NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Launches Compliance Review Investigation into Admissions Policies at Stanford University and Several University of California Schools, Advancing President Trump’s Mandate to End Illegal DEI Policies

    Source: US State of California

    Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi directed the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division to begin compliance review investigations into admissions policies at Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, and University of California, Irvine. Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions Inc. v. President & Fellow of Harvard Coll., 600 U.S. 181 (2023), colleges and universities are prohibited from using DEI discrimination in selecting students for admission, and the Department of Justice is demanding compliance.

    “President Trump and I are dedicated to ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity across the country,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Every student in America deserves to be judged solely based on their hard work, intellect, and character, not the color of their skin.”

    For decades, elite colleges and universities have prioritized racial quotas over equality of opportunity, dividing Americans and discriminating against entire groups of applicants, all in the name of DEI. The prior administration advanced the ideology behind this illegal practice and did nothing to protect the civil rights of American students.

    “The Department of Justice will put an end to a shameful system in which someone’s race matters more than their ability,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Chad Mizelle. “Every college and university should know that illegal discrimination in admissions will be investigated and eliminated.”  

    The compliance investigations into these universities are just the beginning of the Department’s work in eradicating illegal DEI and protecting equality under the law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Amidst Renewed Offensives in Democratic Republic of Congo, Head of UN Presence Says All Parties Must Honour Commitment to Silence Guns, Pursue Peace

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    An increasingly volatile situation — driven by resurgent incursions by rebel militia groups — is killing and displacing civilians in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Head of the United Nations Mission in that country warned the Security Council today.

    “The political and security context remains very tense,” said Bintou Keita, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative in that country and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).  In the country’s east, the Congo River Alliance and M23 — supported by the Rwanda Defence Force — are consolidating control over the province of South Kivu, threatening to expand into the provinces of Tshopo and Maniema and installing a parallel administration.  All parties must “honour their stated commitment to silence the guns and pursue a peaceful solution”, she stressed.

    Meanwhile, the overall security situation in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri — where over 60 per cent of MONUSCO forces are deployed — remains volatile.  The Allied Democratic Forces have exploited the security vacuum created by the redeployment of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to launch attacks killing hundreds of civilians.  Further, clashes between the Coalition of Congolese Democrats and Zaïre armed groups have escalated in Ituri.  The human-rights situation is also deteriorating, with abuses against civilians — including summary executions — and the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan is only 8.2 per cent funded.

    In this challenging context, she said, MONUSCO remains fully committed to its mandate, protecting civilians and facilitating Government-led consultations with armed groups.  However, the dramatic deterioration of the security situation has seriously impacted discussions between MONUSCO and Congolese authorities on the gradual disengagement of the Mission and the transition in South Kivu. Reiterating that lasting peace in the east can only be achieved through a political solution, she called for the urgent reopening of Goma and Kavumu airports — lifelines for humanitarian efforts and key to the rotation of MONUSCO troops.

    Also addressing the Council was Charlotte Slente, Secretary General of the Danish Refugee Council, who said that her organization has been “racing to respond to the erratic and constant movement of internally displaced persons seeking safety” since the end of January.  The recent explosion of violence in and around Goma has exacerbated the already-dire humanitarian situation in the east and led to 660,000 people being forcibly displaced — in addition to the 6.7 million already displaced across the country at the end of 2024.  “With little notice, families were kicked out of their shelters, forced to leave with nothing but the clothes they were wearing,” she said.

    Detailing the appalling living conditions in makeshift camps, churches and schools, she noted widespread looting, shootings, rampant sexual violence, arbitrary arrests and reports of boys and men being forced to join armed groups.  “One person told us they wake each morning to find new dead bodies on the streets,” she recalled, adding that 98 per cent of her organization’s case management for human-rights violations has been for rape.  And, while humanitarian work is under extreme pressure due to recent funding cuts, the displacement crisis will only worsen.  Stressing the need to ensure safe and voluntary return for internally displaced persons, she also called on the Council to ensure humanitarian access across the country.

    Kinshasa, Kigali Spar Over Causes of Conflict

    In the ensuing discussion, representatives of Kinshasa and Kigali sparred over the causes and culprits driving the worsening conflict, with the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo citing the “chaotic” humanitarian situation in east.  He highlighted a series of atrocities perpetrated by the Rwanda Defence Force and M23, including killings, torture, massive destruction and numerous lootings.  The alarming situation underscores the urgent need to implement — “to the letter” — the provisions of resolution 2773 (2025) to end the violence and protect civilians.

    He added that the extent of the violence suggests that “we can no longer allow this crisis to drag out for eternity, claiming that an African problem requires an African solution”.  Doing so, he stressed, would betray international solidarity.  To date, no Rwandan soldier has withdrawn from Congolese territory, and Kigali has shown blatant disregard for the peace process to which Kinshasa has been committed.  Increased pressure — including more robust sanctions — are needed against M23 and its Rwandan allies, he underscored, stating that Rwanda has no right to deploy its army on a sovereign country’s territory.

    However, Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda, stressed that the conflict in the eastern region “was not started by Rwanda” — despite burden for the same being placed “squarely” on its shoulders.  The root cause of the violence is the continued preservation of the genocidal militia known as the Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda — or FDLR — despite its record of ethnic massacres, child recruitment and destabilization of both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda.  In that context, he underscored that “the defensive measures we have put in place will remain until there is a credible framework for long-term security guarantees along our border with the DRC”.

    Calling the case of MONUSCO “particularly troubling”, he said that while today’s report accurately cites abusive armed groups, it shows a clear pattern of bias.  Alarmingly, “MONUSCO provided direct support to the military operation of the DRC coalition, placing itself in a situation of belligerence — even sometimes fighting alongside the same groups it was created to neutralize,” he stressed, adding that the Mission has wildly exaggerated claims of civilian casualties. Nonetheless, MONUSCO can still play a positive role if it abides by its mandate, he said.

    Council Members Urge End to Violence

    As for Council members, the representative of Sierra Leone — also speaking for Algeria, Guyana and Somalia — expressed concern over the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is inflicting a severe toll on the Congolese people.  While urging an immediate cessation of hostilities, he nevertheless welcomed recent steps towards de-escalation, particularly the ceasefire announcement by M23.

    He further welcomed the joint road map to peace adopted by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as well as commitments made by both Kinshasa and Kigali in Doha to remain fully engaged in the Luanda and Nairobi processes.  Stressing that all processes for peace and security in the Democratic Republic of the Congo should align with African-led processes, he stated that external mercenary forces risk exacerbating the situation.

    Multiple speakers today, among them the representative of the United States, denounced the hostilities and the increasingly antagonistic rhetoric coming from Rwandan Government officials and M23 — including threats against senior MONUSCO leadership and false claims that MONUSCO supports the FDLR. Panama’s delegate pointed to reports of M23’s indiscriminate attacks against hospitals, abductions of civilians and gang rapes.

    “There is no military solution to this conflict,” affirmed Pakistan’s representative, calling all sides — particularly M23 — to engage in all relevant African-led processes to reach a peace agreement.  The United Kingdom’s delegate, condemning the capture of the town of Walikale, stressed that the Rwanda Defence Force must withdraw from sovereign Congolese territory.  He also said that M23’s continued restrictions on MONUSCO have hampered the Mission’s ability to deliver key tasks.

    However, the Russian Federation’s delegate pushed back on the “highly dubious” hospitality extended by MONUSCO to members of European private military companies — as the Mission’s mandate to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate former combatants “bears no relation to the events we witnessed thanks to media reporting”.  Given the potential further transition of MONUSCO, the Council must act without allowing the situation to deteriorate due to changes in the configuration of the peacekeeping presence in the country, she stressed.

    On the humanitarian situation, the representatives of France and Slovenia condemned M23’s unacceptable restrictions on MONUSCO and humanitarian actors in Goma and occupied areas of North Kivu.  On that, the representative of Denmark — Council President for March — spoke in her national capacity to call for the immediate reopening of the Goma and Kavumu airports.  Further, she voiced concern over threats and reprisals against human-rights defenders, journalists, civil society and judicial authorities.

    On the diplomatic front, China’s representative welcomed recent direct talks in Qatar between Kinshasa and Kigali, as well as the former’s decision to engage in direct dialogue with M23.  “China always supports African countries in solving African problems in African ways,” he stated.  Greece’s delegate agreed, urging leaders of both countries to re-engage immediately in political dialogue, while the representative of the Republic of Korea called on armed groups to engage in Kinshasa’s “Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Programme”.

    Also on diplomatic engagement, Angola’s representative noted that, in 2022, the African Union mandated that his country’s President mediate the crisis. However, he recalled that the relevant summit, scheduled for 15 December 2024, did not occur as Rwanda insisted that the M23 issue be addressed, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo held that it did not fit into the framework of the Luanda Process.  Despite impediments, including some foreign to an African solution, the understandings reached within the framework of the Luanda Process constitute a solid political basis for further efforts, he emphasized.

    Burundi’s delegate, for his part, affirmed that only a comprehensive regional solution will put an end to the current crisis and achieve lasting peace.  He also urged the Council to ensure implementation of resolution 2773 (2025), observing:  “Non-compliance with these resolutions risks weakening the authority of this Council.”  He added that failure to respect the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo could set a “dangerous precedent, which some States could make use of to nibble at portions of the territory of other sovereign States”.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Postal Inspection Service Seizes 577 Pounds of Cocaine and 14 pounds of Fentanyl, and Multiple Firearms from Mail Stream in Joint Operation with DEA, Homeland Security, FBI, ATF, and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    “Operation Gatekeeper 3.0” protects the U.S.-Caribbean border by targeting drug and arms trafficking through the U.S. Mail

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico–The United States Postal Inspection Service intercepted and seized 577 lbs. of cocaine, 14 lbs. of fentanyl and three firearms as part of a joint operation with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau. From March 10 through March 20, 2025, these federal and state agencies collaboratively conducted “Operation Gatekeeper 3.0,” a domestic interdiction of suspect parcels mailed from San Juan, Puerto Rico to locations throughout the continental United States.

    “We commend the outstanding efforts and collaboration between the federal and state law enforcement agencies responsible for the successful seizure of contraband in this case,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “We will continue our efforts to eradicate drug trafficking and violent crime in our communities.”

    “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to preventing drug and arms traffickers from using the U.S. Mail in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands as an access point for all of America,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary R. Barksdale. “The Postal Inspection Service will continue our work to secure this border and prevent the mail stream from being used to further criminal activity and enrich transnational criminal organizations.”

    As a result of this operation, federal and state authorities were able to seize evidence in several ongoing investigations, as well as identify targets of new investigations that will be worked collaboratively as part of “Operation Take Back America.”

    Puerto Rico Police Department K-9 Officer “Nico”

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Heroin Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Manuel Greenhalgh, 32, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley to three years and 10 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Greenhalgh is among eight federal defendants charged with drug trafficking offenses as part of a multi-agency operation targeting cocaine and heroin traffickers. In May 2020, Greenhalgh was heard during a wiretap discussing sourcing heroin from Mexico and the difficulties of getting people and drugs across the border. Thereafter, agents watched Greenhalgh meet with a co-defendant and pulled Greenhalgh’s vehicle over after he left the co-defendant’s house. Greenhalgh, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, possessed 1,986.6 grams of heroin that he intended to distribute.

    Co-defendant Albert Gurley was sentenced to seven years in prison for possession with intent to distribute heroin.

    Co-defendants Delanious Ward, Agustin Gonzalez, Craig Hunter, David Byrd, and Kevin Yancy previously pleaded guilty to various drug trafficking crimes and are scheduled to be sentenced at later dates.

    Charges are pending against co-defendant Jorge Mejia-Nolasco for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute heroin. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron L. Desmond and Emily G. Sauvageau are prosecuting the case.

    This prosecution is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. The Sacramento Strike Force is a co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the Sacramento Strike Force is to identify, investigate, disrupt, and dismantle the most significant drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) shipping narcotics, firearms, and money through the Eastern District of California, thereby reducing the flow of these criminal resources in California and the rest of the United States. The Sacramento Strike Force leads intelligence-driven investigations targeting the leadership and support elements of these DTOs and TCOs operating within the Eastern District of California, regardless of their geographic base of operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement Regarding Climate-Related Disclosures Rule Litigation: The Commission has Left the Building

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Today, the SEC purports to walk away from the Climate-Related Disclosures Rule.[1] In building the rule, we journeyed up a mountain. The Commission spent at least four years taking input – we issued requests for information, made a proposal, opened and reopened comment periods when stakeholders asked for more time or the ability to provide more input, reviewed thousands of comment letters, carefully balanced the interest of investors, markets and issuers, and dutifully tailored a final rule in-line with our mission and our statutory authority.[2] It was an arduous process that led to a sound and strong result.

    By way of politics, the current Commission would like to dismantle that rule. And they would like to do so unlawfully. The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) governs the process by which we make rules. The APA prescribes a careful, considered framework that applies both to the promulgation of new rules and the rescission of existing ones.[3] There are no backdoors or shortcuts. But that is exactly what the Commission attempts today.

    By its letter, we are apparently letting the Climate-Related Disclosures Rule stand but are withdrawing from its defense in court. This leaves other parties, including the court, in a strange and perhaps untenable situation. In effect, the majority of the Commission is crossing their fingers and rooting for the demise of this rule, while they eat popcorn on the sidelines. The court should not take the bait.

    Rather, the SEC should do its job. It should defend its existing rule in litigation. If the agency chooses not to defend that rule, then it should ask the court to stay the litigation while the agency comes up with a rule that it is prepared to defend (be it by rescission or otherwise, but certainly in accordance with APA mandates). At the very least, if the court continues without the Commission’s participation, it should appoint counsel to do what the agency will not – vigorously advocate in the litigation on behalf of investors, issuers and the markets.

    The Commission’s actions are inconsistent with the APA, historical practice, and they embody bad governance. We do not have license to wholesale abandon agency action simply because the now-constituted Commission would not have supported the rule when it passed. The new majority cannot now rewrite history to change the outcome of a properly held Commission vote.

    To be clear, the arguments in the Commission’s Response Brief remain substantively sound. There has been no change in the relevant statutory authority; no new judicial precedent or doctrine; nor any change in the vigorous demand by the investing public. There is no new administrative record, comment file, or economic analysis. As I have said before,[4] the only change here is politics.

    Today’s actions are but one symptom of a much larger problem – the Commission taking shortcuts in order to achieve preferred outcomes – this time by skirting the APA. We are now firmly in a period of policy-making through avoidance and acquiescence, rather than policy-making through open, transparent, and public processes. This approach does not benefit the markets, capital formation, or investors. In this instance, the majority of the Commission is hoping to let someone else do their dirty work.

    [3] SeePerez v. Mortg. Bankers Ass’n, 575 U.S. 92, 101 (2015) (finding that the APA “mandate[s] that agencies use the same procedures when they amend or repeal a rule as they used to issue the rule in the first instance”).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Daines Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Low-Population and Rural Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) introduced a bill to support rural communities. The Small County PILT Parity Act would allow counties with populations under 5,000 to receive increased Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) payments to create parity with larger counties where per capita funding increases as population decreases. In Nevada, five counties would qualify for increased funding under this bill: Esmeralda, Eureka, Lincoln, Mineral, and Storey.
    “This bipartisan bill ensures that our most rural counties are treated fairly when it comes to receiving PILT dollars,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “These counties rely on federal funding for critical projects and services, and I will always fight to ensure that communities in all 17 of Nevada’s counties have the resources they need to thrive.” 
    “PILT payments are essential for many of Montana’s rural counties, and they provide funding for essential services like emergency response and transportation,” said Senator Daines. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to bring parity to the PILT program and ensure our rural and low-population counties are treated fairly.”
    “Over 1,900 counties across the United States utilize PILT funding to provide essential services for our residents, including emergency services, transportation infrastructure, law enforcement and healthcare,” said Matthew Chase, National Association of Counties Executive Director. “The Small County PILT Parity Act ensures that rural counties with significant tracts of federal land but limited populations have the resources necessary to deliver services to residents and visitors alike. Counties applaud the efforts of Senators Daines and Cortez Masto and urge swift passage of this bipartisan legislation.”
    PILT funds are payments from the federal government to county governments to offset the loss of property taxes from federally owned lands in that county. The Small County PILT Party Act would create four new tiers in the PILT Formula (1,000, 2,000, 3,000, and 4,000) to allow for higher payments for eligible counties.
    The full text of the bill can be found here.
    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for Nevada’s rural communities, working across the aisle to deliver for families. She has led legislation to support key tourism and outdoor industries in every corner of Nevada through economic development, and she has introduced a bipartisan bill to cut red tape for small businesses—including those in rural areas. She also ensured rural Nevada communities have better access to federal funds and services through the Rural Partners Network. In the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, she secured funding for rural schools and over $460 million for broadband. She also made sure the law included her legislation to help rural counties with internet access at local schools and streamline federal broadband funding to improve internet access for rural areas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Klobuchar Introduce Legislation to Lower Drug Costs and Hold Big Pharma Accountable for Price Hikes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) introduced the Lower Drug Costs for Families Act to make prescription drugs more affordable, hold Big Pharma accountable, and reduce the national deficit by billions of dollars. The Senators’ bill would do so by punishing drug companies for raising prescription drug prices in the commercial market faster than the rate of inflation. The Lower Drug Costs for Families Act will also be introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.).
    Cortez Masto’s legislation builds on the Inflation Reduction Act’s work to lower health costs for seniors with Medicare by ensuring that all Nevadans are protected from outrageous increases in prescription drug prices – including those on private health insurance and employer-sponsored health plans like union health funds.
    “In 2022, Democrats successfully lowered drug costs for millions of American seniors on Medicare – but the job’s not done,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “It’s time to hold Big Pharma accountable for raising costs on the American people. No one – no matter what health insurance they use – should ever face these ridiculous price hikes again.”
    “During the last Administration, we took significant steps towards bringing down prescription drug prices when provisions based on my bill to empower Medicare to negotiate were signed into law, but there’s still more we can do to build on that progress,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Our legislation would lower prices by further protecting consumers from price-gouging by pharmaceutical companies. I’ll keep working to ensure all Americans can reliably access the affordable, life-saving medications they need.”
    “Nevadans should never have to choose between life-saving prescriptions and making ends meet,” said Congressman Horsford. “I’m proud to partner with Sen. Cortez Masto on the Lower Drug Costs for Families Act and look forward to introducing the House companion bill. No Nevadan should ever be priced out of their own health and wellbeing.”
    “The Lower Drug Costs for Families Act will extend the drug price inflation protections that apply to seniors in Medicare to everyone who has private insurance. Research shows that billions will be saved in premiums and copayments by people who have coverage through their job, through an Affordable Care Act marketplace plan, or coverage they buy on their own. We thank Senator Cortez Masto for introducing this important legislation,” said Jody Calemine, Director of Government Affairs, AFL-CIO.
    Under current law, drug companies only have to pay back money if they raise their prices faster than inflation on drugs covered by Medicare. The Lower Drug Costs for Families Act would expand this successful program by:
    Counting the number of drugs sold to people with private insurance when calculating penalties owed to Medicare for drug price hikes, effectively ensuring that Big Pharma faces consequences for overcharging more than 180 million Americans and
    Extending Medicare solvency by returning collected fines directly to the Medicare Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund.
    The Lower Drug Costs for Families Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
    This legislation has been endorsed by the AFL-CIO, the American Federation of Teachers, Patients for Affordable Drugs Now, and the United Mine Workers of America.
    Read the full bill here.
    Senator Cortez Masto has been a champion of affordable, quality health care, including mental and behavioral care. Cortez Masto has pushed pharmacy benefit managers to help lower prescription drug costs. She passed legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap the cost of insulin at $35-a-month for Medicare recipients through the Inflation Reduction Act. To lower health care costs for all Nevadans, Cortez Masto worked to expand health care subsidies for individuals and families getting health care through the exchange. She recently introduced bipartisan legislation to provide patients with transparent and timely access to prescription medications and treatments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Fully Fund the Institute of Museum and Library Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01) are calling on President Donald Trump, Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, Domestic Policy Council Director Vince Haley, and Office of Intergovernmental Affairs Director Alex Meyer to immediately reverse the President’s March 14 Executive Order dismantling the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and implement all Congressionally appropriated funds for IMLS and its entities.
    The delegation wrote, in part: “We write with dismay at your attempt to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) ‘to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law.’ We urge you to immediately reverse your March 14 Executive Order regarding IMLS and implement all Congressionally appropriated funds for IMLS and its entities. No agency authorized by Congress can be dismantled without another act of Congress. IMLS was established by an act of Congress in 1996.”
    They continued: “The Granite State received more than $1.5 million from IMLS in FY2024 alone, with the money going to statewide initiatives including an interlibrary loan system, the creation of a digital library, and literacy projects like the Summer Reading Program. From the Museum of the White Mountains to the Currier Museum of Art, New Hampshire’s museums are educational assets that make world-class exhibits accessible to students and families. They also power our local economies: The American Alliance of Museums and Oxford Economics estimate that museums supported 3,574 jobs and contributed $265 million to our state’s economy in 2017.”
    They concluded: “American support for IMLS transcends party lines. We urge you to focus on supporting museums and libraries and reconsider your Executive Order that would strip educational, economic, and technical assistance opportunities from our constituents.”
    The full text of the letter can be found here.
    New Hampshire’s federal delegation has been outspoken about the devastating impact that dismantling the IMLS will have on our libraries, communities, and economy. Last week, Congresswoman Goodlander met with Granite Staters at the Colebrook Public Library and heard firsthand the important role our libraries play in our communities. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski, Cantwell Reintroduce Bill to Support Hydropower Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    03.27.25
    Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today reintroduced their Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act, which supports the development of hydroelectricity infrastructure by establishing a federal tax incentive to increase security and capacity of existing dams. This comes after Murkowski recently cosponsored legislation introduced by Senator Steve Daines (R-Montana) to approve extensions for hydropower projects licensed before 2020, which will bolster projects that have been impacted by supply chain shortages and construction delays.
    “Hydropower provides clean, reliable, and affordable baseload energy around Alaska, but we’ve just begun to tap into our potential for this abundant resource,” Murkowski said. “Our common sense legislation incentivizes hydropower along with innovation that will enhance grid resiliency, make our dams safer, and allow our fish habitats to thrive.”
    “Thirty percent of Alaska’s electric energy comes from hydro and recent studies indicate significant opportunities for additional hydropower development. The Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act, introduced by Senator Maria Cantwell and Senator Lisa Murkowski, is critically important to the continued development and enhancement of hydropower in Alaska and throughout the nation,” Crystal Enkvist, Executive Director of the Alaska Power Association said. “Specifically, the ‘approved remote dam’ and the ‘interconnection property’ provisions are especially beneficial for Alaska because they allow for the construction of certain dams and the transmission necessary for those dams to be covered under a 30 percent investment tax credit (ITC). Funding support for the construction of new hydro is absolutely what we need in Alaska. In addition to funding for new hydroelectric facilities, the 30 percent ITC incentivizes environmental improvements and dam safety upgrades at existing hydropower facilities. This is must-pass legislation that moves the needle for the advancement of hydropower.”
    “The Alaska Independent Power Producers Association appreciates the hard work by our Alaska delegation to support hydropower,” Joel Groves, President of the Alaska Independent Power Producers Association said. “We are pleased and readily support Senator Murkowski’s and Senator Sullivan’s leadership on the reintroduction of the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydropower and River Restoration bill. This legislation will move our Nation and our State towards enhanced energy security by supporting responsible hydropower development and enhancement. This legislation wisely positions America toward a brighter and more robust energy future and resultant economic prosperity.”
    “Federal support is critical to assist with the initial high capital costs of developing hydropower, which becomes our most secure and affordable energy option for future generations,” said Clay Koplin, CEO of the Cordova Electric Cooperative.
    The Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act would establish:
    A 30% federal tax incentive to encourage upgrades to the safety and security of existing dams, investments that expand fish passage infrastructure, and improvements to water quality and recreational use opportunities at hydropower project sites; and 
    A first-ever federal cost-share to encourage the removal of obsolete obstructions that harm river ecosystems and outdoor recreation opportunities.
    Both incentives would be available to be accessed by not-for-profit entities.
    The bill is cosponsored by Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Angus King (I-ME), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).
    To learn more about hydropower in Alaska, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Slams Republicans for Hypocrisy Over Refusal to Condemn Violence Championed by Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Senator Murray: “You will have to excuse me if I don’t take some Republicans seriously when they make this big show about law and order at the same time they are letting this President stab law enforcement in the back.”
    Once again, Republicans block Senator Murray’s one-line resolution condemning pardons of rioters who violently assaulted Capitol Police
    Senator Murray: “Just this week—mere days ago—President Trump speculated about compensating people who committed crimes on January 6th—about REWARDING their violence with taxpayer dollars. Where is the outrage? Where is the condemnation?”
    ***VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, took to the Senate floor to rebuke Republicans for their hypocrisy in jumping to condemn violence directed at Tesla dealerships and the richest man in the world, while refusing to condemn full and unconditional pardons for rioters who violently assaulted police officers on January 6th.  
    Murray’s speech came just after Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) attempted to pass, via unanimous consent, a resolution condemning attacks against Tesla. Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) objected to Senator Blackburn’s resolution and in response, attempted to pass via unanimous consent Senator Murray’s resolution that simply condemns the full and unconditional pardons President Trump granted to individuals found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police Officers. Senator Blackburn then blocked the January 6th resolution—marking the second time Republicans have blocked passage of the simple, one-line resolution expressing opposition to the pardons of violent rioters who attacked Capitol Police.
    Senator Murray also sharply criticized recent comments by President Trump about providing financial compensation to January 6th criminals.
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered on the Senate floor today, are below and HERE:
    “M. President, I have been unequivocal in saying in this country we use our voices, and our votes—not violence—to advocate for change. I have said it many times. I will say it many times more. And I say it today.
    “But you are sorely mistaken if you think I am going to sit here—feet away from our Capitol police officers—and let the Senate say we stand by the richest man on the planet, before saying we stand by the men and women who keep us safe every single day.
    “Where is the solidarity for our officers here? And where—by the way—is the plaque Congress passed into law honoring their sacrifice on January 6th? Do I have to march down to Speaker Johnson’s office and put it up on my own? You can hang it on my door! You just bring the plaque, I’ll get the nails and do it myself.
    “Because I am not going to let anyone ever erase this history—and I am not going to let them paper over it with outrage on behalf of the richest man in the world.
    “I have no problem condemning violence, I will do that any day of the week. I condemn attacks on car owners, and salespeople. I condemn destroying other people’s personal property. This is not a new position for me.
    “But you will have to excuse me if I don’t take some Republicans seriously when they make this big show about law and order at the same time they are letting this President stab law enforcement in the back.
    “I am not going to let some Republicans get by selling a charade. Not weeks after they voted to freeze funding levels for law enforcement—in a bill where House Republicans slashed DC’s budget for police officers.
    “Not months after Trump tried to halt COPS grants and many Republicans didn’t breathe a word about it. Not when Trump is still in the middle of firing just about as many federal law enforcement workers as he can get away with. And certainly not when some of my Republican colleagues are still ignoring how our lawless President continues to champion the very people who attacked our Capitol Police.
    “Just this week—mere days ago—President Trump speculated about compensating people who committed crimes on January 6th—about rewarding their violence with taxpayer dollars. Where is that outrage? Where is the condemnation? What are some of you waiting for?
    “And don’t you try for a single second to say ‘oh he’s not talking about the violent ones.’ Y’all know better—we all know better.
    “Remember when you tried to say that about pardons? Remember how that worked out? Trump pardoned people who violently attacked police! They are back on the streets—except the ones who already committed new crimes.
    “I don’t know how my colleagues keep forgetting what happened on January 6th. I don’t know how on earth it is not burned into their memories.
    “But President Trump is talking about people who attacked this building, our offices, our staffs, our democracy. He’s talking about people who smashed windows in we walk by every day. People who brought bats and other weapons to the halls where we meet our constituents. People who beat the Capitol Police who keep us safe every day, the Capitol Police who are standing guard even now, who sit right outside this chamber!
    “These are violent criminals, and President Trump is talking about them like heroes. He wants us to write them a check!
    “Over my dead body, Mr. President. And I will say it again, and again, and again.
    “And unlike some of my Republican colleagues—I will say it the same for people who burn Teslas and for people who smash windows in here at the Capitol.
    “I’m tired of watching this; I know our constituents are. We need to demand that Speaker Johnson hang that plaque. It is not too much to ask. And I hope that this body recognize: violence is violence, and we should condemn the attacks on January 6th.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Slams Trump Continuing to Block Funding for America, Defying Spending Laws

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Murray: “All of us want a better working, more efficient government that delivers for people. But what Trump and Musk are doing has nothing to do with efficiency or with helping people. They are breaking the law, and ripping the rug out from underneath families and American businesses—all while working overtime to pass more tax breaks for billionaires like themselves.”
    *** WATCH: Senator Murray’s floor remarks***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke on the Senate floor about how President Trump continues to defy our nation’s spending laws and rob communities across America of the resources they are owed. She also spoke about the path forward to pass full-year funding bills for fiscal year 2026.
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:
    “Thank you, M. President. Right now, we have a couple of billionaires running our country straight into the ground—who seem to have skipped American history because President Trump and Elon Musk don’t seem to care much about our Constitution.
    “Including the part that says quite clearly, ‘The Congress shall have Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States.’
    “And it continues! ‘No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.’
    “But M. President, their lack of interest in that section of the Constitution doesn’t make it any less real at all! You don’t have to take my word for it—it’s right down the street at the National Archives. You can go read it yourself. And I’d invite our billionaire co-presidents to go take a look!
    “Stand in line with the school kids who are on trips, read up on the separation of powers, and you can even explain to the students there why you are gutting the Department of Education while you’re at it!
    “And, just in case Trump and Musk struggle as much with reading comprehension as history, let me translate for you what the Constitution says:
    “Congress, that is us, everyone elected here, has the power of the purse. Presidents don’t write laws—they execute them. That has been true for every spending bill this body has ever passed, including the House Republicans’ yearlong CR.
    “And the basic fact that Congress has the power of the purse is something Republicans and Democrats agree on. And it won’t change no matter what Trump, or Russ Vought, or Elon Musk claim. Their legal theories are plain outlandish and so are their facts.
    “If you listen to them, they argue that Presidents have been impounding funds routinely—that’s wrong! The opposite is true. Presidents have traditionally followed the law and followed the legal directives in spending bills.
    “And When Nixon tried to block just a fraction of the amount of funding Trump is now blocking, Congress passed the Impoundment Control Act on a truly overwhelming bipartisan basis. In fact, it cleared the Senate unanimously.
    “So, while the Constitution may be the first word on Congress’ power of the purse, this foundational principal has been affirmed time and again by the courts and by Congress.
    “The law affirms what we’ve long known: presidents cannot pick and choose which parts of the spending laws to follow. And it lays out a clear procedure for the President to propose to Congress either delaying or rescinding funding.
    “The Impoundment Control Act is still the law of the land. The Constitution is still the foundation of this democracy. Congress still has the power of the purse.
    “And, for some of the House Republicans who seem to have forgotten—that power is a critical part of how all of us, how we fight for our constituents.
    “As lawmakers, we allocate funding to solve problems, make lives better, and make our country safer—things like new bridges to safely get to work, or affordable health care and child care, clean drinking water, a strong national defense, personnel who keep planes flying safely overhead and keep toxins out of our food supply, and so much more.
    “And when Congress passes legislation to make all of those priorities real—and the president signs it into law, it needs to be followed. That’s how it works in a democracy like ours.
    “Don’t like the law? Come win the votes in Congress to change it.
    “But I am here today on the floor because as we know all too well, this President is not doing that. He and the richest man in the world are defying our laws, hurting our constituents, and their seeking to enrich themselves in the process.
    “For over two months now, President Trump has been illegally choking off huge chunks of funding. We are talking about hundreds of billions of dollars—holding up investments in everything from new roads and bridges, to cheaper energy, to stronger national security.
    “Back in my home state of Washington, the reports keep rolling in about how President Trump is causing havoc by illegally blocking funds. Last week, I heard from a lumber company struggling to cover a loan given its federal grant for solar power has now been frozen for months. Earlier this week, my office heard about a terminated Spokane project focused on environmental restoration, stormwater management, and millions of dollars being canceled for Tribal public health efforts in my state alone.
    “And I have no doubt the fallout will continue next week—because Trump keeps freezing more funding, ripping up more contracts, and ignoring our laws.
    “It has to end. All of us want a better working, more efficient government that delivers for people.
    “But what Trump and Musk are doing has nothing to do with efficiency or with helping people. They are breaking the law and ripping the rug out from underneath families and American businesses—all while working overtime to pass more tax breaks for billionaires like themselves.
    “This lawlessness has to end.
    “Now, I am hopeful in this chamber we get back to regular order and pass actual bipartisan full-year bills. We cannot let what happened with House Republicans’ awful CR happen ever again.
    “We’ve got to ensure our constituents, each and every one of us, have their voices heard by getting full-year spending bills reflecting current needs across the finish line. And those bills need to be bipartisan. That is the bare minimum, and it is not too much to ask.
    “I have worked with Republicans for years on bipartisan spending bills. During my time as Appropriations Chair, I worked with Senator Collins, from the other side of the aisle, and our colleagues on the Committee, from both sides of the aisle, to hammer out strong, bipartisan bills—two years in a row. Bills that passed out of our Committee in overwhelming bipartisan votes—many of them unanimously.
    “So, I know well, it is absolutely possible to work together, and it is worthwhile. Is it easy? Of course not!
    “But you look at the bills we wrote together, and you look at the disaster of a bill that House Republicans wrote all on their own, and the difference is night and day.
    “And I’m not just talking about the difference in huge, painful, cuts from the House Republican bill. I’m also talking about the huge incompetence House Republicans displayed. They wrote a bill that slashed DC’s own budget by a billion dollars for no reason!
    “The Senate has now passed a bill to fix the inexcusable cut to DC’s own funds. But if the House does not act quickly, now, to pass the Senate bill and fix that mistake, House Republicans will force DC to fire teachers, fire police officers, and more—by the way without saving taxpayers a dime.
    “And that’s just one, one, of the many glaring issues with House Republican’s partisan CR, which I spoke about at length when I cast my vote against it. And I stand proudly by that vote today.
    “Republicans should not write a bill without me and expect me just to vote for it.
    “That is not how this ever works. We should not accept a false choice of accepting House Republicans’ poison pills, or facing a shutdown—otherwise that poison is only going to get more bitter each time.
    “The choice we have to talk about instead is this: will we work together in a bipartisan way to fund the government and invest in the places we represent or will House Republicans cut us out, go on their own, and cause a shutdown.
    “We have to start looking ahead to fiscal year 2026, and working on bipartisan funding bills. And I am focused on making sure that what happened earlier this month absolutely does not happen again.
    “Because let me be absolutely clear: if Republicans draft another funding bill in September with zero Democratic input and that bill fails to pass the Senate because Democrats do not vote for it? That is on Republicans. That is Republicans forcing a shutdown. Period.
    “I represent nearly 8 million people in the state of Washington: I’m not offering up my vote up in exchange for nothing. And actually, in the case of House Republicans’ CR, worse than nothing, given how it will now be used against Democrats.
    “So, I am absolutely not going to stop making this point. Democrats should not offer up our votes in exchange for exactly nothing. I will be making that argument loud and clear for everyone to hear.
    “We need to be focused on negotiating bipartisan bills that give our communities strong investments instead of devastating cuts. We need to ensure our constituents have a voice in this process.
    “Colleagues, understand this: passing full year, bipartisan spending bills—that is my top priority. Those spending bills that carry the full authority of Congress on how we spend taxpayer dollars, that carry forward the priorities our constituents tell us about, that is my top priority.
    “That is the most important guardrail we can place on an administration that looks to punish people they disagree with, and strips funding from priorities like Army Corp dam repairs, or public transportation projects, or from public schools and universities.
    “Now as we write those bills, we need transparency. We need to understand the reality on the ground of what this administration and DOGE are actually doing. Who is even calling the shots over there? What programs are functional at this point? Where do we have enough staff to even carry out the mission of specific agencies, or to faithfully follow congressional intent?
    “We need a hearing with Elon Musk—and whoever else is running DOGE. We need hearings with the Department heads. Whatever form it takes—we need answers on what has been going on, we need an end to the lawlessness that is happening, and we need transparency that is sorely lacking. I don’t know when that became controversial? Isn’t DOGE supposed to be all about accountability? Isn’t it supposed to be all about transparency?
    “So, let’s get to it—let’s show the American people exactly what Trump is doing. What is the problem with that? After all, it’s not like it’s meant to be a secret. Project 2025 was a public playbook. And it’s clear they are following it to the letter.
    “Before he returned as OMB Director, Russ Vought made clear he wanted to ignore our laws and ‘Impound baby Impound.’ That’s a direct quote from the General Counsel by the way, he said it: ‘Impound baby impound.’
    “I even asked him about this directly—will you follow our laws or just toss them in the dumpster? And he wouldn’t give a straight yes. He wouldn’t—why?—because he already laid out his plans in black and white—break the law, block funds that Congress passed, and dare the courts to stop him.
    “And—shocker!—the guy who made clear he is willing to go break laws and block funding, is breaking laws and he is blocking funding.
    “And President Trump and Musk have made their intentions just as clear—not just ignoring our laws—but ignoring court orders to uphold our laws and attacking our judges and our judicial system every time they don’t get their way.
    “Just this week we saw new, blatantly illegal acts from the Trump Administration. First, OMB removed a website that provides transparency by displaying how it directs agencies to apportion—or spend—federal funding. M. President, that website is not optional—it’s in statute and OMB was complying with a requirement passed by Congress.
    “This is a cut and dry case. OMB must publish the agency’s legally-binding budget decisions. We passed that language on a bipartisan basis because our constituents deserve transparency, and they deserve accountability for how their money is being spent. But the only thing transparent about this Administration—is how transparently illegal their actions are.
    “Because the same day they illegally shut the American people out of seeing what they are doing, they also blocked funding that House Republicans continued in their own CR and that the President himself just signed into law.
    “Trump wants to illegally cherry pick what gets funding we passed and what gets left in the dust. For one thing—that is straight up against the law. Open and shut case.
    “For another—it fundamentally erodes our democracy, the trust people, businesses, and local and state governments across the country place in the federal government, and, of course, our ability to negotiate bipartisan deals here in Congress. And let’s not lose sight of the fact that it is bad for our country, and it is bad for our constituents.
    “There is a reason we passed the emergency funds. But President Trump is choking off critical investments to combat the flow of fentanyl, he is slashing support for U.S. national security initiatives, he is weakening the competitiveness of U.S. businesses, he is setting back next-generation weather forecasting, and more.
    “And that still is not all—because the very next day, we learned he wants to illegally freeze tens of millions of dollars in Title X funding—that is a program with a long bipartisan history that helps women get cancer screenings, get birth control, pregnancy tests, prevent and treat STIs.
    “Last time, President Trump tried to do this through rulemaking—but now that he is throwing the law out the window entirely, he thinks he can do it with the stroke of a pen.
    “And—I have to underscore these are just recent examples from just this week! This is the latest in a long trail of devastation they have left behind in this ongoing parade of lawbreaking. Because, as I mentioned, President Trump is still blocking hundreds of billions of dollars in investments we secured for our constituents.
    “President Trump and Musk illegally shuttered USAID. They are illegally gutting the Department of Education. They are trying to dramatically slash medical research funding with restrictions that are in direct defiance of bipartisan language that I actually worked to negotiate with my Republican colleagues.
    “I could go on all day describing the damage caused by these moves—and the many other funds that are now illegally being blocked. But I think the pattern is clear. They said they were going to cut funding regardless of the consequences, regardless of the laws, regardless of the constitution. And that is exactly what they are doing.
    “Well M. President, we here in Congress cannot bury our heads in the sand while Trump, Musk, and Vought try to snatch away our power, our power, Democrats and Republicans, of the purse.
    “I will continue to use every tool I have as a Senator—I will use my voice, I will use my vote, and more—to stop this lawlessness, stop the cuts that hurt my constituents, and write and pass bills that actually help people.
    “So, M. President I really hope that our Republican colleagues will work with us to craft bipartisan funding bills and to conduct basic oversight to provide accountability.
    “Because it absolutely matters that we not just pass strong, bipartisan funding laws, but that the laws we pass are actually followed, that our constituents, every one of our constituents, actually have a say in how their tax dollars are spent, that Congress maintains its power of the purse.
    “And I am going to continue pressing all of my colleagues to stand with me on this.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Press Conference on HHS Cuts, Senator Murray Slams Trump Plans to Push Out Thousands of Health Workers, Gut Essential Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Statement on Trump Plans to Hollow Out HHS, Risking Americans’ Health and Safety
    ***VIDEO HERE***
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), held a press conference with Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Ed Markey (D-MA) slamming the Trump administration’s plans, announced today, to push out roughly 20,000 employees at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and hollow out the Department, which is responsible for protecting Americans’ health and delivering essential health and social services. Senator Murray released a statement responding immediately to the news earlier today.
    Today’s announcement follows weeks of mass firings across HHS, creating chaos at the Department that has prevented it from executing its mission to protect people’s health, and an onslaught of detrimental policies that are halting lifesaving biomedical research and more. HHS announced that it plans to cut its workforce from 82,000 to 62,000 (a 25 percent reduction) through a combination of mass firings and buy-outs and remake HHS without thoughtful consideration and partnership with Congress. Among others, Trump, RFK Jr., and Musk plan to cut:
    3,500 employees at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is charged with protecting Americans’ health by ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medicines, biologics (including vaccines), and medical devices–and regulating food safety, cosmetics, and tobacco products.
    2,400 employees at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is charged with protecting the American people from health threats, including infectious diseases. 
    1,200 employees at NIH, the world’s premier medical research agency, which propels biomedical research that produces life-changing and, in many cases, lifesaving treatments and cures. These cuts come as the Trump administration has already systematically decimated ongoing work at NIH to advance new cures and treatments.
    300 employees at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which has long been understaffed and is charged with helping to ensure over 100 million Americans have access to health insurance by overseeing Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Affordable Care Act marketplaces. 
    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered at today’s press conference, are below and HERE:
    “We are here today to raise the alarm—because the Measles President, and Secretary Kennedy, are trying to turn the Department of Health, into the Department of Disease. 
    “Seriously, do you know what Trump and RFK Jr. are doing about the measles outbreak? They are ripping away funding Congress already provided to respond to the outbreaks—they’re stopping public health work in its tracks, even as this outbreak is threatening to spiral out of control.
    “What are they doing about the opioid crisis, or maternal death rates, or bird flu for that matter? More cuts, and don’t forget—mass firings!
    “What are they doing about vaccine hesitancy? Unsurprisingly, these anti-vaxxers are slashing vaccine research. And at the very same time, dedicating resources to launch vaccine conspiracy investigations and resurrect debunked science.
    “And now, RFK Jr. announces he is pushing out some 20,000 workers at HHS? That is about as good for the public health as a cough in your face.
    “Looking for new ways to make government more efficient and responsive is important. But Trump and RFK Jr. are doing anything but that!
    “It does not take a genius to understand that pushing out 20,000 workers at a preeminent health agency, choking off funding for cancer research, and eliminating funding that prevents infectious diseases like measles will not make Americans healthier!
    “It will just mean fewer health services for our communities, more opportunities for disease to spread, and longer waits for lifesaving treatments and cures.
    “These cuts will not reduce the deficit in any way. Not at all! Instead, they threaten to incur massive costs down the road when we are caught flat-footed by the next health care crisis.
    “Consider how much bipartisan spending Congress had to push out the door—why? Because Trump failed to get the COVID pandemic under control when it first hit.
    “It costs something to prevent pandemics, and it costs a whole lot more when we fail to stop them. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—but Trump and RFK Jr. are picking neither. They are picking chaos, plague, and pandemonium. That may as well be their official policy—because that is what is coming down the tracks if they don’t change course.
    “And I will tell you right now, when our health agencies are unprepared for a deadly pandemic…
    “When our hospitals are overwhelmed with sick kids because our local public health officials can’t track a worsening measles outbreak…
    “When people start getting E. coli and we cannot figure out where it came from…
    “Or whooping cough starts spreading—and we can’t do basic tracing to stop it…
    “Or flu season sweeps through nursing homes like never before, because no one bothered to help people get vaccinated…
    “Or a vaccine doesn’t even exist because HHS stopped funding seasonal flu vaccine development…
    “Or our mental health centers close because federal grants were axed, and opioid deaths rise again, because prevention and treatment work was cut off…
    “The American people won’t forget it was Trump and RFK Jr. who gutted essential services and put their lives at risk.
    “Today may be a great day for snake oil, it may be a great day for conspiracies, it may be a great day for measles, but it is an incredibly alarming day for America.
    “It’s an incredibly scary time for moms and dads who just want to keep their kids healthy, and just want to know there are competent people on the job keeping us safe from diseases.
    “I have warned my colleagues from the start, this is not some political game. The work HHS does—or in this case, stops doing—has life and death consequences.
    “Well, my colleagues better get used to hearing that warning, because for as long as Trump and RFK Jr. continue down this absolutely reckless path, I will echo that warning over, and over, and over again, because it is an important one.
    “Given the stakes here, given the serious threats to our families—I don’t see how any of us can do anything less.
    “We need to speak up about how dangerous this is—we are speaking up.
    “We need to push back and fight for our families, and we need our families to stand up and fight with us.
    “I know I will be. And I am proud to be here with two of my great colleagues who feel the same.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Paul, Lee, Moreno Reintroduce Bill to Abolish the Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    March 27, 2025
     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
     
     
    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Senators Rand Paul (R-KY), Mike Lee (R-UT), and Bernie Moreno (R-OH) reintroduced legislation to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, returning control of education policy to states, local communities, and families.
    In 2020 and 2021, Dr. Paul introduced a bill to abolish the Department of Education. Additionally, he has previously
    introduced the Support Children Having Open Opportunities for Learning (SCHOOL) Act as part of his broader effort to reform education. This legislation allows federal education funds to follow students, regardless of whether they are homeschooled or attend public, private, or charter schools.
    “For too long, Washington bureaucrats have imposed a uniform approach to education, stifling innovation and limiting parental choice,” said Dr. Rand Paul. “It’s time to empower families and local leaders to make the best decisions for their students, rather than relying on out-of-touch federal regulators.”
    “In the 45 years since the Department of Education was established, the quality of American public schooling has declined, the cost of college has skyrocketed, and parents and students have come second to administrators and unions,” said Senator Lee. “Congress should end this unconstitutional federal intrusion into American education and usher in a renaissance of school choice, parental rights, and academic achievement.”
    “There is no constitutional role for the federal government in education, and returning power to the states will empower parents, cut red tape, and give our students the opportunity to receive the best possible education,” said Moreno. “After over 4 decades of Republicans promising to abolish the Department of Education, President Trump and Senate Republicans are finally delivering. This was a key part of what I campaigned on, and I’m proud to join Senator Paul and my colleagues on this long-overdue legislation.”
    Dr. Paul has long been a proponent of school choice, advocating for vouchers and charter schools because educational decisions should be made locally rather than by federal agencies.
    This legislation reflects his commitment to decentralization and individual freedom, aiming for a high-quality education free from federal interference.
    You can read the legislation HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, In Response To Trump Admin Cuts To NIH: People Are Going to Die If We Don’t Fund Medical Research

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    March 27, 2025
    During a forum on the consequences of cutting federal funding to NIH, Durbin called on his Republican colleagues to stand up to Trump, Elon Musk as they slash federal funding for medical research that saves lives
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today participated in a roundtable forum, entitled “Cures in Crisis: What Gutting NIH Research Means for Americans with Cancer, Alzheimer’s, & Other Diseases,” which was hosted by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Peter Welch (D-VT).  The forum underscored the dangerous consequences of the Trump Administration’s decision to lay off researchers and freeze funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
    Durbin began his speaking time by stressing the importance of medical research conducted at NIH and by sharing his admiration for former NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins.  Durbin recalled his conversation with Dr. Collins about working on a bipartisan basis to increase federal funding for NIH annually.
    “It was about 10 years ago when I went out to NIH and met with Francis Collins… We recalled a time… when Senator Harkin and Senator Specter and a fellow named John Porter, a congressman from Illinois, decided to set out to double the NIH budget.  And they did it,” Durbin said. 
    “I said to Dr. Collins, ‘I wish I could promise the same thing. What can I do?’” Durbin said.  “He [Dr. Collins] said, ‘Give us five percent real growth every year.’”
    Durbin continued, describing how he convinced two Republicans, former U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Lamar Alexander (R-TN), as well as Democratic Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), to work with him to secure annual five percent increases in NIH funding.
    “We went from $30 billion a year to NIH, and ten years later, we were at $48 million, [a] 60 percent increase.  How did we do it?  A bipartisan team of Senators,” Durbin said.  “The four of us, two Democrats, two Republicans, put that kind of investment and made a difference in the lives of millions of people… What we’re lacking now, frankly, is support from the other side of the aisle.”
    “We need a few Republicans who will stand up and say, ‘Enough.  Enough, Mr. Musk.  Enough, DOGE,’” Durbin said.  “People are going to die if we don’t fund medical research. Period.”
    Durbin then asked Mr. Jessy Ybarra, a veteran with ALS and a board member of the ALS Association, about the future of ALS research.
    “Mr. Ybarra, thank you for your service to our country.  What do you see in terms of research for ALS?” Durbin asked.
    Mr. Ybarra replied that while progress has been made in treating the disease, funding for research must continue. If not, people with ALS will never see a new treatment or eventual cure.
    Durbin then asked Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, former NIH Director, if Dr. Collins’ challenge to Members of Congress to increase NIH funding annually made a difference in medical research.
    Dr. Bertagnolli replied, “Both Dr. Collins and I share the sentiment that everything we did at NIH was understanding how precious that support [federal funding] was.”
    Durbin concluded by remarking on how funding NIH is critical in the treatment of diseases that are impacting American families.
    “I think about that moment, which many of us have faced… when the doctor says, ‘Here’s the diagnosis.’  And you say, ‘is there anything we can do?  Is there a medicine?  Is there a surgery?  Is there a treatment?’  And you pray to God that some researcher at NIH found a breakthrough that’s going to give you or someone you love a chance,” Durbin concluded.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks is available here.
    This year, Durbin has twice asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution he introduced with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), as well as 21 other Senators, that would pledge support for NIH.  The resolution simply said that the work of NIH should not be subject to interruption, delay, or funding disruptions in violation of the law, and it reaffirmed that the NIH workforce is essential to sustaining medical progress.  The first UC request was blocked by U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and the second was blocked by U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK).
    Durbin has long been a strong advocate for robust medical research.  His legislation, the American Cures Act, would provide annual budget increases of five percent plus inflation at America’s top four biomedical research agencies: NIH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Defense Health Program, and the Veterans Medical and Prosthetics Research Program.  Thanks to Durbin’s efforts to increase medical research funding, Congress has provided NIH with a 60 percent funding increase over the past decade.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Meets With Illinois Farm Bureau In Washington

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    March 27, 2025
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today met with members of the Illinois Farm Bureau to discuss the state of federal agriculture policy and Illinois’ agricultural priorities.  During the meeting, Durbin heard from Farm Bureau members about the economic uncertainty they are facing with crop prices and production costs, and the financial harms caused by the Trump Administration’s tariffs.  Other topics raised included foreign trade, solutions for migrant workforce shortages, and the importance of permanent E15 markets.
    “Today, I spoke with members of the Illinois Farm Bureau and heard their concerns about the Trump Administration’s trade policies,” said Durbin.  “I will continue to be an ally to Illinois farmers and advocate for policies that support our agricultural sector.”
    Photos of the meeting are available here.
    Members from the following towns attended today’s meeting:
    Alexander, Illinois (Morgan County)
    Wheeler, Illinois (Jasper County)
    Waterman, Illinois (DeKalb County)
    Morrisonville, Illinois (Christian County)
    Delavan, Illinois (Tazewell County)
    Quincy, Illinois (Adams County)
    Victoria, Illinois (Knox County)
    Gillespie, Illinois (Macoupin County)
    Alhambra, Illinois (Madison County)
    New Berlin, Illinois (Sangamon County)
    Woodstock, Illinois (McHenry County)
    Osco, Illinois (Henry County)
    Springfield, Illinois (Sangamon County)
    Lynn Center, Illinois (Henry County)
    Carlinville, Illinois (Macoupin County)
    Williamsfield, Illinois (Knox County)
    Marshall, Illinois (Clark County)
    Earlier this month, Durbin joined 13 of his Democratic colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump warning against imposing tariffs as they threaten American farmers, ranchers, businesses, and consumers. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet Welcome Sundance Film Festival to Boulder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet celebrated the announcement that the Sundance Film Festival will move to Boulder, Colorado in 2027.
    “As mayor and governor, we worked to make Colorado an economic and cultural powerhouse,” said Hickenlooper. “Sundance is an iconic festival, and Boulder is the perfect backdrop for such a cultural force.”
    “I’m pleased by the news that the Sundance Film Festival is moving to Boulder,” said Bennet. “This annual film festival is the largest of its kind in the U.S. – I’m so glad it will be calling Colorado home.”
    The festival, which is the largest independent film festival in the U.S., will be centered around the Pearl Street Mall and CU campus in Boulder and will involve an array of venues in the region, potentially including the Stanley Film Center in Estes Park.
    Hickenlooper advocated for Colorado’s bid to host the Sundance Film Festival after the Sundance Institute announced last April that it was weighing a potential move to a new host city.
    For the past 40 years, Colorado has made investments designed to make Colorado the best place in the country to live and do business. As Mayor of Denver, Governor of Colorado, and now U.S. Senator, Hickenlooper has helped champion efforts to expand Colorado’s creative communities and attract recent graduates and young professionals.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Moving magma: What happens after a dike intrudes a rift zone?

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates.

    Radar interferograms showing examples of linear subsidence features (indicated by yellow arrows) that occurred directly above recent dike intrusions. (A) COSMO-SkyMed interferogram spanning June 6–13, 2024, showing inflation of Kīlauea’s summit area, but also a narrow and linear zone of subsidence about the Southwest Rift Zone caused by cooling of the dike that feed an eruption on June 3, 2024.  (B) TerraSAR-X interferogram spanning June 13, 2008–July 12, 2010, showing complex deformation on Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone near Maunaulu and Makaopuhi Crater.  The deformation includes overall contraction of the rift zone, subsidence of former pit craters that were filled by lava in the 1960s (these appear as “bullseyes” of colored fringes), and a linear zone of subsidence above the “Fathers Day” dike, which intruded during Jule 17–19, 2007, and fed a small eruption on the north side of Kānenuiohamo.  (C) Sentinel-1 interferogram of the summit region of Mauna Loa spanning May 11, 2023–May 17, 2024, showing overall inflation following the volcano’s 2022 eruption, as well as a narrow, linear zone of subsidence along the Northeast Rift Zone caused by cooling and contraction of the dike intrusion that fed the eruption.  (D) Sentinel-1 interferogram of Kīlauea’s lower East Rift Zone spanning October 17, 2022 – October 24, 2023, showing a narrow and linear zone of subsidence above the dike intrusion that fed the 2018 eruption.  In all images, the white arrow shows the path of the satellite, with the perpendicular white bar giving the look direction.

    Hawaiian volcanoes are rightly famous for eruptions along their rift zones—geologic structures that are undergoing extension and through which magma can move over great distances. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa each have two major rift zones that radiate away from the volcano summits, and rift zone eruptions are common. Mauna Loa’s 2022 eruption, and Kīlauea’s 1983–2018 Puʻuʻōʻo eruption and the 2018 AhuʻAilā’au eruption, all occurred from rift zones.

    Magma moves through Hawaiian rift zones as dikes, which are a tabular sheets of magma that move laterally and vertically beneath the ground.  When a dike reaches the surface, it often erupts as a linear curtain of lava, as several recent eruptions on the Island of Hawaiʻi have demonstrated.

    As dikes form in a rift zone, they wedge the zone apart, creating lots of surface displacement.  Sometimes, the amount of horizontal and vertical deformation that occurs in the vicinity of a dike intrusion can exceed several feet (about a meter).

    Once the dike stalls and any eruption (if one occurred) ends, one might think that is the end of the story. Not so.  The signs of magma beneath the surface can be detected for years thereafter.

    One rather obvious sign of recently active magma below the ground is thermal energy.  Especially where a dike reached shallow levels, the ground will remain hot.  Vapor emissions are common in those areas because rainwater that circulates below ground is warmed by the still-hot rock and rises to the surface as steam.

    The ground can also continue to deform long after the dike activity has ended.  As magma cools, it solidifies from its molten state and continues to drop in temperature as solid rock.  During this process, it contracts or shrinks, like most materials (except water).  Because magma underground cools very slowly (it is very well insulated down there!), it can take years to decades, and perhaps even centuries, before reaching background temperatures.  Thermal contraction is fastest during the initial, most rapid phases of cooling, and that is reflected in the way the surface responds. 

    As the magma cools and contracts, the ground above the shallow parts of a dike subsides (sinks). This deformation is especially easy to see by comparing satellite radar images over time—a technique known as interferometric synthetic aperture radar, or InSAR.  The subsidence looks like a linear streak that occurs directly above the dike in InSAR data.  In that sense, using InSAR to map subsidence after a dike intrusion can help geologists understand where exactly a dike is located, how much magma is in the dike, and how quickly it is cooling.

    The linear pattern of subsidence seen in InSAR images is apparent after nearly all dike intrusions at Hawaiian volcanoes.  For example, subsidence occurred for a few years above the so-called “Fathers Day” dike that intruded between Maunaulu and Makaopuhi Crater in June 2007, feeding a very small eruption on Kānenuiohamo. Subsidence also marks the lower East Rift Zone of Kīlauea above the trace of the dike that erupted in 2018.  Streaks of subsidence are likewise apparent above the dikes that erupted from Mauna Loa’s Northeast Rift Zone in 2022 and from Kīlauea’s Southwest Rift Zone in 2024.

    There is obviously a lot to measure when magma moves through the rift zones of Hawaiian volcanoes, and it is a time of special vigilance, given how many residents live on the flanks of our active volcanoes.  But the action doesn’t stop just because the eruption or intrusion ends.  There’s still much that can be learned about the characteristics of magma within Hawaiian rift zones from mapping deformation patterns after the magma has stopped moving!

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    The summit eruption at Kīlauea volcano that began in Halemaʻumaʻu crater on December 23 continued over the past week. Episode 14, which began the morning of March 19, ended the afternoon of March 20. Low-level spatter fountains and lava flows that marked the start of Episode 15 on March 25. The lava fountaining phase of Episode 15 began the morning of March 26 and continued for the next 9 hours, with fountains reaching over 1,000 feet (305 meters).  Since the end of Episode 15, the summit region has showed inflation suggesting another episode is possible. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    Two earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M3.0 earthquake 12 km (7 mi) NE of Pāhala at 30 km (19 mi) depth on March 26 at 3:37 a.m. HST and a M3.2 earthquake 31 km (19 mi) WSW of Kailua-Kona at 30 km (18 mi) depth on March 25 at 2:36 p.m. HST.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Abaxx Announces Closing of C$22,850,000 First Tranche of Convertible Debenture Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    TORONTO, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abaxx Technologies Inc. (CBOE:ABXX)(OTCQX:ABXXF) (“Abaxx” or the “Company”), a financial software and market infrastructure company, indirect majority shareholder of Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd., the owner of Abaxx Commodity Exchange and Clearinghouse (individually, “Abaxx Exchange” and “Abaxx Clearing”), and producer of the SmarterMarkets™ Podcast, today announces that it has closed the first tranche (the “First Tranche”) of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the “Offering”) of secured convertible debentures (the “Debentures”) for aggregate gross proceeds of C$22.85 million. The Company may close a second and final tranche (the “Second Tranche”) of the Offering for gross proceeds of up to C$17.15 million at a later date.

    The outstanding principal amount of the Debentures, together with any accrued and unpaid interest, will become due and payable in full on March 26, 2028 (the “Maturity Date”) and will be payable in cash. Each Debenture consists of C$1,000 principal amount of secured convertible debentures of the Company and is convertible into common shares of the Company (each, a “Debenture Share”) at the option of the holder thereof prior to the Maturity Date at a conversion price equal to $13.00 per Debenture Share (the “Conversion Price”).

    The Company has the right to redeem the Debentures at redemption price equal to 105% of the principal amount of the outstanding Debentures plus any accrued and unpaid interest to the date prior to the date of redemption: (a) at any time, should the VWAP of the Company’s common shares exceed 130% of the Conversion Price for no fewer than 20 out of 30 consecutive trading days, or (b) after March 26, 2027.

    The Debentures were issued at an original issue discount equal to 2.5% of the aggregate principal amount of the Debentures and bear interest at a rate of 7.0% per annum from the date of issue, payable semi-annually in arrears in cash on June 30 and December 31 of each year following the first interest payment date of September 30, 2026. The Debentures are secured against certain publicly-traded securities owned by the Company.

    The Offering is subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the final approval of Cboe Canada. The net proceeds of the First Tranche are expected to be used for general corporate and working capital purposes. The Debentures and Debenture Shares issuable pursuant to the First Tranche are subject to statutory hold periods of four months and one day from the date of issuance.

    In connection with the Offering, so long as the Debentures remain outstanding, the Company has agreed to not assume any additional indebtedness without the consent of a majority of the holders of Debentures as may be outstanding from time to time, other than: (a) certain permitted debt arrangements of up to C$10,000,000 for working capital or regulatory capital requirements in the normal course of business, and (b) trade indebtedness in the normal course of its business.

    The Company paid eligible finders a total cash commission of C$510,400 in connection with gross proceeds received from subscribers introduced to the Company by such finders.

    A certain holder of greater than 10% of the Company’s common shares acquired $4,000,0000 principal amount of Debentures under the First Tranche (the “Insider Participation”). The Insider Participation constitutes a “related party transaction” as such term is defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”). The Company is relying on an exemption from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements provided under MI 61-101 pursuant to section 5.5(a) and section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, on the basis that the Insider Participation does not exceed 25% of the fair market value of the Company’s market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the Insider Participation at least 21 days before the closing of the First Tranche, which the Company believes is reasonable in the circumstances in order to complete the First Tranche in an expeditious manner.

    The securities offered in the Offering have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons, absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction.

    About Abaxx Technologies
    Abaxx is building Smarter Markets — markets empowered by better financial technology and market infrastructure to address our biggest challenges, including the energy transition. In addition to developing and deploying financial technologies that make communication, trade, and transactions easier and more secure, Abaxx is an indirect majority-owner of subsidiaries Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing, recognized by MAS as a “recognised market operator” (RMO) and “approved clearing house” (ACH), respectively.

    Abaxx Exchange and Abaxx Clearing are a Singapore-based commodity futures exchange and clearinghouse, introducing centrally cleared, physically deliverable commodities futures and derivatives to provide better price discovery and risk management tools for the commodities critical to our transition to a lower-carbon economy.

    For more information please visit abaxx.tech, abaxx.exchange and smartermarkets.media.

    For more information about this press release, please contact:

    Steve Fray, CFO
    Tel: +1 647-490-1590

    Media and investor inquiries:

    Abaxx Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations Team
    Tel: +1 246 271 0082
    E-mail: ir@abaxx.tech

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” which do not consist of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe Abaxx’s future plans, objectives, or goals, including words to the effect that Abaxx expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “seeking”, “should”, “intend”, “predict”, “potential”, “believes”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “estimates”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “will”, “continue”, “plan” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Since forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to Abaxx, Abaxx does not provide any assurance that actual results will meet respective management expectations. Risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information related to Abaxx in this press release includes, but is not limited to: matters related to the Offering and the conversion of the Debentures, statements related to the closing of the Second Tranche including the timing and size thereof, regulatory approvals, the agreement to not assume additional indebtedness except certain permitted indebtedness, and the inability of Abaxx to apply the use of proceeds from the Offering as anticipated. Such factors impacting forward-looking information include, among others: the inability to obtain required approvals for the Offering, risks relating to the global economic climate; dilution; Abaxx’s limited operating history; future capital needs and uncertainty of additional financing; the competitive nature of the industry; currency exchange risks; the need for Abaxx to manage its planned growth and expansion; the effects of product development and need for continued technology change; protection of proprietary rights; the effect of government regulation and compliance on Abaxx and the industry; acquiring and maintaining regulatory approvals for Abaxx’s products and operations; the ability to list Abaxx’s securities on stock exchanges in a timely fashion or at all; network security risks; the ability of Abaxx to maintain properly working systems; reliance on key personnel; global economic and financial market deterioration impeding access to capital or increasing the cost of capital; and volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance. In addition, particular factors which could impact future results of the business of Abaxx include but are not limited to: operations in foreign jurisdictions, protection of intellectual property rights, contractual risk, third-party risk; clearinghouse risk, malicious actor risks, third-party software license risk, system failure risk, risk of technological change; dependence of technical infrastructure; and changes in the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labor and international travel and supply chains, and the risk factors identified in the Company’s most recent management’s discussion & analysis filed on SEDAR+. Abaxx has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of Abaxx’s normal course of business.

    Abaxx cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. In addition, although Abaxx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. When relying on forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Abaxx has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraphs will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Abaxx as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Abaxx undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and information. Cboe Canada does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch on Trump’s Rollback of Pollution Standards, Firing of EPA Scientists: “It’s not their intention to reform it or improve it—it’s their intention to destroy it.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, this week took to the Senate Floor to speak out against President Trump’s efforts to help corporations and Big Oil pollute our air and water. In his remarks, Senator Welch highlighted the Trump Administration’s rollback of more than 30 regulations that set limits on mercury pollution, toxic wastewater, soot emissions, and more. 
    “The idea that the federal government would turn a blind eye to active pollution that is produced because it results in profit to the polluters is something not a single member of this body should ever tolerate. Ever, ever, ever,” said Senator Welch. “I am completely committed to doing anything I can to make regulations practical and effective. I am absolutely and adamantly opposed to giving polluters free rein to profit at the expense and welfare of the people that I represent, and we all represent.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include:   
    Senate Committee on Finance   
    Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry  
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit   
    Senate Committee on the Judiciary 
    Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution 
    Senate Committee on Rules & Administration  
    Learn more about the Senator’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: President Trump Outlines OSTP’s Goals and Priorities

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    In case you missed it, President Trump signed a letter to Assistant to the President and OSTP Director Michael Kratsios outlining the road ahead to the Golden Age of American Innovation. The President outlined three main goals:
    How can the United States secure its position as the unrivaled world leader in critical and emerging technologies — such as artificial intelligence, quantum information science, and nuclear technology — maintaining our advantage over potential adversaries?
    How can we revitalize America’s science and technology enterprise – pursuing truth, reducing administrative burdens, and empowering researchers to achieve groundbreaking discoveries?
    How can we ensure that scientific progress and technological innovation fuel economic growth and better the lives of all Americans?
    President Trump writes, “now, after 4 long years of weakness and complacency, we must set our sights even higher. I am calling upon you to blaze a trail to the next frontiers of science. We have the opportunity to cement America’s global technological leadership and usher in the Golden Age of American Innovation. We are not just competing with other nations; we are seeking, striving, fighting to make America greater than ever before.”
    APST and OSTP Director Kratsios said that “by accelerating U.S. tech leadership, restoring our scientific enterprise, and promoting opportunity for all Americans, we will usher in a Golden Age of innovation. When FDR gave his science advisor Vannevar Bush a mandate to chart a course for U.S. research and development, American boots soon left their mark on the moon. Today, with President Trump’s agenda for American science and technology, we will achieve future triumphs and explore new frontiers. “ Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Trump Admin. Should Improve Social Security Customer Service, Not Intentionally Degrade It

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC – Stressing the importance of efficient customer service, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) says Rhode Islanders should not have to wait in long lines outside of Social Security Administration (SSA) field offices, exposed to the elements, and in some cases having to return multiple times, in order to get their needs addressed.  Nor should retirees be put on hold for hours, have their calls dropped, or have to wait endlessly to speak with an SSA representative.

    Roughly 230,000 Rhode Islanders – including senior citizens and people with disabilities — rely on the guaranteed income provided by Social Security. Senator Reed says it is essential they be able to get their questions answered online, in-person, or over the phone.  But unconscionably, the Trump Administration is slashing the Social Security Administration (SSA) workforce from 57,000 workers down to 50,000, shuttering dozens of field offices nationwide, and making it harder for Americans to get help with the Social Security benefits they earned.

    “Rhode Islanders deserve better customer service from the Social Security Administration, but the Trump Administration is intentionally making it worse.  Elon Musk falsely claimed Social Security is a ponzi scheme and President Trump intentionally spread false information about the program because they want to get rid of it.  They’ve put forth unpopular plans to run Social Security into the ground and Americans across the country are rightfully pushing back.  Trump and Musk want political cover to slash the social safety net altogether, and gutting SSA customer service and restricting benefit access is part of their plan that must be stopped,” said Reed. 

    Approximately 72.5 million Americans, including retirees, children, and individuals with disabilities, rely on Social Security benefits.  In Rhode Island, retirement beneficiaries receive an average payment of $1,972 a month, according to the latest available Social Security Administration data.

    Earlier this year, the Trump Administration announced the closure of 47 SSA field offices across 18 states.  It also says most Americans can start a benefits claim over the phone but will have to go to a field office in order to complete the claim.

    Senator Reed, who recently visited Pawtucket’s SSA field office, noted that degrading customer phone service and requiring in-person office visits would have a negative impact on vulnerable Americans with limited mobility.

    “Under the guise of DOGE and fraud prevention, the Trump Administration is creating unnecessary barriers that will deter Americans from accessing their earned retirement benefits.  Instead of cutting red tape, the Trump Administration’s strategy could force homebound seniors and people with serious medical issues to needlessly travel and fill out extra paperwork in person,” said Reed.

    While the Trump Administration originally planned to implement SSA changes starting March 31, it is now backtracking and delaying major changes until April 14.  However, SSA’s revisions do not go far enough and will still cause needless barriers for millions of Americans seeking to access their Social Security benefits, including individuals applying for Retirement, Survivors, or Auxiliary benefits (including Spousal or Child benefits).

    Rhode Island is currently home to five SSA field offices and one location for the Office of Hearings Operations (Newport, Pawtucket, Providence, Warwick, Woonsocket).

    The Social Security Administration help number is 1-800-772-1213.  To find the nearest SSA office and for office hours, visit the SSA field office locator at: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photo & Video Chronology — March 25 & 26, 2025 — Episode 15, Kīlauea summit eruption

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Episode 15 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu eruption ended abruptly March 26 after just over 31 hours, including about 9 hours of high fountaining. Fountaining associated with episode 15 reached heights over 1,000 feet (305 meters) at multiple times during the day on March 26; fountaining remained at or above 600 feet (180 meters) for most of the afternoon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Acts to Remove Red Tape, Accelerate Mission Execution at America’s National Weapons and Science Labs

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today announced new actions to ease burdensome permitting rules and regulations for construction projects at the Department’s 17 National Labs. These reforms will accelerate much-needed critical infrastructure improvement projects at DOE’s National Labs, enabling the Department to move faster on important projects while saving hundreds of millions of dollars for the American taxpayer.

    “With President Trump’s leadership, we have a unique opportunity to advance energy abundance, lead the world in scientific and technological innovation, and modernize our weapons stockpiles,” Secretary Wright said. “Unfortunately, over the years, burdensome regulations delayed the important work being done at our National Labs. Currently, many of our nation’s most critical weapons development sites rely on aging facilities, some even dating back to the Manhattan Project.

    “By reforming DOE’s permitting rules and regulations for our National Labs, we can speed up critical infrastructure improvements and make the Energy Department a better steward of taxpayer dollars. President Trump pledged to bring common sense back to our energy policymaking, and that’s exactly what we’re doing today.”

    In Secretary Wright’s Day One Secretarial Order, he highlighted the need to streamline permitting, remove undue burdens on American energy and modernize America’s nuclear stockpile as top priorities for the Department. Today’s action is an important step in fulfilling these priorities for the American people.

    SECRETARIAL ORDER

    FROM: CHRIS WRIGHT, U.S. SECRETARY OF ENERGY

    SUBJECT: Strengthening National Laboratory Efficiency and Mission Execution

    The Department of Energy’s National Laboratory system serves as the backbone of the Nation’s scientific enterprise. Founded as part of a strategic national investment in science during and following World War II, the National Laboratories form the most comprehensive research network of its kind. While most of the National Laboratories’ work is driven by the Department’s primary missions in energy innovation, science discovery, nuclear security, and environmental cleanup, they are a national resource and serve the national interest by addressing challenges extending beyond energy and catalyzing research that spans across sectors.

    As Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC) managed through Management and Operating (M&O) contracts, it is imperative that we continually evaluate existing requirements and processes to ensure that the National Laboratories have the necessary authority and flexibility to successfully execute critical missions on behalf of the Department of Energy and the Nation. To that end, I am directing the following actions to be implemented immediately:

    • Revise delegated project authority within DOE Order 413.3B from $50 million to $300 million specific to the National Laboratories managed under M&O contracts. Tailor DOE Order 413.3B to only require DOE independent project reviews at specific critical decision points on projects between $300 million – $1 billion, subject to sustained successful project execution. Capital asset projects with a total project cost of more than $1 billion shall continue to follow the full scope of requirements established in DOE Order 413.3B.
    • Expand the use of the National Nuclear Security Administration’s successful “OSHA-Plus” framework for subcontracted construction projects at the National Laboratories. The framework uses a tailored, graded approach to meet Title 10 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 851, Worker Safety and Health Program, which increases competition and reduces costs while maintaining a safe work environment.
    • Assess the benefits and risks of removing construction labor agreement provisions from National Laboratory contracts. Risks to be evaluated include increased potential for labor strikes and local community concerns.
    • Revise National Laboratory contract clauses on Employee Compensation: Pay and Benefits to eliminate requirements that are not mandated by statute/regulation or are not necessary to monitor DOE’s financial liabilities related to defined benefit plans. The National Laboratories must continue to comply with FAR 31.205-6, DEAR 970.5216-7, and DEAR 970.3102-05-6, and will be accountable for pay and benefits decisions subject to annual audits.

    In addition to the above actions for immediate implementation, the Laboratory Operations Board Director shall establish a working group to identify opportunities to streamline and, as necessary, develop new procedures and timelines to ensure greater efficiency and accountability for Strategic Partnership Projects (SPP) and Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA). Proposed improvements or streamlining initiatives shall be provided to the Office of the Secretary within 30 days.

    These measures are representative of focused and purposeful actions to prudently streamline our processes, place decision-making authority at the appropriate level, and reduce unnecessary administrative burden on both the laboratories and federal stewards to more efficiently and effectively enable critical mission objectives. It is critical that we implement new delegations and flexibilities as intended, working collaboratively to ensure streamlining efforts have the intended outcome. The Laboratory Operations Board will be responsible for coordinating the necessary actions outlined in this memorandum and tracking implementation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brazilian National Pleads Guilty to Passport Fraud and Other Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Dominican National, residing in Leominster, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to charges related to passport fraud and other offenses.

    Hector Eduardo Arias Mejia, 44, pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft and making a false statement in an application for a United States passport. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for May 7, 2025. In December 2023, Arias Mejia was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    Arias Mejia, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, applied for a United States passport and a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Real ID using the name and other biographical information of a resident of Puerto Rico. In support of his application, Aris Mejia submitted a Massachusetts driver’s license in the citizen’s identity (with Arias Mejia’s photo on it), a Social Security card with the name of the citizen and a birth certificate issued in Puerto Rico in the citizen’s name.

    On February 25, 2020 Arias Mejia, again using the citizen’s identity, applied for a United States Passport at the Fall River post office. In support of the passport application, Arias Mejia submitted the Real ID he obtained in the citizen’s name and the birth certificate in the citizen’s name. The passport was issued.

    Law enforcement became aware of Arias Mejia fraudulent acts when it investigated individuals who simultaneously received government benefits in Boston and Puerto Rico. When it was revealed that the same individual was receiving benefits in both places, the individual in Puerto Rico was interviewed and it was determined that he was lawfully receiving benefits. Further investigation revealed that the person receiving benefits under the same name in Boston was Arias Mejia, a Dominican national. Aris Mejia had been using the Puerto Rico citizen’s identity since at least 2011.

    The charge of making a false statement in an application for a United States passport provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant will also be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigation’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF), a specialized investigative group comprising personnel from various state, local, and federal agencies with expertise in detecting, deterring, and disrupting organizations and individuals involved in various types of document, identity and benefit fraud schemes.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in Santo Domingo; Puerto Rico Department of Public Safety; U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service; Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Draganfly Reports Q4 and 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Saskatoon, SK., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an award-winning, industry-leading drone solutions and systems developer, is pleased to announce its fourth quarter and fiscal 2024 financial results. Revenue for the fourth quarter was up 76% year over year. Total 2024 revenue saw a modest increase as the Company’s capacity to meet demand in the Military and Public Safety sectors did not start to come on stream until late Q3.

    Key Financial Highlights for 2024:

    • ‎Total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $6,561,055, an increase of 0.1% from the prior year. Product sales increased $81,383 in 2024 as compared to 2023, while services revenue decreased $75,170. The Company continued its product line transition focus on preparation of public safety expansion and production capabilities.
    • Gross Profit was $1,398,204, a decrease of $665,910 or down 32.3% from the prior year. As a percentage of sales, gross margin decreased from 31.5% in 2023 to 21.3% in 2024. This year’s gross profit included a one-time non-cash write-down of inventory of $627,105 while last year’s gross profit included a non-cash downward adjustment of $331,671. Excluding these adjustments, gross profit decreased by $370,476 year over year. As a percentage of sales, adjusted gross margin decreased from 36.5% in 2023 to 30.9% in 2024.
    • The Company recorded a comprehensive loss including all non-cash items of $14,062,534 compared to a comprehensive loss of $23,709,851 in 2023. The comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2024, includes non-cash changes comprised of a gain in fair value of derivative liability from warrants of $1,842,618, a recovery of impairment of notes receivable of $40,020, and a write down of inventory of $627,105 and would otherwise have been a comprehensive loss of $15,318,067 compared to a comprehensive loss of $23,400,524 excluding non-cash items in the same period last year.
    • Cash used in operating activities decreased by $6,939,383 or 37% year over year.
    • The Company’s cash balance on December 31, 2024, was $6,252,409.

    Key Financial and Operational Highlights for Q4 2024:

    • Fourth quarter revenue was $1,613,162 compared to $916,299 for Q4 2023 largely due to a year over year increase in product sales slightly offset by lower services sales.
    • Gross Profit was $215,740 for Q4 2024 compared to $258,879 for Q4 2023 representing a decrease of $43,139 year over year. Gross profit for Q4 2024 would have been $383,255 if it wasn’t for a non-cash write down of inventory of $167,515 while Q4 2023 would have been $382,303 if it wasn’t for a one time non-cash write down of inventory of $123,424. Gross profit as a percentage of sales for Q4 2024 was 13.4% but on an adjusted basis was 23.8%.
    • The Company recorded a comprehensive loss including non-cash items for Q4 2024 of $4,715,931 compared to a comprehensive loss of Q4 2023 of $4,191,796 for the same period in 2023, an increase of 12.5% over 2023. The comprehensive loss for the fourth quarter of 2024 includes non-cash changes comprised of a loss in fair value derivative liability of $946,116 as well as a one time write down of inventory of $167,515 and would otherwise be a comprehensive loss of $3,602,300 compared to a comprehensive loss of $4,222,170 excluding non-cash items in the same period last year. The decrease in loss was primarily due to lower professional fees, wages, and share based compensation charges.
    • The company successfully completed its First Proof-of-Concept Flights in Drone Delivery Research Project for Mass General Brigham. The project aims to enhance home hospital care by utilizing drones for efficient medical deliveries, potentially improving service times and patient outcomes.
    • The Company Announced Closing of US$3.76 Million registered direct offering. The funds are intended to support general corporate purposes, including scaling production capabilities and advancing growth initiatives.
    • The Company announced its participation in the Elevate UAV event, offering specialized training on advanced drone platforms. This initiative underscores Draganfly’s commitment to empowering operators with cutting-edge skills to advance UAV applications in critical sectors.
    • Draganfly showcased its latest drone innovations at multiple conferences and private demonstrations including the Wings of Saskatchewan event, aiming to foster cross-industry collaboration and highlight advancements in drone technology within the aviation industry.
    • The Company announced updates to its Board of Directors and Advisory Board, including the appointment of former White House Chief of Staff Andy Card to the Advisory Board, and the appointment of Kim Moody as Audit Chair, reflecting Draganfly’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team.

    Draganfly will hold a shareholder update call on March 27, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. PDT / 5:30 p.m. EDT. Registration for the call can be done here.

    Selected financial information is outlined below and should be read with Draganfly’s consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 and associated management discussion and analysis, which will be available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and filed on EDGAR.

    For the year ended December 31,   2024     2023     2022  
    Total revenues   $ 6,561,055     $ 6,554,842     $ 7,605,059  
    Gross Profit (as a % of revenues) (1)     21.3 %     31.5 %     10.4 %
    Net (loss) income     (13,877,473 )     (23,611,810 )     (27,654,364 )
    Net (loss) income per share ($)                        
    –          Basic     (4.40 )     (14.58 )     (20.60 )
    –          Diluted     (4.40 )     (14.58 )     (20.60 )
    Comprehensive (loss) income     (14,062,534 )     (23,709,851 )     (27,305,305 )
    Comprehensive (loss) income per share ($)                        
    –          Basic     (4.45 )     (14.64 )     (20.34 )
    –          Diluted     (4.45 )     (14.64 )     (20.34 )
    Change in cash and cash equivalents   $ 3,158,797     $ (5,437,697 )   $ (15,180,932 )

    (1)   Gross Profit (as a % of revenues) would have been 30.9% (2023 – 36.5%; 2022 – 36.4%) not including a non-cash write down of inventory for $627,105 (2023 – $331,671; 2022 – $1,976,514).

    As at   December 31,
    2024    		     December 31, 2023  
    Total assets   $ 10,200,088     $ 8,330,292  
    Working capital     3,846,283       (717,017 )
    Total non-current liabilities     342,013       523,584  
    Shareholders’ equity   $ 4,621,783     $ 407,716  
                     
    Number of shares outstanding     5,427,795       34,270,579  

    Shareholders’ equity and working capital as at December 31, 2024, includes a fair value of derivative liability of $2,198,121 (2023 – $4,196,125) and would otherwise be $6,819,904 (2023 – $4,603,841) and $6,044,404 (2023 – $3,479,108) respectively.

        2024 Q4     2024 Q3     2023 Q4  
    Revenue   $ 1,613,162     $ 1,885,322     $ 916,299  
    Cost of goods sold(2)   $ (1,397,422 )   $ (1,444,542 )   $ (657,420 )
    Gross profit(3)   $ 215,740     $ 440,780     $ 258,879  
    Gross margin – percentage     13.4 %     23.4 %     28.3 %
    Operating expenses   $ (4,085,766 )   $ (4,125,078 )   $ (3,482,142 )
    Operating income (loss)   $ (3,870,026 )   $ (3,684,298 )   $ (3,223,263 )
    Operating loss per share – basic   $ (0.91 )   $ (1.10 )   $ (1.95 )
    Operating loss per share – diluted   $ (0.91 )   $ (1.10 )   $ (1.95 )
    Other income (expense)   $ (851,896 )   $ 3,484,104     $ (965,072 )
    Change in fair value of derivative liability (1)   $ (946,116 )   $ 3,575,559     $ 153,798  
    Other comprehensive income (loss)   $ 5,991     $ (164,355 )   $ (3,461 )
    Comprehensive income (loss)   $ (4,715,931 )   $ (364,549 )   $ (4,191,796 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) per share – basic   $ (1.11 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (2.41 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) per share – diluted   $ (1.11 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (2.41 )

    (1)   Included in other income (expense).
    (2)   Cost of goods sold includes non-cash inventory write downs of $176,422 in Q3 2024 and $167,515 in Q4 2024 and would have been $1,268,120 in Q3 and $1,229,907 in Q4 2024 before these write downs.
    (3)   Gross profit would have been $617,202 in Q3 2024 and $383,255 in Q4 2024 without the write downs in number 2 above.
    (4)   Cost of goods sold includes non-cash inventory write downs of $123,424 in Q4 2023 and would have been $533,996 in Q4 2023 before these write downs.
    (5)   Gross profit would have been $382,303 in Q4 2023 without the write downs in number 4 above.
    (6)   The other income (expense) and comprehensive loss for the fourth quarter of 2024 includes non-cash changes comprised of a fair value derivative liability loss $946,116 and would otherwise be an other income of $94,220 and comprehensive loss of $3,530,780, respectively

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8) is the creator of quality, cutting-edge drone solutions, software, and AI systems that revolutionize how organizations can do business and service their stakeholders. Recognized as being at the forefront of technology for over 25 years, Draganfly is an award-winning industry leader serving the public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying markets. Draganfly is a company driven by passion, ingenuity, and the need to provide efficient solutions and first-class services to its customers around the world with the goal of saving time, money, and lives.

    For more information on Draganfly, please visit us at www.draganfly.com.

    For additional investor information, visit
    CSE
    NASDAQ
    FRANKFURT

    Company Contact
    info@draganfly.com

    Media Contact
    media@draganfly.com

    Note Regarding Non-GAAP Measures

    In this press release, we describe certain income and expense items that are unusual or non-recurring. There are terms not defined by International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Our usage of these terms may vary from the usage adopted by other companies. Specifically, gross profit and gross margin are undefined terms by IFRS that may be referenced herein. We provide this detail so that readers have a better understanding of the significant events and transactions that have had an impact on our results.

    Throughout this release, reference is made to “gross profit,” and “gross margin,” which are non-IFRS measures. Management believes that gross profit, defined as revenue less operating expenses, is a useful supplemental measure of operations. Gross profit helps provide an understanding on the level of costs needed to create revenue. Gross margin illustrates the gross profit as a percentage of revenue. Readers are cautioned that these non-IFRS measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Readers are also cautioned not to view these non-IFRS financial measures as an alternative to financial measures calculated in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). For more information with respect to financial measures which have not been defined by GAAP, including reconciliations to the closest comparable GAAP measure, see the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures”‎ section of the Company’s most recent MD&A which is available on SEDAR.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains certain “forward-looking statements” and certain “forward-looking information” as ‎‎defined under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can ‎generally be ‎identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, ‎‎“estimate”, ‎‎“anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “plans” or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements ‎and ‎information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and ‎‎assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant ‎‎business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These statements include, but may ‎‎not be limited to statements regarding‎; the intended use of proceeds from the Company’s US$3.76 million registered direct offering; the shareholder update call and timing thereof. Forward-looking statements and ‎information are subject to ‎various known and ‎‎unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond ‎the ability of the ‎Company to control or ‎‎predict, that may cause the Company’s actual results, ‎performance or ‎achievements to be materially ‎‎different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are ‎developed ‎based on assumptions about ‎‎such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out here-in, ‎including but not ‎limited to: the potential ‎‎impact of epidemics, pandemics or other public health crises on the Company’s ‎business, ‎operations and financial condition, the ‎‎successful integration of technology, the inherent risks ‎involved in ‎the general securities markets; ‎‎uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing ‎needed in ‎the future; the inherent ‎‎uncertainty of cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs ‎and ‎expenses, currency ‎‎fluctuations; uncertainty regarding the Nasdaq hearing process, regulatory ‎restrictions, liability, competition, loss of key employees and ‎other related risks ‎‎and uncertainties ‎disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors“ in the Company’s most ‎recent filings filed ‎‎with securities ‎regulators in Canada on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com and with the U.S. ‎‎Securities and ‎Exchange Commission on the EDGAR website at www.sec.gov. The ‎Company undertakes ‎‎no obligation ‎to update forward-looking information except as required by ‎applicable law. Such forward-‎‎looking ‎information represents management’s best judgment based on information currently available. ‎‎No ‎forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results ‎may vary materially. ‎‎Accordingly, ‎readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking ‎statements or ‎‎information.‎

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NowVertical Group Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings Release Date and Financial Update Webinar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NowVertical Group Inc. (TSXV: NOW) (“NowVertical” or the “Company”), a leading data and AI solutions provider, will announce its 2024 fourth quarter and full year financial results before the market open on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. This will be followed by a webinar at 10:00 AM ET (7:00 AM PT) on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, to discuss the Company’s financial results and provide a business outlook.

    Q4 and FY 2024 Financial Results Investor Webinar:

    NOW invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives, and other stakeholders to attend our upcoming earnings webinar to discuss Q4 and Full Year 2024 results. Participants will include Sandeep Mendiratta, Chief Executive Officer; Christine Nelson, Interim Chief Financial Officer; and Andre Garber, Chief Development Officer. A live question-and-answer session will follow.

    Investor Webinar Registration:

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

    Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cEmYLTHBTLqtoK_qDtxqsw

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

    About NowVertical Group Inc.

    The Company is a global data and analytics company which helps clients transform data into tangible business value with AI, fast. Offering a comprehensive suite of solutions and services the Company enables clients to quickly harness the full potential of their data, driving measurable outcomes and accelerating potential return on investment. Enterprises optimize decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and unlock long-term value from their data using the Company’s AI-Infused first party and third-party technologies. NowVertical is growing organically and through strategic acquisitions.

    For further details about NowVertical, please visit www.nowvertical.com.

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

    For more information, visit www.nowvertical.com.

    For further information, please contact:

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

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (together “forward-looking statements“), including, the alignment of the Company’s leadership and shareholders, and the associated results of the transactions contemplated in this press release on NowVertical’s business, finances and operations. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies, certain of which are unknown. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “should”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe” or “continue”, or the negative thereof or similar variations. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by inherent risks and uncertainties, including: adverse market conditions; risks inherent in the data analytics and artificial intelligence sectors in general; regulatory and legislative changes; that future results may vary from historical results; inability to obtain any requisite future financing on suitable terms; any inability to realize the expected benefits and synergies of acquisitions or dispositions; that market competition may affect the business, results and financial condition of the Company and other risk factors identified in documents filed by the Company under its profile at www.sedarplus.com, including the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Stardust Power Announces Year End 2024 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stardust Power Inc. (“Stardust Power” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SDST), an American developer of battery-grade lithium products, today announced its results for the year ended December 31, 2024.  

    Full Year Business Highlights 

    Operational highlights for the full year 2024 include: 

    • Listing on the Nasdaq: Completion of the Business Combination and subsequent listing on the Nasdaq Global Market (the “Nasdaq”).
    • Purchase of refinery site: On December 16, finalized the purchase of 66-acre site in Muskogee, Oklahoma, for a total consideration of approximately $1.7 million. 
    • Permitting and approvals: Secured the necessary stormwater discharge permit and received administrative approval for the Air Permit, with the technical approval pending. The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has accepted our application as a minor source for emissions, and we believe we are on track for final stage approvals.  
    • DFS advancing: Primero USA is in the final stages of the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), or FEL 3 study, having advanced nearly to completion our detailed process design package, updated cost estimates, and refined project schedules, along with other key milestones and reviews. 
    • Personnel hire and director appointment: Chris Celano as Chief Operating Officer, bringing over 20 years of energy sector leadership and international drilling and mining experience and Martyn Buttenshaw to the Board of Directors, offering extensive metals and mining industry experience to support the Company’s U.S. lithium supply chain efforts. 
    • Capital raise: During the year a total of $6.4 million of capital raised consisting of $2.8 million equity and $3.5 million debt funding general operational, engineering and corporate uses. 

    Subsequent Events since Year End 2024 

    • Broke ground on centrally located site: On January 22, 2025, the Company held a groundbreaking ceremony in Muskogee, Oklahoma, marking a major business milestone. This event, attended by key local and state officials, also marked the beginning of groundwork and preparation for heavy construction commencing once Final Investment Decision is reached. 
    • Offtake agreement with Sumitomo Americas: Entered into a non-binding agreement (“The Agreement”) for a potential long-term supply deal for up to 25,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate annually with Sumitomo Americas. The 10-year agreement includes an option to extend to 15 years.  
    • KMX Technologies licensing agreement: Signed definitive agreement with KMX Technologies for advanced VMD concentration technology, granting access across the U.S., Canada, and select international markets for lithium production. The technology is expected to help the Company reduce energy consumption, water usage and logistics costs, while improving the economic and environmental performance of operations. 
    • Equity raise and warrant inducement: In January 2025, the Company raised $5.75 million through an equity transaction with a large institutional investor, issuing 4,792,000 shares of common stock at $1.20 per share along with 4,792,000 cash warrants at an exercise price of $1.30. Additionally, on March 17, 2025, the Company entered into a warrant inducement agreement with the same investor, generating approximately $2.9 million in gross proceeds for the exercise of 4,792,000 warrants at a revised exercise price of $0.62.

    “As we move forward, we are focused on executing our business plan and achieving key milestones that are crucial for meeting the growing demand for secure U.S. supply chains and energy independence. The successful Nasdaq listing in 2024, alongside the recent acquisition and groundbreaking of our strategic site in Muskogee, Oklahoma, is a significant step in our journey. With strong support from new hires, key partnerships, like the Agreement with Sumitomo, and strategic investments in innovative technologies, we are positioning ourselves for growth and value creation in the lithium sector,” commented Roshan Pujari, CEO and Founder of Stardust Power. 

     Full Year 2024 Financial Highlights 

    • For the year ended December 31, 2024 i.e. the current year, the Company incurred a net loss of $23.8 million and for the period from March 16, 2023 (inception date) through December 31, 2023 i.e. the prior period, the Company incurred a net loss of $3.8 million, the increase being driven by higher administrative expenses in connection with being a public company and to complement an increased scope of operations. 
    • Loss per share was $0.55 for the current year, compared to $0.09 for the prior period, the increase being driven primarily by higher general and administrative costs due to personnel related costs and finance charges for short term loans. 
    • Net cash used in operating activities totaled $9.7 million for the current year, compared to $3.0 million for the prior period, the increase driven by continued investment in operations, hiring of key talent and certain expenses related to the close of the Business Combination. 
    • Net cash used in investing activities was $4.8 million for the current year, compared to $0.3 million for the prior period, the increase driven by the purchase of land, engineering, initial capital investments made in the anticipated building of the refinery, strategic investments and promissory notes given to partners.  
    • Net cash provided by financing activities was $14.1 million during the current year, compared to $4.6 million for the prior period. The increase was driven primarily by $11.6 million in cash received from subscription agreements entered around the time of the closing of the Business Combination, short term loans and exercise of warrants. Funds were used to meet working capital needs, capital investments and to pay for some of the transaction costs related to the Business Combination. 

    Annual Report on Form 10-K 

    The Company’s financial statements and related footnotes will be available in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which is expected to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) by 28 March, 2025.

    Conference Call Details 

    Participants may access the call by clicking the participant call link to ask questions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIa452f3fd54bf4f7486c84cbbebebf5e4.

    Upon registering at the link, you will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call as well as an email confirmation with the details.

    You can also access the call via live audio webcast using the website link to listen in: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/39cnop5g

    Participants should log in at least 15 minutes early to receive instructions. The earnings call will be available on the Company website following the event. 

    About Stardust Power 

    Stardust Power is a developer of battery-grade lithium products designed to supply the electric vehicle (EV) industry and bolster America’s energy leadership by building resilient supply chains. Stardust Power is developing a strategically central lithium refinery in Muskogee, Oklahoma with the anticipated capacity of producing up to 50,000 metric tons per annum of battery-grade lithium. The company is committed to sustainability at each point in the process. Stardust Power trades on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “SDST.” 

    For more information, visit www.stardust-power.com 

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release and any oral statements made in connection herewith include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are any statements other than statements of historical fact, and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of plans, business strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as “anticipate,” “appears,” “approximately,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “designed,” “effect,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “initiative,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “outlook,“ ”plan,“ ”potential,“ ”priorities,“ ”project,“ ”pursue,“ ”seek,“ ”should,“ ”target,“ ”when,“ ”will,“ ”would,” or the negative of any of those words or similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. In making these statements, we rely upon assumptions and analysis based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, as well as other factors we consider appropriate under the circumstances. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any future events or financial results. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond our control.  

    These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including the ability of Stardust Power to recognize the anticipated benefits of the business combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of Stardust Power to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain key relationships and retain its management and key employees; risks related to the price of Stardust Power’s securities, including volatility resulting from recent sales of securities, issuance of debt, and exercise of warrants, changes in the competitive and highly regulated industries in which Stardust Power plans to operate, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting Stardust Power’s business and changes in the combined capital structure; the regulatory environment and our ability to obtain necessary permits and other governmental approvals for our operation; Stardust Power’s need for substantial additional financing to execute our business plan and our ability to access capital and the financial markets; worldwide growth in the adoption and use of lithium products; the Company’s ability to enter into and realize the anticipated benefits of offtake and license and other commercial agreements; risks related to the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations and identify and realize additional opportunities; the substantial doubt regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern and the need to raise capital in the near term in order to maintain the Company’s operations; the Company’s continued listing on the Nasdaq; and those factors described or referenced in filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, which is expected to be filed with the SEC by March 28, 2025. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that we do not presently know or that we currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our assessments to change. 

    We caution readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or other factors that affect the subject of these statements, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. 

    Stardust Power Contacts 

    For Investors: 

    Johanna Gonzalez 
    investor.relations@stardust-power.com 

    For Media: 

    Michael Thompson 

    media@stardust-power.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DLC Releases Annual 2024 Results; Achieves Annual Funded Volumes of $67.4 Billion (19% Increase over Prior Year)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dominion Lending Centres Inc. (TSX:DLCG) (“DLCG” or the “Corporation”) is pleased to report its financial results for the three months (“Q4-2024”) and year ended December 31, 2024 (“annual”). For complete information, readers should refer to the annual audited consolidated financial statements and management discussion and analysis which are dated March 27, 2025 and are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Corporation’s website at www.dlcg.ca. All amounts are presented in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

    DLCG includes the Corporation and its three main subsidiaries: MCC Mortgage Centres Canada Inc. (“MCC”), MA Mortgage Architects Inc. (“MA”), and Newton Connectivity Systems Inc. (“Newton”). The Corporation’s acquisition of all of the series I, class “B” preferred shares (the “Preferred Shares”) completed on December 17, 2024 is referred to herein as the “Preferred Share Acquisition”.

    Gary Mauris, Executive Chairman and CEO, commented, “We are pleased to report annual funded volume growth of 19% over the prior year which helped drive a 23% increase in revenues and a 47% increase in adjusted EBITDA. We are proud of our strong network of franchisees and mortgage professionals and would like to thank them for their continued hard work in 2024. The adoption of our technology connectivity platform ‘Velocity’ was a significant contributor to our success, as was our “Gold Rush” campaign which made it easier for brokers to stay connected with their clients. Looking ahead, we believe we are well-positioned to take advantage of favourable market conditions should interest rates further decline and as a significant number of mortgage renewals are on the horizon.” 

    Q4-2024 and Annual Summary:

    • Q4-2024 funded volumes of $19.6 billion and annual funded volume of $67.4, representing a 38% and 19% increase as compared to 2023, respectively;
    • Q4-2024 revenue of $22.3 million and annual revenue of $76.8 million, representing a 41% and 23% increase compared to 2023, respectively;
    • Q4-2024 adjusted EBITDA of $10.2 million and annual adjusted EBITDA of $36.0 million as compared to $6.5 million in Q4-2023 and $24.4 million in annual 2023.
    • The Corporation’s Q4-2024 net loss of $138.8 million and annual net loss of $126.8 million was primarily due to non-cash finance expense on the Preferred Share liability. The difference between the fair value of consideration granted for the Preferred Share Acquisition and the book value of the Preferred Shares (which were accounted for on an amortized cost basis) was recognized as a loss on acquisition within finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A); and
    • The Corporation declared a quarterly dividend of $0.03 per class A common share (“Common Share”), resulting in a dividend payment of $1.4 million in Q4-2024.

    Selected Consolidated Financial Summary:
    Below is a summary of our financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 and for the comparable periods in December 31, 2023.

    (in thousands, except per share and KPIs) Three months ended Dec. 31,
    		 Year ended Dec. 31,
      2024     2023   Change     2024     2023   Change  
    Revenues $ 22,256   $ 15,758   41 % $ 76,753   $ 62,517   23 %
    Income from operations   8,453     3,914   116 %   29,516     18,311   61 %
    Adjusted EBITDA(1)   10,248     6,507   57 %   35,994     24,420   47 %
    Adjusted EBITDA margin   46 %   41 % 5 %   47 %   39 % 8 %
    Free cash flow attributable to common shareholders(1)   4,354     2,035   114 %   14,884     7,459   100 %
                                     
                                     
    Net (loss) income(2)   (138,755 )   (2,003 ) NMF (5)   (126,768 )   64   NMF (5)
    Adjusted net income(1)   3,021     1,775   70 %   10,813     6,748   60 %
                                     
                                     
    Diluted loss per Common Share(2)   (2.63 )   (0.04 ) NMF (5)   (2.58 )   –   NMF (5)
    Adjusted diluted earnings per Common Share(1)   0.05     0.04   25 %   0.21     0.14   50 %
    Dividends declared per share $ 0.03   $ 0.03   –   $ 0.12   $ 0.12   –  
     
    Funded mortgage volumes(3)   19.6     14.2   38 %   67.4     56.5   19 %
    Number of franchises(4)   514     542   (5 %)   514     542   (5 %)
    Number of brokers(4)   8,663     8,192   6 %   8,663     8,192   6 %
    % of DLCG funded mortgage volumes submitted through Velocity   76 %   65 % 11 %   73 %   63 % 10 %

    (1) Please see the Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures section of the accompanying MD&A for additional information.
    (2) Net income for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 includes $144.5 million and $149.1 million of non-cash finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (December 31, 2023 – $1.9 million and $9.9 million expense). Refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A.
    (3)  Funded mortgage volumes are presented in billions.
    (4)  The number of franchises and brokers are as at the respective period end date (not in thousands).
    (5)  The percentage change is not a meaningful figure.

    During the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, revenues increased over the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 from higher Newton revenues, primarily due to an increase in Velocity adoption and lender contract renewals. In addition, revenue increased from an increase in mortgage brokers under a DLC corporately-owned franchise and from acquired corporately-owned franchises, contributing to higher revenues from brokering of mortgages. Further, our funded mortgage volumes increased during the three months and year ended when compared to 2023’s equivalent periods, which contributed to increased revenues during those periods.

    Income from operations increased from higher revenues but were partly offset by an increase in operating expenses during the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the three months and year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in operating expenses is primarily from an increase in general and administrative costs from technology support and licensing costs and from advertising expenses. In addition, direct costs increased from higher franchise recruiting and support costs and share-based payments expense increased from additional RSUs granted in 2024.

    The Corporation’s adjusted net income, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins increased during the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 from an increase in revenue partly offset by an increase in operating expenses. As the Corporation’s operating expenses are largely fixed in nature and are not necessarily proportionate to changes in revenues, an increase in the Corporation’s revenues has a more pronounced impact on adjusted net income, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EBITDA margins.

    Net loss increased during the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the prior year periods. The increase in net loss during the three month and year ended is primarily from finance expense on the Preferred Share liability. The difference between the fair value of the consideration granted for the Preferred Share Acquisition and the book value of the Preferred Shares (which were accounted for on an amortized cost basis) was recognized as a loss on acquisition within finance expense on the Preferred Share liability (refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A).

    On April 25, 2024, the Corporation disposed of its 52% interest in Cape Communications International Inc. (operating as “Impact”) for cash proceeds of $3.7 million. The proceeds from sale were used to fully repay the Junior Credit Facility. The $0.7 million gain on disposal of an equity-accounted investment for the year ended December 31, 2024 relates to cumulative amounts arising on foreign exchange translation of Impact that were previously recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and were reclassified to income on the sale of Impact. Other income for the year ended December 31, 2024 includes $1.0 million related to reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (refer to the Related Party Transactions section of the accompanying MD&A).

    Free cash flow increased during the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, primarily from higher adjusted cash flows from operations from higher income from operations and lower maintenance CAPEX.

    Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures
    Management presents certain non-IFRS financial performance measures which we use as supplemental indicators of our operating performance. These non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning, and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to the calculation of similar measures used by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Non-IFRS measures are defined and reconciled to the most directly-comparable IFRS measure. Non-IFRS financial performance measures include adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, and free cash flow. Please see the Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures section of the Corporation’s MD&A dated March 27, 2025 for further information on key performance indicators. The Corporation’s MD&A is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    The following table reconciles adjusted EBITDA from income before income tax, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

            Three months ended Dec. 31,
    		     Year ended Dec. 31,
    		  
    (in thousands)   2024     2023     2024     2023  
    (Loss) income before income tax $ (136,302 ) $ (846 ) $ (119,289 ) $ 4,187  
    Add back:                
    Depreciation and amortization   1,066     939     4,060     3,787  
    Finance expense   552     820     2,624     3,149  
    Finance expense on the Preferred Share liability   144,503     1,931     149,042     9,922  
        9,819     2,844     36,437     21,045  
    Adjustments:                
    Share-based payments expense (recovery)   276     263     807     (70 )
    Promissory note income   (16 )   (35 )   (94 )   (151 )
    Gain on disposal of equity-accounted investment   (16 )   –     (697 )   –  
    Non-cash impairment of equity-accounted investments   –     3,390     198     3,466  
    Other expense (income)(1)   185     45     (657 )   130  
    Adjusted EBITDA(2) $ 10,248   $ 6,507   $ 35,994   $ 24,420  

    (1) Other expense (income) for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 relates to the reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (see the Related Party Transactions section of this document), foreign exchange loss, loss on contract settlement, and costs associated with the Preferred Share Acquisition. Other (income) expense for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 relates to a loss on the disposal of an intangible asset, foreign exchange loss and loss on contract settlement.
    (2) Amortization of franchise rights and relationships of $1.2 million and $5.1 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, respectively (December 31, 2023 – $1.2 million and $4.9 million) is classified as a charge against revenue and has not been added back for adjusted EBITDA.

    The following table reconciles free cash flow from cash flow from operating activities, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

          Three months ended Dec. 31,
    		     Year ended Dec. 31,
    		  
    (in thousands)   2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Cash flow from operating activities $ 10,273   $ 3,433   $ 37,202   $ 17,086  
    Changes in non-cash working capital and other non-cash items   (2,000 )   1,426     (4,929 )   4,378  
    Cash provided from operations excluding changes in non-cash working capital and other non-cash items   8,273     4,859     32,273     21,464  
    Adjustments:                
    Distributions from equity-accounted investees   –     46     285     321  
    Maintenance CAPEX   (580 )   (680 )   (4,929 )   (6,719 )
    Lease payments   (40 )   (126 )   (382 )   (602 )
    Loss on contract settlement   11     9     47     67  
    NCI portion of cash provided from operations excluding changes in non-cash working capital   (285 )   –     (596 )   –  
    Other non-cash items(1)   343     (89 )   (545 )   (88 )
        7,722     4,019     26,153     14,443  
    Free cash flow attributable to Preferred Shareholders(2)   (3,368 )   (1,984 )   (11,269 )   (6,984 )
    Free cash flow attributable to common shareholders $ 4,354   $ 2,035   $ 14,884   $ 7,459  

    (1) Other non-cash items for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 relates to the reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (see the Related Party Transactions section of the accompanying MD&A), share-based payments on PSO plan and promissory note income. The three months and year ended December 31, 2023 includes losses on disposal of an intangible asset.
    (2) Free cash flow attributable to the Preferred Shareholders is determined based on free cash flow of the Core Business Operations (as defined in the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A).

    The following table reconciles adjusted net income from net income, which is the most directly-comparable measure calculated in accordance with IFRS:

            Three months ended Dec. 31,     Year ended Dec. 31,
    		  
    (in thousands)   2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Net (loss) income $ (138,755 ) $ (2,003 ) $ (126,768 ) $ 64  
    Adjustments:                
    Gain on sale of an equity-accounted investment   (16 )   –     (697 )   –  
    Non-cash impairment of equity-accounted investments   –     3,390     198     3,466  
    Finance expense on the Preferred Share liability(1)   144,503     1,931     149,042     9,922  
    Promissory note interest income   (16 )   (35 )   (94 )   (151 )
    Other expense (income)(2)   185     45     (657 )   130  
    Income tax effects of adjusting items   (43 )   (3 )   (72 )   (7 )
        5,858     3,325     20,952     13,424  
    Income attributable to Preferred Shareholders(3)   (2,837 )   (1,550 )   (10,139 )   (6,676 )
    Adjusted net income   3,021     1,775     10,813     6,748  
    Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders   2,796     1,770     10,451     6,727  
    Adjusted net income attributable to non-controlling interest   225     5     362     21  
    Diluted adjusted earnings per Common Share $ 0.05   $ 0.04   $ 0.21   $ 0.14  

    (1) The Preferred Share liability is revalued at the end of each reporting period to reflect our most recent outlook and forecast. Refer to the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A.
    (2) Other expense (income) for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024 relates to the reversal of the liquidation rights liability on the sale of Impact (see the Related Party Transactions section of the accompanying MD&A), foreign exchange loss, loss on contract settlement and costs associated with the Preferred Share Acquisition. Other expense for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 relates to a loss on the disposal of intangible assets.
    (3) Adjusted net income attributable to the Preferred Shareholders is determined based on adjusted net income of the Core Business Operations (as defined in the Preferred Shares section of the accompanying MD&A).

    Forward-Looking Information
    Certain statements in this document constitute forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or outlooks. Forward-looking information in this document includes, but is not limited to, our anticipation of further interest rate reductions and expected record amount of mortgage renewals.

    Such forward-looking information is based on many estimates and assumptions, including material estimates and assumptions, related to the following factors below that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as at the date of this press release considering management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to:

    • Changes in interest rates;
    • The DLC Group’s ability to maintain its existing number of franchisees and add additional franchisees;
    • Changes in overall demand for Canadian real estate (via factors such as immigration);
    • Changes in overall supply for Canadian real estate (via factors such as new housing-start levels);
    • At what period in time the Canadian real estate market stabilizes;
    • Changes in Canadian mortgage lending and mortgage brokerage laws and regulations;
    • Changes in the Canadian mortgage lending marketplace;
    • Changes in the fees paid for mortgage brokerage services in Canada; and
    • Demand for the Corporation’s products remaining consistent with historical demand.

    Many of these uncertainties and contingencies may affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All forward-looking statements made in this document are qualified by these cautionary statements. The foregoing list of risks is not exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this document is made as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

    About Dominion Lending Centres Inc.
    Dominion Lending Centres Inc. is Canada’s leading network of mortgage professionals. DLCG operates through Dominion Lending Centres Inc. and its three main subsidiaries, MCC Mortgage Centre Canada Inc., MA Mortgage Architects Inc. and Newton Connectivity Systems Inc., and has operations across Canada. DLCG extensive network includes over 8,500 agents and over 500 locations. Headquartered in British Columbia, DLC was founded in 2006 by Gary Mauris and Chris Kayat.

    DLCG can be found on X (Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn @DLCGmortgage and on the web at www.dlcg.ca. 

    Contact information for the Corporation is as follows:

    Eddy Cocciollo
    President
    647-403-7320
    eddy@dlc.ca    		 James Bell
    EVP, Corporate and Chief Legal Officer
    403-560-0821
    jbell@dlcg.ca    		  
         

    NEITHER THE TSX EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Grassley Introduce Legislation to Protect Jobs for American Citizens, Not Illegal Aliens

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) in introducing the Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act to assist employers in certifying the legal status of their workforce.
    Specifically, the legislation would permanently authorize, expand, and require employers to participate in the free, internet-based E-Verify program, which helps determine if a current or prospective employee is authorized to work in the United States. The legislation includes provisions to provide E-Verify access to businesses in rural communities or areas without internet capabilities.
    Sen. Tuberville cosponsored the legislation in the 118th Congress.
    “So many families are still struggling to make ends meet from four years of Joe Biden’s disastrous economic policies. Congress’ top priority should be strengthening American businesses and protecting good-paying jobs. Expanding the E-Verify program to every business across the country will protect jobs for American workers and give employers the tools they need to legally staff their companies. We must get serious about enforcing all of our country’s immigration laws, including those pertaining to participation in the workforce,” said Sen. Tuberville.
    “E-Verify is a proven tool for employers, including myself, to ensure our businesses are legally staffed. By reducing incentives for illegal immigration and safeguarding job opportunities for Americans and other legal workers, our bill would boost accountability in the workforce and support our nation’s small businesses,” said Sen. Grassley. 
    Sens. Tuberville and Grassley were joined by Sens. Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), and Mike Lee (R-UT) in cosponsoring the legislation.
    Read full text of the legislation here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Chairs First Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee Hearing, Urges Academies to Prioritize the Education and Training of America’s Future Military Officers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) led a hearing with the superintendents of the U.S. military academies. During the hearing, the superintendents outlined their plan to educate and train America’s future military officers. Sen. Tuberville emphasized the important role each service academy plays in ensuring our nation’s best and brightest men and women stay on the cutting-edge of leadership and warfighting. 
    During the hearing, Sen. Tuberville and his Republican colleagues emphasized the importance of focusing the curriculum at each institution on lethality and removing any traces of antisemitism or Critical Race Theory (CRT) from the classroom. They also asked the superintendents about the process of hiring civilian versus military instructors and possible ways to boost enrollment, including by allowing academy athletes to pursue professional sports before completing their service. This was the first time in 30 years that the service academy superintendents have testified together before the Senate.
    Last week, President Trump announced he was appointing Sen. Tuberville to the Board of Visitors for the U.S. Air Force Academy.
    Witnesses included:
    Lieutenant General Steven Gilland, Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy
    Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy
    Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind, Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy
    Read excerpts of the transcript below or watch clips of the hearing on YouTube or Rumble.

    OPENING STATEMENT:
    “I’d like to call this Committee hearing into session. The Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel meets this afternoon to conduct oversight and receive testimony on the status of the military service academies. Thank you for being here. The last time this body conducted a hearing on this topic with these witnesses, or with any witnesses from the academies, was more than 30 years ago.
    We are fortunate to have these three distinguished officers here today:
    Lieutenant General Steven Gilland is the Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy; Vice Admiral Yvette Davids is the Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy; and Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind […] [is the Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy.]
    As this is the first meeting of the Personnel Subcommittee in the 119th Congress, let me begin by saying that I look forward to working with you, Ranking Member Warren, thank you for being here, as we continue the bipartisan tradition of the Armed Services Committee in developing the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). 
    Nothing is more bipartisan than supporting our men and women in uniform and their families. This subcommittee has a long history of prioritizing the well-being and morale of our servicemembers, and I am eager to continue that work as the new Chairman. 
    The military service academies are foundational to the successes of the military officer corps. In many ways, the service academies establish the culture of their respective service. Moreover, [the academies] occupy an important position in our society. They are perhaps the last universities in the country that focus on building character and improving the morality of their student body. The American people often perceive the academies as being emblematic of the entire U.S. military—for better or worse.
    Over the last several years, the academies have lost sight of the fundamental reason for their existence, which is to commission officers with the education required by their respective military branches. All three academies have been sued for engaging in race-based affirmative action that is now prohibited at every other university in the country. 
    We have repeatedly heard over the last several years that ‘our diversity is our strength,’ it is not. Diversity can be an awesome advantage, but our unity of effort and shared [beliefs] in our Constitution and common values are our strength.  Diversity for the sake of diversity alone weakens us.
    A professor at the Air Force Academy proudly authored a Washington Post op-ed proclaiming that she teaches Critical Race Theory to cadets. Both West Point and the Air Force Academy established ‘diversity and inclusion’ minors, which may be trendy in other university settings, but were so unpopular with cadets that when they were abruptly cancelled by President Trump, hardly anyone noticed. More importantly, any effort to teach our future leaders to judge and sort people by immutable characteristics, like race, runs counter to the Constitution and is devastating to good order and discipline. 
    Last fall, the Naval Academy appropriately cancelled a lecture after it was revealed that the speaker planned to use the opportunity to make a partisan political speech. But one must ask why was this speaker invited in the first place? 
    [The academies] must always remember [why] they were created in the first place. The American people devote tremendous resources to maintaining all of these institutions. If the [academies] are not entirely focused on building officers of character to lead our nation’s sons and daughters in combat, then what is the purpose?
    I hope our witnesses will address these criticisms but also tell us about the great things that are happening every day at the academies.
    The vast majority of the cadets, midshipman, faculty, and staff at the service academies are properly focused on the only mission that matters, which is defending our Constitution and the American people. 
    I thank the witnesses for appearing today, and I look forward to their testimony.
    Now I’ll turn the microphone over to Senator Warren.”
    […]
    ON CONGRESSIONAL OVERSIGHT OF CIVILIAN PROFESSORS:
    TUBERVILLE: “Permanent military faculty are Senate-confirmed. Should we [Congress] have any input towards civilian professors, General? On your recommendation.”
    GILLAND: “Sir, I think that when we look at the confirmation of our permanent faculty, which is a fairly small number, I would have to, we’d make that recommendation to you as Congress. With regards to our civilian faculty, I think it just—even with their swearing to the oath—an oath to the Constitution of the United States, I would ask, I’d have to go back and ask about their civilian hiring practices because civilian-hired practices and regulations that govern that are different from our uniformed members.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Admiral?”
    DAVIDS: “Very similar, except that I would say at the Naval Academy, we have a proven formula that works, sir. And that includes these incredible civilian faculty that are charged to support everything that we do there. They’re completely in in our mission and they complement the military aspect of our faculty as well, sir. So, when I say proven, I say that 89% graduation rate at the United States Naval Academy and a great deal of that is because of the incredible coaches, mentors, faculty, and staff that we have there are all focused on that mission, sir.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. General?”
    BAUERNFEIND: “Sir, I’m very comfortable under my authorities on picking the civilian faculty for our force as we go forward, but if our elected leaders want to have a voice in that, I’m also very comfortable working with our elected leaders to detail a process that enables us to work through that process quickly.”
    ON ENCOURAGING MILITARY RECRUITS PURSUING PROFESSIONAL ATHLETIC CAREERS:
    TUBERVILLE: “I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring something up about sports, and I’d like to get each one of your thoughts about this. I’ve always felt that playing sports was invaluable to leadership development. Many of the cadets and shipmen at your institutions are athletes participating on the various academy sports teams. They represent the best of your institutions and our country. Occasionally—occasionally—some of these athletes develop to an elite level and are forced to forego living out their dreams of playing the sport they love at a professional level because of outdated—to me—outdated regulations governing their service obligations. I’d like to see this year’s NDAA reflect a serious commitment to these outstanding individuals. When appropriate, these cadets and midshipmen should graduate and commission with their classes and defer their service obligation until their professional sports-playing careers are complete. These would be commissioned officers in our armed services subject to the same rules and regulations as their peers, while at the same time providing exposure and increased visibility to the academics while they play sports at the highest level. I know that’s not protocol for what we do as we speak. But General, I’d like to get your thoughts on that with an all-volunteer military now, we are looking for possible ways to get more and more young men and women involved in our academies.”
    GILLAND: “Senator, the Army is a team contact sport. That’s how I view the Army. And those young men and women that are coming into the Army regardless of their background or upbringing better be prepared to get involved in a team contact sport [because] that’s what you all as citizens of this nation ask of us. As a result, when we think through the development of leaders of character, I’m looking for the—may not be the best player—because numbers don’t always define someone’s potential—the best player for the team. And for those individuals that have the elite capability to pursue professional sports, I absolutely support, and I think that we have to look at measures, as you outlined, from a commission perspective that would allow those individuals to go into that professional sport of whatever their talent is in, execute that, and then have them serve in the Army. And I think there are combinations of ways to do that through not only active service concurrent with their respective playing for a team. Of course, there’s different things that would have to go with that as they’re moving around and such if they’re treated, or there’s the deferral of the respective active-duty service obligations that they have. But I think that it results in multiple benefits, not only to each of our academies, but I think it benefits our services also through deliberate outreach and engagement that we would ask of those talented individuals.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Admiral?”
    DAVIDS: “Sir, when I was a midshipmen fourth class, Napoleon McCallum was my upper class. The original ‘Admiral’ David Robinson was also in my upper class. They were heroes of mine, I saw how brilliant they did in their careers to not only bring in incredible talent to the Navy, to the Naval Academy, as well to supporting our nation. There are many ways to serve, sir, and they brilliantly in that. So, I am a huge fan of it, I appreciate it. We may look at this. I think that the return on investment is incredible, and I fully support it, sir.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. General?”
    BAUERNFEIND: “Senator Tuberville, I also, as a freshman, looked up to one Chad Hennings, a monster of a football player.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Big ol’ boy. Yeah.”
    BAUERNFEIND: “Yes sir. And benefitted greatly. He also, during that time, his value was not only was he an amazing football player, but he also went out and served and flew combat operations in Desert Storm during that time, bringing both of that immediate value, you know, that recruiting value to bear the service and the professional capabilities. And I believe where the NDAA is now by giving us opportunity for three per year is a great opportunity for us to pick those truly elite athletes that can go on to that next level. As a data point, over the last five years, we’ve had 20 Air Force Academy cadets or—excuse me, 22—that have moved forward into professional sports. Thirteen met their first seasons and unfortunately did not, were not able to continue, and they came back to active duty. And nine are continuing. And over that time, that two to three is, I think, an opportunity for us to continue to go forward. I would also ask, sir, as we have this conversation for pro sports to have a fulsome conversation of the impact of the transfer portal on our military service academies, and how that is taking young men and women away from service to the nation until they’ve had an opportunity to blossom as leaders.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Yeah. Well, that’s a great point. And I look forward to visiting with all three of you about this before our NDAA is put together this June. And I know it’s a huge problem, and I can understand it’s a huge problem for you also. So again, we’ll sit down—I wanna sit down with all three of you before we get to that point in June—and hopefully, we’re gonna—we can work something out because I think it’d be a great tool for all of you for recruiting because y’all take our best and brightest and all […] of us in here, all the senators, we—and congressmen—we have an opportunity to send the best young men and women we possibly have in our states and you do a great job with them. So, I wanna thank you for coming today. This is a fact-finding mission. We haven’t done it in 30 years. We’ll do it again next year. And hopefully, we’ll make it bigger and brighter. We just want to enlighten people about what you do because leadership, discipline, teamwork is everything that goes along with what our country is about. And again, it’s so, so important. We can’t really do this enough, but thanks again for what you do, how you do it. And tell all of your cadets and midshipmen that we’re for them. And I look forward to being on the Board of Visitors at the Air Force Academy this year and visiting with you. And again, you’re our future. And we hope you use our young people at your convenience but also give them the best and brightest future they can possibly get because we’re gonna be, how we’re gonna go as a country is how they go. So, thanks again, and this has been a good hearing, and this hearing is adjourned.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

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