Act would place limitations on contributions

    Bill Text | One Pager 

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on the anniversary of the SpeechNow.org v. FEC D.C. Circuit Court decision, Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17), Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), Congressman James P. McGovern (MA-02),  Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), along with Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), and Delia Ramirez (IL-03), introduced the Abolish Super PACs Act, legislation that seeks to put an end to super PACs in federal elections. The bill would place a $5,000 per calendar year limit on contributions to super PACs, effectively abolishing them. 

    Billionaires, corporations, and other wealthy interests are currently able to make unlimited contributions to “super PACs” that are not controlled by candidates or political parties, even when they spend money to support or oppose specific candidates. These unlimited contributions to super PACs in federal elections often rise to the level of millions of dollars, presenting the threat of corruption in the political process and staggering influence by the ultra-wealthy.

    “The American people are sick of the corruption and influence of money in politics. Our democracy shouldn’t be for sale,”  said Rep. Ro Khanna. “That’s why I don’t take a dime of PAC money. Abolishing Super PACs is a step toward giving everyone a voice — not just the ultra-wealthy. I’m proud to join Rep. Summer Lee to introduce this legislation to ban Super PACs. I’m grateful for Larry Lessig’s scholarship and voice on this issue.” 

    “Campaign finance reform is long overdue. We’re seeing the effects of money in politics destroy our democracy at this very moment because billionaires have been allowed to buy their way into our politics and influence the outcome of our elections. This must end,” said Rep. Summer Lee. “The Abolish Super PACs Act is one step towards putting the power back in the hands of the people and dismantling the oligarchy our country is careening to. Campaign finance reform starts with Congress passing this legislation, and I am grateful to my colleagues and our advocates in the movement for their support of this critical bill.”

    “A lack of limits on contributions to Super PACs allows corruption and dark money to run rampant in U.S. elections. It makes us more vulnerable to foreign interference. And it contributes to billionaire nepo baby Elon Musk being able to buy his way into our government and make a mockery of it. The time is now to stop the undue influence of dark money and special interests in our elections,” said Rep. James P. McGovern. “Our elected leaders should be chosen by the people with the strongest voices, not the billionaires with the deepest pockets. We can’t let the people who want to destroy our democracy keep getting away with this. The Abolish Super PACs Act would stop the out of control flow of unlimited money into our elections and return the power back to the people.”

    “Our democracy should be of the people, by the people, and for the people – not for sale to the highest bidder,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal. “In every cycle since the disastrous Citizens United and SpeechNow.org decisions, we have seen more and more special interest dark money poured into campaigns across the country – this year, with a billionaire paying millions to buy a seat as Shadow President. I’m proud to co-lead Rep. Lee’s Abolish Super PACs Act to cap contribution limits and ensure that our government isn’t beholden to donors.”

    “Our system is corrupt. Super PACs spent a record-breaking $1 billion in dark money this past election cycle. When billionaires and special interest groups continue buying our elections, including seats in Congress, politicians will continue to be accountable to the needs of the rich and powerful instead of the people,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib. “This is not democracy. It’s oligarchy. We need to pass the Abolish Super PACs Act and overturn Citizens United.”

    The Supreme Court has long held that limits on contributions impose only a “marginal restriction” on free speech, and that states have a right to limit contributions to prevent the risk of quid pro quo corruption and the appearance of corruption. However, a wrongly decided 2010 DC Circuit Court of Appeals decision in SpeechNow v. FEC struck down contribution limits to political action committees engaged in making independent expenditures.

    The appeals court said that because the Supreme Court ruled in Citizens United v. FEC that independent expenditures did not pose a risk of corruption, unlimited contributions to independent expenditure PACs could not pose a risk of corruption either. But the decision overlooked (1) the Supreme Court’s longstanding practice of distinguishing between contributions and expenditures and holding expenditures to a heightened level of scrutiny; and (2) the fact that even if anti-coordination laws prevent candidates and super PACs from reaching quid pro quo agreements, those same laws do not stop candidates and super PAC contributors from agreeing to a quid pro quo arrangement that involve funneling bribes through super PACs. 

    This federal bill would be in line with the Supreme Court’s precedent upholding contribution limits, rather than the dubious SpeechNow decision of the federal appeals court.

    A copy of the bill text can be found here, and a one-pager can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa, Kaine, Padilla, Gray Introduce Legislation to Build Medical Schools and Curb Physician Shortage in Underserved Areas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21) and Adam Gray (CA-13), alongside Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced the Expanding Medical Education Act, legislation that would authorize federal grants to establish medical schools in underserved regions like California’s San Joaquin Valley.”The shortage of doctors in the San Joaquin Valley and across rural America has been a serious issue for far too long, and we must continue to address it,” said Congressman Costa. “My legislation will help build a medical school in the Valley and strengthen our healthcare system. Training and retaining local doctors are key to tackling this crisis and ensuring people access to quality healthcare.”“Communities of color and Virginians in rural and underserved areas have long faced serious challenges in accessing health care and finding providers that look like them or offer services nearby,” said Senator Kaine. “Research indicates physicians are more likely to practice in the areas they’re from—so supporting medical schools at HBCUs, MSIs, and in underserved areas is a commonsense way to help improve care in those communities. This legislation would help do that and improve recruitment and retention of talented individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds, creating a health care workforce that more accurately reflects the communities they serve.”  “Expanding opportunities for students of color in medical fields is an essential public health priority,”said Senator Padilla. “By creating more pathways at minority-serving institutions for diverse groups to enter the health care workforce, the Expanding Medical Education Act would help improve access to culturally competent health care providers and address critical workforce shortages.”“The San Joaquin Valley is experiencing one of the worst physician shortages in the country,” said Congressman Gray.“I’m proud to have secured over $200 million in funding for development at UC Merced, including for the joint medical school program with UCSF, but there is still work to be done to make sure our communities have reliable access to medical care. The Expanding Medical Education Act would deliver much-needed support to medical education programs in rural and underserved areas like the Valley and improve access to care.”BACKGROUNDThe U.S. healthcare workforce shortage, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, has pushed an already strained system to the brink. According to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the United States will have a projected shortage of up to 125,100 physicians by 2034. Despite being the fastest-growing region in the state, the San Joaquin Valley has the lowest supply of physicians at a ratio of 47 doctors per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the state average.The San Joaquin Valley, a majority Hispanic region with already high rates of chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease has been hit the hardest. In counties like Fresno, Merced, and Tulare, where over half the population is Latino, many areas are federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA), making it harder to access timely, quality care. These shortages, combined with language barriers often lead to worse health outcomes.The Expanding Medical Education Act would provide federal grants to institutions of higher education by prioritizing minority-serving institutions (MSI) and those located in rural and underserved areas to establish schools of medicine or osteopathic medicines where none currently exist. This would open the door for eligible Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and MSIs, including UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced. Funding could be used for planning, construction, accreditation, faculty hiring, student recruitment, and modernizing infrastructure, with a focus on underserved areas. UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced have laid the foundation with its San Joaquin Valley (SJV) PRIME+ BS/MD program, which builds off the existing program that trains medical residents at local hospitals like Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno. This legislation would build on that momentum by providing financial resources to assist with the establishment of a medical school in the Valley.
    Link to the livestream is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Dairy Products in SNAP

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21) and Nick Langworthy (NY-23), along with Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act of 2025, bicameral, bipartisan legislation to expand dairy access for SNAP/food stamps recipients while supporting local farmers.  “Dairy products play a vital role in a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients that support strong bones and healthy outcomes,” said Congressman Costa.  “Tulare County is the top dairy-producing county in the nation and state, yet too many families struggle to access these essential products. This bill expands incentives to make dairy more accessible, supports our local farmers, and delivers comprehensive solutions to improve nutrition across the board.”  “I’m proud to join Congressman Costa to introduce this legislation to expand access to dairy products and promote the long-term health of Americans. This effort will help to put healthy dairy options from farms in Western New York on more dinner tables across the country,” said Congressman Langworthy (NY-23).  “As a doctor who practiced medicine for more than 25 years, I cannot stress enough the importance of drinking whole milk, which serves as an excellent source of critical nutrients and contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system,” said Senator Marshall (R-KS). “The Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act of 2025 is a no-brainer and would provide common-sense updates to increase incentives for dairy purchases in SNAP – ensuring all American families can benefit from this superfood.” “A SNAP dairy incentive program is a reliable investment in improving our nation’s health and reducing hunger and chronic food insecurity among low-income Americans,” said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association. “Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are nutritional powerhouses that promote healthy immune function, hydration, bone health, and lower risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. IDFA applauds U.S. Sens. Klobuchar and Marshall, and U.S. Reps. Costa and Langworthy for their leadership on the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act of 2025, which would help our nation’s most vulnerable people afford wholesome, nutrient-dense dairy products for their families.” “Dairy foods provide critical nutrients for healthy lives, but nearly 90 percent of Americans don’t meet dairy intake recommendations. We commend Representatives Jim Costa, D-CA, and Nick Langworthy, R-NY, and Senators Amy Klobuchar, D-MN, and Roger Marshall, R-KS, for their bipartisan Dairy Nutrition Incentives Program Act, which would expand SNAP participant access to healthful dairy products at the grocery store. We look forward to working with the bill’s sponsors and ensuring all Americans have access to healthy dairy products.” said Gregg Doud, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation BACKGROUNDThe Healthy Fluid Milk Incentive Projects were established by the 2018 Farm Bill to promote milk as part of a healthy, balanced diet consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). The latest DGA report shows that over 90% of Americans do not consume enough dairy to meet daily nutrition requirements.  The Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program Act would expand the Healthy Fluid Milk Incentives program (HFMI) to include all milk varieties, cheese, and yogurt. Under this plan, SNAP participants would receive a coupon for additional cheese or yogurt when they purchase these items with their groceries. This legislation is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), and the National Grocers Association (NGA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: REPRESENTATIVES SWALWELL AND CRENSHAW INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO PREVENT ADVERSE DRUG EFFECTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-15)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—This week, U.S. Representatives Eric Swalwell (CA-14) and Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), introduced bipartisan legislation to better address drug-gene interactions to ensure that all Americans have access to treatment that is personalized to their needs.

    The Right Drug Dose Now Act will enable the use of evidence-based pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing to prevent adverse drug events and help ensure that patients receive medications tailored to their genetic makeup. PGx is the study of how genes affect the body’s response to certain medicines, which is critical to understanding how safe and effective a particular drug can be for individual patients.

    The Right Drug Does Now Act aims to update the National Action Plan for Adverse Drug Event Prevention by integrating advancements in pharmacogenomic research and testing. The bill enhances electronic health records (EHRs) with pharmacogenomic information to reduce adverse drug events. The Right Drug Dose Now Act represents a significant step forward in integrating cutting edge PGx research into clinical practice. By updating enhancing EHR systems, this act will reduce adverse drug events, improve patient care, and pave the way for more personalized medicine approaches. 

    “Adverse drug events are a leading cause of death in this country,” said Congressman Eric Swalwell, co-founder of the Personalized Medicine Caucus. “By factoring genetic testing results into medical prescription decisions, we can improve treatment a range of conditions while reducing adverse drug events. PGx will give medical professionals and patients the information they need to choose effective treatments for each clinical case.”

    “More personalized care means better health outcomes for patients,” said Congressman Dan Crenshaw. “This bill will ensure drugs are tailored to each person’s unique needs, it will save on health care costs, and improve lives.” 

    “We applaud Reps. Swalwell and Crenshaw for introducing the Right Drug Dose Now Act,” said Cynthia A. Bens, Senior Vice President, Public Policy, Personalized Medicine Coalition. “By streamlining activities across multiple federal agencies and health care delivery, this bill would spark more widespread utilization of genetically informed prescribing practices that keep American patients out of the hospital.” 

    “If we are truly committed to reducing waste, the timing couldn’t be more critical. In 2016, the cost of non-optimized medications reached $528 billion – more than what was spent on the drugs themselves or any major chronic disease.  Pharmacogenomics has the potential to cut that waste by 30% or more. I encourage others to join Swalwell and Crenshaw in crossing the aisle to address this public health crisis head-on,” said Kristine Ashcraft, President of YouScript and steering member of STRIPE, the FDA Collaborative Community for Pharmacogenomics.

    This legislation is supported by the Personalized Medicine Coalition, American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, American Society of Pharmacovigilance, OneOme, GenXys, YouScript, Aranscia, AccessDx, 2bPrecise, GTMRx Institute, Labcorp, Biocom, Pharma GenLabs, Association for Molecular Pathology, Sanford Health, and the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP).

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Pelosi Reflects on “Opportunity of a Generation” Affordable Care Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – This week, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi sat down with Karen Tumulty at The Century Foundation to mark the 15th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), calling its passage the “opportunity of a generation” and reflecting on the historic, hard-fought path that led to its enactment.

    “We came here to do a job, not keep a job.  Despite protests, despite vicious yelling in the Capitol, it was such a joy,” Speaker Emerita Pelosi said.  “We thought we were joining the ranks of those who passed Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.”

    Read coverage of the event below:

    The Century Foundation: Speaker Emerita Pelosi, President Obama Join Hundreds at TCF Event to Commemorate ACA 15th Anniversary
    [Staff Writer, 3/27/25]

     Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Congressional champion of the law, offered insight into the ACA’s passage, including the “atmospherics” the day the legislation passed in the House. Despite protests, yelling that could be heard in the Capitol that she described as “vicious,” she said, “It was such a joy. We thought we were joining the ranks of those who passed Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid.”

    Moderator Karen Tumulty, associate editor and columnist at the Washington Post, asked Speaker Pelosi to describe getting the votes in the first place:

    For 100 years, presidents had tried to bring health care reform into play, into the lives of the American people, from Teddy Roosevelt on, Franklin Roosevelt, Truman, LBJ with Medicare and Medicaid, and then the Clintons. But, when Barack Obama became president, it was clear, and we had the majority, that we had an opportunity of a generation and we were not going to let another hundred years go by before we passed affordable health care.

    She discussed overcoming seemingly intractable issues like abortion (with allies and opponents in nuns and bishops); regional disparities in costs assuaged through late-night negotiations and a letter from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius committing to action outside of the legislation; and leading the House to support the Senate bill. She described a different letter from “the saintly, remarkable, wonderful” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid that had the signatures of fifty-one senators supporting changes to the Senate bill necessary for passage in the House. “He made it happen, Harry did.”

    One of the most memorable quotes from the fight to pass the ACA was Speaker Pelosi’s statement of her strategy in January 2010 after a special election made the prospects for health reform dim: “You go through the gate. If the gate’s closed, you go over the fence. If the fence is too high, we’ll pole vault in. If that doesn’t work, we’ll parachute in. But we’re going to get health care reform passed for the American people.“ At a press conference after passage, she said she was asked, “which one did you do?”

    I said we did the first one: we pushed open the gate because it was not just the courage of my members who were there strongly and knew why they were there, to push open that gate to pass this bill. It was the outside mobilization, it was … all the groups that represented people with one diagnosis or another, it was people who just wanted health care.

    The history of the ACA hardly ended with its passage. Speaker Pelosi said “one of the hardest jobs I had in leadership” was preventing repeals of parts of the law. She also discussed the repeal effort in 2017 led by President Trump and the Republican-led Congress: “The thumbs down heard round the world by John McCain really saved the Affordable Care Act but it was saveable because of this outside mobilization.”

    Speaker Pelosi also drew from the ACA saga lessons for current debates. She discussed the potential cuts to Medicaid in the current Congress:

    We can’t let it happen. It’s just too big a burden for individuals to pay and their families. If you know any people with a child born with other abilities, but not all of them, you would know how important Medicaid is to those children and how it makes a difference in how they can learn and grow and the rest.

    Tumulty asked about members of Congress who voted for the bill, knowing that it would likely prevent their reelection in conservative districts, comparing it to current times. She said, “We came here to do a job, not keep a job.”

     

    # # #

    Website – Twitter – YouTube – Facebook – Instagram

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi: “TIME NOW for the Secretary of Defense to Resign”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    San Francisco – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi released the following statement on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and his decision to share classified U.S. military plans in a Signal group chat:

    “By disclosing classified U.S. military plans on an unofficial and unsecure messaging app, the Secretary of Defense demonstrated that his incompetence led to recklessness.  In my thirty years of experience working with the Intelligence Community, I have never before seen such horrifying incompetence in the securing of our nation’s intelligence.  How dare he put our Troops at risk with this cavalier behavior.  There must be accountability.

    “If any rank-and-file personnel in the Intelligence Community were to put our national security at risk in this way, they would be fired immediately and possibly prosecuted.  Secretary Hegseth cannot be held to a different standard.

    “Our work in Intelligence has always been about force protection.  Our brave men and women in uniform deserve better than a leader at the Pentagon who not only recklessly puts them in danger, but could cost us the cooperation of our Allies in sharing Intelligence — further jeopardizing our national security.

    “It is TIME NOW for the Secretary of Defense to resign.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Joins California Democrats Demanding Continuation of Critical Food Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington D.C. — Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11) joined Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Democratic Members of the California Congressional Delegation in urging the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reverse harmful decisions that cancel or freeze federal food assistance programs vital to California’s farmers, food banks and families. Alongside Speaker Emerita Pelosi and Rep. Panetta, this coordinated effort is also led by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18).

    Despite encompassing less than 4% of the country’s farmland, California generates over 11% of the U.S. agricultural value; over a third of the country’s vegetables and over three-quarters of the country’s fruits and nuts are grown in California.  The Trump Administration’s discontinuation of the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Cooperative Agreements for 2025, the Local Food for Schools (LFS) Cooperative Agreement Program, and the freeze of the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) funds threatens the livelihoods of more than 600 California farmers and jeopardizes food assistance for more than six million Californians. A network of 49 food banks, serving 58 counties in California—including the SF-Marin Food Bank, which serves both San Francisco and Marin counties—have already seen over 300 food loads paused or cancelled.

    “These programs provide critical support to farmers and food producers in California while ensuring access to nutritious, locally sourced food for families, students, and communities, which we feel are in line with this Administration’s stated goals to provide more opportunities for Americans to eat healthy, support farmers, and boost domestic demand for produce,” wrote the Members. “We remain committed to working with USDA to find solutions that sustain and expand market access for American farmers while ensuring that families and communities continue to benefit from fresh, locally produced food. We respectfully request that you revisit these decisions in light of the millions of our constituents who would be impacted.”

    The full letter is available [HERE].

    Additional signers of the letter include; Reps. Pete Aguilar (CA-33), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Ami Bera (CA-06), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Judy Chu (CA-28), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), Lou Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Laura Friedman (CA-30), John Garamendi (CA-08), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Adam Gray (CA-13), Josh Harder (CA-09), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Mike Levin (CA-49), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Scott Peters (CA-50), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Mark Takano (CA-39), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Norma Torres (CA-35), Derek Tran (CA-45), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Maxine Waters (CA-43), and George Whitesides (CA-27).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Defends Congress’s Article I Powers, Condemns Unlawful and Dangerous Shuttering of USAID

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee and co-chair of the Litigation and Rapid Response Task Force, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Gregory Meeks, and Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee for National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs, Rep. Lois Frankel, in conjunction with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Assistant Leader Joe Neguse, and the Litigation and Rapid Response Task Force on an amicus brief with 202 House Democrats standing up to the blatant executive overreach and illegal dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in the matter of American Foreign Service Association, et al. v. Trump, et al.

    As the House Leaders argued in their brief, the President’s directive blatantly violated Congress’s lawmaking and spending powers as explicitly outlined in Article I of the United States Constitution, by dismantling a federal agency authorized and repeatedly funded by acts of Congress. The unlawful shuttering of USAID undermines national security and causes irreparable harm to America’s global competitiveness.

    The amici curiae include lawmakers deeply engaged in the drafting of the Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998—which established USAID as an independent agency—and the subsequent Appropriations Acts. Their brief reaffirms that USAID must be funded as required by law, and that unilateral efforts to “feed USAID to the wood chipper” or “close it down” violate Article I of the Constitution, a position reinforced by the Continuing Resolution enacted by Congressional Republicans on March 15, 2025.

    The full amicus brief is available HERE.

    The shuttering of USAID, including placing thousands of workers on leave and halting nearly all congressionally approved foreign aid, undermines a critical component of the federal government responsible for global stability and American security. For nearly 40 years, USAID has played a central role in preventing crises, fostering economic opportunities abroad, and mitigating the conditions that contribute to violent extremism and instability. Scaling back its work not only weakens these efforts but also creates a vacuum for global competitors like China, Russia, and Iran to expand their influence.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Statement on Reported Closure of HHS Regional Office in San Francisco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington D.C. – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on the Trump Administration’s reported decision to close the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Region 9 Office in San Francisco:

    “The HHS Region 9 office in San Francisco directly serves the needs of millions of Americans in the Bay Area, the state of California and beyond. By closing our regional office, the Trump Administration would choose to put the health and safety of Bay Area residents and all Californians in jeopardy, gut vital public health initiatives like the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, and potentially axe hundreds of career civil servant jobs held by hardworking Californians.

    “This shortsighted office closure would lead to critical service slowdowns for San Franciscans to get the resources they need and detrimental impacts to our public health response capabilities – all in the name of so-called ‘government efficiency.’  It is notable that this reported decision was made by the Trump Administration’s leading vaccine denialist, Secretary Kennedy, whose extreme views on public health are out of step with the vast majority of the American people.  

    “Make no mistake: the reported plans to restructure HHS and close the San Francisco regional office would directly harm our most vulnerable communities and make America sicker.  In coordination with my colleagues in the Congress, I am examining all possible avenues to fight back against these irresponsible cuts – and I strongly urge the Administration to reconsider its plans to devalue the public health of our constituents.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Solong and Stena Immaculate interim report published

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Solong and Stena Immaculate interim report published

    Fatal collision between a container ship and an oil/chemical tanker 14 nautical miles north-east of the Humber Estuary, England.

    Images courtesy of Jeff Bowden (top) and Howard Parsons (bottom) at MarineTraffic.com

    Today, we have published the initial findings of our investigation into the collision between the Portugal registered container ship Solong and the USA registered oil/chemical tanker Stena Immaculate, resulting in one fatality, 14 nautical miles north-east of Spurn Head at the entrance to the Humber Estuary, England, on 10 March 2025.

    The interim report, available via this link, contains details of our initial findings, consequences and ongoing action.

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    Published 3 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Norma Torres Urges HUD to Reverse Cuts that Could Impact Inland Empire

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

    April 01, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) called on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reverse proposed staff cuts that would worsen the ongoing housing crisis in the Inland Empire.

    “The Inland Empire is in the middle of a housing emergency. Cuts to HUD will slow down affordable housing projects and put more families at risk,” said Congresswoman Torres. “In 2024, homelessness in our region rose by 1.4%, with more than 4,200 individuals and 10,000 students without stable housing. HUD’s role is essential, and I demand they reverse these cuts to ensure our communities get the support they need.”

    The Inland Empire is facing a severe affordability crisis, with only 15% of California households able to afford a median-priced home in 2024. Cities like Fontana, Ontario, and Pomona are hit hardest, with many renters paying more than 30% of their income on housing.

    Despite HUD’s essential role in supporting affordable housing and community development, the Trump Administration’s proposed budget cuts threaten these efforts. HUD has provided over $54 million for housing, community development, and homelessness assistance in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties, as well as $1.6 million to combat homelessness.

    Congresswoman Torres warned that these cuts would jeopardize key projects like the National Core Vista Verde project in Ontario and the Courtplace Housing Development in Fontana, worsening the region’s crisis. She also pointed out that the cuts may be unlawful, referencing the Supreme Court’s Train v. New York ruling and the Impoundment Control Act, which prohibit withholding Congress-approved funds.

    The full text of the letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: During National Nutrition Month, Reps. Chu, Fitzpatrick, Tonko, and Bacon Introduce Nutrition CARE Act to Expand Access to Eating Disorders Treatment

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the last day of National Nutrition Month, Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) Paul Tonko (NY-20), and Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced the Nutrition Counseling Aiding Recovery for Eating Disorders (Nutrition CARE) Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill would expand access to care for seniors with eating disorders by including coverage of outpatient medical nutrition therapy through Medicare Part B. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is the process of providing treatment and recovery around food and nutrition from a registered dietitian to address the complex nature of eating disorders.

    Successful and comprehensive treatment of this mental illness includes psychiatric, therapeutic, medical, and medical nutrition therapy services. However, MNT is not currently covered for eating disorders under Medicare Part B. This lack of coverage leaves the full scope of treatment out of reach for seniors and people with disabilities with eating disorders.

    “While eating disorders are often thought of as a young person’s disease, they affect seniors at rates similar to the general population. Left untreated, these disorders can lead to severe health complications such as heart failure, kidney failure, diabetes, and hypoglycemia,” said Rep. Chu. “We know this can be prevented with treatment and therapy, but only if those are made accessible to seniors. That’s why I’m joining my colleagues on a bipartisan basis to introduce the Nutrition CARE Act to provide patients with Medicare coverage a more comprehensive, specialized approach to combating eating disorders.”

    “The Nutrition CARE Act corrects a long-standing gap in Medicare by extending coverage of medical nutrition therapy to include eating disorders—putting it on par with other serious conditions like diabetes and kidney disease. This bipartisan legislation brings federal policy in line with modern clinical standards and recognizes the full continuum of care required to treat eating disorders effectively. It’s a critical reform that modernizes Medicare, strengthens our healthcare system, and ensures recovery is within reach for all who need it,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. 

    “As with any illness, individuals living with eating disorders should be able to access affordable, quality, and compassionate care,” Rep. Tonko said. “The Nutrition CARE Act delivers comprehensive nutrition counseling coverage and provides needed treatment for Medicare beneficiaries. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation that ensures access to lifesaving care.”

    “I am pleased to join this bipartisan legislation that increases access to necessary treatments for Medicare beneficiaries suffering from eating disorders,” said Rep. Bacon. “Complete care is necessary when treating these disorders, and Medical Nutrition Therapy for seniors and persons with disabilities is needed, in addition to three other cornerstones of treatment: psychiatry, psychological and medical.”

    “I am deeply grateful to Congresswoman Chu for her unwavering leadership in championing the Nutrition CARE Act, saidMolly Perlman, Chief Medical Officer of Monte Nido with treatment programs California, New York, and Pennsylvania. “This legislation recognizes the essential role that nutrition plays in recovery, expands access to critical care, and bridges the gaps in treatment that many individuals face. For those battling eating disorders, specialized nutritional support is not just important—it is a cornerstone of healing and long-term recovery. By removing longstanding barriers to access, the Nutrition CARE Act ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, can receive the comprehensive care they deserve. This is a monumental step forward in the fight against eating disorders, and we applaud Rep. Chu for her dedication to making recovery accessible for all.”

    Click here to read the bill text in full.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu Slams Trump’s Tariff Tax Increases for Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, President Trump signed an executive order that placed tariffs on every single country in the world, including our closest allies. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee that that has jurisdiction over international trade, released the following statement:

    “Days ago, President Trump told Americans that ‘he couldn’t care less’ if his tariffs on cars raised prices for Americans. Today, he is extending the same treatment to millions of products, immediately imposing the largest tax increase in history and raising costs for every single American. His actions will mean higher prices for lifesaving medications, for groceries, for gas at the pump, and for the materials needed to rebuild the homes in my own congressional district after the Eaton Fire. 

    “These tariffs aren’t liberation; they’re stupidity and the clearest sign Trump cares more about being a bully than helping Americans. 

    “Tariffs can be a tool to address unfair trade practices, protect national security, and give American workers a fair playing field. But President Trump’s tariffs, implemented with no strategy and no transparency, will move us further away from all three of these goals – all while costing the average family thousands of dollars a year. The President’s own economic advisor estimates this plan will raise prices for American families by as much as $6 trillion, with Trump and Congressional Republicans plowing ahead with their plan to give a $4.5 trillion tax giveaway to ultra-wealthy individuals and corporations that don’t need it. 

    “Americans deserve better. Republicans in Congress could join Democrats to pass legislation that would rein in presidential abuse of tariff power, restore authority over trade to the legislative branch, and protect Americans’ pocketbooks. Instead of standing up to Trump on behalf of their constituents, however, Republicans continue choosing obedience and submissiveness. They should be held accountable.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Rep. Chu’s Legislation to Provide Tax Filing Relief to Victims of Natural Disasters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    VIDEO: Rep. Chu’s Floor remarks before passage of H.R. 517, Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 517, Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act, introduced by Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28) and David Kustoff (TN-08) by a vote of 388-0. 

    This bill would provide relief for impacted taxpayers in states that have issued state-level disaster declarations. Currently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has the authority to postpone filing deadlines in the event of a presidentially-declared federal disaster, but this does not extend to state-level emergencies.

    Each year, states like California declare state-level emergencies for disasters like wildfires, floods, or earthquakes. Under current law, Californians are not eligible for federal filing relief for these disasters until they’re also declared by the President of the United States. Those declarations can take days or even weeks, which was the case in 2020 after devastating wildfires, including the Bobcat Fire in the San Gabriel Mountains, ravaged the state. That means taxpayers who just suffered a disaster might face two separate tax deadlines for state and federal returns. This legislation would ensure that victims can get the instantaneous federal filing relief they need to recover from natural disasters as soon as the Governor declares a state-level emergency. 

    “While President Biden immediately declared a federal disaster for the Los Angeles fires that devastated my district in January, that was unusually fast. That means that if disaster strikes during filing season, taxpayers run the risk of missing federal filing deadlines through no fault of their own. And, there may be serious natural disasters that affect taxpayers’ ability to file, but don’t ever get declared as a federal disaster,” said Rep. Chu.

    “Our bill solves these problems by giving Treasury and the IRS authority to postpone federal filing deadlines in response to a request by a governor that has declared a state-level disaster. And, it would double the minimum duration of these filing extensions from 60 to 120 days. 

    “I am proud that our bipartisan bill passed the House, and I continue to urge my colleagues to work with me to support the victims of January’s Los Angeles Fires, including the Eaton Fire in my district, by passing a supplemental disaster appropriations package with no strings attached.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Carbajal Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Wildfire Threat

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

    U.S. Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), David Valadao (R-CA-22), Jim Costa (D-CA-21), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to reduce wildfire risks this week. Rep. Carbajal’s Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act would reduce the procedural steps needed for removing hazardous vegetation near power lines, cutting red tape to allow for a more streamlined process to combat wildfire risk.

    “As California continues to recover from catastrophic wildfires that ravaged the region earlier this year, we are reminded of the importance of responsible forest management to reduce future wildfire risk,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Our bipartisan bill will expedite the removal of hazardous trees near power lines and is a common sense solution to protect our communities.”

    “Far too often bureaucratic red tape gets in the way of proper forest management, contributing to the destructive wildfires we see throughout our state,” said Rep. Valadao. “When dead trees aren’t cleared, wildfires burn more intensely, causing widespread devastation and directly impacting air quality across the Central Valley. This bill is a common sense, bipartisan step towards reducing wildfire risk, and I’m proud to join Congressman Carbajal in support.”

    “As our communities recover from wildfires, we must take action to strengthen our infrastructure and reduce the risk of future disasters,” said Rep. Costa. “This bipartisan legislation streamlines efforts to remove hazardous fuels and safeguard our homes, and businesses.”

    “The increasing threat of wildfires has become one of the most critical public safety and environmental challenges of our time. Wildfires take lives, destroy communities, and place immense pressure on our brave first responders. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I’ve prioritized advancing practical, preventative solutions to stop these disasters before they start. The Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act does just that—a commonsense measure to streamline the removal of hazardous trees on federal lands, help us better protect lives, safeguard property, and preserve the vital natural resources our communities depend on,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.

    More specifically, the legislation would allow the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management to approve the removal of hazardous trees near power lines on federal land – including national forests like Los Padres National Forest – without requiring a timber sale, easing a serious threat that has in the past been a major cause of destructive wildfires.

    Currently, utility companies are required to keep trees and branches away from powerlines on federal land. But fallen or dead trees cannot be cleared currently without a timber sale, creating an administrative step that can slow clearing of hazardous fuel and potential triggers for a wildfire on federal land.

    The bill was adopted as an amendment to the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act.

    The bill was first introduced in 2023 with California Representatives Carbajal, Jim Costa (D-CA-21), and David Valadao (R-CA-22) leading in the House and U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla leading in the Senate. 

    The bill was approved by the House Natural Resources Committee unanimously in September 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Carbajal Statement Following New Reporting on National Security Advisor Mike Waltz’s Extensive Use of Signal for Official Work Purposes

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

    U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the heels of new reporting revealing National Security Advisor Mike Waltz’s extensive use of Signal to communicate highly sensitive national security information. 

    “This new reporting confirms my concern that the Trump Administration’s previous mishandling of sensitive information was not a one-time error but a troubling pattern of negligence,” said Rep. Carbajal. “These sloppy and careless actions are irresponsible and undermine the safety of our servicemembers. The Administration must be held accountable for its consistent disregard for protecting sensitive and classified information. We cannot allow this reckless conduct to continue.” 

    On March 27, 2025, Rep. Carbajal led a group of 69 House Democrats in a letter to National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio over the incredible incompetence displayed by their use of Signal to communicate highly sensitive national security information.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal Honors César E. Chávez Legacy With Congressional Resolution

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

    Today, Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24), a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, authored a resolution to honor civil rights and labor leader César E. Chávez.

    “César Chávez was a champion for justice, dignity, and the rights of workers everywhere,” said Rep. Carbajal. “His legacy of resilience and unity continues to inspire us as we reject the divisive policies of the Trump Administration. Today, we honor his legacy by reaffirming our commitment to fairness, equality, and the belief that ‘Sí, se puede’—yes, we can—create a more just future for all.”

    “César Chávez fought for the dignity of workers and immigrants and reminded us that their contributions to our country are just as valuable as anyone else’s,” said Congresswoman Rivas. “We will reject the Trump Administration’s attempts to erase the history and contributions from our communities that have made this country stronger. I’m honored to join Representative Salud Carbajal and my colleagues on César Chávez’s birthday to stand with our communities, continue his fight for justice, and build a country that upholds its values of fairness and equality for all.”

    “César Chávez’s legacy is one of courage, resilience, and an unshakable belief in justice. His fight for fair wages, dignity, and respect for farmworkers transformed the labor movement and inspired generations to stand up for their rights,” said Rep. Barragán. “This resolution reaffirms our commitment to the values Chávez championed – ensuring every worker is treated with dignity, protected under the law, and given a fair shot at the American Dream.”

    “As a fellow US Navy veteran, I’ve always admired Cesar Chavez’s service in the Western Pacific in addition to his legacy of championing civil rights. As a union leader and labor organizer, Chavez dedicated his life to improving treatment, pay, and working conditions for our farm workers, a cause that is more important than ever in the face of Trump Administration attacks on workers and unions.  Cesar Chavez showed us what the power of organizing can accomplish and his legacy continues to live on,” said Rep. Cisneros.

    “I’m glad to join a resolution honoring labor rights hero César Chávez,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. “As a former labor organizer, I carry on his fight for better wages and benefits every day. With workers’ rights under attack by the Trump administration, defending the right to organize is more important than ever.”

    “As the son of a Bracero and a proud Mexican American, I have long been inspired by César Chávez’s tireless work. I had the privilege of working with him when he brought his fight for labor rights to Chicago, and I remain deeply motivated by his belief in the power of organizing and putting workers first,” said Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García. “At a time when labor and civil rights are under unprecedented attack by the Trump administration, this César Chávez Day is not only a recognition but a call to action—to fight for justice and stand with workers everywhere.”

    César E. Chávez was born in 1927, and as a child, he worked alongside his family laboring in the fields and vineyards of America’s Southwest. After serving with distinction in the U.S. Navy, he returned to California and began advocating for safer working conditions and reasonable wages for farm workers and for outlawing child labor. 

    He became National Director of the Community Service Organization, a Latino civil rights group, and later established the National Farm Workers Association, which would become the United Farm Workers of America.

    Through non-violent protests, Chávez successfully fought for pension benefits, health care coverage, and fair wages for workers and became an inspiration for human rights causes globally.

    A copy of the resolution can be found here.

    Reps. Luz Rivas, Nanette Díaz Barragán, Gil Cisneros, Jimmy Gomez, and Jesús “Chuy” García joined as original cosponsors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Passing of Representative Raúl Grijalva

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 13, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Mark Takano released the following statement on the passing of Rep. Raúl Grijalva:

    “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my good friend Raúl Grijalva. He first came into my awareness when he was among the first to endorse former Vermont Governor Howard Dean for President in 2003/2004. We forged a deep friendship when I was first elected to Congress in 2012. He was instrumental in insisting that I lead the fight in Congress on the issue of deported veterans. I will miss his warm, avuncular demeanor that always shined through his gruff samurai warrior grunts. He loved to sit side the Democratic Club puffing on a cigar. We have lost a true progressive warrior.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Guarantee Overtime Pay for Truckers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representative Mark Takano (CA-39) reintroduced the Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act. This legislation would eliminate the current existing exemption in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 that exempts truckers from receiving overtime compensation. The bipartisan legislation is co-led by Congressman Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02); Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) are introducing the companion bill in the Senate.

    “Truckers are vital for our supply chain, manufacturing, and the American way of life,” said Congressman Mark Takano. “It is unfair that they are singled out as somehow unworthy of overtime pay. This legislation will help right that wrong and make sure they are fairly compensated for the hours they work. I am proud to partner with Congressman Van Drew and Senator Padillato build up workers and guarantee more money in their paychecks.”

    “Truck drivers keep our supply chain moving, often working long, exhausting hours to make sure goods get where they need to go,” said Congressman Van Drew. “But right now, they are not guaranteed overtime pay like most other workers. It is just not right. The Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act is a simple fix—it ensures that truckers are fairly compensated for the extra hours they put in. These men and women do critical work, and it’s time we make sure their pay reflects that.”

    “America’s truck drivers are on the frontlines of our economy, enduring long hours away from home, and all too often, unpaid wait times at congested ports and warehouses. Unfortunately, truck drivers have been excluded from overtime pay protections for decades,” said Senator Padilla. “If truckers are forced to wait while on the job, they should be paid. This is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a matter of public safety. Experienced truckers are safer truckers, and better compensation and overtime pay will help more of them stay in the profession.”

    “The exclusion of truck drivers from federal overtime protections must come to an end,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The Teamsters Union is proud to support the Guaranteeing Overtime for Truckers Act, which will right the decades long wrong that serves only to harm drivers to the benefit of their employers.”

    “America’s truckers are the backbone of our economy, keeping goods moving and ensuring our supply chain stays strong,” said Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association President Todd Spencer. “Yet, despite their essential role, trucking remains one of the few professions in America denied guaranteed overtime pay.It’s long past time the hard work of the men and women behind the wheel are fairly compensated. By discounting a trucker’s time, ‘big trucking’ has driven wages downward, treating truckers as disposable rather than the skilled professionals they are. We appreciate Representative Van Drew, Representative Takano, and Senator Padilla for championing the bipartisan GOT Truckers Act, which will right this wrong by securing overtime pay. This legislation is an investment in truckers, road safety, and the strength of America’s supply chain.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Blasts Leaked Executive Order Illegally Dismantling the Department of Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mark Takano (CA-39), a former public school teacher and Senior Member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, released the following statement following public reports of an Executive Order directing Secretary McMahon to begin illegally dissolving the Department of Education:

    “This is a blatant attack on public schools and students. If Secretary McMahon follows through on President Trump’s illegal Executive Order, she will go down in history as the person who single-handedly helped decimate public education. Americans will not forget or forgive this Administration for gutting public education just so they could fund a tax break for billionaires.  

    “This order will devastate many of our already-underfunded school systems, in effect resegregating students into haves and have nots. It will bring devastation and ruin for students across our nation. It will close off paths to prosperity for future generations and undermine our economy for decades to come.

    “We have been ringing the alarm on this very possibility since the start of the Trump Administration. My colleagues and I were locked out of the Department of Education earlier this year when we asked for a meeting to discuss this exact situation. What we said then remains true today: only Congress can make these types of sweeping changes to Department. President Trump and Secretary McMahon cannot. 

    “I will fight tooth and nail against any illegal, lawless order that hurts American students.”

    Last month, Rep. Takano led an oversight mission to the Department of Education, but was locked out of the building.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Takano Rebukes Executive Order Illegally Dismantling the Department of Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 20, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mark Takano (CA-39), a former public school teacher and senior member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, released the following statement following President Trump signing an Executive Order directing Secretary McMahon to begin illegally dismantling the Department of Education: 

    “Secretary McMahon has been directed to deny American students their right to a free and fair education,” said Rep. Takano. “It is impossible to complete the work the Department of Education is charged to do with a fraction of the resources and a fraction of the staff. Eliminating that work will cause our most vulnerable students to suffer, deepening the dividebetween the haves and the have-nots. 

    “Make no mistake, the voucherzation, privatization, and the elimination of public schools will hurt those who have the most to gain from a public education. It will hurt young people, their families, communities, business and industry, national security and destroy our ability to compete globally.

    “Donald Trump is trying to con the American people into cutting public education to fund another tax break to billionaires. It’s a deal only a convicted con man would force on our country. But my colleagues and I are fighting back to ensure that the American people have their voices heard. 

    “I call on my Republicans colleagues to join me and use their voice. They need to use their voice on behalf of the students and teachers in their district. They know this decision will hurt their communities, they know this will hurt our country’s future; the question is if they are too scared of Elon Musk and Trump than to speak up and object.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Passing of Representative Nita Lowey

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif)

    March 17, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Mark Takano released the following statement on the passing of Rep. Nita Lowey:

    “I had the privilege of serving along side Congresswoman Nita Lowey for nearly a decade in Congress until her retirement in 2020,” said Congressman Takano. “She always warm and friendly, but beneath that grandmotherly exterior was woman who wielded enormous influence quietly and effectively.  I thought of her as “non-showy Lowey.” A pioneer in many ways, she was one of the few women serving in Congress in the 1990s. She was among the only seven women members who marched over to the Senate in 1991 to voice objections to the confirmation process for Clarence Thomas.  

    “I was proud to support her election to be the first woman chair of the House Appropriations Committee. She was a regular fixture at policy dinners hosted by Rosa DeLauro. With her passing, we have lost a pioneering public servant. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Castor, Hudson Reintroduce MISSION ZERO Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and Richard Hudson (NC-09) reintroduced the MISSION ZERO Reauthorization Act to allow the Department of Defense (DoD) to continue assigning trauma surgeons to civilian trauma centers to assist in filling gaps in emergency care.

    “The MacDill Air Medical Group and Tampa General Hospital have led the way in ‘full team’ training—bringing together military and civilian nurses, surgeons and specialists to hone their trauma care skills. Their innovative approach inspired me to introduce the bipartisan MISSION ZERO Act in 2018 to expand these vital partnerships nationwide,” said Rep. Castor. “The law provides ongoing support for military and civilian medical teams to train side-by-side in high-pressure environments, ensuring they are always ready to assist our service members and communities. This is a win-win for improving our nation’s civilian emergency response capacity and keeping military provider’s skills sharp off the battlefield. I take pride that Tampa General was among the first in the nation to receive a MISSION ZERO grant, and I am committed to promoting this initiative that fosters these life-saving collaborations.”

    “As Fort Bragg’s Congressman, I know how important it is for our military trauma teams to retain their unique medical skills off the battlefield,” said Rep. Hudson. “This commonsense legislation will continue to support partnerships between our military and civilian trauma providers to ensure critical, life-saving care is always readily available for patients.”

    “I applaud Representatives Castor and Hudson for introducing legislation to reauthorize the MISSION ZERO Act,” said Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS, Executive Director and CEO of the American College of Surgeons. “The military-civilian trauma care partnerships allow military trauma care teams to gain exposure to treating critically injured patients and increase readiness for when these units are deployed, providing greater patient access and further advancing high quality trauma care.”

    “In times of war, America’s trauma centers will play a pivotal role in saving the lives of those wounded on the front lines,” said Jennifer Ward, president of the Trauma Center Association of America.  “Through MISSION ZERO, military healthcare providers refine their skills in real-world trauma settings, while civilian trauma teams benefit by learning best practices from their military counterparts. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Kathy Castor and Richard Hudson for introducing legislation that would reauthorize this essential public-private partnership, which ensures that stateside military personnel maintain peak readiness before deployment.”

    “The MISSION ZERO Act is a vital investment in trauma readiness that strengthens emergency care on both the battlefield and at home,” said Dr. Alison Haddock, MD, FACEP president of the American College of Emergency Physicians. “By embedding military trauma teams in civilian trauma centers, we can enhance the care for severely injured patients, share knowledge and hands-on experience, and foster invaluable collaboration between military and civilian clinicians, ensuring military trauma teams can maintain their skills and team cohesion between deployments. We thank Representatives Castor and Hudson for their leadership in reintroducing this lifesaving legislation.”

    “MISSION ZERO is mutually beneficial for emergency departments (EDs) and military trauma teams across the country – military members are able to keep their skills sharp and EDs can have additional staff available while learning battlefield techniques from the trauma team members,” said Emergency Nurses Association President Ryan Oglesby, PhD, MHA, RN, CEN, CFRN, NEA-BC. “The Emergency Nurses Association has been a supporter of MISSION ZERO since its inception and thanks Reps. Kathy Castor and Richard Hudson for their work getting this bill reintroduced.”

    BACKGROUND:

    Castor and Hudson led the original MISSION ZERO Act, signed into law in 2019, which established grant programs for eligible trauma systems and centers to incorporate full military trauma teams or individual military trauma providers into their hospitals. This mutually beneficial partnership has afforded civilians the chance to learn more about military best practices and gives military trauma care providers the opportunity to utilize their cutting-edge expertise without leaving the military. 

    The MISSION ZERO Reauthorization Act would continue funding for this vital initiative for an additional five years. 

    Tampa General Hospital, one of the nation’s leading trauma centers, received an $80,000 federal grant in 2022 to fund military doctors to provide trauma care at their hospital. 

    View the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford Announces Annual High School Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) announced the launch of this year’s Congressional Art Competition for high school students residing in Florida’s 5th Congressional District. Since its inception in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated in the Artistic Discovery Competition. 

    U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford with Florida’s Fifth District’s 2024 Congressional Art Competition Winner, Rowan Pan of St. Augustine

    “Highlighting the talented young artists who live in our district through the Congressional Art Competition is something I look forward to doing every year and this year is no different,” said Rutherford. “I can’t wait to see all of the great artwork high school students across Florida’s Fifth District create, and I will be honored to showcase the winning piece in the halls of Congress for thousands to see as they visit our nation’s Capitol building.”

    The winning artwork will represent Florida’s Fifth Congressional District in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Submissions may include paintings, drawings, collages, prints, mixed media, computer-generated art, and photography. All entries must be original in concept, design, and execution. High school students of all skill levels are encouraged to participate.

    The deadline for submissions is April 11, 2025, at 4 p.m. Entries must be delivered to Congressman Rutherford’s District Office, located at 4130 Salisbury Rd., Suite 2500, Jacksonville, FL 32216. For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, including submission guidelines and eligibility requirements, please visit www.rutherford.house.gov/art.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford, Golden Reintroduce the Bipartisan FFL Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressmen John H. Rutherford (R-FL-05) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02) reintroduced H.R. 1773, the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) Protection Act, to increase penalties for robbing or burglarizing Federal Firearm Licensee (FFL) dealers. They were joined by 42 additional cosponsors in the House.

    According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), there were over 361 burglaries and robberies of FFL dealers in 2023. During this period, 4,802 firearms were stolen, an 11% increase over 2022. Many of these firearms later show up at crime scenes.

    “As crime rises across the nation, additional steps must be taken to prevent criminals from stealing and trafficking firearms,” said Rutherford. “Criminals burglarize FFL dealers then traffic those stolen firearms and use them to commit crimes. As a former sheriff and lifelong member of law enforcement, I know the threat these stolen firearms pose to the safety and security of our communities. That’s why I am proud to reintroduce the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) Protection Act to ensure those who rob and burglarize federally licensed gun dealers face harsher penalties for committing these crimes.”

    “Our gun laws should protect law-abiding citizens exercising their 2nd Amendment rights, but throw the book at violent criminals and illegal firearm traffickers,” said Golden. “By increasing penalties on those who steal guns from licensed sellers, the bipartisan Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act will deter gun thieves and clamp down on the black market. That’s bad news for criminals, and good news for upstanding American gun owners.”

    “This bipartisan legislation is what true gun safety looks like. Congress is sending a clear message that the safety of our communities is nonnegotiable and targeting firearm retailers to steal guns in order to commit further crimes is intolerable,” said Lawrence G. Keane, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for NSSF. “The firearm industry is grateful to Congressmen John Rutherford and Jared Golden for reaching across the aisle to provide those firearm retailers who follow the law the protection they deserve. This legislation assigns the responsibility for crime where it belongs – with the criminal. These are real solutions that make our communities safer.”

    Penalties would include a minimum sentence of three years in prison for burglary and five years in prison for robbery. Additionally, this legislation would double the statutory maximum penalty for stealing a firearm from a FFL’s inventory from 10 to 20 years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford Releases Statement on Full-Year CR

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, member of the House Appropriations Committee, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05), released the following statement on the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025:

    “House Republicans are working diligently to fully fund the core federal government services, so that President Trump and his administration can continue to identify waste, fraud, and abuse of American tax dollars, protect our borders, and support Americans, including our veterans, military families, first responders, and seniors. Most importantly, by passing this continuing resolution, we are ensuring that a costly government shutdown does not fall upon the American people.

    “It is our constitutional obligation in Congress to fund the federal government, and House Republicans are acting on that duty. Unfortunately, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are not. House Democratic leadership came out in opposition to this bill and spread egregious falsehoods about what the bill does or does not do before the text was even released.

    “Let’s be clear, this bill will NOT hurt law enforcement by slashing COPS Grants nor will it zero out the Toxic Exposures Fund for veterans. Instead, it is a clean bill that will extend funding and certainty for the American people.

    “While House Democrats seem dead set on shutting down the government over their disdain for the Commander in Chief, no matter the cost to their own communities, I am committed to passing this full-year continuing resolution to fund our government, avoid a shutdown, allow the Trump Administration to continue to put America First, and protect Americans. I urge my colleagues to do the same.”

    This bill would:

    • Maintain government operations while responsibly cutting spending
    • Protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid recipients from unnecessary disruption and the confusion that comes along with a government shutdown
    • Promote public safety
    • Renew our commitment to supporting law enforcement officers
    • Raise pay for junior enlisted troops by the largest amount in over 40 years
    • Enhance defense investments
    • Fund important nutrition assistance for mothers, infants, and children
    • Increase funding for air traffic control safety priorities
    • Support federal wildland firefighters who protect our communities and public lands

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 3, 2025
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