NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube Reintroduces Iranian Terror Prevention Act to Designate IRGC-Linked Militias as Foreign Terrorist Organizations)

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

    April 01, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced the Iranian Terror Prevention Act, legislation that requires the Secretary of State to designate and codify 29 Iranian-backed militias and terror groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) under section 219(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as well as any foreign entity or organization controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The bill is part of the Republican Study Committee’s broader initiative to counter Iran’s global terror network and hold its proxies accountable. Among the designated groups are the Badr Organization, Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, Sarayya al-Jihad, Ansarallah (also known as the Houthis), and other militias linked to the IRGC.
    “For far too long, Iran has employed proxy militias to carry out its terrorist agenda across the Middle East. These groups are responsible for attacking American forces, threatening our allies, and destabilizing the region,” said Rep. Steube. “My bill directs the State Department to formally recognize the threat these groups pose and treat them as the terrorists they are.”
    The bill directs the Secretary of State to designate each listed group as an FTO within 90 days of enactment. It also requires the President to determine, within 60 days, whether sanctions under Executive Order 13224 should be imposed on any of these entities or their affiliates, agents, or proxies.
    Additionally, the legislation requires ongoing reporting to Congress. The Secretary of State must submit a report every 180 days identifying any new entities that meet the criteria for FTO designation or sanctions under Executive Order 13224. The President must also report to Congress with a detailed explanation of any listed organizations not sanctioned.
    The Iranian Terror Prevention Act holds Iran’s terror network accountable and directs U.S. policy to confront the growing threat of IRGC-linked militias operating in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and beyond.This legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.), Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colo.), Rep. Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), Rep. Craig Goldman (R-Texas), Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-Ariz.), Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-Fla.), Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.), Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa.), Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), Rep. Mark Messmer (R-Ind.), Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Rep. Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.), Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), and Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.).Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Coalition Opposing Federal Legislation That Would Create Substantial Barriers to Voting

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    OAKLAND — As part of a coalition of 18 attorneys general, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced sending a letter to congressional leadership in opposition to H.R. 22, known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The coalition argues that the proposed legislation would create unnecessary and burdensome proof of citizenship requirements that would effectively disenfranchise millions of eligible voters across the country. 

    Reintroduced by Republican Congressman Chip Roy (TX-21), the SAVE Act would amend the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) to require voters to provide documentary proof of citizenship before registering to vote or updating their voting registration. The coalition emphasizes that this requirement would reverse three decades of progress made under the NVRA, which was designed to remove barriers to voter registration and promote greater participation in the democratic process. 

    “The so-called SAVE Act would be bad for blue and red states alike. I strongly urge members of Congress to oppose it,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The fact of the matter is this: federal law already prohibits non-citizens from voting in federal elections, and voting by non-citizens is exceedingly rare. Those who say otherwise are being dishonest. To make matters worse, should this bill become law, millions of Americans would be disenfranchised because they lack ready access to a passport or a valid birth certificate, or because they might struggle to take time off from work to present in-person their proof of citizenship. Forty-two states across the country, including California, have online voter registration systems in place that already allow us to verify whether someone is or is not a U.S. citizen. Put another way, we do not need the SAVE Act in any way, shape, or form. With consumer confidence in our economy plummeting, it is my sincere hope that elected representatives in Washington D.C. will instead focus on tackling the true crisis — the affordability crisis — that is rightly concerning most people.” 

    In the letter to House Speaker Michael Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the coalition emphasizes that non-citizen voting is extremely rare. Studies show that in jurisdictions with high immigration populations, only 0.0001% of votes cast were by non-citizens. Despite this negligible risk, the SAVE Act would impose substantial burdens on eligible voters, particularly affecting poor and minority communities. 

    The attorneys general warn that the legislation would create significant obstacles for eligible voters, including:

    • Requiring documentation, such as passports or birth certificates, that can be cost-prohibitive and must perfectly match current names.
    • Mandating in-person presentation of citizenship documents, effectively eliminating online voter registration systems currently available in 42 states.
    • Creating barriers for married women whose birth certificates don’t match their current names.
    • Jeopardizing the franchise for active-duty service members who cannot return to their local election offices.

    “Over 21 million voting-age citizens do not have ready access to a passport, birth record, or naturalization record,” the coalition notes in their letter. “And 80% of married women would not have a valid birth certificate under the SAVE Act because those women chose to adopt their partner’s last name.”

    The attorneys general also highlight concerns about the substantial administrative and financial burdens the Act would place on state election systems. The legislation would require states to fundamentally restructure their voter registration procedures and create new systems for document verification, while criminalizing mistakes made by election officials with penalties of up to five years in prison.

    The coalition urges congressional leadership to oppose the SAVE Act and maintain accessible voting rights for all eligible Americans. Protecting election integrity should not come at the cost of disenfranchising legitimate voters.

    Joining Attorney General Bonta in sending this letter are the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. 

    A copy of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ALLEGHENY COUNTY – Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Ag Secretary Russell Redding to Discuss Impact of Federal Funding Cuts, Proposed State Investments on Pittsburgh Area Farms, Families, Food Banks

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 02, 2025 – Duquesne, PA

    ADVISORY – ALLEGHENY COUNTY – Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Ag Secretary Russell Redding to Discuss Impact of Federal Funding Cuts, Proposed State Investments on Pittsburgh Area Farms, Families, Food Banks

    Lt. Governor Austin Davis and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will lead a roundtable at Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank on the impact of USDA funding cuts and proposed Shapiro Administration investments on food security, farmers, and families in the Pittsburgh region.

    Last week, Governor Josh Shapiro called on Sec. Redding to appeal USDA’s abrupt cancellation of $13 million in Local Food Purchasing Program funds that would benefit 189 Pennsylvania farms over the next three years.
    Following the discussion with food bank leadership, farmers, and others harmed by USDA’s decision, media are invited to a press conference recapping the potential impact of cancelled federal contracts. The positive impact of Governor Shapiro’s $8 million in proposed funding increases and additional initiatives to tackle root causes of food insecurity will be highlighted as well.

    WHO:
    Lt. Governor Austin Davis
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Department of Human Services Deputy Secretary Hoa Pham
    State Representative Emily Kinkead
    Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank President and CEO Lisa Scales
    Harvest Valley Farms Co-owner Art King

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, April 2 at 2 p.m.

    WHERE:
    Greater Pittsburgh Regional Food Bank: 1 N. Linden Street, Duquesne, PA 15110

    RSVP:
    Press attending should RSVP to Shannon Powers, shpowers@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NORTHAMPTON COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Efforts to Support Pennsylvania Brewers and Small Businesses in the Face of Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 02, 2025 – Bethlehem, PA

    ADVISORY – NORTHAMPTON COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Highlight Efforts to Support Pennsylvania Brewers and Small Businesses in the Face of Tariffs and Economic Uncertainty

    Governor Josh Shapiro will visit Fegley’s Bethlehem Brew Works to highlight his Administration’s actions to grow Pennsylvania’s economy, support small businesses, and invest in our Main Streets as the federal government enacts tariffs on a wide range of products which drive up costs for consumers and businesses.

    Earlier today, Governor Shapiro and Secretary Redding visited Metzler Forest Products in Mifflin County to announce a new agricultural innovation grant that is helping Pennsylvania hardwood companies expand their operations. Pennsylvania is the top exporter of hardwood lumber and forest products in the country.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Mayor Willie Reynolds
    Representative Steve Samuelson
    Representative Jeanne McNeill
    Jeff Fegley, Owner of Fegley’s Brew Works

    WHEN:
    TOMORROW, Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 1:15 PM

    WHERE:
    Fegley’s Bethlehem Brew Works 559 Main Street #101 Bethlehem PA, 18018

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: April 1st, 2025 N.M. Delegation to Host Virtual Military Service Academy Nominations Event on April 17

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Nominations application is live starting April 11th – October 4th, 2025
    WASHINGTON — At 6 p.m. MT on Thursday, April 17, the offices of U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) will bring together representatives from the U.S. Military Service Academies for a virtual Q&A session.
    The conversation is an opportunity for high school students and recent graduates to ask questions about the nomination process and attending U.S. Military Service Academies. The New Mexico Congressional Delegation will be accepting online applications for nominations to enter an academy in Fall 2025.
    Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, N.Y.; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, Md.; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, Colo.; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, N.Y. Each member of Congress is allotted a limited number of nominations that they submit to each academy.
    The application process opens on April 11, 2025. Interested applicants should visit members’ websites for information on how to apply. The deadline to apply for a nomination for each of the congressional offices is October 4, 2025.
    WHAT: Military Service Academy Nominations Virtual Q&A
    WHEN: Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 6 p.m. MT
    WHO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich’s staff will be joined by:
    U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján’s staff, U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández’s staff, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez’s staff, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury’s staff, and U.S. Military Service Academies Representatives.
    WHERE: Register here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Slams Trump Administration Funding Freeze on Life-Saving Reproductive Health Care Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), alongside U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s freeze on federal funding for life-saving reproductive health care services provided by Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE):
    “The Trump administration’s move to freeze federal funding that helps Planned Parenthood of Northern New England deliver basic and often life-saving reproductive health care will be nothing short of disastrous for the communities we represent. Every day, PPNNE provides thousands of Granite Staters with affordable preventative reproductive health care services. By targeting essential care like cancer screenings and family planning services, the administration is sending a clear message: women’s health doesn’t matter to them.”
    Senator Shaheen and the New Hampshire delegation have been unrelenting advocates for women’s reproductive rights. Just last year, the delegation joined PPNNE in Concord to highlight the impact abortion bans and efforts to limit access to medication abortion have had in New Hampshire since Roe v. Wade was overturned. Senators Shaheen and Hassan have also been leaders in the fight to protect Title X family planning centers in New Hampshire. The delegation has pushed for Title X funding, and following obstruction from Republicans on New Hampshire’s Executive Council, the delegation helped secure critical Title X funding for PPNNE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Fellow Louisianan, Trump VA General Counsel Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today introduced President Trump’s nominee for General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr of New Orleans, Louisiana, during his confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
    “In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans. But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.”
    “I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel. And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes,” concluded Dr. Cassidy. “He has my full support.”
    Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:
    Thank you, Chairman Moran and Ranking Member Blumenthal.
    Today I have the privilege to introduce Lieutenant Colonel James Baehr for his nomination as General Counsel of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
    I also want to welcome his wife, Jasmine, and their newborn son, James, Jr.
    Secretary Collins will try to say he’s hiring a fellow Georgian, but Louisiana is going to claim James.
    In Louisiana, James is known for his passion for service. And I know he will bring this passion to the VA.
    Currently, he serves as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and on the Louisiana Veterans Affairs Commission, where he has been a tireless advocate for Louisiana’s veterans.  
    But this just scratches the surface of his impressive career.
    James has served in the Marine Corps for nearly 20 years as a defense counsel, a Civil Affairs officer, and was deployed during Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq as a staff officer for Lt. General Paul Funk. 
    It was during his time under General Funk, that James earned the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and Joint Service Achievement Medal.
    These accolades can speak for themselves, but having a statement of support from a General doesn’t hurt either.
    In a statement submitted to this committee, General Funk states that James’ “personal leadership contributed to the superb success of our mission. This great Marine officer did what Marines do, he added clarity to chaos, and competence where calamity once prevailed. In a complex operational environment, Lieutenant Colonel Baehr played a key role in shaping how our mission was seen by the outside world. His work reflected not just logistical excellence, but sound judgment and strategic insight.”
    Off the battlefield, James prosecuted violent crime and civil corruption as a federal prosecutor in the Eastern District of Louisiana. He also clerked on the Fifth Circuit and advised President Trump on veterans’ issues as a Special Assistant to the President during his first term.
    While advising the White House, he worked to expand access to health care, improve suicide prevention measures, and better the lives of our veterans.
    These are issues James knows first-hand as a veteran.
    He has received care at the New Orleans VA Medical Center. He’s a husband who used a VA home loan to buy his house. And he’s a father who transferred his GI Bill benefits to his son. 
    We all know that our VA can do more for our veterans. That starts with having strong leadership.
    I am confident that James will bring legal excellence, integrity, and a mission-first mindset to the role of General Counsel.
    And most of all, I know he will put our veterans at the forefront of every decision he makes.
    He has my full support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Pushes for Long-Needed Update to Social Security Income Program for Disabled, Elderly Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in nearly 40 years and currently punishes older and disabled Americans for saving for emergencies and their futures. Cassidy’s legislation would update SSI’s asset limits to ensure disabled and elderly Americans are able to prepare themselves for a financial emergency without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk. 
    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) in introducing the legislation.
    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”
    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. TheSSI Savings Penalty Elimination Actwould raise the SSI asset limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward. The last update to SSI asset limits was passed by Congress in 1984 and went into effect in 1989.
    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act is supported of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.
    Cassidy and Cortez Masto were joined by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Patty Murray (D-WA.), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in cosponsoring the legislation. 
    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Kennedy Introduce Resolution to Honor the Life of Former Senator J. Bennett Johnston

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced a resolution honoring the life of former U.S. Senator J. Bennett Johnston, Jr., who represented Louisiana in the U.S. Senate from 1972 to 1997.
    “J. Bennett Johnston was a North Louisiana guy who fought for the whole state. He wasn’t the kind of senator who went to Washington just to vote ‘no,’” said Dr. Cassidy. “He voted ‘yes’ when it meant more energy jobs, more investment, and a better future for Louisiana. You can go around the entire state and see the impact he had—he made life better for Louisianans in real, tangible ways.”
    “Sen. J. Bennett Johnston was a Louisiana champion and a champion for Louisiana. He played big but spoke softly. Composure was his superpower. Bennett loved Louisiana, loved America, and loved his family. He was a great senator. Louisiana weeps. Becky and I send our condolences to the Johnston family and our everlasting thanks to Bennett,” said Senator Kennedy.
    Johnston was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1932 and served in both the Louisiana House and Senate before being elected to the U.S. Senate. He served on several major committees, including the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which he chaired from 1987 to 1995. He played a leading role in shaping U.S. energy policy, working to expand offshore energy production, deregulate natural gas markets, and strengthen America’s energy independence. He also led on other issues important to Louisiana such as flood and hurricane protection and preserving the state’s wetlands.
    Johnston passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 92.
    Read the full resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Introduces Bill to End Costly Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    April 1st, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
     
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act. The End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act would eliminate costly government subsidies, allowing the electric vehicle (EV) market to compete on a level playing field while saving taxpayers billions of dollars. A companion bill is being led by Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA 05.) in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “For too long, the federal government has picked winners and losers in the auto industry, forcing hardworking Americans to subsidize expensive electric vehicles that many cannot afford,” said Dr. Paul. “The End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act restores competition in the EV market by ending taxpayer-funded handouts.”
    Key Provisions of the End Taxpayer Subsidies for Electric Vehicles Act:
    Cuts Federal Spending – Eliminates the Clean Vehicle Credit, saving billions and reducing the national debt.
    Boosts Market Competition – Encourages automakers to innovate and cut EV costs without taxpayer-funded incentives.
    Ensures Tax Fairness – Prevents subsidies that mainly benefit the wealthy, protecting lower and middle-income taxpayers.
    Supports Auto & Energy Jobs – Levels the playing field for gas, hybrid, and EV markets while preserving industry jobs.
    You can read it HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Paul, Sen. Merkley Seek Information on Yemen Strikes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to new U.S. military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, Dr. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) joined forces to urge the Trump Administration to seek more information regarding potential future actions in Yemen.
    Dr. Paul and Sen. Merkley wrote in their letter to President Trump, “U.S. military action must have a clear strategy that advances our country’s long-term national security objectives and is compliant with the law of armed conflict. Congress should be briefed about the recent strikes against the Houthis and the total cost expected to be incurred by this campaign at the American taxpayer’s expense. The Administration must also explain to Congress and the American people its expected path forward given the failure of previous such efforts and statements from the Administration that the military campaign will continue and possibly expand to include military action against Iran.” 
    “We also recognize that any U.S. military response—especially sustained military engagement—must be conducted within the framework of the Constitution. Although the Constitution assigns the President the role of commander in chief of the U.S. military, it is Congress that is entrusted with the power to declare war—and Congress has not done so with respect to the Houthis,” the Senators strongly emphasized. 
    Dr. Paul and Sen. Merkley reminded the president of the requirements under the War Powers Resolution of 1973 to notify Congress in the event of military engagement. They asked for a classified briefing within 10 days to address their concerns. 
    Full text of the letter can be read HERE or below: 
    Dear President Trump: 
    We write in regard to recent and ongoing U.S. military strikes against Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis. 
    Since at least October 2023, the U.S. military has engaged in fending off Houthi attacks against Israel, commercial shipping and U.S. military assets. The Houthi attacks, backed by Iran, have threatened global commerce, endangered U.S. and allied forces, and threatened freedom of navigation in a critical international waterway. We strongly condemn these attacks and support efforts to protect U.S. and allied interests. 
    However, neither the U.S. strikes since October 2023 ordered by President Joe Biden, nor the previous years-long campaign against the Houthis conducted by Saudi Arabia were successful in establishing deterrence against the Houthis. Rather, these campaigns only served to embolden the Houthis and rally their recruiting base. The rare instances in which the Houthis have calmed their recent efforts to harass Red Sea shipping lanes were during sustained ceasefire periods in the Israel-Hamas war. 
    U.S. military action must have a clear strategy that advances our country’s long-term national security objectives and is compliant with the law of armed conflict. Congress should be briefed about the recent strikes against the Houthis and the total cost expected to be incurred by this campaign at the American taxpayer’s expense. The Administration must also explain to Congress and the American people its expected path forward given the failure of previous such efforts and statements from the Administration that the military campaign will continue and possibly expand to include military action against Iran. 
    We also recognize that any U.S. military response—especially sustained military engagement—must be conducted within the framework of the Constitution. Although the Constitution assigns the President the role of commander in chief of the U.S. military, it is Congress that is entrusted with the power to declare war—and Congress has not done so with respect to the Houthis.  
    Further, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires that the president consult with Congress before introducing U.S. Armed Forces into “hostilities” or “situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances” and to notify Congress within 48 hours of having done so. This law helps ensure that U.S. military action is subject to rigorous congressional oversight and deliberation. 
    As such, we request a classified briefing from your Administration within 10 days to address the following questions: 
    ·         What was the basis for the strikes conducted against the Houthis? Was there intelligence on an imminent attack against commercial shipping? 
    ·         Does your administration consider U.S. armed forces to have been introduced into hostilities under the War Powers Resolution as a result of recent U.S. military action against the Houthis?   
    ·         Does your administration intend to seek congressional authorization for continued U.S. military action against the Houthis? 
    ·         What is your strategy to ensure U.S. strikes will now be effective and change the Houthis’ behavior? 
    ·         What role, if any, will U.S. allies play in future strikes against the Houthis? 
    ·         Given your recent statements suggesting possible military action against Iran, does your administration intend to seek congressional authorization prior to such use of force? 
    ·         Has your administration ensured that U.S. strikes are consistent with the law of armed conflict? 
    ·         What are the estimated contingency costs associated with ongoing and potential future operations in the region, and how will they be accounted for in the defense budget? 
    Ensuring the security of U.S. forces, allies, and global commerce is a priority we all share. We also believe it is critical that the United States avoids stumbling into another costly and unnecessary war. 
    Thank you for your attention to this important issue. We look forward to a prompt response. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/1/2025 Blackburn, Scott, Cruz Introduce BOLIVAR Act to Hold Illegitimate Maduro Regime Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime (BOLIVAR) Act. This legislation holds Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro accountable by prohibiting federal agencies from doing business with anyone that supports the oppressive Maduro regime.
    This builds on the efforts of President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to hold the illegitimate Maduro regime accountable by reversing Biden’s appeasement policies and tightening economic pressure on the Maduro regime and its criminal enterprises.
    “The Maduro regime is a fraudulent and oppressive dictatorship, and U.S. business dealings with Venezuela should not lend legitimacy to this government, which contradicts our democratic values,” said Senator Blackburn. “The BOLIVAR Act would prevent U.S. federal agencies from contracting with entities linked to the Maduro regime, severing financial support and weakening Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian hold on Venezuela.”
    “Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate, murderous dictator who oppresses the people of Venezuela, deprives them of freedoms, and steals elections from the rightful president, Edmundo González, and leader María Corina Machado. Maduro stands against everything the United States stands for, and he cannot remain in power. President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are moving quickly to reverse the appeasement and dangerous policies of the Biden administration, which have emboldened and enriched the regime for years now, and are taking significant action to hold the regime accountable and to stop Maduro from benefitting off Venezuela’s natural resources while the nation’s people suffer. We must keep up the pressure on the regime to FINALLY get Maduro out of power and bring freedom to the Venezuelan people by passing my BOLIVAR Act. This will build on our actions by preventing any federal agencies from doing business with anyone who chooses to do businesses with the murderous Maduro regime. It’s time to finally get this bill passed and signed into law to cut Maduro off from every last resource, get him and his thugs out of power, and bring a new day of freedom to Venezuela,” said Senator Scott.
    “Maduro is a tyrant and despot, and his regime poses acute risks to American national security and to the freedoms of the people of Venezuela. The regime is enabled and enriched through international contracts with global companies, and it is squarely in the interests of the United States to limit those contracts and hold those companies accountable. I urge my colleagues to take swift action to advance this bill,” said Senator Cruz.
    The BOLIVAR Act:
    Prohibits federal agencies from awarding U.S. government contracts with companies that are engaged in business with the Maduro regime.
    The prohibition would only apply to contracts entered into on or after the bill’s enactment.
    Provides for necessary exceptions, including for rendering humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
    Allows the Secretary of State to waive the restriction when in the national interest of the U.S.
    Read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: NowVertical Reports Record 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Hosting Investor Webinar on April 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM EST

    • Q4 2024 revenue was $10.9 million, up 94% Y/Y excluding recent divestitures
    • On a reported basis, Q4 2024 revenue increased 8% Y/Y
    • Q4 2024 Net Income was $0.6 million, up 115% Y/Y excluding recent divestitures
    • On a reported basis, Q4 2024 Net Income increased by 116% Y/Y
    • Q4 2024 Adjusted EBITDA was $2.6 million, up 225% Y/Y
    • 2024 FY Cash flows from operations were $2.8 million

    TORONTO, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NowVertical Group Inc. (TSX-V: NOW) (“NOW” or the “Company”), a leader in AI-driven data solutions, announces audited financial results for its fourth fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2024. Unless otherwise specified, all dollar amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars. Management will host an investor webinar at 10:00 AM EST (7:00 AM PST) on Wednesday April 2, 2025, to discuss the Company’s financial and business results.

    Selected Financial Highlights for the Three Months Ended December 31, 2024:

    • Revenue was $10.9 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 (“Q4 2024”), an 8% increase from $10.1 million for the three months ending December 31, 2023 (“Q4 2023”). Excluding the disposition of Allegient Defense, Inc. (“Allegient”) on May 24, 2024, and Seafront Analytics, LLC (“Seafront”) on December 31, 2023, Q4 2023 revenue was $5.6 million, translating to a year-over-year growth of 94%.
    • Gross Profit was $5.7 million in Q4 2024, consistent with $5.7 million in Q4 2023. Excluding the Allegient and Seafront businesses, Q4 2023 gross profit was $4.1 million, translating to a year-over year increase of 37%.
    • Administrative Expenses were $3.0 million in Q4 2024, a 52% decrease from $6.1 million in Q4 2023. Excluding the Allegient and Seafront businesses, Q4 2023 administrative expenses were $5.0 million, translating to a year-over-year decrease of 40%.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $2.6 million in Q4 2024, a 225% increase from $0.8 million in Q4 2023. Excluding the Allegient and Seafront businesses, Adjusted EBITDA was $0.5 million in Q4 2023, translating to a year-over-year increase of 420%.
    • Net Income was $0.6 million in Q4 2024, an 116% increase from a $3.6 million net loss in Q4 2023. Excluding the Allegient and Seafront businesses, Q4 2023 had a Net Loss of $3.9 million, translating to a year-over-year net income growth of $4.5 million. Net income per basic and diluted share of $0.01 in Q4 2024, compared to a net loss per share of $0.05 in Q4 2023.

    Select results for the year ended December 31, 2024:

    • Revenue was $46.9 million in the year ended December 31, 2024, (“FY 2024”), a 9% decrease from $51.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2023 (“FY 2023”). Excluding the dispositions of Allegient, Seafront and the Affinio Social (“Affinio Social”) business which was divested on May 10, 2023, revenue was $39.4 million in FY 2024 and $32.5 million in FY 2023, translating to a year-over-year growth of 21%.
    • Gross Profit was $23.1 million in FY 2024, a 10% decrease from $25.7 million in FY 2023. Excluding the Allegient, Seafront and Affinio Social businesses, gross profit was $20.5 million in FY 2024 and $18.9 million in FY 2023, translating to a year-over year increase of 9%.
    • Administrative Expenses were $18.1 million in FY 2024, a 30% decrease from $25.8 million in FY 2023. Excluding the Allegient, Seafront and Affinio Social businesses, administrative expenses were $16.2 million in FY 2024 and $20.2 million in FY 2023, translating to a year-over-year decrease of 20%.
    • Adjusted EBITDA was $7.8 million in FY 2024, a 46% increase from $5.4 million in FY 2023. Excluding the Allegient, Seafront and Affinio Social businesses, Adjusted EBITDA was $7.2 million in FY 2024 and $4.0 million in FY 2023, translating to a year-over-year increase of 77%.
    • Net Income was $1.6 million in FY 2024, an 116% increase from a $5.9 million Net Loss in FY 2023. Excluding the Allegient, Seafront and Affinio Social businesses, Net Income was $1.0 million in FY 20024 and a $4.9 million Net Loss in FY 2023, translating to a year-over-year increase of 115%. Net income per basic and diluted share of $0.02 in FY 2024, compared to a net loss per share of $0.08 in FY 2023.
    • Cash flows from operations were $2.8 million in FY 2024, an $8.2 million increase from cash flows used in operations of $5.4 million in FY 2023.

    “NOW has delivered its strongest quarter to date, demonstrating the power of our focused strategy and disciplined execution. Q4 2024 Adjusted EBITDA of $2.6 million, up from $2.0 million in Q3 2024, indicates our integration strategy and efficiency-focused measures are yielding results. Outstanding credit goes to our operator-first leadership team, who have executed this at a faster pace than anticipated,” said Sandeep Mendiratta, CEO of NOW. “We have renegotiated acquisition liabilities, leading to meaningful cash savings and a more favorable payment schedule, reducing total acquisition-related liabilities by an estimated $5.4 million. Most importantly, this business has been completely turned around—we are now profitable, generating credible EBITDA, and have demonstrated robust organic growth despite a year of transformation. With a strong, ambitious, and deeply invested management team in place, we are confident in steering NOW toward meaningful and sustained growth in the coming quarters and years. Our fourth quarter has demonstrably put us on the path to achieving our objective of $10 million in annual EBITDA on $50 million in revenue, with a best-in-class 20% EBITDA margin. We believe we now have a platform for sustained organic revenue growth, with strong margins across our core markets. We look forward to discussing these points and more on our third-quarter investor call.”

    Q4 2024 and Subsequent Business Highlights:

    • March 03, 2025: The Company announced its participation in the exclusive, invite-only ROTH Conference, which convenes leading institutional investors and high-growth companies across a range of sectors
    • February 20, 2025: Converted CAD$3.025 million in historical obligations from debt to equity through the issuance of 9,168,418 Class A subordinate voting shares.
    • February 3, 2025: The sellers of Affinio Inc. agreed to defer the payment of $998,000 in outstanding liabilities previously due in the first half of 2025. The amount will now be payable in late Q4 2025.
    • January 16, 2025: Achieves prestigious Google Premier Partner Status in LATAM, solidifying Its leadership in Data and AI Solutions.
    • January 14, 2025: Executive management team have acquired approximately 1.06 million Class A subordinate voting shares in the open market. Following these purchases, management’s pro forma ownership is expected to increase to approximately 27%.
    • January 13, 2025: The Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company opted to receive his annual bonus in the form of restricted share units in the Company.
    • January 02, 2025: The Company announced that it has entered into a debt settlement agreement with the former owners of Acrotrend Solutions Ltd., including NOW’s CEO, Sandeep Mendiratta, who agreed to settle $815,000 of the $1,055,000 owed to them as of December 31, 2024, through the issuance of Class A subordinate voting shares of the Company.
    • December 23, 2024: The Company announced that is has entered into a debt settlement with the former owners of CoreBI S.A. and CoreBI S.A.S., who agreed to settle an aggregate entitlement of $1,250,000 owed to them through the issuance of 5,432,954 Class A subordinate voting shares of the Company.
    • December 17, 2024: Announced the launch of its AI Financial Agent as part of the latest update to NowHub-Finance, an end-to-end analytics platform for finance teams. This AI-driven upgrade enhances NOW’s commitment to rapidly transforming data into business value.
    • November 26, 2024:   Announced the formation of a Strategic Partnership with Microsoft and the launch of a Global Center of Excellence, aimed at fostering innovation and accelerating growth.
    • October 29, 2024: Introduced a Data Risk Mitigation solution and unique risk guarantee, empowering enterprises to uncover, mitigate, and control hidden data risks across complex data environments.
    • October 8, 2024: Unveiled an evolved Partner Marketing Solution tailored to help clients navigate the growing complexities of managing partner ecosystems.

    Q4 2024 Financial Results Investor Webinar:

    The Company invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives, and other stakeholders to attend our upcoming webinar. Management will discuss Q4 2024 results, followed by a question-and-answer session.

    Investor Webinar Registration:

    Time: Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 10:00 AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada) 

    RegistrationLink: 
    https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cEmYLTHBTLqtoK_qDtxqsw 

    A recording of the webinar and supporting materials will be made available in the investor’s section of the Company’s website at https://www.nowvertical.com/news-and-media.

    Additional Information:

    The Company’s audited annual 2024 consolidated financial statements, notes to financial statements, and management’s discussion and analysis for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024, are available on the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.com. Unless otherwise indicated, all references to “$” in this press release refer to US dollars, and all references to “CAD$” in this press release refer to Canadian dollars.

    About NowVertical Group Inc.

    The Company is a data analytics and AI solutions company offering comprehensive solutions, software and services. As a global provider, we deliver cutting-edge data, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications to private and public enterprises. Our solutions form the bedrock of modern enterprises, converting data investments into business solutions. NOW is growing organically and through strategic acquisitions. For further details about NOW, please visit www.nowvertical.com.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information, please contact:

    Andre Garber, CDO 
     IR@nowvertical.com 
    +1(647)947-0223 

    Cautionary Note Regarding Non-IFRS Measures:

    This news release refers to certain non-IFRS measures. These measures are not recognized measures under IFRS, do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Company’s results of operations from management’s perspective. The Company’s definitions of non-IFRS measures used in this news release may not be the same as the definitions for such measures used by other companies in their reporting. Non-IFRS measures have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s financial information reported under IFRS. The Company uses non IFRS financial measures including “EBITDA”, and “Adjusted EBITDA”. These non-IFRS measures are used to provide investors with supplemental measures of our operating performance and to eliminate items that have less bearing on our operational performance or operating conditions and thus highlight trends in our core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS measures. The Company believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS financial measures in the evaluation of issuers. The Company’s management also uses non-IFRS financial measures to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period and prepare annual budgets and forecasts.

    Non-IFRS Measures:

    The non-IFRS financial measures referred to in this news release are defined below. The management discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, available at nowvertical.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com contains supporting calculations for Adjusted Revenue, EBITDA % and Adjusted EBITDA

    “Adjusted EBITDA” adjusts net income (loss) before depreciation and amortization expenses, net interest costs, and provision for income taxes for revenue adjustments in “Adjusted Revenue” and items such as acquisition accounting adjustments, transaction expenses related to acquisitions, transactional gains or losses on assets, asset impairment charges, non-recurring expense items, non-cash stock compensation costs, and the full year impact of cost synergies related to restructuring activities, such as a reduction of employees.

    “EBITDA %” is defined as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Adjusted Revenue.

    “Adjusted Revenue” adjusts revenue to eliminate the effects of acquisition accounting on the Company’s revenues, which predominantly pertain to fair market value adjustments to the opening deferred revenue balances of acquired companies.

    Cautionary note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (within the meaning of applicable securities laws) which reflect the Company’s current expectations regarding future events. All statements in this news release that are not purely historical statements of fact are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, future, strategy, objectives, goals and targets. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable and reflect expectations of future developments and other factors which management believes to be reasonable and relevant, the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “should”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe” or “continue”, or the negative thereof or similar variations. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed thereon, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the Company. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

    All of the forward-looking statement contained in this press release are qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements, and there can be no guarantee that the results or developments that we anticipate will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or effects on our business, financial condition or results of operation. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward -looking statements contained herein are provided as of the date hereof, and the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update the forward-looking statements except as otherwise required by applicable law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: McClellan, Sykes, Warner Reintroduce Bill to Improve Access to Healthy Foods, Eliminate Food Deserts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (OH-13) reintroduced the Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act. This legislation would provide incentives to food providers to expand access to healthy foods in underserved communities and reduce the number of food deserts nationwide. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) reintroduced the Senate companion bill.

    “We all know that hungry children cannot learn and reach their full potential. That’s why it’s so important to have affordable, healthy food close to home,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Unfortunately, too many families in Virginia live in food deserts and struggle to feed their children healthy food. I’m grateful to Rep. Sykes and Sen. Warner for their work to bridge this gap and empower families with the resources they need to grow and thrive.”

    Currently, an estimated 18.8 million Americans live in what the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) classifies as a food desert — not living within a mile of a grocery store in urban communities or 10 miles of a grocery store in rural areas. The lack of healthy food options has devastating effects on the health of communities, leading to higher incidence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 

    “No American should be denied access to healthy, nutritious foods simply because of the zip code they live in. The Healthy Food Access for All Americans would encourage food providers to establish grocery stores, food banks, and farmers markets in traditionally underserved communities to help ensure all Americans, no matter where they live, can put fresh, affordable food on the table,” said Congresswoman Sykes. “This commonsense legislation will combat food insecurity in our communities and ensure families and children have the nutritious, healthy food they need to thrive.”

    “Fresh and nutritious foods are a cornerstone of health and wellbeing, but too many families in Virginia and across America live in places where these foods are out of reach,” said Senator Warner. “This legislation will help us fight food deserts by incentivizing grocery stores to come to communities that have the hardest time accessing fresh produce.”

    Specifically, the Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act — which defines a grocery market as a retail sales store with at least 35 percent of its selection (or forecasted selection) dedicated to selling fresh produce, poultry, dairy, and deli items — would encourage investment in food deserts across the country that have a poverty rate of 20 percent or higher, or a median family income of less than 80 percent of the median for the state or metro area.

    It would grant tax credits or grants to food providers who service low-access communities and attain a “Special Access Food Provider” (SAFP) certification through the Treasury Department. Incentives would be awarded based on the following structure:

    • New Store Construction – Companies that construct new grocery stores in a food desert will receive a one time 15 percent tax credit after receiving certification.
    • Retrofitting Existing Structures – Companies that make retrofits to an existing store’s healthy food sections can receive a one time 10 percent tax credit after the repairs certify the store as an SAFP.
    • Food Banks – Certified food banks that build new (permanent) structures in food deserts will be eligible to receive a one time grant for 15 percent of their construction costs.
    • Temporary Access Merchants – Certified temporary access merchants (i.e. mobile markets, farmers markets, and some food banks) that are 501(c)(3)s will receive grants for 10 percent of their annual operating costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler and Tenney Reintroduce Bill to Halt Ranked Choice Voting

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 4/1/2025… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) reintroduced legislation that would prevent the spread of ranked choice voting, a misguided policy that dilutes the voice of voters in elections across the country. The One Vote One Choice Act ensures that federal elections maintain a clear and straightforward process that protects voter confidence and preserves the integrity of our democratic system, in both the states and in the District of Columbia. 

    “For centuries, citizens of the United States have been able to cast their votes with one vote and one voice,” said Congressman Lawler. “But in recent years, there has been an effort to enact ranked choice voting, a method which distorts election outcomes.”

    “In 2021’s mayoral primary in New York City, voters had to wait weeks to discover who won, which, in turn, undermined voter confidence in the result,” concluded Congressman Lawler. “Outcomes like that are problematic for everyone and are exactly why we need to ban the practice of ranked choice voting at the federal level. Ensuring confidence in our elections is a critical function of a democratic republic, and I’m proud to introduce this bill to accomplish that goal.”

    “Not only does rank choice voting cause chaos and confusion, but it leads to distorted outcomes and results that do not demonstrate the will of the voters. By banning rank-choice voting, we will ensure that Americans can 1

    have confidence in the outcome of our elections. As chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, I will continue to support legislation like the One Vote, One Choice Act, which increases transparency, accessibility, and confidence in our electoral process,” said Congresswoman Tenney (NY-24).

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found here:

    One Vote One Choice Act 

    One Vote One Choice – District of Columbia

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Introduces Legislation to Secure America’s Leadership in Undersea Cable Infrastructure

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (April 1, 2025) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) introduced the Undersea Cable Control Act, a bill designed to secure America’s leadership in undersea cable infrastructure. This legislation aims to prevent China and other foreign adversaries from acquiring goods and technologies that support the construction, maintenance, and operation of undersea cables. 

    “Undersea cables are critical infrastructure for the fast and secure transmission of global data and communications,” said Congressman Kean. “We cannot stand by as China seeks to expand its influence over one of the world’s most powerful communications networks. It is essential that we take steps to protect undersea cables from foreign interference, sabotage, or control.”

    Background: 

    Undersea cables are a vital part of global communication infrastructures, with 99 percent of all transoceanic digital communications transporting data like the internet through these fiber optics cables. This technology has added $649 billion to the U.S. economy in 2019 alone and enables transactions worth more than $10 trillion every day within the American financial sector.

    In the past few years, as China continues to finance its state-run companies and their infrastructure projects globally as a part of the Belt and Road Initiatives, Chinese companies like Huawei and China Telecom have built undersea cables on every continent except for Antarctica. While the United States still has fiber optic technology that’s more advanced than China does, the prolific installments of undersea cables by the Chinese companies have raised economic and security concerns globally. 

    During the 118th Congress, the Undersea Cable Control Act, originally led by Rep. Brian Mast (FL-21), successfully passed the House of Representatives. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH, WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    Tuesday, April 1, 2025
    Contact: Ryan Martin, 202-680-0427
    SCHUMER REVEALS: WITH TRUMP’S DESTRUCTIVE TARIFFS SET TO START TOMORROW, REVEALS THE COST TO UPSTATE NY IS A $7 BILLION GUT PUNCH , WITH $6,000+ IN HIGHER PRICES FOR FAMILIES PER YEAR; SENATOR SAYS WE MUST STOP DAMAGING TRADE WAR WITH ALLIES LIKE CANADA AND PROTECT NY FAMILIES, BUSINESSES & JOBS
    Trump’s Tariffs – Set To Start Tomorrow – Could Raise Prices On New Yorkers As Much As $6,500 For Gas, Groceries, Cars And Everyday Goods – All While Decimating Small Businesses, Killing Good-Paying Jobs, Shrinking 401K’s And Damaging Upstate NY’s Vital Tourism Industry
    Schumer Says Stock Market Is Already Hitting Lowest Point In Years Due To Trump Tariff Chaos, Hurting Upstate Seniors’ Retirements – And Leading To Fears Of A Recession
    Schumer: Trump’s Tariffs Mean Higher Prices, Lower Life Savings And Lost Jobs For Upstate Families
    With President Trump’s “Liberation Day” for his destructive tariffs set to start tomorrow, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today revealed data on the devastating impacts of this unstrategic and damaging tariff war on Upstate New York’s families, small businesses, and jobs – increasing costs for families by up to $6,500 for gas, groceries, cars, and common goods and potentially impacting 150,000+ jobs in directly targeted industries across Upstate New York. The senator said he has gotten calls from farmers, worried workers, and factory owners scrambling in the face of coming tariffs, and said it will be NY businesses, seniors and working- and middle-class class families who will be footing the bill for this tariff war  – in the form of higher prices, a slower economy and shrinking life savings.
    “Tomorrow Trump says he will begin imposing his destructive sweeping tariffs, and if that happens it will be a gut punch to Upstate NY’s economy. Plain and simple, Trump’s tariffs are a tax increase on Upstate New York, a massive new destructive national sales tax for all of America,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump’s tariff war has already created chaos, and the economic uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting seniors’ retirements, cratering consumer confidence, and jeopardizing the jobs of thousands of New Yorkers. If this tariff war continues, it could devastate Upstate NY’s economy in ways we haven’t seen since the height of the pandemic. President Trump has said straight up that he doesn’t care if prices go up – Well, I do. I am all for addressing trade imbalances. In fact, Trump should be spending far more time going after China’s long-standing trade cheating that has robbed upstate NY of jobs for far too long, rather than picking a trade war with Canada that will only cost more NY jobs and drive up prices for everyone.”
    Schumer explained that consumers bear the cost of tariffs, and Trump’s tariff war is expected to increase costs for American families by up to $6,500 according to the latest analysis of his sweeping plans. According to the Yale Budget Lab, this would increase costs for the average American family by up to:
    Schumer added, “Trump’s tariffs are already slowing sales, and tourism from Canada is down, hurting Upstate’s restaurants and Main Streets. No matter which way you slice it, costs are going to sky rocket for consumers. If you’re in Upstate New York, you’ll feel it first, and worse than just about anywhere in the country. We need everyone, especially NY Republicans, to stand up against Trump’s senseless, job-killing, cost-increasing tax on Upstate New Yorkers.”
    Rising costs will force families to reconsider how they spend their money, which is already causing consumer confidence to plummet said Schumer, and NY families and businesses are expected to pay approximately $7.17 billion total due to Trump’s tariffs, including and $568 million on steel and aluminum.
    According to the New York Times, nearly 8 million Americans work in industries targeted by Trump’s tariffs, including approximately 159,400 in Upstate New York. A regional breakdown of jobs in industries directly impacted by tariffs based on the New York Times analysis can be found below, which does not even account for all the related jobs such as the tourism industry that are also being impacted by the damage of this trade war:

    NY Region

    Jobs In Industries Directly Targeted by Tariffs Most At Risk

    Capital Region

    14,400

    Western New York

    30,100

    Rochester-Finger Lakes

    33,200

    Central New York

    16,100

    Hudson Valley

    27,800

    Southern Tier

    17,300

    Mohawk Valley

    10,000

    North Country

    6,100

    UPSTATE NY TOTAL

    155,000

    Canada is New York State’s top importer and exporter, last year importing $20.5 billion of goods from Canada and exporting $17.4 billion. 70% of Canadian imports are used to manufacture American-made products. Every day, $2.5 billion worth of goods cross the United States-Canada border. People across Upstate New York will especially feel the impact of Trump’s tariffs on Canada given the interconnection of Upstate NY’s economy and trade with Canada.

    What Upstate NY Will See

    Impacts

    Increasing costs for businesses in every industry

    $6 billion in lumber and wood products for the U.S. homebuilding industry came from Canada in 2024, exacerbating costs for affordable housing.

    Canadian tourism slowing down, hurting local businesses

    The Canadian government is encouraging Canadians to boycott travel to the United States, according to the New York Times. Maine has been seeing significant cancellations and Upstate New York could be next on the chopping block, which would have devastating impacts especially with the summer tourist season rapidly approaching.
    45% of Quebecois who had planned vacations in the U.S. this year were now canceling those plans, leading to $3 billion in lost revenue for U.S. businesses, according to the Quebec Tourism Industry Alliance.
    Car crossings from Canada through Plattsburgh in the North Country were down 16% from February 2024, according to the Albany Times Union. There is a projected overall 21% reduction in American travel from Canada.

    Higher costs at the grocery store for families and local restaurants

    Canada leads in exports of grain, livestock and meats, poultry, and more, according to CNN. In 2023, the United States imported about $40 billion in agricultural food products from Canada, ranging from baked goods to canola oil, according to Eater.
    70% of maple syrup globally comes from Canada, and more than 60% of maple exports went to the United States which would get more expensive, according to the New York Times.
    The price of beef could rise because Canadian ranchers are afraid of Trump’s tariffs and shrinking cattle herds, according to Reuters. Beef and pork account for nearly $4 billion in Canadian imports, according to Eater.
    The price of groceries could increase by $185 – or approximately 3% – every year, according to Eater.

    Nearly 160,000 Upstate New York jobs in industries targeted by tariffs at risk, plus many more in related industries like tourism

    Over 680,000 New York jobs depend on trade with Canada. Nearly 160,000 jobs in Upstate New York are in industries directly targeted by Trump’s tariffs and at risk, according to the New York Times.
    The U.S. Travel Association warned that even a 10% reduction in Canadian travelers would translate to $2.1 billion in lost spending and jeopardize 140,000 hospitality jobs nationwide, according to Forbes, many of which would be in Upstate NY as one of the most popular close by destinations.

    Higher electricity, heating, and gas bills for our families, small businesses, and manufacturers

    Electricity is a $7 billion commodity market in New York, and the state imports hundreds of millions of dollars of Canadian electricity annually.
    While the amount varies by month and year, the reliable clean power imported from Canadian dams is critical, and a tariff on Canadian electricity imports would likely raise rates for New Yorkers.
    In response to the Schumer-Hochul letter to New York energy regulators on the tariffs, agency staff assert that electricity costs could increase by $42 to $105 million per year, and that:
    Gasoline prices could increase by $26 million per year
    Heating oil costs could increase by $57 million per year
    Diesel costs could increase by $48 million per year
    Propane costs could increase by $16 million per year; and
    Natural gas costs could increase by $4.4 million per year

    Trump has already delayed the start of his tariffs twice, creating uncertainty for families and small businesses and triggering volatility for the American economy. Trump’s tariff uncertainty is causing the stock market to fall, hurting Upstate New York seniors’ retirements. According to Bloomberg, the stock market rout has intensified in anticipation of Trump’s next tariff rollout, with concerns about recessions leaving the S&P 500 Index on track for its worst quarter compared to the rest of the world since the 1980s.
    Trump in February declared an emergency on fentanyl, which is how he is justifying tariffs on goods from Canada. Schumer explained that less than 0.2% of fentanyl entering the United States comes from Canada, and instead of helping combat the fentanyl crisis, these tariffs will only harm American families, small businesses, and jobs. Schumer said the Senate will vote on a resolution later today terminating Trump’s national emergency that is justifying his destructive tariffs that would require Republican support.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Announces New Hires, Staff Changes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) announced new hires and staff changes in his Washington, D.C., and Idaho Falls offices.
    David Pace joined Crapo’s Idaho Falls office as Press Secretary.  David was a reporter with East Idaho News and has previously worked at the Standard Journal and Post Register.  He is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.  David graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in communications and public relations and minors in Middle Eastern studies and business management.
    Casey Jones, a native of Boise, joined Crapo’s Washington, D.C., office as Staff Assistant and IT Assistant.  She graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in elementary education.
    Jameson Parker joined the Washington, D.C., office as Legislative Correspondent.  Jameson holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arizona.  He previously worked for Representative Michael Burgess (R-Texas).  He will cover education, pro-life, veterans, small business and health care issues.
    Kennedy Cummins, a Murtaugh native, has been promoted to Staff Assistant and D.C. Office Manager.  Kennedy first joined Crapo’s Boise office as an intern last fall and was serving a second internship in the D.C. office.  She is a senior at Boise State University studying political science.
    Matthew Mondello has been promoted to Legislative Assistant.  Matthew previously served the Crapo office as a Legislative Aide.  He graduated from Wake Forest University with a degree in politics.  As a Legislative Assistant, Matthew is responsible for health care, labor, veterans, small business and education issues.
    Matthew Favero has been promoted to Legislative Correspondent.  He previously served as Staff Assistant and intern.  Matthew holds a degree in American studies from Brigham Young University.  As Legislative Correspondent, Matthew is responsible for semiconductor, energy, public lands and agriculture issues.
    Grant Auman has been promoted to Legislative Correspondent.  He previously served as Staff Assistant and intern.  Grant holds degrees in political science, economics and Spanish from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  As Legislative Correspondent, he is responsible for banking, tax, budget, telecommunications and judiciary issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bilirakis and Veasey Introduce Legislation to Identify and Address Kids’ Vision Impairments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

    Washington, DC: Earlier today, Congressional Vision Caucus Co-Chairs, U.S. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Marc Veasey (TX-33), reintroduced the Bipartisan Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children (EDVI) Act. The EDVI Act will establish grants for states and communities to improve children’s vision and eye health through screenings, early interventions, and coordinated systems of care. Despite the presence of numerous public health programs that support early childhood development, including children’s hearing and oral health, there is currently no federally funded program in the United States that specifically addresses children’s vision or that fosters a cohesive and integrated system of eye health for children.

    “As an American who has suffered from poor vision since childhood, I have a first-hand understanding of how critical early detection and treatment is when it comes to ensuring that all children have the best possible start in life,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “Our landmark bill will ensure all children get the screening and care they need at the right age by creating the first-ever federally funded program to address children’s vision and eye health. This legislation will empower states and communities, like mine, to improve systems of care for our youngest citizens and their families.”

    “When I was in elementary school, I struggled to see the board, and it made learning incredibly difficult. It wasn’t until I had a vision screening and got the right pair of glasses that everything changed for me,” said Rep. Veasey. “I know from personal experience that vision issues can hold a child back, and how something as simple as a pair of glasses can unlock their potential. No child should fall behind simply because they can’t see. The Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children Act will ensure all children, in Texas and across the country, have access to the screenings they need to see clearly and reach their full potential.” 

    “More than one in every four children in America, or roughly 19.6 million, have a vision problem requiring treatment,” said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. “We know access to education, screenings, examinations, diagnosis, and treatment are critical to preventing vision loss, and this legislation is an important step in providing children and their families with those services and the healthcare they need and deserve.”

    “The EDVI Act promotes a strong system of care for children’s vision and eye health that fosters early detection and treatment, thus ensuring that children can access vision and eye care services that can set the foundation for a lifetime of good vision,” Dr. Stacey Coulter, OD Vice Chair, National Center for Children’s Vision and Eye Health.

    “Early detection of eye problems in children can improve treatment effectiveness, enable better outcomes and ensure children have their best chance of academic success and lifelong good vision. We applaud Rep. Bilirakis and Rep. Veasey for working to provide states and communities with resources to expand and improve vision screening programs,” said Michael Repka, MD, pediatric ophthalmologist, and President, American Academy of Ophthalmology.

    “Pediatricians recognize the vital importance of early detection and treatment when it comes to supporting children’s overall health and development. The EDVI Act will help promote positive eye health in young people by catching vision concerns early so they can get the care they need to succeed, while supporting their lifelong vision health. We applaud Representatives Bilirakis and Veasey for introducing this important bipartisan legislation and urge Congress to pass it into law,”said Susan Kressly, MD, FAAP, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

    Increasing awareness and identifying vision concerns early will save money in the long run and improve outcomes for patients throughout their lives. If left untreated, common vision disorders in childhood, such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), myopia (nearsightedness), or hyperopia (farsightedness), may continue to affect health and well-being throughout the child’s life. State laws to address children’s vision vary widely in approaches and often lack the necessary resources to adequately capture data on rates of received eye care, leading to challenges in addressing and treating ocular disease and eye conditions in children.  

    Under the EDVI Act, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will award grants and cooperative agreements for states and communities to implement approaches (such as vision screenings) for the early detection of vision concerns in children, referrals for eye exams, and follow-up mechanisms, establish a coordinated public health system for vision health and eye care diagnosis and treatment, and develop state-based data collection and performance improvement systems. Resources will also be made available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to provide technical assistance and guidance to states and communities to implement children’s vision screening and early intervention programs. Over 100 organizations nationally have endorsed the EDVI Act.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US files civil forfeiture complaint for $47 million in proceeds from Iranian oil sale following ICE investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON – An investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has resulted in a civil forfeiture complaint alleging that $47 million in proceeds from the sale of nearly one million barrels of Iranian petroleum is forfeitable as property of, or affording a person a source of influence over, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or its Qods Force, designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

    The forfeiture was announced by ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso; Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., for the District of Columbia; and FBI Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston, Sr. of the Minneapolis Field Office.

    “Through the work of HSI’s Counterproliferation Investigations group, alongside the FBI, the U.S. government has seized $47 million worth of funds allegedly meant for terrorist groups intent on causing catastrophic harm,” said ICE HSI New York acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso. “The expertise of HSI personnel, coupled with federal law enforcement’s whole-of-government approach, ensures the wellbeing of the United States and our innocent foreign counterparts, alike. We are relentlessly utilizing every tool at our disposal in pursuit of any and all security threats.”

    The forfeiture complaint alleges a scheme between 2022 and 2024 to facilitate the shipment, storage, and sale of Iranian petroleum product for the benefit of the IRGC and IRGC-QF. The facilitators used deceptive practices to masquerade the Iranian oil as Malaysian, including by manipulating the tanker’s automatic identification system to conceal that it onboarded the oil from a port in Iran. The facilitators presented falsified documents to the Croatian storage facility and port authority, claiming that the oil was Malaysian. The facilitators paid for storage fees associated with the oil’s storage at the Croatian facility in U.S. dollars, transactions that were conducted through U.S. financial institutions that would have refused the transactions had they known they were associated with Iranian oil. The petroleum product was sold in 2024, and the United States seized $47 million in proceeds from that sale.

    The civil forfeiture complaint further alleges that the petroleum product constitutes the property of the National Iranian Oil Company, which has perpetuated a federal crime of terrorism by providing material support to the IRGC and IRGC-QF. As alleged, profits from petroleum product sales support the IRGC’s full range of malign activities, including the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, support for terrorism, and both domestic and international human rights abuses.

    “We will aggressively enforce U.S. sanctions against Iran, in furtherance of President Trump’s maximum pressure campaign,” said U.S. Attorney Martin. “With the continued seizures of Iranian oil and U.S. dollar profits, we are sending a clear message to Iran that bypassing the sanctions put in place by the U.S. Government is not as easy as playing a shell game with tankers filled with oil. We remain committed to thwarting Iran’s devious attempts, and to deprive its terrorists of the funding they desire.”

    “The FBI will not allow hostile regimes to evade U.S. sanctions or exploit our financial systems to fund designated terrorist organizations,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Winston. “The FBI, alongside our partners, will relentlessly enforce U.S. sanctions against Iran and safeguard U.S. national security by disrupting illicit networks that seek to profit from sanctioned oil sales.”

    Funds successfully forfeited with a connection to a state sponsor of terrorism may in whole or in part be directed to the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund.

    ICE HSI New York and FBI Minneapolis Field Office are investigating the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Meth Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on March 28, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Blake Putnam, 39, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on December 3, 2024, to one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that from January 2021 through March 2024, Putnam and others conspired to distribute 4500 grams (nearly 10 pounds) of methamphetamine in the Sioux City area.  On February 5, 2024, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle Putnam was driving.  Putnam attempted to elude law enforcement at high speeds and was apprehended when his vehicle blew a tire and stopped after hitting a curb.  During the eluding attempt, Putnam was observed by a concerned citizen throwing packages out of his vehicle attempting to discard drug evidence.  In the area identified, agents located and seized nearly one pound of methamphetamine in two packages.  Agents also seized an eight-ball of methamphetamine, and 50 Adderall pills from defendant’s person.  On March 5, 2024, after obtaining a search warrant, law enforcement seized approximately one pound of meth in one bag and about one ounce of meth in another bag from a backpack in a rental storage unit leased by Putnam in Sioux City, Iowa.  Putnam brought this backpack to the storage unit on or about March 5, 2024, as evidenced by video recordings at the storage unit business. 

    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Putnam was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment and must serve a five-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  Putnam remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.  

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office, with assistance of Iowa State Patrol.    

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-4009.  

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Stop Woke Activist Judges from Unconstitutional Judicial Overreach

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and their colleagues to introduce the Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 (JRCA). The bill would limit federal court orders to parties directly before the court – ending the practice of universal injunctions and clarifying the constitutional role of the judicial branch.
    Under this legislation, parties seeking nationwide relief would be required to file a class action lawsuit. The bill would amend the Administrative Procedure Act and the Declaratory Judgment Act to limit courts’ decisions to the parties before them, and make temporary restraining orders (TROs) immediately appealable.  
    “President Trump has exposed the fact that our courts are full of woke activist judges who think they were elected President. But they were not,” said Senator Tuberville. “More than 77 million Americans voted for President Trump and his agenda – and liberal judges should not be allowed to issue injunctions on policies they do not agree with. We need our justice system to focus on upholding the Constitution, not pushing an agenda. If judges have a problem with that, they can run for political office.” 
    “For a number of years, but particularly in the last few months, we’ve increasingly seen sweeping orders from individual district judges that dictate national policy. Our Founders saw an important role for the judiciary, but the Constitution limits judges to exercising power over ‘cases’ or ‘controversies.’ Judges are not policymakers, and allowing them to assume this role is very dangerous,” Senator Grassley said. “The Judicial Relief Clarification Act clarifies the scope of judicial power and resolves illegitimate judicial infringement upon the executive branch. It’s a commonsense bill that’s needed to provide long-term constitutional clarity and curb district courts’ growing tendency to overstep by issuing sweeping, nationwide orders.”
    The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Read the bill here and a fact sheet here.
    BACKGROUND:  Article III, Section 2 of the Constitution limits courts to deciding “cases” or “controversies.” Nevertheless, it has become increasingly common for federal judges to issue sweeping “universal injunctions” that apply even to people who are not before the court. Universal injunctions defy two centuries of historic precedent. Scholars have found no clear record of such an order before 1963 – they have only become common in the last decade. In the first two months of President Trump’s second term, district court judges have issued more universal injunctions against his policies than the Biden administration experienced in four years.
    Concern about this recent practice spans the ideological spectrum. In 2020, Justices Gorsuch and Thomas explained: “By their nature, universal injunctions tend to force judges into making rushed, high-stakes, low-information decisions.” In 2022, Justice Kagan said: “It just can’t be right that one district judge can stop a nationwide policy in its tracks and leave it stopped for the years that it takes to go through the normal process.”
    The Supreme Court can and should end this practice, but has failed to do so. However, Article III gives Congress the authority to establish, organize and regulate the jurisdiction of federal courts. 
    Congress has also enacted rules governing the review of agency actions through the Administrative Procedure Act of 1946 (APA). Under Section 706 of the APA, a person or entity that claims to have been unlawfully harmed by a federal agency action may seek relief in federal court. Currently, many courts interpret the APA to allow for a single district judge to vacate agency actions for everyone, including parties that are not before the court.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Calls for Healthier Options for Students at Ag Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Dr. Eve Stoody, Director of Nutrition Guidance and Analysis Division at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, during a Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ag) hearing. Sen. Tuberville asked Dr. Moody about the important role dairy plays in children’s development. As a founding member of the Senate Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Caucus, Sen. Tuberville noted the many health benefits that come from a calcium-rich diet and expressed support for the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which would add 2% and whole milk options back in schools.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below and watch on YouTube and Rumble.

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Doctor, for being here today.
    My former profession was working with students and kids. I traveled to hundreds and hundreds of high schools across the country in all 50 states. I ate at [cafeteria] lunch rooms and the food [was mostly] atrocious. [In] 2010, we did basically do away with milk for some reason [that] I can’t imagine. I’ve got a new granddaughter. My [daughter-in-law] is breastfeeding. We looked at the formula that we could have been feeding my new granddaughter. [If] we wanna do away with something, we [should] do away with that because it’s nothing but sugar. We’re going to look at something that’s so important to our kids growing up and their physical attributes of growing up to an adult, we’re looking at [the] possibility of milk being detrimental [to our kids’ development]. [It is] mind boggling to me, but I guess there’s a lot more smarter people. You know, I used to have a training table for players all of our athletes, and you put milk, and you put tea, you put water out there—they’d drink the milk, [the] athletes. And there’s a reason that they look a lot better than a lot of our kids nowadays. But at the end of the day, we have to make a decision, what’s better [for our kids]? I can’t believe we’re even getting involved in this. 
    But, you know, science improves and changes over time. We know that our nutrition standards should not be what they were in 2010. They have to change—have to change. As nutrition and science data has changed, can you discuss the [2025] Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s conclusions on dairy consumption’s effect on children?”
    STOODY: “And just to clarify, just to make sure I heard you correctly, you were referencing the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee?”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yes, ma’am.”
    STOODY: “Thank you. The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee did an extensive review. They are convened as an external advisory committee. And the 2025 Committee had 20 members. They did an extensive review on all aspects of the diet, including dairy, data analysis, a number of systematic reviews, and food pattern modeling. At the end of the day, they looked at a lot of new evidence. There is evidence that’s looking at food sources of saturated fat, so […] dairy that has different amounts of saturated fat, these different types that are exactly the conversation today. They also did a number of food pattern modeling analyses. And what that does is [it] looks at what happens if you change the amount of dairy in a pattern. At the end of the day, they found that you can’t reduce the amount of dairy in a dietary pattern – that the amount that’s recommended still holds and that’s in large part because of all the nutrients that dairy provides. It’s a good source and the major source of Calcium, Vitamin D, and about a dozen other nutrients in the diet. At the end of the day, their recommendations to the Departments, and I’ll note that […] that is our advice to the Departments. We’re informing the next edition of the Dietary Guidelines. But their advice was to maintain the current guidance. Now we are at a point in [both] Secretary Rollins and Kennedy have acknowledged their commitment to supporting the development of the Dietary Guidelines to be released later this year. And they have also discussed doing a line-by-line review of the Committee’s report and basing the next edition of the dietary guidelines on science. So, there will, I expect, be a lot more discussion related to the topic of dairy as well as other aspects of the diet. But at the end of the day, I think the […] 2025 Committee continued to emphasize the importance of dairy in a healthy dietary pattern.”
    TUBERVILLE: “So, at the end of the day, don’t you agree that any milk—2%, whole milk—is much better for our kids growing up than soda?”
    STOODY: “Yes. I think the point of the Dietary Guidelines is that there is flexibility. There’s a number of different options within the dairy food group and whether that be fat free, low fat, reduced fat, whole milk, it’s important to make selections that are right, that support individual needs and preferences, and in that context of the larger dietary pattern.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Continues to Champion Cryptocurrency, Calls President Trump the “Crypto President”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) reintroduced two pieces of legislation related to protecting American cryptocurrency.
    Senator Tuberville’s first bill, the Financial Freedom Act, would reverse a Biden-era memo from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) that limits options for where Americans can invest their retirement earnings. The Financial Freedom Act would allow Americans to choose how they want to invest their money, including in crypto.
    “The Biden administration was hellbent on controlling every aspect of Americans’ lives,” said Senator Tuberville. “Meddling in 401(k) investments through overregulation restrains financial growth and restricts personal liberty. The federal government, which is $36 trillion debt, shouldn’t be telling anyone how to invest their money. My bill ensures that hardworking Americans have the financial freedom to make decisions about how to invest their retirement savings.”
    Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville’s second bill, the Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act, would prohibit the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from registering a digital commodity platform that is owned in whole or in part by an entity organized or established in China. It also requires the CFTC to revoke the registration of any digital commodity platform in the event an entity with ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) acquires all or any part of the ownership of the entity.
    Digital commodity platforms collect and store personally identifiable information — including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and sensitive financial account data — of their users. Allowing entities based in the PRC to access this information raises serious concerns related to investor protection, data privacy, national security, sanctions compliance, and anti-money laundering efforts. Companies based in the PRC all ultimately answer to the CCP.
    “For four years, the Biden administration put America last – bowing to China at every turn and allowing our adversaries to get ahead,” said Senator Tuberville. “Thanks to President Trump, those days are over. Crypto is the future and we have to make sure our markets are protected from bad actors like China who want to destroy us. This critical bill will protect our markets and make Americans safer.”
    Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) is a cosponsor of this legislation.
    Senator Tuberville discussed his legislation on Fox Business with Larry Kudlow.
    BACKGROUND:
    FINANCIAL FREEDOM ACT
    The Financial Freedom Act would reverse regulatory guidance released by the Employee Benefits Security Administration, an agency inside of U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The guidance attempts to bar 401(k) investors from investing in cryptocurrency and undermines the ability of 401(k) plans to offer brokerage windows, which give retirement plan participants the ability to personally control how their assets are invested.
    The DOL guidance threatens that employers and investment firms could be subject to investigation and enforcement actions should they allow individuals using brokerage windows to invest in cryptocurrency. Senator Tuberville’s bill would bar such investigations and enforcement actions, opening the door for Americans to invest their savings in investments of their choice. 
    Senator Tuberville has consistently been an outspoken advocate in Congress for personal financial freedom. 
    Senator Tuberville previously introduced the Financial Freedom Act in the 117th Congress and penned an op-ed warning against government infringement on personal investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Financial Freedom Act.
    Senator Tuberville joined 36 of his U.S. Senate colleagues in introducing the Fair Access to Banking Act, a bill to protect fair access to financial services by preventing banks and financial institutions from discriminating against law-abiding businesses.
    Senator Tuberville added his support to a resolution that would challenge the Biden administration’s rule to allow retirement fund managers to consider and prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors while making retirement investment decisions.
    Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to protect Americans’ financial privacy against government surveillance.
    Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act
    The CCP’s efforts to mine data and surveil the public are well known, and decisive action is needed to safeguard the American people. Under current law, U.S. regulators have limited tools to block the purchase of a U.S. digital commodity platform by a CCP-tied entity. The Prohibiting Foreign Adversary Interference in Cryptocurrency Markets Act will help to wall off the burgeoning U.S. digital asset industry from Chinese interference and help to ensure continued American leadership in financial innovation. 
    Senator Tuberville believes the CCP seeks to overtake the United States as the top global superpower and that America must face China’s growing military and non-military threats with clear-eyed resolve.
    Since assuming office in the U.S. Senate in 2021, Senator Tuberville has led and supported numerous efforts to protect American investments, intellectual property, and national security from China.
    Senator Tuberville led the call for an investigation into Webull Financial, LLC and Moomoo, Inc. – two Chinese-owned stock trading apps operating in the United States that are registered with the SEC and FINRA.
    Both apps are widely used by American investors and freely collect and store sensitive information about users, including Social Security numbers, mailing addresses, and financial account data.
    In May 2023, Senator Tuberville sent a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler and FINRA President and CEO Robert Cook calling for oversight of the trading platforms due to the potential CCP access of American user data. In the letter, Senator Tuberville asked for answers to critical questions about the ability of the SEC and FINRA to examine the Chinese companies’ compliance with U.S. law.
    In March 2023, Senator Tuberville led a congressional delegation to Panama to discuss countering China’s growing influence in the region.
    On the trip, Senator Tuberville met with American and Panamanian officials to strategize ways to combat Chinese attempts to control the Panama Canal, which would give China enormous influence over global supply chains.
    To curb Chinese influence in the economy, Senator Tuberville introduced legislation to ban members of the CCP from receiving B-1 and B-2 visas to the United States for vacation and non-official government business.
    The CCP is responsible for trillions of dollars of intellectual property theft each year. To curb growing foreign influence and crime and discourage other Chinese nationals from joining the CCP, the bill cosponsored by Senator Tuberville would bar all 93 million CCP members from entering the United States using nonimmigrant B-1 and B-2 visas.
    Senator Tuberville believes the retirement savings of our military and federal government employees, known as the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), should not be invested in the economies of our adversaries, such as China.
    Senator Tuberville wrote about this issue in the Wall Street Journal in a column entitled, “I’ll Keep Veterans’ Pensions Safe From Communism” and discussed the issue on Fox Business.
    Senator Tuberville continued the push for accountability from the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board (FRTIB) surrounding the board’s policy on foreign investments. 
    Senator Tuberville placed a hold on nominees to the FRTIB until the nominees provided clarification regarding foreign investment policies, which forced the nominees to commit to opposing TSP investment in China.
    MORE:
    Tuberville Questions CFTC Chairman on Taxation of Cryptocurrency and the Need for a Regulatory Framework for Cryptocurrency
    Tuberville Leads Letter Calling for DOJ, SEC Investigation into China-Tied Crypto Firm Prometheum, Inc.
    Tuberville Leads Bipartisan Bill to Block CCP Ownership of American Crypto Companies
    Tuberville, Lummis Work to Establish Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
    Tuberville Takes Action to Protect Conservatives, Taxpayers from Political Discrimination by Banks
    ICYMI: Tuberville in Daily Caller: A Fed-Controlled Digital Dollar Could Mean The End Of Freedom In America
    Tuberville Reintroduces Bill to Keep the Government Out of Americans’ Investment Decisions 
    WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Support Grows for Tuberville’s Legislation to Protect 401(k) Investment Freedom
    Tuberville Continues Push to Protect Retirement Savers’ Financial Freedom
    New Tuberville Legislation Promotes Financial Freedom for 401(k) Investors
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell to Vote NO on Advancing Social Security Commissioner Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    04.01.25
    Cantwell to Vote NO on Advancing Social Security Commissioner Nominee
    Cantwell: “Social Security is no place to slash and burn. It’s a contract with the American people. It should be kept.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, spoke against advancing Frank Bisignano – President Donald Trump’s pick to serve as Commissioner of the Social Security Administration – at a Senate Finance Committee Executive Session. The committee will hold their vote to advance Bisignano’s nomination soon.  
    “We have an administration represented with DOGE, who think that they’re going to come in here and find billions of dollars that they can take out of Social Security and give to tax breaks to billionaires and corporations,” said Sen. Cantwell. “He’s not being hired because he’s an expert on Social Security. He’s being hired because somebody thinks he’s going to come in here and basically get billions of dollars out of Social Security to give to a tax bill.”
    At today’s Senate Finance Committee Executive Session, Sen. Cantwell explained that her constituent, who was incorrectly presumed dead shortly after Elon Musk installed his DOGE team at the Social Security Administration, has been forced to “wage war” against the SSA to correct this mistake:
    “Social Security wrongfully declared one of my constituents, Ned Johnson, dead. His monthly benefit was withheld. Thousands of dollars in previously paid benefits were clawed back out of his joint account he shares with his wife. The erroneous determination set off a bureaucratic nightmare, and ultimately, he had to wait in line at the Federal Building.”
    Sen. Cantwell continued, “Why does he have to wage a war just to get his Social Security benefits? We cannot afford more of this thinking in this position. We need to make sure that we know the answers, and I do not believe that we have them today.”
    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks today with Bisignano are available HERE, audio HERE, and a full transcript is HERE.

    “The taxpayers that pay into the program do so throughout their lives, and they want the government to live up to that obligation and take care of them,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Overwhelmingly, Americans support Social Security. A recent AARP poll found that 85% of Americans want Social Security benefits maintained or increased. And that shows that that’s everybody, that’s not just Democrats or people who remember how Social Security got created. This is everybody. This is Democrats, Republicans, independents.”
    In the State of Washington, 1.4 million people receive Social Security. Below is a breakdown of Social Security recipients by county:

    County

    Number of Social Security Recipients

    King Co.

    312,000+

    Spokane Co.

    115,000+

    Clark Co.

    98,000+

    Yakima Co.

    46,000+

    *County data sourced from SSA.gov*
    Sen. Cantwell has been a long-standing champion for Social Security and protecting Washingtonian’s benefits. In December 2024, Sen. Cantwell co-sponsored and voted to pass the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act, which repealed two Social Security policies that unfairly limited payments for people who also receive a pension from a job that is not covered by Social Security, as well as their surviving spouses and widow(ers). In 2018, Sen. Cantwell introduced and voted to pass the Tribal Social Security Fairness Act to correct a long-standing inequity in the Social Security Act that prevents elected tribal leaders from contributing to and accessing Social Security benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353April 1, 2025
    Cotton, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today reintroduced the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act, legislation that would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act.
    Senators John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Rick Scott (R-Florida), and Tim Sheehy (R-Montana) are co-sponsors of the legislation. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (Iowa-02) introduced companion legislation in the House.
    “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Senator Cotton.
    “The Second Amendment is a Constitutional right that is not to be infringed. Law-abiding gun owners should not be forced to pay an unconstitutional firearm tax. This bill will remove unnecessary financial barriers on lawful gun owners from the antiquated 1934 National Firearms Act and protect the Second Amendment rights of Iowans and Americans,” said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson.
    Text of the legislation may be found here.
    Background:
    The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, automatic firearms and suppressors. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA regulated items have a $200 tax.
    The ATF has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms. The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,741 in today’s dollars.
    From 2018 to 2023, ownership of NFA regulated items have grown by more than 230% as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right.
    The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners.
    The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    Legislation defunds federal efforts to interfere in local zoning through Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing and other means  
     
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced the Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act, a bill which denies all federal funding for implementing the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s “Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Final Rule” and any other race or equity-based schemes to altar socioeconomic outcomes at the federal level. The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ).
    “Every American should be free to choose where to live, and every community should be free to zone its neighborhoods and compete for new residents according to its distinct values,” said Sen. Lee. “I congratulate President Trump and HUD Secretary Scott Turner for ending this egregious Obama-era attempt at social engineering, and my legislation would ban such misguided policies in the future.” 
    “Overreaching housing regulations first imposed by Barack Obama and re-upped by Joe Biden have extorted communities into giving up control of local zoning decisions while driving up the cost of affordable housing,” said Rep. Gosar.“By rejecting intrusive Washington, D.C. mandates, I am proud to support Senator Lee’s efforts to codify into law the recent decision by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to repeal the onerous Obama-Biden rules that have punished neighborhoods for refusing to fall in line with big government’s takeover of our communities.”
    BACKGROUND 
    During the Obama administration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development implemented the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing rule (AFFH) for the purposes of creating a framework to manufacture “equitable” socioeconomic outcomes from local zoning decisions that would not otherwise occur in a free market without federal government mandates. President Trump repealed the rule in 2020, but HUD under President Biden re-implemented the rule in 2021, forcing President Trump, via HUD Secretary Scott Turner, to terminate the AFFH rule again just a few weeks ago.
    The Local Zoning Decisions Protection Act restricts the use of federal funds to implement AFFH rulemaking in the future and requires federal officials to find ways to restore principles of Federalism:
    • No Federal funds may be used to design, build, maintain, utilize, or provide access to a federal database of geospatial information on community racial disparities or disparities in access to affordable housing.
    • HUD is required to consult with state/local government and public housing agencies to develop recommendations to further the purposes and policies of the Fair Housing Act in ways other than through new federal regulations. This is meant to be a report on the federalism issues within the current public housing regime.
    You can read the one-pager HERE. 
    You can read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: First Lady Melania Trump Speaks at the International Women of Courage Award Ceremony.

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

    FLOTUS Melania Trump honors courageous women at the International Women of Courage Award Ceremony.

    ‘Today we celebrate courage, a strength that is based in love. This truth is illustrated in our honorees who prove that love can inspire extraordinary valor.’

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFWln0FC92A

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell Statement on Force Posture Updates

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    In line with the president’s direction to achieve peace through strength, the defense secretary directed the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group to remain in the U.S Central Command area of responsibility in support of regional deterrence and force protection efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet

    Governor Josh Stein Announces More NC Counties to Receive High-Speed Internet
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein announced more than $31 million in Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program projects, which will connect 10,810 households and businesses in 14 counties to high-speed internet. 

    “No matter where you live in the state, you should have access to high-speed internet,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Broadband is critical to providing more economic opportunity to every corner of the state, and I am proud to create a stronger and more connected North Carolina for every person and small business owner.”

    “Thanks to these projects, North Carolinians across the state will be getting high-speed internet access so they can work, access online learning opportunities, participate in telehealth, and build a stronger state economy,” said NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Teena Piccione. “We will continue to announce CAB project awards every two weeks throughout April in order to help connect more homes and businesses.”  

    These projects will be funded by more than $22.1 million from the federal American Rescue Plan, which is awarded by NCDIT, and by nearly $9.6 million from selected broadband providers:

    • Avery: SkyBest Communications, Inc. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 805 homes or businesses (99.38% of the county’s 810 eligible locations).
    • Beaufort: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 414 homes or businesses (92.83% of the county’s 446 eligible locations).
    • Buncombe: Frontier Communications of the Carolinas, LLC. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 132 homes or businesses (6.35% of the county’s 2,079 eligible locations).
    • Cumberland: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 496 homes or businesses (60.71% of the county’s 817 eligible locations).
    • Dare: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 20 homes or businesses (19.61% of the county’s 102 eligible locations).
    • Hyde: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 1,282 homes or businesses (95.25% of the county’s 1,346 eligible locations).
    • Jones: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 79 homes or businesses (49.38% of the county’s 160 eligible locations).
    • Nash: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 5,693 unserved and underserved homes or businesses (86.04% of the county’s 6,646 eligible locations).
    • Pamlico: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 100 homes or businesses (61.35% of the county’s 163 eligible locations).
    • Pasquotank: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 87 homes or businesses (84.47% of the county’s 103 eligible locations).
    • Swain: Zito West Holding, LLC (Zito Media). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 509 homes or businesses (42.74% of the county’s 1,191 eligible locations).
    • Transylvania: Citizens Telephone Company (Comporium Communications). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 473 homes or businesses (31.94% of the county’s 1,481 eligible locations).
    • Wake: Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed). This award will provide high-speed internet access to 144 homes or businesses (11.51% of the county’s 1,251 eligible locations).
    • Yancey: French Broad Electric Membership Corporation. This award will provide high-speed internet access to 576 homes or businesses (80.67% of the county’s 714 eligible locations)

    The CAB program’s procurement process creates a partnership between counties and NCDIT to identify areas that need access and solicits proposals from prequalified internet service providers. Awardees must agree to provide high-speed service that reliably meets or exceeds speeds of 100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload.

    As part of Governor Josh Stein’s initiative to close the digital divide, these CAB program awards will be added in April to NCDIT’s dashboards, which show details and progress on programs funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The awards add to the existing $516 million in Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) grants, as well as previous CAB projects that will connect close to 190,000 North Carolina households and businesses to high-speed internet.

    For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity, visit ncbroadband.gov.    

    Apr 1, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –