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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube and Panetta Introduce Honey Integrity Act to Establish Federal Honey Standards)

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

    March 14, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), joined by Rep. Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) as a cosponsor, introduced the Honey Integrity Act to establish a national standard for honey, enhance enforcement against fraudulent honey sales, and protect American beekeepers. The bill, led in the Senate by Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), strengthens consumer confidence in honey products without expanding government bureaucracy.
    “I’m introducing the Honey Integrity Act in the House to crack down on the mislabeling and sale of fake products to American consumers. This bill establishes clear standards for honey and accountability for bad actors without adding more government red tape. Families have the right to know the honey they are buying is real. I thank Senator Tommy Tuberville for leading on this issue in the Senate and Rep. Jimmy Panetta for his support in the House. We must protect American honey producers and make sure consumers get the quality produce they pay for at the grocery store.” —Congressman Greg Steube
    “Fraudulent honey imports undercut American beekeepers and mislead consumers. The Honey Integrity Act will help protect the industry by cracking down on adulterated honey and ensuring transparency in the marketplace.  Honey producers across the country, including those in California, work hard to ensure the integrity of their product and we need to give them a level playing field.” –Congressman Jimmy Panetta
    “Honey producers across America work hard to deliver a pure, natural product, but bad actors are undermining our efforts by flooding the market with adulterated honey. I am proud to co-lead this legislation that will ensure accountability by requiring reports on enforcement actions through the establishment of the Honey Integrity Program. As a beekeeper myself, I will always fight to protect consumers and our domestic honey industry. By strengthening testing and transparency, we can crack down on fraud and defend the integrity of American honey.” –Congressman Mike Ezell
    “Honey is one of nature’s greatest antioxidants, providing many wonderful health benefits. America’s beekeepers and honey producers work tirelessly to ensure that we have access to pure, quality honey. But sadly, the lack of uniform standards is creating loopholes that foreign honey producers are increasingly exploiting. Our honey producers deserve a level playing field, and Americans deserve to know exactly what they’re putting in their bodies. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to secure our nation’s honey industry, support our domestic beekeepers and increase food transparency for Americans.” –Senator Tommy TubervilleKey Provisions of the Honey Integrity Act:

    Creates a Federal Standard of Identity for Honey: Requires the FDA to establish a formal definition and standard for honey to prevent mislabeling and ensure product integrity.
    Enhances Federal Oversight: Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit a report to Congress detailing enforcement actions against adulterated and misbranded honey.
    Mandates the Destruction of Adulterated Honey: Ensures that when fraudulent honey is identified, it is destroyed— protecting consumers and honest beekeepers.
    Strengthens Consumer Protection Without Expanding Government: Holds fraudulent sellers accountable while avoiding unnecessary government expansion, fees, or regulatory burdens.
    Accountability Without Government Overreach: The Honey Integrity Act creates the Honey Integrity Program, an enforcement mechanism to stop those who misrepresent or knowingly sells adulterated or misbranded honey. This program will be created without requiring additional federal employees or costly government programs.

    The bill has received support from several organizations including the American Honey Producers Association and American Beekeeping Federation.
    “The American Honey Producers Association applauds Representative Steube, Senator Tuberville, and Representative Panetta for introducing the Honey Integrity Act. For years, America’s beekeepers have sought adequate protections against adulteration of the honey supply on behalf of consumers and beekeepers alike. This legislation takes critical steps forward in addressing adulteration so that consumers can be confident that their honey is natural, wholesome, and healthy. The legislation will also help level the playing field for honest American beekeepers who have had to compete against adulterated products for too many years. We look forward to working with Congress and FDA in implementing this common-sense legislation to restore fairness in the marketplace and certainty for the consumer.” —Steven Coy, President, American Honey Producers Association
    “As a commercial beekeeper from Montana and  president of the American Beekeeping Federation (ABF) a national organization representing beekeepers in all 50 states from hobbyists to commercial operations, on behalf of ABF we strongly support the Honey Integrity Act. ABF is grateful to Congressmen Stuebe and Panetta on their sponsorship of this critical legislation .  We were pleased to work closely with Congressman Stuebe a beekeeper himself, on the need for this legislation to protect U.S beekeepers and U.S. consumers from economically adulterated honey from entering the country.  ABF looks forward to working closely with the legislations sponsors to see this much needed legislation become law.” —Patty Sundberg, President of American Beekeeping Federation. Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube Reintroduces PAGER Act to Protect U.S. Funding from Hezbollah)

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

    March 05, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced The Preventing Armed Groups from Engaging in Radicalism (PAGER) Act. This bill will prohibit aid and assistance to the Armed Forces of Lebanon until the governing authorities in Lebanon rescind their recognition of Hezbollah as well as their allied political wing, Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, and affiliated militia group, the Amal Movement. “While the world celebrates the demise of Hassan Nasrallah, the United States must remain vigilant to the threat of Hezbollah. Until the people of Lebanon can live free of Hezbollah’s terror and persecution, long-term peace and stability in the Middle East will remain out of reach,” said Rep. Steube. “As the Trump administration works to forge closer ties between Israel and the Arab world, Congress must do its part to contain Iran and eliminate its terrorist network. My PAGER Act will ensure U.S. tax dollars never end up in the hands of Hezbollah.”The PAGER Act bars federal funding to the Armed Forces of Lebanon until the Secretary of State certifies to Congress that:

    The Lebanese government no longer recognizes Hezbollah and other organizations linked to Iran.
    Individuals affiliated with Hezbollah or other organizations linked to Iran are banned from serving in ministerial positions.
    Lebanon is in compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1559 to remove Hezbollah and other militia groups from their territory. 
    The Lebanese Armed Forces terminates its relationship with Hezbollah, Iran, and all foreign terrorist organizations.
    Lebanon destroys all weaponry supplied by Iran and its affiliates.
    Lebanese courts agree to dismiss all charges against Americans unjustly persecuted for shedding light on Hezbollah’s influence.

    The PAGER Act will also bar U.S. funding and support for the United Nations Development Programme in light of their corrupt financial ties to top Lebanese military officers. It will also provide Congress with biannual reports on Hezbollah’s status in the region. 
    The bill has received support from numerous organizations, including The American Mideast Coalition for Democracy (AMCD) and The Endowment for Middle East Truth (EMET).
    “The American Mideast Coalition for Democracy fully supports the PAGER Act put forward by Congressman Greg Steube (R-Fla.). AMCD believes that by pressuring the Lebanese government and Lebanese Armed Forces with a limited time to disarm Hezbollah and other militias, as has been called for by the United Nations in UNSC Resolution 1559 of 2004, progress can be made toward re-establishing a functioning, pluralistic civil society in Lebanon,” said Tom Harb, Co-Chair of the American Mideast Coalition for Democracy.  “AMCD applauds the fact that this bill will condition US funding to the LAF to positive action. The time limit is key to forcing the disarmament of Hezbollah, which has been delayed for years and has allowed the infiltration of the Lebanese government and armed forces by terrorists. AMCD commends Congressman Steube for taking this vital action to restore the sovereignty of Lebanon to its people and remove this terrorist organization which has intimidated and oppressed them for far too long.” 
    “EMET applauds Congressman Greg Steube and the introduction of the PAGER Act. Unfortunately, although much of the leadership of Hezbollah has been defeated and marginalized by the Israeli Armed Forces, the new government of Prime Minister Naif Salam and President Joseph Aoun still has powerful strings attached to its Iranian Shia influence and to Hezbollah, just beyond the shadows,” said Sarah N. Stern, Founder and President of the Endowment for Middle East Truth.“The Lebanese Speaker of the House, Nabih Berri has very strong ties to Hezbollah and to its Hezbollah Shia ally, Amal. This enabled Hezbollah to name 4 Cabinet ministers, including the very important Ministry of Finance, Yassin Jaber, someone who is strongly affiliated with Hezbollah. Beyond that, we would like to see the Lebanese Armed Forces finally exercise some strength and disarm Hezbollah, which has been demanded by both UN Security Council Resolution 1559,which was introduced in 2004, and UN Security Council 1701, introduced in 2006. It is far time that the political, governmental, and economic infrastructure within Lebanon free itself of the Iranian and Shia influence of the Amal movement and of Hezbollah.”
    Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (ICYMI: Steube Introduces Resolution Authorizing Use of Military Force Against Mexican Drug Cartels)

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

    March 25, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON – ICYMI: U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced a joint resolution yesterday authorizing the use of military force against certain Mexican drug cartels. This resolution will permit the Trump administration to utilize the U.S. military in the fight against Tren de Aragua, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), the Sinaloa Cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the Northeast Cartel, the Michoacán family, the United cartels, the Cartel del Golfo, and the Clan del Golfo.

    From Fox News:
    “Congressman Greg Steube, R-Fla., is introducing a resolution today to empower the Trumpadministration to “take a sledgehammer” to the cartels by authorizing the president to use the “full force of the American military” against nine of the largest migrant criminal groups that have been wreaking havoc on American cities.  
    “One of the criminal groups included in the resolution is Tren de Aragua – also known as “TdA” – which is an international gang tied to the murder of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley as well as the violent takeover of at least one apartment building in Aurora, Colorado, last year. The group is also suspected of having ties to Venezuelan socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro. 
    “The resolution authorizes President Donald Trump to unleash the American military on Tren de Aragua, MS-13, the Sinaloa Cartel and several other gangs, which it says have “violated the territorial integrity of the United States” and present “a clear and evident danger” to the American people.”
    With more Americans concerned than ever before about the border and opioid crises, swift and decisive action is needed to protect lives and defeat the cartels. More than 200 Americans die every day from fentanyl overdoses as Mexican drug cartels have established operations in all 50 states. Not only have the cartels trafficked in record amounts of narcotics, but their members have kidnapped and murdered U.S. citizens. 
    “We can no longer ignore the deliberate invasion of Mexican drug cartels into our neighborhoods and communities. These are not ragtag bands of low-level lawbreakers but organized criminal enterprises that profit off death and addiction. Far too many innocent people have suffered at the hands of the cartels,” said Rep. Greg Steube. “Until such time that the Mexican government finally steps up and squashes the drug cartels who use Mexico as their home base, Congress must give President Trump and Secretary Hegseth the green light to take a sledgehammer to these criminal networks and their supply chains. My joint resolution will authorize the Trump administration to use the full force of the American military against the nine largest drug cartels operating out of Mexico.”
    Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet’s Onchain Report: 46% Favor Crypto Payment for Speed, but Security Concern Slows Adoption

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, March 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading Web3 non-custodial wallet, has released its latest Onchain Report, revealing that 46% of users surveyed prefer crypto payments for speed, while 37% cite security risks as a key barrier. The global study, based on a survey of 4,599 users, uncovers how different regions and generations perceive crypto as a payment method, highlighting its potential and the obstacles that must be addressed for mainstream adoption.

    Regional adoption trends show that Africa (52%) and Southeast Asia (51%) lead in demand for faster payments, driven by limited banking access and high remittance costs. Latin America (41%) faces significant concerns over transaction fees, as crypto is widely used for cross-border payments. Meanwhile, North America & Oceania (36%) focus on seamless global transactions, while privacy concerns drive adoption in the Middle East (38%) and Western Europe (35%). Across regions, limited merchant acceptance (31%) continues to be a major barrier, preventing crypto from being a widely used everyday payment method.

    Generational differences reveal that Gen X (49%) prioritizes speed, while Millennials (42%) and Gen Z (39%) favor borderless transactions. Security concerns are highest among Gen X (42%), while Gen Z (36%) is more sensitive to transaction fees. While younger users are more willing to integrate crypto into their daily financial activities, usability challenges and a lack of financial infrastructure remain key hurdles for broader adoption.

    To bridge these gaps, Bitget Wallet has launched PayFi initiatives, integrating earning, sending, and spending into a seamless onchain financial ecosystem within a single platform. Users can stake stablecoins across multiple blockchains to earn passive yield while maintaining full control over their assets, seamlessly transact with crypto payments, and spend directly within Bitget Wallet on everyday goods, services, and travel bookings. By combining DeFi-powered yield generation with real-world payment capabilities, Bitget Wallet is transforming crypto from a speculative asset into a practical financial tool for daily use, ensuring users can manage their entire financial journey in one place.

    “Crypto payments are evolving, but for mainstream adoption, security, cost-efficiency, and usability must improve,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “With PayFi, we’re redefining how people interact with digital assets — ensuring every transaction not only enables payments but also contributes to financial growth. By integrating crypto more seamlessly into everyday life, we aim to make digital finance truly accessible to billions worldwide.”

    For more details, please visit Bitget Wallet blog.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is the home of Web3, uniting endless possibilities in one non-custodial wallet. With over 60 million users, it offers comprehensive onchain services, including asset management, instant swaps, rewards, staking, trading tools, live market data, a DApp browser, an NFT marketplace and crypto payment. Supporting over 100 blockchains, 20,000+ DApps, and 500,000+ tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges, along with a $300+ million protection fund to ensure safety of users’ assets. Experience Bitget Wallet Lite to start a Web3 journey.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, please contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b75d87a-2ff6-47b5-bf81-5f971e863d42

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Condemns Attacks on Social Security

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) condemned the Trump Administration’s reckless assault on the Social Security Administration (SSA), warning that mass layoffs and service cuts will devastate seniors and working families across New Mexico and the country, particularly seniors in rural communities.

    Under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the administration has proposed firing thousands of SSA employees, closing field offices, and not allowing seniors to access services over the phone, making it harder for seniors and people with disabilities to access the benefits they’ve earned. These cuts come despite strong bipartisan support for strengthening Social Security.

    “Social Security isn’t a handout—it’s a promise we’ve made to every American who has paid into the system,” said Vasquez. “Yet, Trump and Musk are gutting the agency, leaving seniors and vulnerable communities stranded. This isn’t about ‘efficiency’—it’s about dismantling a program that millions rely on.”

    Vasquez’s office has received multiple calls from seniors concerned about the Las Cruces social security office closed and potential barricades. 

    A Manufactured Crisis

    The administration’s latest move requires seniors to come in person to apply for or update their benefits. This could bar people who qualify for Social Security from applying, including people with disabilities, seniors in rural areas, and people who do not have internet access. At the same time, Musk has publicly called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme,” while the administration falsely claims that widespread fraud is draining the program.

    “Seniors in New Mexico rely on Social Security to pay for health care and medication, pay their rent, and put food on the table. Trump and Musk want to destroy Social Security because as billionaires, they’re completely out of touch with the struggles New Mexico’s seniors face to make ends meet,” said Vasquez. “I will not let them fund a tax cut for billionaires on the backs of seniors, the disabled, and the working class.”

    Impact on New Mexico and Rural America

    The proposed cuts would hit rural communities hardest, where SSA field offices already struggle with long wait times and limited staff. In New Mexico’s Second District alone, thousands of seniors rely on in-person SSA services to receive their benefits, appeal wrongful denials, or update their records.

    Holding the Administration Accountable

    In early March, Vasquez led House Democrats in urging the administration to end its harmful assault on the SSA and reverse its decision to close field offices and lay off more than 7,000 workers. 

    Now, furthering this advocacy, Vasquez is demanding that Acting Administrator Dudek abandon his misguided policy that forces seniors and disabled New Mexicans to enroll online or in person at the very field offices the administration is trying to shut down – rather than allowing them to enroll over the phone. This policy does nothing to reduce fraud or save taxpayer money. Instead, it serves as a de facto benefit cut, making it harder for New Mexicans to access the Social Security benefits they have earned and rely on.

    You can read Rep. Vasquez’s oversight letter here. The full letter is below: 

    Dear Acting Commissioner Dudek,
     

    I am writing to express my strong opposition to recent changes by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that are making it more difficult for seniors and other beneficiaries in New Mexico to receive the benefits they have earned. Despite strong bipartisan support for Social Security, these indiscriminate staffing cuts, office closures, and ending phone services will cut off seniors from their benefits. I urge you to immediately reverse course and instead work to strengthen Social Security and fulfill the promises made to seniors.  

    At the direction of Elon Musk, who has called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme,” the SSA announced that it would cut nearly 7,000 jobs and close multiple field offices this year. These indiscriminate cuts have already raised concerns about delayed benefits and increased errors – the opposite of increasing efficiency. Additionally, the SSA recently announced that it is ending phone verification services for new applications, despite no reports of widespread fraud or abuse.  These changes are forcing seniors to travel long distances in person just to access their guaranteed benefits. It is unconscionable that, while SSA demands more in-person visits, it is simultaneously cutting staff and closing offices, making it nearly impossible for seniors to receive the support they’ve earned through a lifetime of hard work.
     

    Across New Mexico, Social Security is the difference between dignity and despair. Over 365,000 New Mexico seniors rely on these benefits to pay for food, rent, and medication.  Shrinking the SSA workforce will further erode already strained customer service and delay benefits when seniors in my district already face hours-long phone wait times. The new identity verification rules, which will add up to 85,000 additional weekly visitors to field offices, will only worsen delays – especially in rural areas where in-person access is limited. Downsizing staff while increasing in-person requirements is a recipe for disaster. For seniors in rural areas, this is an assault on their financial security. 
     

    Social Security is a promise, one that must not be broken or eroded through administrative neglect. I urge you to immediately halt workforce reductions and office closures and reconsider the in-person verification rule. Instead, I call on you to expand in-person services, invest in rural field offices, and ensure that seniors and all beneficiaries have access to timely, effective support.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Hoyle Calls for Secretary Hegseth’s Resignation

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    March 27, 2025

    For Immediate Release: March 27, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) joined 69 other House Democrats in calling for the immediate resignation of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, after new reporting from The Atlantic made clear he shared classified information on Signal, an unapproved and unsecured communications platform.

    The letter was addressed to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz.

    The full text is available here and below.

    Letter Text

    Dear Secretary Hegseth, Secretary Rubio, Director Gabbard, and Mr. Waltz,

    We write to express grave concern over your handling of sensitive information regarding military operations in Yemen and potential risks to our servicemembers carrying out this mission. The Atlantic reported that their Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg was added to a Signal group chat on March 13 titled “Houthi PC small group.” Fortunately, an American journalist was added and not anyone who could have used this information to cause significant harm to the United States.

    As more evidence has come to light, the misconduct in the group chat has become further undefendable and inexcusable. You all jeopardized the lives of servicemembers. There must be accountability starting with the immediate resignation of Secretary Hegseth.

    The degree of incompetence, carelessness, and irresponsibility is difficult to underscore. It is incomprehensible that the heads of the world’s most powerful government were unknowingly sharing secret military plans and knowingly using an unsecure communications method to do so. A bad actor or foreign contact could have easily been added to this Signal group instead of Mr. Goldberg. This experience was so absurd that Mr. Goldberg thought it more likely to be a disinformation campaign or artificial intelligence than several key members of our government, many who sit on the National Security Council.

    This encounter calls into question the way in which this operation was discussed. It was reported that classified or highly sensitive information was being shared over Signal. Information that if leaked to the wrong sources could have resulted in dire national security consequences. As the article goes on to state, there are legitimate questions on whether laws like the Espionage Act or laws on preserving official federal records were violated.

    If you had not added a non-government individual to this Signal group, then this breach would never have come to light. This does not inspire confidence that other classified communications have been handled through proper channels or that this national security team is taking these issues seriously.

    We hope you understand the gravity of this situation. The decisions you make have a significant impact on our national security and the safety of our servicemembers. We will be demanding accountability and transparency in what transpired. For the sake of our national security, we ask that you fully and willingly cooperate with Congress in any forthcoming hearings or investigations.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Pushes to Designate Ouachita River as Marine Highway

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    Washington, D.C. – In an attempt to bolster economic growth and job creation in North Louisiana, Congresswoman Julia Letlow is advocating for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to help provide a crucial economic development designation for the Ouachita River. 

    By designating the 605 mile-long river as Marine Highway M-165, DOT can further enhance the river’s capability to facilitate commerce, reduce highway congestion, and move freight. This is particularly key given the region’s agricultural presence, with river transportation providing for more export opportunities for commodities like rice, soybeans, cotton, and timber.

    The designation, provided under America’s Marine Highway Program, allows local agencies, industries, and shippers to become eligible for additional U.S. Department of Transportation grants supporting infrastructure improvements. A letter from Letlow to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted the economic benefits such a move would provide.

    “Expanding the use of the Ouachita River will improve supply chain reliability, lower transportation costs, and support economic stability for businesses and communities across Louisiana,” said Letlow. “I have requested the Department of Transportation to make this designation that will recognize the immense potential of the Ouachita River and will advance regional and national economic interests.”

    Letlow’s letter also congratulated Secretary Duffy on his recent confirmation to the post of Transportation Secretary.

    Letlow’s full letter can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Clyde, Sen. Marshall Reintroduce Legislation to Combat Biden-Era Anti-Gun Rule

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew S. Clyde (R-GA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) reintroduced the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act to remove the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), and any other weapons (AOWs) under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Senator Roger Marshall, M.D (R-KS) introduced the Senate companion bill.

    “The Biden-Harris Administration dangerously weaponized the draconian National Firearms Act to further infringe on Americans’ Second Amendment liberties,” said Clyde. “Yet the American people overwhelmingly rejected the Left’s unconstitutional tactics and backdoor gun control in November. It’s now time for Congress to use this mandate to protect Americans’ unalienable, constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Deregulating SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs is the most effective way to ensure American gun owners are not subjected to unlawful and unnecessary restrictions, taxation, and registration of firearms or pistol braces. I’m proud to partner with Senator Marshall in the fight to defeat this Biden-era rule and safeguard Americans’ Second Amendment freedoms.”

    “‘Shall not be infringed’ is crystal clear – and the Biden-era abuses of the Constitutionally protected rights of gun owners across the country need to be undone,” said Senator Marshall. “The SHORT Act takes a step toward rolling back nonsensical regulations that the National Firearms Act has placed upon gun owners. I challenge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this legislation and join me in fully restoring and protecting our God-given Second Amendment rights.”

    Supporting organizations include Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Association of Gun Rights (NAGR).

    “The Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act will repeal elements of the archaic National Firearms Act, which the Biden ATF abused to justify their unconstitutional pistol brace ban– a policy change that affects millions of law-abiding gun owners and does nothing to curb rising crime,” said Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs for GOA. “GOA is proud to support the SHORT Act, which will repeal archaic short barrel restrictions from the National Firearms Act of 1934 and prevent them from ever being weaponized against the American people ever again.”

    “The SHORT Act is a long overdue step toward restoring the rights of Americans, freeing gun owners from the burdensome and outdated regulations of the National Firearms Act,” said Hunter King, Director of Political Affairs for NAGR. “By removing short-barreled rifles, shotguns, and similar firearms from egregious federal regulations, gun owners would be able to exercise their Second Amendment freedoms without oppressive government interference. This isn’t a measly reform; it’s a declaration of Second Amendment supremacy and will take a sledgehammer to government overreach. The National Association for Gun Rights is pleased to support this bill to reclaim our right to keep and bear arms.”

    Original cosponsors (45) include Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Brian Babin (TX-36), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Ben Cline (VA-06), Eli Crane (AZ-02), Rick Crawford (AR-01), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Russell Fry (SC-07), Brandon Gill (TX-26), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14),  Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Andy Harris (MD-01), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Addison McDowell (NC-06), Carol Miller (WV-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Barry Moore (AL-01), Troy Nehls (TX-22), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Scott Perry (PA-10), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), John Rose (TN-06), Austin Scott (GA-08), Keith Self (TX-03), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Randy Weber (TX-14), Daniel Webster (FL-11), and Tony Wied (WI-08).

    Full text of the SHORT Act can be found HERE. 

    Background

    The SHORT Act will remove the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation in the draconian National Firearms Act (NFA) of firearms such as Short Barreled Rifles (SBR), Short Barreled Shotguns (SBS), and Any Other Weapons (AOW).

    Using the NFA, the Biden-Harris Administration erroneously argued that Americans who own pistols with stabilizing braces are in possession of illegal short-barreled rifles. The ATF used that argument to facilitate a ban, forcing gun owners to violate its rule or participate in an unconstitutional registry titled “Amnesty Registration of Pistol Brace Weapons,” to keep their own firearms. Eliminating unconstitutional and unnecessary restrictions, taxation, and registration placed on NFA firearms will ensure that the ATF does not enact any future version of this ban.

    Rep. Clyde previously introduced the SHORT Act in the 117th Congress and the 118th Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Marks 60th Anniversary of Selma Civil Rights Marches with National and Local Leaders

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

    SELMA, AL — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) marked the 60th Anniversary of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery civil rights marches with national and local leaders, including the crossing of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in remembrance of “Bloody Sunday.” This anniversary commemorates a series of three civil rights marches led by Rep. John R. Lewis, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and other civil rights leaders, which ended with a violent clash on Sunday, March 7th, 1965, in which state troopers attacked nearly 600 unarmed protesters. Two weeks later, the march was completed as thousands gathered on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol demanding voting rights. The march and violence of Bloody Sunday galvanized national support for the passage of the Voting Rights Act months later in August of 1965.

    Rep. Stansbury participated in the 60th Anniversary march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and attended services and commemorations over several days in Selma, Montgomery, and Birmingham with civil rights leaders and nearly 40 members of Congress. 

    “In a time when so much is on the line in protecting American democracy, freedoms, and voting rights, it is humbling to walk in the footsteps of the giants who marched for voting rights here in Selma a generation ago,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “This 60th Anniversary is a solemn reminder of the generations who fought to bend the arc of history towards justice. I am grateful to be in the fight alongside so many extraordinary leaders who carry that spirit forward into the work ahead.” 

    More about the history of the events on Bloody Sunday: 

    On March 7th, 1965 civil rights leaders and protesters began the 54-mile walk from Selma to the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery to demand voting rights protections, only to make it 6 blocks down Broad Street and across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, where they were met by more than 50 state troopers and a several dozen possemen on horseback. When the demonstrators refused to turn back, they were brutally beaten. 

    At least 17 were hospitalized and 40 others received treatment for injuries and the effects of tear gas. The attack, which was broadcast on national television, caught the attention of millions of Americans and became a symbol of the brutal oppression and racism of Jim Crow in the South. 

    Two weeks later, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. and 3,200 civil rights protesters marched the 54 miles from Selma to the state capital in Montgomery — an event that prompted Congress to pass the Voting Rights Act. 

    Every year on the first weekend in March, the Bridge Crossing Jubilee commemorates both the bloody confrontation at the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the march from Selma to Montgomery that followed.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Great American Bait and Switch Continues: Rep. Stansbury Calls Out Republicans on Their Real Agenda

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after voting against the Republican-backed Continuing Resolution:  

    “Over the last several weeks we have seen the reckless, lawless, and chaotic dismantling of critical federal programs, enabled and supported by the House GOP—just as they did with the passage of their spending bill in the House today,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01).  

    “In passing this Continuing Resolution, Republicans were clear that they will continue to support Trump and Elon Musk’s dismantling of federal agencies, they will continue to support firing thousands of federal employees, and they will continue to support illegally withholding congressionally mandated funds.  

    “This is not a budget—it’s a bait and switch—as they now turn their attention to their real agenda of gutting healthcare, housing, and food assistance and other vital programs Americans depend on to give permanent tax breaks to billionaires.  

    “That is why I voted no on a budget and a plan that will continue to hurt the people I serve in New Mexico.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Stansbury Fights for Workers’ Right to Organize

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) co-sponsored H.R. 20, the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, a comprehensive proposal to protect workers’ right to come together and bargain for higher wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces. 

    “Labor is the backbone of our country,” Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) said. “My mother was fired from her job for attempting to organize her workplace, and if the PRO Act were law, she would have been protected. All across the country, Americans are still facing retaliation for organizing at their workplaces, and it must stop. The PRO Act will protect these fundamental rights for our workers.” 

    Large corporations and the wealthy continue to capture the rewards of a growing economy while working families and middle-class Americans are left behind. From 1979 to 2023, annual wages for the bottom 90 percent of households increased just 44 percent, while average incomes for the wealthiest 1 percent increased more than 180 percent. 

    Unions are critical to increasing wages and creating a strong economy that rewards hardworking people.  Through the power of bargaining, the typical union worker earns 16 percent more than the typical non-union worker.  

    The American people’s support for unions is surging.  According to a 2024 Gallup poll, 70 percent of Americans approve of labor unions—remaining at near record highs.  Despite growing support for unions, billionaire- and special interest-funded attacks on workers’ unions and labor laws have eroded union density and made it harder for workers to organize.  The share of American workers who are union members has fallen from roughly one in three workers in 1956 to a new low of 9.9 percent in 2024.  The PRO Act restores fairness to the economy by strengthening the federal law that protects workers’ right to join a union and bargain for higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces. 

    The PRO Act protects the basic right to join a union by: 

    • Holds employers accountable for violating workers’ rights by authorizing meaningful penalties, facilitating initial collective bargaining agreements, and closing loopholes that allow employers to misclassify their employees as supervisors and independent contractors.
    • Empowers workers to exercise their right to organize by strengthening support for workers who suffer retaliation for exercising their rights, protecting workers’ right to support secondary boycotts, ensuring workers’ unions can collect “fair share” fees, and authorizing a private right of action for violation of workers’ rights.
    • Secures free, fair, and safe union elections by preventing employers from interfering in union elections, prohibiting captive audience meetings, and requiring employers to be transparent with their workers. 

    For the bill text of the PRO Act, click here. 

    For a fact sheet on the PRO Act, click here. 

    For a section-by-section summary of the PRO Act, click here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Fights for New Mexicans, Food Assistance Programs

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

    Food Assistance Programs
    Critically important programs at risk in Trump Administration

    ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) kept fighting on Friday against President Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful and harmful systematic dismantling of critical federal government food assistance programs during a press conference at the Roadrunner Food Bank.    

    Watch the video here.   

    “Hunger is a policy choice,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “There is no reason why any family, any child, any senior, any veteran in the United States should be hungry. There is plenty of food in this country. We are a wealthy country with a multitude of agriculture and food, and we have the ability to take care of our people. The decision to cut vital life-saving programs is a decision to let people go hungry in this country. We know that the policy choices that both the Trump administration and Congress under GOP leadership are making to let millions of Americans go hungry—that is a choice that they are making. But we also know that there is a policy choice of abundance, that there is a policy choice that we know that works.” 

    The Congresswoman was joined by community leaders who shared insight into the real-world impacts of the current chaos in Washington, D.C.   

    “We are deeply concerned that decisions being made seem to be in a haphazard manner with no recognition of the potential long-term impact,” said Katy Anderson, Vice President of Strategy, Partnership, and Advocacy at Road Runner Food Bank. “We work with over 500 partners across the state, and some of those partners are facing the loss of much or all of the funding that they rely on to support their communities … Cuts to programs that support Americans will increase hunger in our country, and I’m going to repeat that. They will increase hunger in our country. There is no doubt.” 

    “It’s just very hard right now to think about cuts to SNAP and what that’s going to do and what we’re going to do at the food bank because we like certainty at food banks,” said Jason Riggs, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Road Runner Food Bank. “We got trucks to load. Our trucks cover over 360,000 miles a year. We need to know what’s going to be loaded on those trucks way ahead of time and we need the people currently across the street waiting in line to get some food from one of our distributions. We need them to know when they get there, there’s going to be food, and when they go to the grocery store, the money’s going to be on their EBT card, and they’re going to be able to feed their families.” 

    “We’re facing challenges that make it harder to do this work,” said Renee Ruybal, Chief Advancement Officer at Meals on Wheels. “The rising costs of food and fuel are already putting pressure on our ability to serve every neighbor in need. We’re also seeing federal funding changes that impact our ability to expand our operations. Last year, we had an approved project to bring our face-to-face delivery to the town of Bernalillo, to Placitas, and to Algodones. That funding was removed from the recent federal budget bill, putting that expansion on hold. If these programs face more cuts, more New Mexicans will turn to us for help, but at a time when we have fewer resources to meet that growing need. So, all of this: higher costs, federal funding cuts, and potential reductions in other food assistance programs will force us to make tough choices. 

    “If hunger is a policy choice, we made a choice together, all of us, that we were not going to tolerate hunger in our communities because our communities are built around food,” said Jill Dixon, Executive Director at The Food Depot. “Every celebration, every lamentation in our communities happens with food at the table. The Food Depot stands for nutritious food being on the table for every single person in our community, and so do my food bank friends. We all should stand for that. It is a fundamental human right to have food at the table. And America has enough food to feed everyone within its borders.” 

    “Agri-Cultura is the largest cooperative here in New Mexico,” said Helga Garcia-Garza, Executive Director of Agri-Cultura Network and La Cosecha CSA. “We’re small-scale farmers and ranchers that many years ago, in 2009, we developed our mission out of a theory that we wanted to keep production local. We wanted to make it accessible to communities that otherwise would not receive organic produce and keep building capacity, keep having an impact on community health, wealth, and well being. So these programs, the ripple effect not only within the farmers but what we’ve been doing for years and years collectively together in state policy work to change procurement practices for that local investment and with that long-term vision of New Mexico becoming a sustainable regenerative food state.” 

    Impacts on New Mexicans if Trump cuts essential programs:  

    • In New Mexico, 487,113 people receive SNAP monthly.
    • 1 in 5 New Mexico children face hunger and food insecurity. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Stansbury, Nadler, Scott, Leger Fernández, Senator Murray Condemn Unlawful Dismissal of EEOC Commissioners, Demand Immediate Reinstatement

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03), and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) led 236 colleagues in a letter to President Donald Trump in response to his unprecedented and unlawful dismissal of Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels. 

    “We write to express our outrage at your unprecedented dismissal of Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels of the bipartisan U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission,” the Members wrote. “This unlawful abuse of presidential power undermines the EEOC’s historic independence, harms U.S. workers, and unduly politicizes the Commission’s work. It also impedes the Commission’s ability to fully carry out its critical mission on behalf of the American people. We urge you to swiftly reinstate Commissioners Burrows and Samuels.” 

    The EEOC was established in 1964 with strong bipartisan support to serve as an independent, multi-member body tasked with preventing and addressing employment discrimination. It is the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for ensuring that workers are protected against discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, and genetic information. Workers rely on the EEOC to be a fair and independent body—not one subject to the shifting political whims of the executive branch.   

    Both Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels had been confirmed by bipartisan votes of the Senate prior to the start of their terms, with Commissioner Burrows’ term not set to expire until July 2028 and Commissioner Samuels term not set to expire until July 2026. 

     The Members highlighted the massive return on investment the EEOC delivers for the American people, stating, “From 2014-2024, the EEOC recovered $5.6 billion for workers who were discriminated against under these laws, significantly more than the agency’s appropriations during that time period. For FY 2024, the EEOC secured a record $700 million for workers who experienced discrimination. The EEOC’s role in enforcing these protections is essential to ensuring that all workers have a fair chance to obtain employment, provide for their families, and contribute to our economy.” 

    The Members made clear the illegal firing by President Trump is an intrusion into Congress’ constitutional authority, stating, “The Administration’s firing of Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels is unprecedented and an intrusion into Congress’ Article I constitutional authority. The appointment of EEOC Commissioners is governed by statute and is designed to ensure the agency’s independence from the executive.  The President appoints Commissioners and the Senate confirms them. That is the beginning and end of the executive’s role in determining who can sit on the Commission and for how long. The law not only expressly requires the Commission to be bipartisan, but it also sets out five-year terms, a design that ensures that Commissioners’ terms run between presidential terms, another purposeful action by Congress to ensure the Commission’s independence.” 

    “Longstanding Supreme Court precedent also confirms that multi-member independent commissions such as the EEOC enjoy protection from “coercive influence” of the executive. In Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, 295 U.S. 602 (1935), the Supreme Court made clear that members of independent commissions like the EEOC cannot be removed at will by the President. Prior Presidents have agreed; no Commissioner of the EEOC has ever been removed prior to the expiration of their term in the Commission’s 60-year history.” 

    “Workers deserve to earn a living free from discrimination and feel confident that when they are harmed, they can count on an independent EEOC, not a politicized body, to protect their rights,” the Members concluded. “We urge you to reinstate Commissioner Burrows and Commissioner Samuels, and we look forward to your urgent response.” 

    The full letter can be read here. 

    The letter was also signed by: In addition to Representative Nadler, Senator Murray, Ranking Member Scott, Representative Stansbury, and Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Fernández the letter is signed by Rep. Alma Adams, Rep. Pete Aguilar, Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, Rep. Gabe Amo, Rep. Yassamin Ansari, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Rep. Becca Balint, Rep. Nanette Barragán, Rep. Joyce Beatty, Rep. Wesley Bell, Sen. Michael Bennet, Rep. Ami Bera, Rep. Donald Beyer, Rep. Sanford Bishop, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Sen. Cory Booker, Rep. Shontel Brown, Rep. Julia Brownley, Rep. Nikki Budzinski, Rep. Janelle Bynum, Sen. Maria Cantwell, Rep. Salud Carbajal, Rep. André Carson, Rep. Troy Carter, Rep. Greg Casar, Rep. Ed Case, Rep. Sean Casten, Rep. Kathy Castor, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Rep. Judy Chu, Rep. Gilbert Cisneros, Rep. Katherine Clark, Rep. Yvette Clarke, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, Rep. James E. Clyburn, Rep. Steve Cohen, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rep. Herbert Conaway, Rep. Gerald Connolly, Sen. Christopher Coons, Rep. J. Correa, Rep. Jim Costa, Rep. Joe Courtney, Rep. Angie Craig, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Danny Davis, Rep. Madeleine Dean, Rep. Diana DeGette, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Rep. Suzan DelBene, Rep. Christopher Deluzio, Rep. Maxine Dexter, Rep. Debbie Dingell, Rep. Lloyd Doggett, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Sen. Richard Durbin, Rep. Sarah Elfreth, Rep. Veronica Escobar, Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Rep. Dwight Evans, Rep. Cleo Fields, Rep. Shomari Figures, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, Rep. Bill Foster, Rep. Valerie Foushee, Rep. Lois Frankel, Rep. Laura Friedman, Rep. Maxwell Frost, Rep. Ruben Gallego, Rep. John Garamendi, Rep. Jesús García, Rep. Robert Garcia, Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Rep. Daniel Goldman, Rep. Jimmy Gomez, Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Rep. Al Green, Sen. Maggie Hassan, Rep. Jahana Hayes, Sen. Martin Heinrich, Sen. John W. Hickenlooper, Rep. James Himes, Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Steven Horsford, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Rep. Steny Hoyer, Rep. Val Hoyle, Rep. Jared Huffman, Rep. Glenn Ivey, Rep. Jonathan Jackson, Rep. Sara Jacobs, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, Rep. Henry Johnson, Rep. Julie Johnson, Sen. Timothy Kaine, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Rep. Marcy Kaptur, Rep. William Keating, Sen. Mark Kelly, Rep. Robin Kelly, Rep. Timothy Kennedy, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Andy Kim, Sen. Angus King, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Greg Landsman, Rep. John Larson, Rep. George Latimer, Rep. Summer Lee, Rep. Susie Lee, Rep. Mike Levin, Rep. Ted Lieu, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Rep. Stephen Lynch, Rep. Seth Magaziner, Rep. John Mannion, Sen. Edward J. Markey, Rep. Doris Matsui, Rep. Lucy McBath, Rep. Sarah McBride, Rep. Jennifer McClellan, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Morgan McGarvey, Rep. James McGovern, Rep. LaMonica McIver, Rep. Gregory Meeks, Sen. Robert Menendez, Rep. Grace Meng, Sen. Jeff Merkley, Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Rep. Dave Min, Rep. Gwen Moore, Rep. Joseph Morelle, Rep. Kelly Morrison, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, Rep. Seth Moulton, Rep. Frank Mrvan, Rep. Kevin Mullin, Rep. Richard Neal, Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Donald Norcross, Rep. Eleanor Norton, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Johnny Olszewski, Rep. Ilhan Omar, Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Jimmy Panetta, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Gary Peters, Rep. Scott Peters, Rep. Brittany Pettersen, Rep. Chellie Pingree, Rep. Mark Pocan, Rep. Nellie Pou, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Rep. Mike Quigley, Rep. Delia Ramirez, Rep. Emily Randall, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Sen. Jack Reed, Rep. Luz Rivas, Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, Rep. Jacklyn Rosen, Rep. Deborah Ross, Rep. Raul Ruiz, Rep. Patrick Ryan, Rep. Andrea Salinas, Sen. Bernard Sanders, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Rep. Janice Schakowsky, Sen. Brian Schatz, Rep. Adam B. Schiff, Rep. Bradley Schneider, Rep. Hillary Scholten, Rep. Kim Schrier, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Sen. Charles Schumer, Rep. David Scott, Rep. Terri Sewell, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, Rep. Brad Sherman, Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Rep. Lateefah Simon, Rep. Elissa Slotkin, Rep. Adam Smith, Sen. Tina Smith, Rep. Eric Sorensen, Rep. Darren Soto, Rep. Greg Stanton, Rep. Haley Stevens, Rep. Marilyn Strickland, Rep. Suhas Subramanyam, Rep. Thomas Suozzi, Rep. Eric Swalwell, Rep. Emilia Sykes, Rep. Linda Sánchez, Rep. Mark Takano, Rep. Shri Thanedar, Rep. Bennie Thompson, Rep. Mike Thompson, Rep. Dina Titus, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Rep. Jill Tokuda, Rep. Paul Tonko, Rep. Norma Torres, Rep. Ritchie Torres, Rep. Lori Trahan, Rep. Derek Tran, Rep. Lauren Underwood, Rep. Juan Vargas, Rep. Marc Veasey, Rep. Nydia Velázquez, Rep. Eugene Vindman, Sen. Mark R. Warner, Sen. Raphael G. Warnock, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Maxine Waters, Rep. Peter Welch, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, Rep. George Whitesides, Rep. Nikema Williams, Rep. Frederica Wilson, and Sen. Ron Wyden.   

    The letter is endorsed by: A Better Balance, American Civil Liberties Union, the Human Rights Campaign, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, National Employment Law Project, National Partnership for Women & Families, and the National Women’s Law Center. 

    Other statements of support:   

    “Since its establishment 60 years ago as part of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, the EEOC has protected the rights of workers to earn a living free from discrimination. President Trump’s illegal and unprecedented dismissal of Commissioners Charlotte Burrows and Jocelyn Samuels critically impairs the EEOC’s ability to ensure that individuals aren’t denied jobs and opportunities because of who they are.  We condemn the administration’s flagrant politicization of an independent, nonpartisan civil rights agency and join members of Congress calling for the reinstatement of the commissioners without delay,” said Mike Zamore, National Director of Policy and Government Affairs of the American Civil Liberties Union. 

    “People rely on the EEOC to be an independent, fair body that will protect their right to be free from discrimination in their workplace,” said Gaylynn Burroughs, Vice President for Education and Workplace Justice at the National Women’s Law Center. “President Trump’s removal of EEOC Commissioners Burrows and Samuels is just another extension of his authoritarian power grab that will ultimately harm workers. His actions are a clear abuse of power intended to bend the Commission to his will, but the Commission works for all working people, not for President Trump. The EEOC was born out of the civil rights movement to help ensure equal employment opportunity for all workers. We will continue to fight to preserve the integrity of the Commission, for equal opportunity, and for the right of all workers to be free from discrimination.” 

    “We condemn the administration’s unlawful attempt to fire sitting EEOC commissioners. This reckless decision is already having devastating consequences for workers waiting for the agency to take legal action against employers engaged in discrimination and severe ramifications for the agency’s ability to function effectively and enforce labor and civil rights protections,” said Jocelyn C. Frye, President of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “Workers who are depending on the EEOC to do its job should not have to endure discrimination because of political stunts intended to undermine civil rights enforcement. By making it virtually impossible for the Commission to take important actions, because it lacks a quorum, the administration is effectively circumventing robust enforcement of statutory anti-discrimination protections that workers depend on every day. President Trump must reinstate the commissioners he fired to rectify this situation. We commend Congressman Jerry Nadler and Senator Patty Murray, and all the members of Congress who join us in this fight, for standing up to safeguard the rights and the freedoms of all workers so that they are treated fairly in workplaces that are free of discrimination.” 

    “The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s role in ensuring equitable workplaces and enforcing our nation’s laws against discrimination is vital. It is an outrage that the Trump Administration has gutted the agency by illegally firing key EEOC Commissioners who have tirelessly championed robust enforcement of important workplace laws like the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Title VII of the Civil Right Act. This is an overstep of the President’s authority that will hamstring the agency’s ability to carry out its mission. We thank Congressman Nadler, Senator Murray, Ranking Member Scott, Congresswoman Stansbury, and Congresswoman Leger Fernández for their leadership in defending the EEOC,” said Inimai Chettiar, President of A Better Balance.  

    “President Trump’s removal of Commissioners Burrows and Samuels was an outrageous attack on civil rights and the rule of law – one of many actions taken by the president in pursuit of his goal to further entrench inequality and occupational segregation. The EEOC’s independence and bipartisan structure was established by Congress in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and is essential to its mission to promote equal opportunity in the workplace. This lawlessness and disregard for our Constitution cannot stand,” said Josh Boxerman, Government Affairs Manager, National Employment Law Project. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino Leads Bipartisan Push to Modernize U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02), a member of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Board of Visitors, today introduced bipartisan legislation to authorize more than $1 billion over 10 years for a full-scale campus modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

    The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Laura Gillen (R-NY-04), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) underscoring a shared commitment to bolstering national security and maritime readiness through investment in one of the nation’s five federal service academies.

    “For generations, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has trained the men and women who keep our supply chains moving and our national defense strong,” said Rep. Garbarino. “But the infrastructure on campus must keep up with the rigorous demands placed on today’s Midshipmen. This bill ensures the Academy remains a world-class institution worthy of its mission.”

    The legislation authorizes $1.02 billion from FY2026 to FY2035 via the Maritime Security Trust Fund, beginning with $54 million for design and planning in the first year and annual construction funding of over $107 million thereafter. The bill calls for full operational continuity at the Academy throughout construction and recommends using design-build contracting to speed delivery and reduce costs.

    “For more than 80 years, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has been the pride of Long Island. As one of America’s five services academies, USMMA is a pathway for young Americans to serve our country and contribute to our maritime security. I’m proud to join Rep. Garbarino and my colleagues in working together for Long Island and leading this bipartisan bill to strengthen Long Island’s tradition of producing the best Midshipmen and mariners in the world,”said Rep. Gillen. 

    “To ensure the Merchant Marine Academy continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and national security leaders, Congress must invest in its infrastructure, which has languished since the mid-20th century. Doing so is essential to providing Midshipmen, who will go on to serve America around the globe,  with the education and hands-on training they need to excel in critical industries like marine transportation and defense,” said Rep. LaLota. “Upgrading these facilities will strengthen the Academy’s ability to prepare top-tier officers and ensure it remains a premier institution for the nation’s future maritime leaders.”

    “The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a national treasure that has been neglected for decades. It is time to restore it to its former glory!” said Rep. Suozzi.

    Rep. Garbarino has served on the USMMA Board of Visitors since joining Congress and has been a leading advocate for modernizing the Academy’s campus and supporting the next generation of maritime leaders.

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bice Celebrates the Passage of her Legislation to Overturn Burdensome Biden-Era Regulations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Bice celebrated the bipartisan House passage of her legislation H.J.Resolution 24. The resolution permanently overturns burdensome regulations on walk-in coolers and freezers from the previous Administration. At the tail end of the Biden Administration, the Department of Energy unveiled new regulations that imposed stricter energy efficiency standards on walk-in coolers and freezers. These regulations increase the costs for small business owners and consumers across the nation. 

    “Today, in a bipartisan fashion, the House acted to overturn more last-minute environmental regulations from the Biden Administration. Walk-in coolers and freezers are essential for pharmacies, convenience stores, food processing facilities, food banks, restaurants, and many other establishments nationwide,” Congresswoman Bice stated. “This regulation, which had an estimated cost of a billion dollars, would have been crippling for businesses throughout the country, especially in rural areas. We must continue to push back against federal overreach, and I appreciate the support of my colleagues on this critical measure.” 

    “Biden’s regulations limited consumer choice, raised prices, and put unnecessary financial burdens on American businesses and families. House Republicans continue to reverse this regulatory non-sense and lower costs for businesses and families,” Chairwoman McClain said. 

    “The Biden-Harris Administration placed new and harmful regulations on commercial refrigeration units, yet another example of needless regulation raising prices for businesses and families while failing to provide cost savings or increasing food safety,” said Chairmen Guthrie and Latta. “These Congressional Review Act resolutions are a critical part of our work to eliminate costly and burdensome regulations that failed to serve the American people. Thank you to Congressman Goldman and Congresswoman Bice for your leadership on these important issues.” 

    Congresswoman Bice Spoke today on the House Floor to Encourage Passage

    Congresswoman Bice’s Floor Remarks: 

    Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and first, let me say I rise obviously in strong support of House Joint Resolution 24, legislation that I authored, which uses the Congressional Review Act to overturn regulations by the Biden administration. 

    I was extremely excited this morning to be notified that I have a statement of Administrative policy support from President Trump on this legislation. 

    In December of 2024, the Department of Energy enacted new energy efficiency standards for walk in coolers and freezers, equipment vital to pharmacies, convenience stores, food processing facilities, food banks, restaurants, and many other establishments nationwide. 

    These regulations will impose significant financial burdens on small businesses, which will have to absorb major upgrade cost to the meet these new aggressive standards. 

    At a time when our focus should be on lowering the cost of living for our constituents, it’s clear most of these expenses will be borne by consumers in the form of increased prices. 

    Furthermore, they threaten significant operational disruption for many enterprises that rely on this equipment. 

    We have heard from many businesses in rural areas which will have to go through extensive structural and electrical upgrades to accommodate the new equipment. 

    These same businesses have reported that getting their refrigerators and freezers repaired is a process which is already taking too long and expensive, and will become even more so.   

    For businesses looking to enter underserved markets, this will be another barrier in doing so. 

    For businesses operating on a narrow profit margin, this could be what sends them under. 

    Recognizing these detrimental impacts, I fought against the adoption of this rule and expressed my disapproval last year during the public comment period. 

    Like many of the rules handed down by the Biden Administration, this effort will have a harsh economic impact while failing to achieve its own stated goal. 

    DOE estimates that the rule would carry a minimum price tag of nearly a billion dollars with minimal energy usage reduction. 

    My colleague mentioned that it would be a savings of $6 billion / 30 years, but what he didn’t mention to you is the cost of new equipment, replacement equipment with these new energy efficiency standards could be 10s of thousands of dollars adding up to billions and billions of dollars that are going to be borne by these businesses. 

    I’m grateful President Trump has taken the decisive action to halt these rules by having the Department of Energy postponed the effective date of these standards providing breathing room for businesses. 

    However, more work needs to be done and Congress has a role to play. 

    My resolution seeks to ensure that these overreaching regulations are permanently overturned. 

    By doing so, we will protect small businesses from unnecessary compliance cost and preserve the diversity of choice available to consumers. 

    This action aligns with our broader commitment to rollback burdensome regulations that stifle economic growth and infringe upon individual freedoms. 

    In fact, according to the National Association of Manufacturers, in 2022, the total cost of regulations is estimated over $3 trillion. 

    We cannot continue to allow burdensome regulations on every aspect of our lives and our businesses. 

    I urge my colleagues to support House Joint Resolution 24, legislation that will reduce burdens on businesses and serve in the best interest of the American people. 

    And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scott to Address Riverdale Kiwanis Club

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Rep. Scott to Address Riverdale Kiwanis Club

    Congressman David Scott will provide remarks about Medicare Part-D, the state of the 13th Congressional District, his experiences during a recent trip to Iraq, and other issues during a forum hosted by the Riverdale Kiwanis Club. The public is invited to attend this event. For more information, please call 770-471-2436.

    WHEN: Saturday, March 11, 2006 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

    WHERE: Riverdale City Hall 6690 Chuch Street Riverdale, GA 30274

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott to Host Military Academy Reception

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Congressman David Scott (D-GA) will host a reception on Saturday, March 25, 2006 in his Jonesboro District Office to honor all participating students of the 13th District’s second annual military academy nomination process. During the reception, Congressman Scott will announce his primary selections for student nominees to attend each of the four military academies. To be considered for an appointment to either the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy or U.S. Air Force Academy, an applicant must first be nominated by a Member of Congress. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of academic performance, leadership ability, moral character, adequacy of preparation, and commitment to attend a military academy. Communities represented by this year’s student applicants include Riverdale, Conyers, Hampton, Stockbridge, Jonesboro, Locust Grove, Fairburn, Tucker, Lilburn, and Rex.

    WHEN: Saturday, March 25, 2006 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. WHERE: Jonesboro District Office 173 North Main Street Jonesboro, GA 30236

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott to Host Reception for 4th Annual Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Congressman Scott will host a reception to recognize all participating high school students of his Fourth Annual Congressional Art Competition and announce the top winners at the Arts Clayton Gallery. Residents of the District are invited to come out to support area students and view an exhibit of all of the entries.

    WHEN: Saturday, March 18, 2006 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. WHERE: Arts Clayton Gallery 136 South Main St Jonesboro, GA 30237 (770) 473-5457

    The Congressional Art Competition was created in 1982 as a way to showcase the artistic talents of young people throughout the country. To date hundreds of thousands of high school students from around the nation have been able to participate at the local level. During last year’s reception, scholarships to the Art Institute of Atlanta or the Savannah College of Art and Design were offered as awards to the winners. The Art Institute of Atlanta presented the first prize winner with a $10,000 scholarship, the second prize–a $5000 scholarship, and the third prize–a $2000 scholarship. The Savannah College of Art and Design offered a $3,000 scholarship renewable for up to four years for first prize. The winning entries from last year’s successful competition, including a painting by the 13th District’s Dean Beresford of Mundy’s Mill High School, currently hang in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol. This year’s first-place winner will be invited to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, June 28, 2006. For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, including competition guidelines, please contact Scott Goldstein at 770-210-5073.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Scott to Host 2nd Annual Jobs Fair

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Congressman David Scott is proud to host the Second Annual Thirteenth District Jobs Fair in conjunction with Comcast Cable, UPN Atlanta, and CBS 46. The fair will bring together Georgia’s top employers from the public and private sector. This event will take place at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park right off the I-85 and I-285 Camp Creek Parkway exits near the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Please remember to dress for success and bring copies of your resume because job candidates will have the opportunity to be matched up for interviews right on the spot! Also, remember to bring $1 for parking or take MARTA to the COLLEGE PARK station and catch the #182 bus shuttle. Military officials will be on hand to provide special assistance for veterans who’ve separated from active service within the past 180 days. With proper ID, qualified veterans are eligible for special entry to Congressman Scott’s Jobs Fair.

    WHEN: Friday, May 12, 2006 WHERE: Georgia International Convention Center Exhibit Halls C & D 2000 Convention Center Concourse College Park, GA 30337 (770) 997-3566 TIME: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm CONFIRMED EMPLOYERS: A Perfect Resume Abundant Healing AEI International Affiliated Insurance Group AFLAC AFLAC- Global Market AGL Resources AIG AIG/American General AirTran Airways All (n) 1 Security Services AltaTelecom Ambassador Personnel American General Life and Accident American Heart Association American Intercontinental University – Dunwoody Campus American Red Cross Ameriplan Aramark Aviation Services Atlanta and North Georgia Building and Construction Trades Council Atlanta Job Corps Atlanta Journal Constitution Atlanta Police Department Atlanta Technical College Atlanta Workforce Development Agency Atlantic Southeast Airlines Avon District 1186 Avon Products BB&T Bank Bellsouth Blue Water Security II, Inc. Bobby Dodd Institute Brian Center Nursing Care- Austell Buyers Credit Coach Care Entree’ Central Michigan University Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Chick-fil-A, Inc. City of Douglasville City of Forest Park City of Hapeville City of Smyrna Clayton Career Resource Center Clayton County DOT Clayton County Government- Personnel Department Clayton County Public Schools Transportation Department Clayton County Water Authority Clayton State University CLP Resources Cobb County Board of Commissioners Cobb County Police Department Cobb County School System CobbWorks Coca-Cola College Park Police Department Comcast Cable Computer Mainstream Corporation Concessions/Paschals Country Hearth Suites Cyberwize.com Davita Jonesboro Dialysis Center Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office Department of Aviation Devry University Douglas County Board of Commissioners Douglasville Police Department DreamSan Inc Employment Seeker Enterprise Rent-A-Car Exel Logistics Fayette County Board of Commissioners Fayette County Board of Education, Administration Services Department Fayette County Board of Education, Food Services Department Fayette County Board of Education, Transportation Department Federal Aviation Administration Federal Bureau of Prisons FedEx Ground First Transit Franklin and Wilson Airport Concessions From Concepts to Reality, Inc Fulton County Sheriff Office GA Department of Labor Vocational Rehabilitation Program GAT Airline Ground Support Gate Gourmet GC Services L.P. Georgia Air National Guard Georgia Army National Guard Georgia Department of Corrections Georgia Department of Human Resources Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia Military College Georgia Power Georgia State University Goodwill Industries of North Georgia Grady Health System Greystone Power Company Griffin Technical College Griffin-Spalding County School System Gwinnett County Department of Corrections Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services Hands on Atlanta Happiness Habit Harbor Management, Inc Hartsfield Area TMA Hennesy Mazda Pontiac Buick GMC Henry County Fire Department Henry County Government Henry County School System Hertz Rent-A-Car InMotion Entertainment Installation Technology Design Systems Interactive College of Technology/ Interactive Learning Systems Internal Revenue Service JPacker Systems Kodak Dental Systems Kool Smiles Lockheed Martin Loomis, Fargo, and Co Lowe’s Home Improvement Mackey & Associates/ MMG Marketing Group MARTA MBC Concessions, Inc. Mechanical Contractors Association of Georgia Melaleuca MetroPCS HIS Modern Woodmen of Atlanta Morehouse School of Medicine National Lending Corporation National Youth Apprenticeship Collaboration Options Unlimited Personal Touch Tours Travel Agency Popeyes Chicken & Checker Hamburger Prepaid Legal Services Primerica Financial Services Professional Career Development Institute Red Lobster Revelation Consulting Riverdale Police Department Robertson Sanitation/ United Waste Rockdale County Public Schools Rollins, Inc/ Orkin Pest Control Roswell Nursing and Rehab Center Saint Josephs Hospital Securitas Security Services Self Image Success Sheraton Gateway Hotel Shorter College Smyrna Police Department Social Security Administration Southern Regional Medical Center Southside Seafood Company Spherion Staffing Strayer University SunTrust Bank Talent Tree Crystal, Inc The Tensar Corporation, LLC The Wellness Company U.S. Air Force Reserve U.S. Customs and Border Protection U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration U.S. Food and Drug Administration U.S. Marine Corps U.S. Navy U.S. Office of Personnel Management U.S. Postal Service U.S. Small Business Administration United Association, Plumbers and Pipe Fitters, Local Union No.72 of Atlanta, Georgia Universal Forest Products University of Georgia Verizon Wireless Waffle House Inc. Wal-mart, Inc. Warm Spirit Wellness Resources International, Inc. Wellstar Health System Wilsons Leather Work-tec WVFJ J93.3 Radio

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Scott to Visit CBS 46 TV Studio

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Congressman David Scott will visit Atlanta’s CBS 46 Studio to participate in a live interview during the 12 noon news segment. Catch Congressman Scott discussing why his upcoming 2nd Annual Jobs Fair is so important this year with the growing number of job losses due to massive corporate layoffs and military base closing plus the arrival of Georgia troops from Iraq and more than 38,000 new residents after Hurricane Katrina wrecked the Gulf Coast. Congressman Scott will also highlight the growing list of more than 150 impressive area employer participants.

    WHEN: Friday, April 21, 2006 12 Noon

    WHERE: Tune into CBS 46.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Danny K. Davis Stands with Democratic Leaders at National Rally Opposing President Trump’s Harmful Policies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) joined fellow Democratic lawmakers, activists, and community leaders in a powerful show of unity at today’s national rally in opposition to President Donald Trump’s latest policies, which threaten democracy, economic justice, and fundamental human rights.

    The rally, organized by progressive advocacy groups, including MoveOn and other grassroots organizations, saw thousands take to the streets demanding an end to policies that roll back civil rights protections, harm working families, and undermine America’s commitment to global humanitarian aid.

    “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, and today, we send a clear message to the Trump administration: we will not stand by as policies that hurt working-class families, communities of color, and vulnerable populations continue to be implemented,” said Congressman Davis. “From slashing critical public safety and health programs to dismantling international aid organizations like USAID, the administration’s actions have real and devastating consequences.”

    Congressman Davis emphasized the urgent need to resist recent budget cuts that disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities, including reductions in funding for minority-owned businesses, affordable housing, and public safety initiatives such as the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program. He also strongly condemned the administration’s attempts to dismantle USAID, highlighting the organization’s crucial role in disaster relief, poverty reduction, and global health initiatives.

    “Now more than ever, we must remain vigilant and stand together to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms,” Davis continued. “The people have the power, and we are here today to amplify their voices, demand justice, and fight back against these draconian policies.”

    As a longtime advocate for economic and racial justice, Congressman Davis reaffirmed his commitment to legislative action that counters harmful policies, strengthens social safety nets, and ensures all Americans have access to equal opportunities.

    ### About Congressman Danny K. Davis
    Congressman Danny K. Davis represents Illinois’ 7th Congressional District and has been a steadfast advocate for civil rights, criminal justice reform, healthcare, and economic equity. Throughout his tenure in Congress, he has worked to expand opportunities for marginalized communities and fight against policies that threaten social and economic justice.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Tumia Romero
    Chief of Staff, Congressman Danny K. Davis
    Email: tumia.romero@mail.house.gov

    Would you like to add any specific details or tailor the tone further?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Danny K. Davis Denounces Harmful Budget Cuts Favoring the Wealthy at the Expense of Essential Services

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) today strongly condemned the passage of the House Republican budget, which enacts substantial tax cuts favoring the affluent while imposing severe reductions on critical programs. The budget, narrowly approved by a 217-215 vote, proposes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts over the next decade, disproportionately benefiting high-income individuals. To offset these cuts, the budget mandates at least $2 trillion in spending reductions, adversely affecting vulnerable populations, particularly in Illinois’s 7th Congressional District. In addition, these cuts target programs that support low and middle-income families, effectively redistributing resources from the most vulnerable to the most affluent.

    Favoring the Wealthy at the Expense of the Many

    “Budgets are moral documents, and this one makes it painfully clear that working families, seniors, and the most vulnerable members of our society are not a priority,” stated Congressman Danny K. Davis. “This budget not only strips away necessary resources but also exacerbates social and economic inequities by directly attacking the social determinants of health—factors like healthcare access, education, economic stability, housing, and community support that determine well-being.”

    Severe Impact on the 7th District and the Nation

    The budget proposes $880 billion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade, endangering healthcare access for nearly 80 million Americans, including thousands in Illinois’s 7th District. These cuts disproportionately impact low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, worsening health disparities and increasing preventable hospitalizations.

    Additionally, the budget:

    • Jeopardizes Education and Workforce Development: The House Committee on Education and the Workforce is directed to identify $330 billion in cuts, potentially affecting federal funding for public education, Pell Grants, and job training programs. These reductions could lead to larger class sizes, decreased access to higher education for low-income students, and diminished support for workforce development initiatives, hindering economic mobility and widening income inequality in Chicago and beyond.
    • Jeopardizes Nutrition and Food Security: Mandating the House Committee on Agriculture to find at least $230 billion in cuts, largely from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the budget increases food insecurity, particularly among children and seniors. In Illinois, nearly 1.8 million residents rely on SNAP benefits to meet their nutritional needs.
    • Reduces Housing Security: The budget includes significant cuts to affordable housing programs, with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) facing potential staff reductions of up to 50%, affecting critical services such as rental assistance and homelessness support. These cuts threaten housing stability for low-income families, potentially increasing homelessness and housing insecurity in the 7th District.
    • Weakens Community Safety: The House Republican budget proposes eliminating the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, which has provided $1.1 billion since 2016 to fund over 8,200 law enforcement positions. Additionally, the budget includes a $1.3 billion cut to the Department of Justice, potentially reducing federal agents, analysts, and prosecutors, weakening efforts to combat crime and national security threats. 
    • Undermines Public Health Efforts: Funding cuts to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) threaten critical programs addressing mental health and addiction crises, disproportionately impacting communities of color. The budget’s exact figures for these reductions are unspecified, but the anticipated decrease in funding could severely limit access to essential mental health services.
    • Reduces IRS Funding: The House Republican budget includes $20 billion in IRS cuts, reducing tax enforcement against wealthy evaders and leading to an estimated $44 billion revenue loss, increasing the deficit by $24 billion. It also results in 7,000 IRS layoffs, weakening tax compliance.
    • Small businesses: The budget cuts SBA funding by 5%, eliminating vital technical-assistance grants. Additionally, if the 2017 tax cuts expire, 6 million jobs could be lost. 

    A Call for a Just and Equitable Budget

    Congressman Danny K. Davis urges the U. S. Senate to reject this inequitable budget and instead pass legislation that invests in health, education, housing, and economic opportunity rather than providing disproportionate benefits to the wealthy at the expense of essential services. “We must adopt a budget that reflects our collective values—one that uplifts all Americans and fosters equitable growth. I remain committed to advocating for policies that ensure no one is left behind,”Davis concluded.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Congressman Danny K. Davis on White House Meeting with President Zelensky

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Statement from Congressman Danny K. Davis on 

    White House Meeting with President Zelensky

    Chicago, IL – Congressman Danny K. Davis issued the following statement in response to the White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky:

    “The actions of President Trump and his administration continue to undermine America’s credibility on the world stage. Today’s White House meeting with President Zelensky was not only profoundly unfortunate but also served to embolden Vladimir Putin and his campaign of aggression. The United States must remain steadfast in its commitment to democracy rather than rewarding those who seek to dismantle it.

    For three years, President Zelensky and the people of Ukraine have bravely defended their sovereignty against Russia’s unjust invasion. Their fight is not just for their nation—it is a fight for democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. It is in America’s national security interest to stand with Ukraine until victory is achieved.

    I will continue to support efforts to provide Ukraine with the resources necessary to defend itself against tyranny. We cannot afford to waver in our commitment to global democracy or allow authoritarianism to gain ground.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS SUPPORTS HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ DEFENSE OF THE CFPB AND AMERICAN CONSUMERS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS SUPPORTS HOUSE DEMOCRATS’ DEFENSE OF THE CFPB AND AMERICAN CONSUMERS

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) today reaffirmed his strong support for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and joined his Democratic colleagues in pushing back against Republican-led efforts to dismantle the agency that protects American consumers.

        In an amicus brief led by Ranking Member Maxine Waters (CA-43) and supported by 203 House Democrats, House leaders made clear that the Trump Administration’s attempts to shut down the CFPB are unlawful, unconstitutional, and a direct attack on consumer protections. The brief was filed in the case of National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), et al. v. CFPB Acting Director Russell Vought, et al., currently before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

        “For over a decade, the CFPB has stood as a powerful watchdog against financial abuses, returning over $21 billion to more than 205 million defrauded consumers,” said Congressman Davis. “Now, we see a calculated effort to gut the agency, led by Donald Trump and his billionaire allies, which would leave working families vulnerable to unchecked corporate greed.”

        Congressman Davis emphasized that eliminating the CFPB would allow predatory lenders, big banks, and debt collectors to resume the very practices that led to the 2008 financial crisis—a crisis that robbed millions of their jobs, homes, and financial security.

        “The attack on the CFPB is an attack on everyday Americans who rely on strong financial protections,” Davis continued. “House Democrats will not stand by as Trump and his unelected operatives dismantle safeguards that Congress put in place to prevent another economic collapse.”

         The amicus brief outlines how recent actions taken against the CFPB—including stop-work orders, mass termination plans, and attempts to seize sensitive consumer data—blatantly violate the Constitution and the Dodd-Frank Act, which established the Bureau in 2010.

    CFPB Protections at Risk

        If Trump’s efforts to gut the CFPB succeed, key consumer protections would be severely weakened or eliminated, including:

    • Small Business Lending Transparency: Ensuring fair access to capital for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
    • Overdraft Fee Regulations: Preventing banks from charging excessive fees that disproportionately impact low-income consumers.
    • Medical Debt Credit Protections: Stopping unfair medical debt from tanking Americans’ credit scores.

         The House Democratic Leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Assistant Leader Joe Neguse, and Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, have all echoed the urgent need to preserve the CFPB and protect working families from financial exploitation.

         “I will continue fighting alongside my colleagues to defend the CFPB, protect American consumers, and hold corporations accountable,” Congressman Davis concluded.

    Next Steps

    A hearing on the plaintiffs’ motion to block the dismantling of the CFPB is scheduled for Monday, March 3, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

    The full amicus brief is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Davis, Chu, Moore, Evans, Gomez, and Thompson Champion Bill to Prevent Intentional Misuse of Cash Assistance Intended for Poor Children and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    The bill would prevent and address intentional misuse of subgrant funds under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

    WASHINGTON, DC— Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Gwen Moore (D-WI), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), and Bennie Thompson (D-MS) introduced H.R. 2108, the TANF State Expenditure Integrity Act, which would give the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the statutory authority it needs to prevent, monitor, and penalize the intentional misuse of federal funds by contractors and other subrecipient grantees of the $16.5 billion TANF block grant. 

    “Democrats are committed to increasing stability and reducing adversity for low-income children and families. When used correctly, cash assistance is a critical tool in lifting families out of poverty,” said Rep. Davis. “The TANF State Expenditure Integrity Act will prevent and address intentional misuse of federal cash assistance by contractors to ensure children and families – and not fraudsters – benefit from this critical federal investment.” 

    “Public TANF dollars are meant to support low-income families, not be funneled to wealthy individuals and their pet projects—exactly what NFL star Brett Favre did when he conspired with Mississippi officials to direct millions of TANF dollars to build a new volleyball stadium at his daughter’s college,” said Rep. Chu. “Rep. Davis and I are introducing the TANF State Expenditure Integrity Act to address what happened in Mississippi by finally giving the federal government the authority to oversee states’ use of non-cash assistance TANF funds, which is about 80% of all TANF spending. Our legislation would also require states to recover misused funds and reinvest them in low-income families. As our Republican colleagues regularly decry the fraud, waste, and abuse of public funds, I would think that joining us on this legislation would be a no-brainer.”

    “When designing TANF, Republicans neglected to include proper accountability measures to prevent states misuse of TANF funds. As a result, TANF is failing the vulnerable individuals it was supposedly meant to help.  When federal dollars are intentionally diverted from beneficiaries into the hands of bad actors, it hurts the women, children, and families who are struggling with poverty.  These new tools will help ensure that the federal government can take action against bad actor contractors or others who prey on TANF for their own benefit while increasing accountability for states,” said Rep. Moore.

    “I thank Ranking Member Davis for his leadership on this issue,” said Rep. Evans. “This bill would bring much-needed accountability to help ensure that these lifeline benefits reach those in need. Most TANF recipients are children. About half of the families receiving TANF income support include a child under age 5, and a quarter of TANF households include infants.”

    “Federal assistance should help working parents and kids who need it, not the ultra-wealthy who exploit the system for their own benefit,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34). “Our TANF State Expenditure Integrity Act will ensure these funds are used as intended—not wasted on luxury projects for the rich and famous.”

    “I have witnessed the ongoing mismanagement of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds in my home state of Mississippi, particularly by greedy ineligible individuals,” said Rep. Thompson. “H.R. 2108 is essential to correcting the misuse of federal resources meant to assist our families in need. It is time we put a stop to wealthy individuals benefiting from TANF funding meant to help needy families.”

    HHS is prohibited by law from issuing regulations to monitor TANF contractors and subgrant recipients and ensure that they are penalized, even for egregious misuse like what occurred recently in Mississippi.

    The TANF State Expenditure Integrity Act gives the HHS Secretary the ability to establish a formal system to closely monitor the use of TANF funds, ensures consistent data reporting to identify misuse, and creates a TANF Program Integrity Unit to carry out grantee monitoring. The bill would also impose a new penalty for intentional misuse of funds where the state must spend at least an equivalent amount of the misused funds in the form of cash assistance directly to families who are very low income. 

    A summary of the bill is available HERE; a section-by-section of the bill is available HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Juan Vargas Joins 200 Colleagues in Reintroducing the American Dream and Promise Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51)

    February 28, 2025

    This legislation would provide Dreamers, TPS holders, and DED beneficiaries with a pathway to citizenship

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) announced that he joined 200 of his colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act of 2025. This legislation would provide a pathway to citizenship to Dreamers, undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. It would also include recipients of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) beneficiaries. 

    Dreamers have spent nearly their entire lives in the United States. They have attended school, earned degrees, built careers, and contributed billions to our economy, all while calling this country home. Many have started families and raised children who are U.S. citizens. It’s estimated that the average DACA recipient came to this country at the age of six and has been here for 20 years. Likewise, TPS holders have been living and working in the United States for decades.

    Dreamers and TPS recipients make major economic and fiscal contributions each year. DACA recipients pay approximately $6.2 billion in federal taxes and $3.3 billion in state and local taxes annually. The Center for American Progress estimates that the national GDP could grow by $799 billion over the next decade if Dreamers were provided a pathway to citizenship. 

    Economic models show a pathway to citizenship would increase wages for all workers in the U.S. and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs. It is estimated that DACA recipients in 2022 collectively earned nearly $27.9 billion and contributed nearly $2.1 billion to Social Security and Medicare, despite not being eligible for these benefits under current law. 

    “As the son of immigrants and a first-generation American, I know what the American Dream looks like. Dreamers deserve those same opportunities,” said Rep. Juan Vargas. “Dreamers are our neighbors, friends, and family. They strengthen our communities and keep our economy moving forward. They’ve built their lives here, and America is their home. It’s past time to clear a path to citizenship and make the American Dream and Promise Act the law of the land.”

    The American Dream and Promise Act of 2025 would:

    • Protect and grant eligible Dreamers conditional permanent residence for ten years and cancel removal proceedings
    • Provide a pathway to citizenship for eligible Dreamers by granting full Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status
    • Provide individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED) with LPR status
    • Protect Dreamers and individuals with TPS or DED during their application for relief under the American Dream and Promise Act
    • Provide eligible Dreamers with access to federal financial aid
    • Allow eligible Dreamers located abroad to apply for relief
    • Prevent penalizing states that grant in-state tuition to undocumented students based on residency

    Before his inauguration, President Donald Trump indicated he wanted to work with Democrats to protect Dreamers and that Republicans were open to getting something done on this issue. Rep. Juan Vargas and his colleagues extend an open invitation to President Trump to get this done by passing the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act of 2025.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Juan Vargas Calls Out Trump and DOGE Efforts to Dismantle Consumer Watchdog Agency, Take Away Protections from Military Families and Seniors

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51)

    March 26, 2025

    WASHINGTON – During a Financial Services Committee hearing today, U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) called out the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) – an agency that has returned more than $21 billion to families scammed by big banks and other financial institutions – and leave military families and seniors more vulnerable. President Trump and DOGE have moved rapidly to gut the CFPB by cutting off funding, firing staff, and shutting down its headquarters. 

    Watch Rep. Vargas’s questions to former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau General Counsel and Senior Advisor to the Director Seth Frotman HERE. Read Rep. Vargas’s questioning: 

    VARGAS: 

    I represent the San Diego region and the San Diego region is blessed by having the Navy there and many, many military personnel and we’re very blessed because many of them stay there. They retire there, but unfortunately, they become victims often times of financial

    scams. 

    In San Diego, in the San Diego region, we have 96% more CFPB consumer complaints filed by servicemembers. You know that, I’m sure. 

    Could you talk a little bit about what is happening right now and how we’ve helped them before and how we’re not helping them right now because I’m getting these complaints right now from people, and they’re saying they’re calling, there’s nobody there.

    FROTMAN:

    Thank you so much for the question, Congressman. I’ve actually visited the Marine Corps depot training facility with Holly Petraeus. So, this is critically important. You know, one of the central tasks that Congress directed the CFPB to do was look after military families. And the track record of the Bureau across administrations before the most recent change, I think, was stellar. 

    We got back more than $200 million dollars for military families through enforcement actions. We helped with 400,000 complaints. And what you see now is just devastating to military families. They told the people who staff the office that the Congress required, the Office of Servicemember Affairs, to stop working. They broke the complaint system. 

    So we’ve heard a ton today about overreach. We’ve heard these amorphous vague comments about CFPB overreach. Is it overreach when the Bureau took enforcement actions against a bunch of scammers who ripped off military families, who ripped off veterans, who ripped off retirees? 

    We’ve heard a lot of the abstracts about the Bureau and the prior leadership, but we haven’t heard specifics because I think that is what, this is one example of exactly what the Bureau was tasked to do, and they’re not doing right now.

    VARGAS: 

    The other thing that I think is very important also is to talk about [the] elderly. You know, again, San Diego is a young town, but it’s not that young. I mean, a number of us are retired… and there’s a lot of scams, again, against elderly. And… before I got all these positive comments about how the CFPB was doing their job. Now I’m getting all these complaints because nobody’s there. Could you comment about that?

    FROTMAN: 

    That’s correct. The Acting Director Vought told the Office of Older Americans to stop working. People who submit complaints about themselves or an elderly parent or grandparent saw that system broken. 

    So, you know, there’s been a lot of charges leveled, but I think one of the things that I think we all agree on is that the CFPB needs to work. The CFPB needs to work on behalf of consumers and servicemembers and older Americans. It needs to work on behalf of honest businesses, and it’s not now. The inspectors that are supposed to take care of service members and older Americans are sitting at home instead of doing their job.

    VARGAS: 

    Mr. Frotman, I want this on the record because I think that I’ve been around long enough now that you see cycles. And the unfortunate cycles are this: we’ve talked about predators and we’ve seen this. Oftentimes my colleagues on the other side ultimately control government and then you do see an overreach all right, but by the banks and others, and we get into a financial slide. And then we get into a recession, and then we get into real trouble. And then consumers, we saw in 2008, get ripped off. So we heard today that the CFPB is the predator, that you guys are the predator, that you were the predator. Could you straighten the record out on that, and I want this on the record because I think it’s gonna happen again. I want to make sure that you tell the truth. Go ahead, sir. 

    FROTMAN: 

    Thank you so much. So, you know, we’ve heard a lot of attacks on CFPB leadership, but these are really attacks on dedicated public servants who wake up every single day just trying to make their neighborhood safe.

    So many of us who work at the CFPB lived through the financial crisis and watched community after community decimated while a bunch of billionaire bankers got off scot-free. And what we do every day at the Bureau, or what we did every day at the Bureau, was to try to make sure that doesn’t happen again.

    What is happening now at the Bureau, where there is no oversight over massive non-banks in this country, is bad for businesses, it is bad for consumers, and they are setting up the situation that will, there will be another financial crisis in this country, and you all, or the people sitting in the chairs after you, will be forced to deal with it once again.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Juan Vargas, Colleagues Reintroduce the Neighbors Not Enemies Act to Repeal Alien Enemies Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51)

    March 13, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) joined his colleagues in reintroducing the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, legislation to fully repeal the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 (AEA). Part of the “Alien and Sedition Acts,” the AEA is the only remaining law from this deeply problematic set of statutes that targeted immigrants under the guise of national security. While the other three acts have expired or been repealed, the AEA remains in effect, granting sweeping powers to the president to detain or deport foreign nationals from a specific country.

    “The Alien Enemies Act of 1798 is a draconian, wartime law that gives presidents unprecedented powers to deport immigrants without a court hearing or an asylum interview. Now, Trump is threatening to exploit this outdated law to carry out his mass detention and deportation plans,” said Rep. Juan Vargas. “We’ve already seen innocent families and hard-working people with no criminal record swept up in his anti-immigrant agenda. We need to pass this bill to protect the rights and due process of immigrants here in San Diego County and across the country.” 

    The Alien Enemies Act allows the president to unilaterally determine how and if all foreign nationals from a specific country should be “apprehended, restrained, secured, and removed” during times of war or “imminent threat.” This provision has enabled the abuse of executive power, allowing entire groups of people to be targeted based solely on their national origin, including the internment of Japanese Americans and nationals during World War II. 

    The Neighbors Not Enemies Act would prevent administrations from exploiting this archaic law to sow division and harm immigrant communities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Juan Vargas Votes Against Harmful Republican Spending Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51)

    March 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52) voted against the House Republicans’ spending bill. The measure cuts funding for housing assistance, veterans’ health benefits, and food assistance, while failing to incorporate measures to ensure federal funding is not shut off or repurposed. The bill was crafted by House Republicans against a backdrop of President Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE’s continued efforts to illegally freeze federal funding and gut federal agencies.

    “Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the White House. Without any input from Democrats, they crafted a spending bill that cuts housing and food assistance, slashes veterans’ health benefits, and provides more funding for Trump’s mass deportation plans. And it gives Elon Musk and DOGE a blank check to keep targeting vital programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid,” said Rep. Juan Vargas. “If Republicans want to pass a terrible bill that harms our communities, they can use their majority to do so. I won’t be complicit. I voted no.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Juan Vargas’s Opening Statement at Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-51)

    March 04, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Juan Vargas (CA-52), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee’s Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, delivered opening remarks at the Task Force’s first hearing. 

    “Through this Task Force, I look forward to discussing important issues that affect our constituents and the entire economy, including the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy framework review, the supplemental leverage ratio, and the debate between rule-based and discretionary monetary policy. But I also plan to defend my core principles,” said Ranking Member Vargas. “Two of those core principles are my belief in the importance of the Fed’s dual mandate, and the need to protect the Fed’s independence.”

    Watch Ranking Member Vargas’s opening remarks HERE. Read Ranking Member Vargas’s opening remarks as delivered:  

    Good morning, Mr. Chairman, and thank you very much for introducing me. And again, good morning to everybody else. 

    Let me congratulate you on being named as Chairman of this Task Force. As you know, I have a great deal of respect for you. 

    When I first came to Congress 13 years ago, I was on the Agriculture Committee, which you chaired, and I thought that you treated everyone evenhandedly, straightforward, and honestly. And I appreciate that. And I look forward to working with you together on issues where we find common ground.

    Through this Task Force, I look forward to discussing important issues that affect our constituents and the entire economy, including the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy framework review, the supplemental leverage ratio, and the debate between rule-based and discretionary monetary policy. 

    But I also plan to defend my core principles, and I know you will. 

    Two of those core principles are my belief in the importance of the Fed’s dual mandate, and the need to protect the Fed’s independence. 

    The importance, first, of the dual mandate. As members of this Task Force we are well aware that the Fed’s dual mandate was established in 1977.

    The amendments to the Federal Reserve Act passed that year tasked the Fed with two important goals – to create economic conditions that achieve both maximum employment and stable prices.

    The inclusion of employment was no accident. The addition was thanks in large part to the work of Coretta Scott King and many in the labor movement.

    Some have argued that the Fed Reserve’s dual mandate has been a distraction from solely focusing on price stability. But maximum employment should not be on the chopping block. 

    When Congress charged the Fed with this dual mandate, it recognized that having access to a job is a signal of a healthy economy.

    Preventing the Fed from addressing employment would misunderstand the key way that many Americans experience the economy. And it would also disproportionately hurt working-class people.

    Low employment harms Americans who are already living on the edge – working multiple jobs, and surviving paycheck to paycheck.

    Chairman Powell has said that the dual mandate has “served us well” and that he “doesn’t see the case” to move forward with a single mandate of price stability. And I agree. 

    As Ranking Member, I intend to continue to advocate for the importance of preserving the Fed’s dual mandate.

    Now with respect to the independence of the Fed – another area where the Fed has come under increased scrutiny – is its independence.

    The research is clear that central banks around the world function at their best when they’re allowed to operate independently.

    Elected officials mostly operate on a short-term horizon, responding to short-term political incentives. 

    But the Fed must make decisions considering a much longer time horizon. That is why it is critical that monetary policy be insulated from external political pressure.

    The President’s recent executive order requiring independent agencies to submit proposed regulatory actions, strategic plans, and priorities to the White House for review only makes this issue more important.

    And it’s also worrisome that now Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has floated the idea of creating a shadow Fed chair before Chairman Powell’s term expires in May of 2026.

    We in Congress, regardless of political party, must continue to strongly defend the independence of the Fed.

    The new Administration has brought in a wave of uncertainty.

    Whether it’s tariffs or the future independence of the Fed, our constituents are increasingly unsure of their economic future.

    We see it in recent national consumer sentiment numbers, which have shown that consumer confidence fell by seven points in the most recent Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Survey.

    And I’m hearing from businesses in my district in San Diego who are increasingly concerned about the impact that tariffs and trade wars will have on the economy

    I hope that this Task Force will provide a forum for substantive debate and collaboration on these issues that impact our constituents. I’m looking forward to it.

    And with that I yield back.

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    MIL OSI USA News –