NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Camping reservations will open for entire Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Park

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Camping reservations will soon open for the entire Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Park, marking the return of hikers this summer to one of B.C.’s most popular backcountry hiking destinations.

    Beginning at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, people can reserve tent pads at any of the seven backcountry campgrounds along the Berg Lake Trail for arrivals starting June 26, 2025, the same day the entire trail is scheduled to reopen. Reservations will open for the entire season and are required to stay at campgrounds along the trail until Sept. 29, 2025.

    “Mount Robson Park is a special place, drawing thousands of people from across Canada and the world to experience the natural beauty,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “Having undergone repairs to help withstand the impacts of climate change, we’re thrilled to welcome families and friends back to the entire Berg Lake Trail.”

    Located between Valemount and Jasper, the 23-kilometre Berg Lake Trail features views of waterfalls, turquoise-coloured lakes and massive glaciers. In June 2021, the trail was closed due to extensive flooding caused by heavy rain following the heat dome. The flooding washed away parts of the trail and caused significant damage to infrastructure, such as bridges, picnic tables and tent pads.

    “Hiking the Berg Lake Trail is an unforgettable experience, with nearly 20,000 backcountry hikers and campers coming to this special part of B.C. every year,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Having the entire trail open again is important for local businesses, communities and visitors, and I encourage everyone to get out this summer and explore beautiful B.C.”

    The trail has been rebuilt in three phases. Phase 1 focused on various upgrades from the parking lot to Kinney Lake campground and reopened in 2023 for day use and overnight camping. Phase 2, from Kinney Lake to Whitehorn campground, reopened in 2024 and included a new trail route and new bridges at the far end of Kinney Lake and over the Robson River.

    Phase 3, from Whitehorn campground to Berg Lake, included various campground upgrades, along with a significant amount of trail rebuilding and realignment to reduce the amount of time the trail is in the flood plain or crosses the river. The total cost of restoring the trail is estimated at $5 million.

    “The Village of Valemount is thrilled to be part of the wonderful news that nature enthusiasts and hikers alike have been eagerly awaiting,” said Owen Torgerson, mayor of Valemount. “The Berg Lake Trail and Mount Robson Park is important for tourism, contributing about 25% to our local economy every year. I encourage everyone to plan a trip to experience the beauty of Berg Lake, and I appreciate the extensive work that has gone into restoring this beloved trail.”

    The Berg Lake Trail is open for winter recreation. From May 15 until June 25, the trail will be open for first-come, first-served camping at Kinney Lake and Whitehorn campgrounds. Permits for campsites can be purchased at the Mount Robson Welcome Centre before heading up the trail.

    “The Berg Lake Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts an unparalleled hiking and camping experience, while also boosting visitation and driving tourism revenue to the Robson Valley and our welcoming community,” said Eugene Runtz, mayor of McBride. “Reopening this iconic trail strengthens McBride’s position as a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies and inviting travellers to explore all that the Robson Valley has to offer.”

    Ellen Walker-Matthews, chief executive officer for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, said: “We are thrilled that the Berg Lake Trail, one of the iconic experiences in the Thompson Okanagan region, is reopening. The Berg Lake Trail not only draws visitors to its unique experience but helps to attract and welcome Canadian and international visitors to the spectacular North Thompson Valley and surrounding communities.”

    People are encouraged to check the park webpage for updates about the final phase of construction: https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/

    Quick Facts:

    • The Berg Lake Trail gains 800 metres of elevation in 23 kilometres.
    • On average, the trail has nearly 20,000 backcountry hikers and campers each year.
    • Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 3,954 metres.
    • Mount Robson Park is the second-oldest provincial park in B.C. and was established in 1913 to protect the Fraser River’s headwaters.

    Learn More:

    Reservations can be made here: https://camping.bcparks.ca/ 

    More information about backcountry camping and policies can be found here: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/backcountry-camping/reservations/

    For more information about Mount Robson Park and the Berg Lake Trail, visit: https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Renewables are renewing economies’, UN chief tells top climate forum

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Climate and Environment

    Ministers from 40 countries met on Wednesday at the first major climate forum of 2025 to discuss progress in renewable energy generation and the rising toll of inaction over rising temperatures. 

    2025 marks a milestone: the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the deadline for countries to submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), designed to keep the global goal alive of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Addressing the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue (PCD) in Berlin – the first official gathering on climate since last year’s COP29 summit in Baku – the UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a strong call for decisive climate action.

    He said the year had begun against a backdrop of geopolitical instability and widespread cuts to overseas aid budgets.

    “There is much uncertainty and instability in our world,” which is why “every country must step up and play their part,” he emphasised.

    Renewables: A bright spot

    Despite global tensions, Mr. Guterres pointed to a promising development: 2024 was officially a record year for global renewable energy production, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

    Renewables made up over 92 per cent of all new electricity capacity installed last year – equivalent to the total electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan combined.

    Europe’s capacity rose by nine per cent, with Germany contributing over a quarter of that growth. Meanwhile, Africa’s grew by nearly seven per cent.

    “All of this is another reminder of a 21st century truth: Renewables are renewing economies,” Mr. Guterres said. They are “powering growth, creating jobs, lowering energy bills, and cleaning our air.”

    Wind power has dropped in cost by 60 per cent since 2010; solar is now 90 per cent cheaper.

    Clean energy contributed significantly to economic growth in 2023 – accounting for five per cent of India’s GDP growth, six per cent of the US’, and one-third of the EU’s.

    The rising toll of inaction

    Nevertheless, climate challenges are piling up, the UN chief continued.

    “It seems records are shattered at every turn – the hottest day of the hottest month of the hottest year of the hottest decade ever,” Mr. Guterres said.

    Those suffering most are the world’s most vulnerable – grappling with rising food and insurance costs, displacement and growing insecurity.

    The World Meteorological Organization confirmed in late December that 2024 was another year of alarming climate records. For the first time, global temperatures were 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels during a calendar year.

    “Scientists are clear – it is still possible to meet the long-term 1.5 degree limit,” the Secretary-General stressed. “But it requires urgent action. And it requires leadership.”

    Call for ambition

    New NDCs are due by September 2025. These plans must align with the 1.5°C target and collectively cut emissions by 60 per cent by 2035, compared with 2019 levels.

    “These new plans are a unique opportunity to deliver – and lay out a coherent vision for a just green transition,” Mr. Guterres said.

    He reiterated that efforts must be made according to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities but added: “Everybody must do more.”

    The G20 most industralised nations – responsible for most global emissions – must lead the way.

    The UN Climate Promise is already supporting 100 countries in preparing their next plans. A high-level event in September will take stock of progress and push for greater action.

    Financing action

    Implementation of the COP29 finance agreement is crucial to support developing countries.

    “I count on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to deliver a credible roadmap to mobilise $1.3 trillion a year by 2035,” said the Secretary-General.

    He also called for doubling adaptation finance to at least $40 billion annually by the end of this year and for serious contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.

    To get there, stronger collaboration – across governments, societies, and sectors – is vital.

    Looking ahead

    As the Petersberg Dialogue sets the tone for the year ahead, Mr. Guterres issued a final rallying cry:

    “Those who lag behind must not discourage us but rather strengthen our resolve. The rewards are there for the taking, for all those ready and willing to lead the world through these troubled times.”

    “We are at a turning point.  I urge you to seize this moment; and seize the prize,” he concluded. 

    Soundcloud

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Urgent: Boilermaker action needed to defeat anti-union bill

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    The Boilermakers union is calling on all Boilermakers, especially those who live or work in Mississippi, to help defeat an anti-union bill. In its current iteration, Mississippi SB 2849 would deny funding to businesses that voluntarily recognize unions.

    Known as the “anti-voluntary recognition bill,” SB 2849 is now in a joint conference committee. S.B. 2849 would ban any businesses receiving state funding from voluntarily recognizing a union that has demonstrated majority support in their workplace.

    A union contract with good wages and quality benefits provides families in Mississippi with a pathway to the middle class, but lawmakers are trying to make it more difficult for working people to achieve this. This legislation strips workers of essential freedoms, takes away the rights of Mississippi business owners to make their own workforce decisions, and violates federal labor law.

    To ensure that harmful labor provisions are not passed in the state, the Mississippi State AFL-CIO urges union members and allies to contact conference committee members immediately and urge them to defeat the bill entirely or to support a House-amended version. The Senate initially passed SB 2849 with language that barred companies receiving state funds from agreeing to neutrality or card check with labor unions, but the House removed this language. The Senate rejected those changes, and now a six-member conference committee will decide the bill’s final version.

    Take a moment to call the following legislators ask them to vote to defeat SB 2849 in committee or keep the House-amended version:

    Senate Conferees:

    Sen. Robin Robinson (Forrest) – (601) 359-2220

    Sen. Brice Wiggins (Pascagoula) – (601) 359-3237

    Sen. Chris Johnson (Forrest) – (601) 359-2220

    House Conferees:

    Rep. Lee Yancey (Rankin) – (601) 359-4000

    Rep. Billy Calvert (Meridian) – (601) 490-0652

    Rep. Trey Lamar (Lafayette) – (601) 359-3343

    Please share this message especially with your contacts who live or work in Mississippi.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of March 31, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of March 31, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 517, Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act, as amended
    • H.R. 997, National Taxpayer Advocate Enhancement Act of 2025, as amended
    • H.R. 998, Internal Revenue Service Math and Taxpayer Help Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1152, Electronic Filing and Payment Fairness Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1155, Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1234, To direct the Librarian of Congress to promote the more cost-effective, efficient, and expanded availability of the Annotated Constitution and pocket-part supplements by replacing the hardbound versions with digital versions
    • H.R. 1491, Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1550, Strengthening America’s Turning Point Act

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson urges Congress to combat prison cell phone threats in bipartisan coalitionRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from across the country urging Congress to take immediate action to combat a growing threat to public safety: contraband cell phones in prisons. 

    For years, Attorney General Wilson has led on this issue, calling on Congress and the Federal Communications Commission to allow cell phone jamming within state prisons. 

    “For years, in South Carolina and across the nation, prison cells have become command centers for crime. Inmates are using contraband phones to traffic drugs, extort victims, and even order hits,” said Attorney General Alan Wilson. “This isn’t just a talking point—it’s a full-blown crisis. I’m once again calling on Congress: give states the power to jam these phones. Enough talk. It’s time to act.” 

    In a joint letter sent to congressional leaders, Attorney General Wilson and 30 other attorneys general called for the swift passage of H.R. 2350 and Senate companion bill S. 1137, legislation that would allow states to implement cell phone jamming technology in correctional facilities. 

    Despite stringent security measures, inmates across the U.S. continue to use smuggled phones to coordinate violent crimes, direct drug trafficking operations, orchestrate fraud schemes, and intimidate witnesses. A recent national survey found nearly 26,000 contraband phones recovered in state prisons in a single year alone. 

    The proposed legislation would authorize states to deploy jamming systems inside prison walls—without disrupting emergency communications or public cell service. Current federal law prohibits such systems in state prisons, even though the technology is allowed inside federal prisons.

    “This is not a partisan issue—it’s a public safety issue,” Wilson added. “Every day we delay is another day criminals can exploit our prisons to harm the public. We’re calling on Congress to act now.” 

    The letter is being led by the attorneys general of Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and the U.S. Virgin Islands and joined by South Carolina, Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

    You can read the letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Issues Open Letter Urging Legal Community to Stand Together in Defense of Rule of Law Amid President’s Attacks

    Source: US State of California

    “Lawyers are not spectators to the Constitution; we are its agents…Law firms must refuse to bow to illegal and unconstitutional threats of retribution for having the temerity to represent clients and cases opposing the administration.” 

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, along with 20 other state attorneys general, issued an open letter urging the legal community to stand together in defense of the rule of law in response to President Trump’s recent attacks, including calling for the impeachment of federal judges and threatening retribution against law firms and attorneys who take or have taken positions in opposition to him or his Administration. Alarmingly, one major law firm – Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP (Paul Weiss) – has already acquiesced to President Trump’s demands for policy support in exchange for relief from the executive order targeting that law firm. The President’s recent orders and statements, and the failure of Paul Weiss to stand firm in response to these attacks, risks creating a chilling effect within the legal community. Today, Attorney General Bonta calls on all members of the legal profession and of state bars to stand with state attorneys general in refusing to bow to the President’s unlawful and undemocratic attacks on the practice of law and reaffirm their commitment to the zealous representation of their clients. 

    “The President seeks to bully and intimidate federal judges, attorneys, and law firms that disagree with him or take positions he does not like – undermining the American legal system built atop the U.S. Constitution he two months ago swore to uphold,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I stand with state attorneys general across the nation in condemning the President’s recent actions and in urging members of the legal profession to stand firm in their principles. We must not falter in our resolve to uphold the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. Our democracy depends on it.”

    On Sunday, Attorney General Bonta issued a separate statement on the need to speak up and push back when our democratic norms are violated, our legal system undermined, and our laws broken. In today’s letter, Attorney General Bonta and a multistate coalition reiterate their commitment to the rule of law and stand firm in their support of the federal judiciary and judicial independence: 

    “As state attorneys general, we have sworn oaths to uphold the Constitution of the United States. Rule of law is the bedrock of everything that makes our country great. Our economy, our rights and freedoms as citizens and residents, our lives and livelihoods are all protected by the fair and unbiased application of the law. We will not allow anyone, including the President, to bully law firms out of representing clients who may be politically disfavored, or clients out of being represented by counsel of their choosing. We will not sit by silently in the face of attempts to attack and intimidate the federal judiciary. We will not allow the rule of law to be undermined. We stand with all our colleagues in the legal community who place the ideals and values of their profession over obedience and silence.”

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Delaware, Illinois, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington in issuing the letter. 

    A copy of the letter is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Slams President Trump’s Unlawful Executive Order Seeking to Impose Unauthorized Voting Restrictions

    Source: US State of California

    Wednesday, March 26, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s executive order entitled “Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections”:

    “Yet again, President Trump is grasping for straws. He cannot, by executive order, impose these voting restrictions. He lacks that authority — period,” said Attorney General Bonta. “My office stands ready to hold President Trump accountable. No matter how he tries to spin it, elections in California and across the country — in blue and red states alike — are secure. Voter fraud is largely a figment of his imagination.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Durbin, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Improve Coordination between Patent Office and FDA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), along with Committee members Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), to introduce the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act. The bipartisan legislation would establish a task force between the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to improve communication and coordination in implementing each agency’s activities related to pharmaceutical patents.

    “When government agencies fail to coordinate effectively, taxpayers pay the price. These agencies would benefit from increased communication and better cooperation. Our legislation will encourage that collaboration, helping taxpayers in turn by increasing competition and cutting red tape,” Grassley said.

    “Establishing clear avenues for collaboration between USPTO and FDA is essential for both agencies to oversee patent laws that protect innovation and promote competition,” Durbin said. “By incentivizing coordination through the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act, we can address gamesmanship and abuses with pharmaceutical patents that keep prescription drug prices too high for American patients.” 

    “Enhancing coordination between the USPTO and FDA will ensure that patent examiners have the necessary information to make well-informed decisions regarding patentability,” Tillis said. “This bill is a straightforward, commonsense measure that strengthens the patent system, improves patent quality and reduces unnecessary bureaucracy.”

    Numerous concerns have been raised about gamesmanship, abuses or lack of clarity that can harm prescription drug affordability by limiting generic competition. However, USPTO and FDA’s collaboration is limited, despite both agencies playing a role related to patents and competition involving prescription drugs.

    Specifically, the task force created by the Interagency Patent Coordination and Improvement Act would:

    1. Enhance information sharing on each agency’s processes, standards and methods;
    2. Improve dialogue on new technologies and scientific trends;
    3. Enable confidential reciprocal access to information, if requested and only as needed, related to prior art;
    4. Ensure accurate representations by companies between the two agencies; and
    5. Ensure accuracy of patent listings

    The bill promotes efficiency and good governance by fostering communication between the two agencies, while respecting their distinct purviews. This enhanced coordination will help bolster innovation while preventing inappropriate tactics to delay access to affordable generic medications. The Senate Judiciary Committee passed this legislation in the 118th Congress by voice vote.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Questions Nominee for Social Security Commissioner on Need to Protect Services for Rural Seniors, Address Identify Theft Issues

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, today attended a Finance hearing and submitted questions for the record to President Trump’s nominee to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, Frank Bisignano.

    In his questions, Grassley pressed Bisignano on the need to maintain seniors’ access to key services and ensure that agency reforms do not disrupt or delay rightfully owed benefits. Grassley also emphasized the importance of protecting rural seniors and streamlining the process to address identity theft issues. Grassley’s questions were informed by questions raised at his recent county meetings and by calls and messages received by his office on this issue.

    Senators submit Questions For the Record (QFRs) to hearing witnesses to receive detailed, written responses from witnesses. Grassley expects answers by next week.

    The following are excerpts from Grassley’s questions:

    Agency Reforms and Disruption of Benefits:

    Last week, I began my 45th annual tour of Iowa’s 99 counties to hear directly from Iowans. Social Security was top of mind for seniors. Many are worried that plans to reduce personnel and restructure the Social Security Administration will worsen customer service and put benefit payments at risk.

    It hasn’t helped that President Biden’s Social Security Commissioner and Democrats have engaged in reckless speculation seemingly intended to make seniors fear their benefits are in danger. Of course, there isn’t a single member of this committee, Democrat or Republican, that would stand for a disruption or delay to benefits.

    If you are confirmed, will you guarantee any agency reforms won’t disrupt or delay rightfully owed benefits on your watch?

    Elimination of ID Verification by Phone:

    Recently, the Social Security Administration announced individuals will no longer be allowed to verify their identity over the phone for benefit purposes or to change bank account information. As a result, individuals will have to finalize an application for benefits online or in-person at a local Social Security office.

    I understand this change is intended to prevent ID theft and fraud, but I have concerns how this change will affect seniors in a rural state like mine. For many Iowans, the nearest Social Security office could be more than an hour away.

    If you are confirmed, will you pledge to review this policy and work to ensure rural seniors aren’t left behind?

    Identity Theft and Single Point of Contact:

    Too often, victims of identity theft who reach out to the Social Security Administration get bumped from person to person without much progress toward resolving issues stemming from a stolen Social Security number. To address this, I have worked on bipartisan legislation that would require SSA to offer a single point of contact for identity theft victims to get their issues resolved quickly.

    As Commissioner, what steps will you take to streamline the process for addressing identity theft issues?  

    Disability Backlog:

    A perennial issue has been a backlog in Social Security Disability cases. Addressing it has long been a stated priority of the Social Security Administration. Yet, there hasn’t been much progress in resolving the issue. 

    Are there administrative reforms or changes to the adjudication process you plan to pursue to increase efficiencies and speed up the claim process?     

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Challenges Senate Democrats’ Promotion of Unchecked Judicial Power, Vows to Take Legislative Action

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today challenged Democrats’ continued refusal to acknowledge the judicial branch’s constitutional limits.

    In response to Ranking Member Dick Durbin’s (D-Ill.) request for unanimous consent on a resolution demanding the executive branch comply with all federal court rulings, Grassley offered amendments to reflect the limits of judicial power. Grassley’s amendments affirmed that the executive branch must comply with all lawful federal court rulings. Durbin objected to the commonsense amendments.

    Grassley further spoke on the recent uptick in sweeping and potentially lawless orders issued by individual district judges and reaffirmed the Senate Judiciary Committee’s intent to take action.

    “The President of the United States shouldn’t have to ask permission from more than 600 different district judges to manage the executive branch he was elected to lead… The practice of sweeping nationwide injunctions, broad restraining orders and judicial policymaking must end. It’s unconstitutional, it’s anti-democratic and it’s imprudent. If the Supreme Court won’t stop it, Congress must,” Grassley said.

    View Grassley’s amendments HERE and HERE.

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO 

    Before I give my reasons for objecting, I want to comment on a couple things in your remarks. 

    You spoke about the time that we often agree. 

    Just today, you and I cosponsored a bill together, as an example. 

    The other thing I’d like to say before I go to my remarks is that I want to associate myself with your quote from our colleague Senator Cornyn – that you don’t impeach judges just because of a decision, because we’d be impeaching judges all the time. 

    That’s my additional comment. 

    And the third thing is, to inform you, I hope I can get, as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, something moving in this area.  

    I happen to agree with some Democrats that in previous years have said some judges have gone way beyond what a judge should do on national injunctions.  

    I hope to find a solution for that, and I hope that you and I could work on that together. 

    I know Democrats have made that same accusation about district court judges in one district out of 93 in the United States applying their decision nationally. 

    So, now I would like to go to my reason for objecting. 

    A few weeks ago, I objected to a version of this resolution because it’s a political messaging exercise. Today, I come here for the same reason. 

    I won’t stand by and allow my colleagues to imply that the “Rule of Law,” those three words, only matters when there’s a Republican President.  

    As I explained a few weeks ago, the Biden administration engaged in four years of complete lawlessness.  

    Instead of condemning it, Democrats viciously attacked the legitimacy of the courts for ruling against the Biden administration.  

    The silence we heard from Democrats about the rule of law during the Biden years was quite deafening.  

    I won’t repeat my last speech, but I’ll expand on one of my previous objections.  

    This resolution demands that the President comply with all court orders, but it’s completely silent about the role of the federal courts to adhere to the law themselves. 

    For a number of years, but particularly in the last few months, we’ve seen increasingly sweeping, potentially lawless orders coming from any one of our 600 district judges out of the 93 districts we have.  

    Although our founders saw an important role for the judiciary, individual district judges have empowered themselves to become nationwide policymakers, as opposed to interpreting the law.  

    I consider this as very dangerous. 

    In the last few weeks, individual, unelected judges made policy decisions for the whole country. 

    Some examples include: 

    • Ordering the President to stop deporting foreign terrorists; 
    • Directing the military to enlist and retain transgender servicemembers; 
    • Directing who will and will not staff the President’s administration; 
    • Ordering the immediate expenditure of billions of dollars.  

    One judge even went so far as to order the government to pay out 2 billion taxpayer dollars and do it within 36 hours.  

    Much of this would go to organizations not even involved in the case, and the government wouldn’t ever be able to get this money back, even if they ultimately won on appeal.  

    In the two months since President Trump has entered office, his administration has suffered more of these sweeping orders at the hands of district court judges than the Biden administration experienced in four years. 

    I want to emphasize that. 

    Has President Trump chosen to ignore this avalanche of irresponsible court orders?   

    Flat out, no!   

    He’s appealed these outrageous decisions, just as he promised he would do when he said, “I always abide by the courts and then I’ll have to appeal it… the answer is I always abide by the courts.” 

    Appellate courts have responded by striking down many of the unlawful intrusions into Presidential authority.   

    But the core problem remains – the President of the United States shouldn’t have to ask permission from more than 600 different district judges to manage the executive branch he was elected to lead. 

    The practice of sweeping nationwide injunctions, broad restraining orders, and judicial policymaking must end.  

    It’s unconstitutional, it’s anti-democratic and it’s imprudent.  

    If the Supreme Court won’t stop it, then Congress must.   

    I wish the Supreme Court would get on this and do it right away. 

    This issue isn’t a partisan one, and I want to work with Democrats, as I just said to the Senator from Illinois.  

    In the past, Democrats and Republicans have both criticized nationwide injunctions and the power of individual district judges.  

    My Democratic colleagues have even proposed legislation to rein in some of these abuses. 

    You don’t have to take my word for it. 

    In 2022, Justice Elena Kagan correctly observed, “It just can’t be right that one district judge can stop a nationwide policy in its tracks and leave it stopped for the years it takes to go through the normal process.” 

    In 2024, President Biden’s Solicitor General, Elizabeth Prelogar, argued before the Supreme Court, now listen to this quote, that, “A court of equity may grant relief only to the parties before it. The district court violated that principle by issuing a universal injunction purporting to enjoin the Act itself and forbidding the enforcement of the Act even against non-parties.” 

    So, as I told Senator Durbin, I hope to soon hold a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee to address this matter and even introduce legislation to end these abuses.  

    I hope both my Democratic and Republican colleagues will join me in this effort.  

    For the resolution at hand, Mr. President, I propose an amendment, so it reads, “the Constitution of the United States and established precedent require the executive branch to comply with all lawful Federal court rulings.”  

    This simple change of one word, “lawful,” will show that Congress expects both the executive branch and the judicial branch to respect the rule of law and Constitutional constraints.  

    My amendment mirrors what the Chief Justice said in 2024.  

    The Chief Justice rightly raised concerns about the intimidation and threats leveled at the Court in the wake of the Dobbs decision. He said, “The final threat to judicial independence is defiance of judgments lawfully entered by courts of competent jurisdiction.” 

    He had no problem adding the word lawful in; we shouldn’t have it any other way. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Kicks Off 45th Annual 99 County Meetings, Holds Q&As with Iowans in a Dozen Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) last week kicked off his 45th consecutive year of meeting face-to-face with Iowans in every county.

    Grassley began his annual 99 county meetings last Wednesday in Grundy County with a tour of a local business, followed by a question-and-answer session with employees. Grassley then held 11 additional county meetings, hearing from Iowans in Marshall, Benton, Tama, Floyd, Chickasaw, Fayette, Black Hawk, Franklin, Wright, Humboldt and Webster counties.

    “You can’t have representative government without dialogue between elected officials and the people we represent,” Grassley said. “I appreciate the opportunity to hold county meetings, answer questions and take comments. My annual 99 county meetings are one way I regularly keep in touch with Iowans to better represent them at the policymaking tables in Washington.”

    Follow Senator Grassley on his 45th annual tour of Iowa HERE. To view Grassley’s photos and posts from each meeting, search #99CountyMeetings on X and Instagram.

    Click HERE for audio of Grassley discussing the launch of his 45th annual 99 county meetings.

    Background:

    For 45 years, Grassley’s annual 99 county meetings have been scheduled using the same formula, including open town hall meetings, as well as meetings with Iowans at factories, hospitals, schools, service clubs and small businesses. By holding these meetings in a variety of settings, Grassley ensures he hears from a cross-section of Iowans, including those who can’t take time off work or school to attend town halls.

    No matter the setting, the format stays the same. Grassley welcomes questions or comments on any subject. Iowans set the agenda. After each county meeting, Grassley makes himself available for 15 minutes to answer questions from local reporters.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Votes Against NIH Director Nominee, Dr. Jay Bhattacharya

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 25, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Co-Chair of the Senate NIH Caucus, released the following statement after voting against President Trump’s pick to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Dr. Jay Bhattacharya:

    “All the progress we have made at NIH and all the progress we hope to make is in danger because of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. They are carrying out an unprecedented and devastating campaign to cut research funding for cancers, ALS, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and infectious diseases. The lifesaving work at NIH benefits patients in red and blue states—providing hope to patients, supporting jobs in every community, and cementing our scientific leadership against China.

    “To achieve breakthroughs for patients, NIH needs a director who will fight back against President Trump’s misguided and dangerous proposals that threaten to delay new cures and treatments. I do not believe Dr. Bhattacharya is that person.”

    Durbin met with Dr. Bhattacharya earlier this year. During the meeting, Durbin questioned Dr. Bhattacharya about President Trump and Elon Musk’s illegal funding cuts at NIH. President Trump and Musk have frozen NIH grants to researchers nationwide and are attempting to cap “indirect costs” at 15 percent for lab capacity, which would be devastating for new cures that patients desperately seek. Durbin also pressed Dr. Bhattacharya about the reported indiscriminate firing of 1,200 NIH workers.

    Durbin 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.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Calls Out The Trump Administration’s Continued Efforts To Intimidate Judges & Undermine The Rule Of Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 25, 2025

    Once again, Senate Republican objects to Durbin’s UC request to pass a resolution that simply affirms the rule of law and the legitimacy of judicial review

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, once again spoke against efforts by the Trump Administration to intimidate judges and undermine the rule of law. Durbin then asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass a resolution that simply affirms that the Constitution vests the judicial power in the federal courts and that both the Constitution and established precedent require the executive branch to comply with all federal court rulings. U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) objected to Durbin’s UC request. This is the second time that Senate Republicans have objected to Durbin’s UC request.

    “I have come to the floor several times in recent weeks to speak about unacceptable attacks on the federal judiciary—the federal courts—by President Trump and his allies. These attacks are not only wrong, but dangerous—and pose a serious threat to our constitutional order. I am sorry to say that the attacks on our judges and our judiciary have not stopped as I have made these requests on the floor. Instead, they have grown worse,” Durbin said. “Last week, President Trump himself called for the impeachment of a federal judge simply because the judge ruled against the Trump Administration. The President’s MAGA loyalists were quick to pile on when he did that. Elon Musk has demanded the impeachment of federal judges dozens of times, and House Republicans rushed to introduce articles of impeachment in the House.”

    In response to the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attack on the federal judiciary, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare statement: “For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”

    “Yet, this relentless campaign against the judiciary has continued,” Durbin said. “On Friday, President Trump issued a wild rant that read in part: ‘Unlawful Nationwide Injunctions by Radical Left Judges could very well lead to the destruction of our Country! These people are Lunatics.’”

    Durbin went on to argue that the U.S. Senate must stand up and defend the judiciary.

    “There has been a lot of debate about when we will cross the threshold into a genuine constitutional crisis. I pray that it will never happen,” Durbin said. “But it will come down to a basic principle. The question is not when we are going to face this, it is that we cannot afford to hold our breath and wait and see if the President will formally announce that he will defy a court order. We must respond to the dangerous attacks on our courts and judges now. The Senate must speak with one voice, Republicans and Democrats, in defense of the judiciary, the separation of powers, the Constitution, and the country we love.”

    Durbin continued, “Some have argued that impeachment of judges is necessary because of the number of injunctions issued against President Trump compared to other Presidents. They claim this is evidence that federal judges are biased against President Trump. I would suggest there is a more obvious explanation: the number of injunctions issued against the first and second Trump Administrations is evidence of a President who has repeatedly violated the law.”

    Durbin also responded to baseless claims from Elon Musk and other MAGA allies that the most recent judge to be targeted by President Trump, Judge Boasberg, is a radical ideologue.

    “Let’s be clear. Judge Boasberg is no partisan. He was appointed to the Superior Court of the District of Columbia by a Republican President: George W. Bush. As a D.C. district court judge, Judge Boasberg has issued many rulings that clearly illustrate impartiality. For example, he was the judge who ordered the release of thousands of Hillary Clinton’s emails. And his decisions have favored President Trump’s interests on several occasions,” Durbin said. “Other judges who have ruled against the Trump Administration were appointed by Republican Presidents—including some who were appointed by President Trump himself. He is not always going to win in court. He seems to think he should.”

    Durbin concluded, “The danger posed by the Trump Administration’s attack on the judiciary is not abstract. The recent invective by the President and his allies has resulted in increased threats to the lives of judges and their families. That is absolutely unacceptable. Our judges should not fear for their lives and those of their loved ones because of their work. And if judges feel compelled to decide cases in favor of the President to avoid his wrath, we will no longer have an independent judiciary. We can debate the value of nationwide injunctions and the merits of any particular judicial decision. But violence or threats of violence, whether from the right or the left of the political spectrum are never – never – acceptable… it is up to both political parties to protect it [an independent judiciary]. We’ve sworn to uphold and defend this Constitution, and now we are going to be tested.”

    Durbin’s resolution on the rule of law is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jean Shaheen (D-NH), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Jon Ossoff (D-GA).

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

    Full text of the resolution is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Andy’s career change journey earns a place in national final A University of Aberdeen geology student has reached the final of the UK Career Change Awards after embarking on a degree following service as a Royal Marine Commando and rope access technician on offshore installations.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    A University of Aberdeen geology student has reached the final of the UK Career Change Awards after embarking on a degree following service as a Royal Marine Commando and rope access technician on offshore installations.
    Andy Rycroft, who lives in Turriff, had written off his chances of succeeding in education with a succession of school reports citing that he was ‘easily distracted, doesn’t listen to instructions, presentation is poor’.
    With no qualifications he enlisted in the Royal Marines and after 32 weeks of the most arduous basic military training in the world, became a Royal Marines Commando serving in Afghanistan and on operations in Canada and the UK.
    The military gave him his first taste of formal training and he gained and NVQ and apprenticeship in engineering.
    But when he left in 2012 he again turned to his practical skills training as a Rope Access Inspection Technician and later worked in the Oil and Gas industry as a project planner.
    It was not until Covid slowed down the pace of the world that he asked what really inspired him and decided to follow his passion for earth and planetary science, signing up to a part-time distance learning course with the University of London Birkbeck.
    During the enrolment process he took a learning differences screening and was diagnosed with dyslexia, making sense of the negative school reports.
    Andy said: “With correct allowances in place and modern technology like recording lectures, Grammarly, reading back aloud and extra reading time in exams, I unlocked the cheat code in my mind.
    “After achieving a distinction in the planetary science certificate, I was eager to complete the degree but decided to come closer to home and accelerate it to full-time learning.
    “So, after 11 years in the Oil industry, I left and the University of Aberdeen accepted me to year two of BSc Geology, where I achieved my proudest grade to date. A 3500 report on the history of earth life with an A1 grade, has given me a huge confidence boost going into my honours years.
    “I am currently in year 3 and getting ready to undertake my mapping project dissertation in the summer of 2025. After I complete my degree in 2026, I will become the first in my family to have a university degree.”
    This remarkable career change has secured him a place as one of only 10 finalists the targetjobs UK Career Change Award Grand Final to be held in London April 25.
    And Andy has plans to put his academic passion for earth sciences to practical use once he has completed his degree.
    “I want to be part of something that makes a tangible impact on people’s lives,” he added. “The current energy crisis in the UK, where some people have to choose between heating and eating, is not something we can sit by and do nothing about. This can only be achieved by investing in wind, battery storage, and electric car charging infrastructure using clean energy sources. I am keen to transition into an industry where I can apply these passions.
    “I’m honoured to be selected for the final out of hundreds of nationwide applications. I had the privilege of meeting representatives from Clifford Chance, the award sponsor and seeing first-hand how seriously they value career changers.
    “Being invited to their stunning HQ in Canary Wharf along with 20 other shortlisted candidates was an incredible and humbling experience. I had the opportunity to pitch my career change journey and present an innovation that breaks down barriers for career changers, showcasing its benefits for both individuals and organisations.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Improving food safety in Alberta

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New framework introduced for First Nations consultation on mining claims

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Before the Mineral Claims Consultation Framework (MCCF), a free miner would select available cells and pays a registration fee to automatically register a claim in Mineral Titles Online (MTO). No consultation would be conducted with First Nations.

    The MCCF will establish the process for applying for a claim and consulting with First Nations before claims are registered. This process ensures the Province fulfils its duty to consult.

    The duty to consult is a legal obligation of the Crown to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate First Nations before decisions are made that may impact First Nations’ rights and title, and treaty rights.

    What is staying the same?

    Claim holders can maintain their registered mineral and placer claims. They can also conduct activities on registered claims that do not require a Mines Act permit – for example, collecting rocks and soil samples by hand or performing airborne surveys. MTO will continue to be the platform for managing claims.

    What is changing?

    As of March 26, 2025, the Province must consult First Nations before new claims are registered in MTO to understand how a claim may impact First Nations’ rights and title. A decision will be made by a statutory decision maker whether to register the claim, register the claim with accommodations, or deny the claim application.

    Have there been similar court challenges in other provinces?

    In Ontario, two legal actions were launched in 2024, challenging its Mining Act and arguing that Ontario has a constitutional duty to consult First Nations before granting new mining claims, similar to B.C.’s Gitxaala case.

    An October 2024 court decision in Quebec found that province has a duty to consult on the registration of mineral claims under its Mining Act and accommodate any adverse impacts, if necessary. The Province of Quebec has appealed the court ruling.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month

    NCDHHS and Positive Childhood Alliance Hold Public Event to Recognize April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services along with Positive Childhood Alliance is holding an event as Governor Josh Stein proclaims April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in North Carolina. Recognizing the role everyone plays in helping North Carolina’s children reach their full potential, this Child Abuse Prevention Month, community organizations, government agencies, businesses, faith groups and other stakeholders will come together to amplify a message of hope for strong families and supportive communities. A free family-friendly public event will be held on Tuesday, April 1st at Pullen Park in Raleigh, North Carolina from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes free food and entertainment while supplies last.

    The 2025 national campaign theme, “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention,” highlights the importance of working together to create the conditions that build a stronger future for all.

    “Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment with hope for the future,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai. “By ensuring families have the resources, support, and connections they need before challenges become crises, we can build a stronger North Carolina where all children and families can thrive.”

    In collaboration with statewide partners like NCDHHS, Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC) is committed to driving systems change and building a strong family support ecosystem across North Carolina. We are working to create the conditions where children grow up with positive experiences and nurturing relationships—while also equipping local communities with the tools and support they need to strengthen all families.

    “For every $10 spent on child welfare in the U.S., only $1.50 goes toward prevention—we can and must do better,” said Sharon Hirsch, President and CEO of Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. “By investing in family resource centers and community-based solutions, we can ensure families have the support they need before challenges become crises. When we shift our focus to prevention, we create a future where all children grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing environments, surrounded by positive experiences and hope.”

    During Child Abuse Prevention Month, PCANC and NCDHHS are joining the national effort to reshape the narrative around child maltreatment prevention and increase investments in programs and policies that prioritize children and families. This month, and all year long, communities and individuals can help NCDHHS and PCANC advance family-centered prevention programs and policies by taking action in the following ways:

    • Attend a Pinwheel Planting hosted by NCDHHS and PCANC on Tuesday, April 1, 11:00 a.m., at Pullen Park (520 Ashe Ave. Raleigh, NC). Learn more.
      • The public and media are invited to attend. Speakers include NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai, NCDHHS Director of Human Services Lisa Tucker Cauley, Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina President and CEO Sharon Hirsch, and Parent Leader Sanaa Sharrieff. Food and drink will be provided while supplies last.
    • Wear blue on Friday, April 4 – Wear Blue Day – to show support for children and families. Post a photo or video on social media and include the #WearBlueDay2025 and #NC hashtags.
    • Participate in digital advocacy day on Tuesday, April 9, to advocate for increased federal investment in community-based child abuse prevention grants that provide states and communities with the resources to implement community-based solutions to prevent child abuse and neglect.
    • Follow PCANC on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram and share our posts throughout April. Encourage friends and family to do the same. Click here to follow NCDHHS on all social media platforms.

    For more ways to get involved in Child Abuse Prevention Month, please visit PositiveChildhoodAllianceNC.org.

    ###

    About Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina 
    Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina connects organizations and individuals with what they need to help children and families meet their full potential. Founded in 1979 (as Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina), Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina has demonstrated 46 years of commitment to nurturing positive childhoods for all. Through data-driven coaching, professional development, advocacy efforts and building public understanding PCANC strives to build and share solutions that work for all families. In partnership with state and local level child advocates and network members, PCANC is creating a state where families live in connected, supportive communities and as a result, all North Carolina children will live purposeful lives, filled with positive experiences and hope for the future. PCANC is the North Carolina chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America, the National Family Support Network, and Circle of Parents®. It is a proud recipient of Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating and GuideStar’s Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information, contact Kris Demers, Director of Communications and Marketing, at (919) 829-8009, ext. 619 or kdemers@positivechildhoodnc.org. 

    About North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
    The NC Department of Health and Human Services manages the delivery of health- and human-related services for all North Carolinians, especially our most vulnerable people – children, elderly, disabled and low-income families. In collaboration with partners, NCDHHS provides essential services to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians. The department works closely with health care professionals, community leaders and advocacy groups; local, state and federal entities; and many other stakeholders to make this happen.

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, junto con Positive Childhood Alliance, está celebrando un evento mientras el gobernador Josh Stein proclama abril como el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil en Carolina del Norte. Reconociendo el papel que todos desempeñan para ayudar a los niños de Carolina del Norte a alcanzar su máximo potencial, este Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil,organizaciones comunitarias, agencias gubernamentales, empresas, grupos religiosos y otras partes interesadas se unirán para amplificar un mensaje de esperanza para familias fuertes y comunidades de apoyo. El martes 1 de abril se celebrará un evento público gratuito para toda la familia en Pullen Park en Raleigh, Carolina del Norte, a partir de las 11:00 a. m. hasta la 1:00 p.m. e incluye comida y entretenimiento gratis hasta agotar abastecimiento.

    El tema de la campaña nacional de 2025, “Impulsado por la esperanza, fortalecido por la prevención”, destaca la importancia de trabajar juntos para crear las condiciones que construyan un futuro más sólido para todos.

    “Todos los niños merecen crecer en un entorno seguro y enriquecedor con esperanza para el futuro”, dijo  el secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Dr. Dev Sangvai. “Al garantizar que las familias tengan los recursos, el apoyo y las conexiones que necesitan antes de que los desafíos se conviertan en crisis, podemos construir un Carolina del Norte más fuerte donde todos los niños y las familias puedan prosperar”.

    En colaboración con socios estatales como el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés), Positive Childhood Alliance NC (PCANC, por sus siglas en inglés) está comprometida a impulsar el cambio de sistemas y construir un sólido ecosistema de apoyo para las familias en Carolina del Norte. Estamos trabajando para crear las condiciones en las que los niños crezcan con experiencias positivas y relaciones enriquecedoras, al tiempo que equipamos a las comunidades locales con las herramientas y el apoyo que necesitan para fortalecer a todas las familias.

    “Por cada $10 gastados en bienestar infantil en los Estados Unidos, solo $1.50 se destinan a la prevención, podemos y debemos hacerlo mejor”, dijo Sharon Hirsch, presidenta y directora ejecutiva de Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina. “Al invertir en centros de recursos familiares y soluciones basadas en la comunidad, podemos garantizar que las familias tengan el apoyo que necesitan antes de que los desafíos se conviertan en crisis. Cuando cambiamos nuestro enfoque a la prevención, creamos un futuro en el que todos los niños crecen en entornos seguros, estables y enriquecedores, rodeados de experiencias positivas y esperanza”.

    Durante el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil, PCANC y NCDHHS se unen al esfuerzo nacional para remodelar la narrativa en torno a la prevención del maltrato infantil y aumentar las inversiones en programas y políticas que priorizan a los niños y las familias. Este mes, y durante todo el año, las comunidades y las personas pueden ayudar a NCDHHS y PCANC a promover programas y políticas de prevención centrados en la familia tomando medidas de las siguientes maneras:

    • Asista a una plantación de molinillos organizada por NCDHHS y PCANC el martes, 1 de abril, 11:00 a.m., en Pullen Park (520 Ashe Ave. Raleigh, NC. Más información.
      • El público y los medios de comunicación están invitados a asistir. Los oradores incluyen al   secretario de la NCDHHS, Dr. Dev Sangvai , la directora de Servicios Humanos de NCDHHS Lisa Tucker Cauley, la presidenta y directora ejecutiva de Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina, Sharon Hirsch, y la líder de padres Sanaa Sharrieff. Se proporcionará comida y bebida hasta agotar abastecimiento.
    • Vístase de azul el viernes 4 de abril – Día de Vestirse de azul – para mostrar su apoyo a los niños y las familias. Publique una foto o un vídeo en las redes sociales e incluya los hashtags # WearBlueDay2025 y #NC.
    • Participe en el día de la defensa digital el martes, 9 de abril, para abogar por una mayor inversión federal en subvenciones comunitarias para la prevención del abuso infantil que proporcionen a los estados y las comunidades los recursos para implementar soluciones comunitarias para prevenir el maltrato y la negligencia infantil.
    • Siga a PCANC en LinkedIn, Facebook y Instagram y comparta nuestras publicaciones a lo largo de abril. Anime a sus amigos y familiares a hacer lo mismo. Haga clic aquí para seguir a NCDHHS en todas las plataformas de redes sociales.

    Para conocer más formas de participar en el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil, visite PositiveChildhoodAllianceNC.org.

    Acerca de Positive Childhood Alliance (Alianza para la infancia positiva) de Carolina del Norte
    Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina conecta a organizaciones e individuos con lo que necesitan para ayudar a los niños y las familias a alcanzar su máximo potencial. Fundada en 1979 (como Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina), Positive Childhood Alliance North Carolina ha demostrado 46 años de compromiso para fomentar infancias positivas para todos. A través del coaching basado en datos, el desarrollo profesional, los esfuerzos de promoción y la construcción de la comprensión pública, PCANC se esfuerza por construir y compartir soluciones que funcionen para todas las familias. En asociación con defensores de los niños a nivel estatal y local y miembros de la red, PCANC está creando un estado donde las familias viven en comunidades conectadas y de apoyo y, como resultado, todos los niños de Carolina del Norte vivirán vidas con propósito, llenas de experiencias positivas y esperanza para el futuro. PCANC es el capítulo de Carolina del Norte de Prevent Child Abuse America, la Red Nacional de Apoyo Familiar y Circle of Parents®. Se enorgullece de haber recibido la prestigiosa calificación de 4 estrellas de Charity Navigator y el Sello de Transparencia Platino de GuideStar. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Kris Demers, Director de Comunicaciones y Marketing, al (919) 829-8009, ext. 619 o kdemers@positivechildhoodnc.org. 

    Sobre el Departamento de Salud Y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte
    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte gestiona la prestación de servicios relacionados con la salud y el ser humano para todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte, especialmente nuestras personas más vulnerables: niños, ancianos, discapacitados y familias de bajos ingresos. En colaboración con los socios, NCDHHS proporciona servicios esenciales para mejorar la salud, la seguridad y el bienestar de todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte. El departamento trabaja en estrecha colaboración con profesionales de la salud, líderes comunitarios y grupos de defensa; entidades locales, estatales y federales; y muchas otras partes interesadas para que esto suceda.

    Mar 26, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TOLEDO, Ohio – Eduardo Lopez-Jiguan, 35, a citizen of Guatemala who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced on March 18, 2025, to 13 months in federal prison for illegal reentry.  U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey J. Helmick also imposed a consecutive six-month sentence on a supervised release violation for a total prison sentence of 19 months.  Lopez-Jiguan was on supervised release after being convicted in February 2023 of illegal reentry and possession of a fraudulent identification document.

    At the guilty plea, Lopez-Jiguan admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Lopez-Jiguan was previously deported in 2020 and 2023.  In August 2024, immigration officials learned Lopez-Jiguan had illegally returned to the United States and found him at the Huron County Jail after previously serving a jail sentence for falsification and operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

    This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ava Rotell Dustin for the Northern District of Ohio.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Koreatown-Based Medicare Advantage Provider Seoul Medical Group and Related Parties to Pay More Than $62 Million to Settle False Claims Lawsuit

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Seoul Medical Group Inc. and its subsidiary Advanced Medical Management Inc., headquartered in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles, have agreed to pay $58.74 million and their former president and majority owner, Dr. Min Young Cha, has agreed to pay $1.76 million for allegedly violating the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes for two spinal conditions to increase payments from the Medicare Advantage program.

    Renaissance Imaging Medical Associates Inc., a Northridge-based radiology group that worked with Seoul Medical, has also agreed to pay $2.35 million for allegedly conspiring with Seoul Medical Group in connection with the false diagnoses for the two spinal conditions.

    “My office is committed to ensuring that healthcare providers are held accountable for unlawful misrepresentations to Medicare and other healthcare programs,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “As this settlement makes clear, we will diligently pursue those who defraud government programs.”

    “Medicare Advantage is a vital program for our seniors and the government expects healthcare providers who participate in the program to provide truthful and accurate information,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s result sends a clear message to the Medicare Advantage community that the United States will zealously pursue appropriate action against those who knowingly submit false claims for taxpayer funds.”

    Under Medicare Advantage, also known as the Medicare Part C program, Medicare beneficiaries have the option of enrolling in managed care insurance plans called Medicare Advantage Plans (MA Plans) and the MA Plans contract with healthcare providers, such as Seoul Medical Group, to provide the Medicare-covered benefits. MA Plans are paid a per-person amount to provide the care to their enrollees and, in turn, the MA Plans pay the providers.

    The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which oversees the Medicare program, adjusts the payments to MA Plans based on demographic information and the health diagnoses of each plan beneficiary. The adjustments are commonly referred to as “risk scores.” In general, a beneficiary with diagnoses that are more expensive to treat will have a higher risk score, and CMS will make a larger risk-adjusted payment to the MA Plan for that beneficiary.

    Seoul Medical Group is a healthcare provider that started in 1993 in Los Angeles and has since expanded into at least six states and has employed at times 150 primary care providers and 1,000 specialists. Dr. Min Young Cha started Seoul Medical Group and until 2023 was president and majority owner. 

    The United States alleged that, from 2015 to 2021, Seoul Medical Group and Dr. Cha submitted diagnoses for two severe spinal conditions, spinal enthesopathy and sacroiliitis, for patients who did not suffer from either of these conditions. When Seoul Medical Group was questioned by an MA Plan about its use of spinal enthesopathy, Seoul Medical Group enlisted the assistance of Renaissance Imaging Medical Associates to create radiology reports that appeared to support the spinal enthesopathy diagnosis. Both diagnoses resulted in an increase in payment from CMS to the MA Plan, and the MA Plan then passed along a portion of the increased payment to Seoul Medical Group. 

    “Providers who game the Medicare program to increase profit undermine the foundation of care and diminish patient trust in the nation’s public health care system,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners and rigorously probe false claims to the fullest extent possible.”

    The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Paul Pew, the former Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Advanced Medical Management. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States of America ex rel. Pew v. Seoul Medical Group, Inc., et al., No. 2:20-cv-05156 (C.D. Cal.). The relator’s share of the settlement has not yet been determined.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General.

    The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    Assistant United Sates Attorney Karen Y. Paik of the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section and Trial Attorneys J. Jennifer Koh and Robbin O. Lee of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section investigated this matter.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Area-Based Flooring Company and Its Owners to Pay $8.1 Million to Settle False Claims Allegations Related to Customs Duties Evasions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Evolutions Flooring Inc., a South San Francisco, California based importer of multilayered wood flooring, and its owners, Mengya Lin and Jin Qian, have agreed to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly evading customs duties on imports of multilayered wood flooring from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The settlement is based on Evolutions’ and its owners’ ability to pay.

    To enter goods into the United States, an importer must declare, among other things, the country of origin of the goods, the value of the goods, whether the goods are subject to duties, and the amount of duties owed.

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects applicable duties, including antidumping and countervailing duties assessed by the Department of Commerce and Section 301 duties imposed by the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Antidumping duties protect against foreign companies “dumping” products on U.S. markets at prices below cost, while countervailing duties offset foreign government subsidies.

    Section 301 duties similarly protect U.S. industry by imposing trade sanctions on foreign countries that violate U.S. trade agreements or engage in other unreasonable acts that burden U.S. commerce. During the relevant time period, PRC-manufactured multilayered wood flooring products were subject to antidumping, countervailing, and Section 301 duties.

    The settlement resolves allegations that Evolutions, at the direction of Lin and Qian, knowingly and improperly evaded customs duties, including antidumping, countervailing, and Section 301 duties, on multilayered wood flooring manufactured in the PRC that Evolutions imported between Sept. 1, 2019 and July 31, 2022. Among other things, the United States alleged that Evolutions caused false information to be submitted to CBP regarding the identity of the manufacturers and country of origin of the imported multilayered wood flooring.

    “The outcome of this case demonstrates that our office and its CBP partners will continue to safeguard the nation’s economic well-being,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Fraud in international commerce deprives the United States of vital revenue and creates an unfair advantage over businesses that operate legitimately. The settlement sends a message that we will not stand aside when companies try to cheat the system.”

    “Import duties provide an important source of government revenue and level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers against their global competitors,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov M. Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The department will pursue those who seek an unfair advantage in U.S. markets, including by evading the duties owed on goods imported into this country from China.”

    “The team at CBP was instrumental in providing expertise and logistical support to this investigation,” said Director of Field Operations Cheryl M. Davies of the CBP Los Angeles Field Office. “Through its efforts, which included a site visit to factories in Thailand, review of identified shipments by CBP experts on multilayered wood flooring, an analysis of import records and data by Office of Trade Regulatory Audit, and involvement in interviews with witnesses, CBP contributed to a successful outcome in this matter.”

    The settlement with Evolutions and its owners resolves a lawsuit filed by Urban Global LLC under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. The civil lawsuit was filed in the Central District of California and is captioned United States of America ex rel. Urban Global LLC v. Struxtur Inc. et al., No. CV20-7217 (C.D. Cal.). As part of today’s resolution, relator Urban Global LLC will receive approximately $1,215,000 of the settlement proceeds.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, with assistance from CBP’s Office of Chief Counsel, West Region and Trade Regulatory Audit and the Center of Excellence and Expertise for Industrial and Manufacturing Materials within CBP’s Office of Trade.

    Assistant United States Attorney Sheng-Wen D. Jui of the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section and Senior Trial Counsel Christelle Klovers of the Justice Department’s Civil Division handled this case.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Spring statement: defence spending boosted as further disability benefit cuts announced – experts react

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Shampa Roy-Mukherjee, Vice Dean and Professor in Economics, University of East London

    Not even six months on from Labour’s first budget, and the world is a much-changed place. Geopolitical tensions and uncertainties, already high last year, have risen further, and with them the cost of the UK’s debt, while economic growth has stalled. As such, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confronted an array of unpalatable choices – notably cutting disability benefits – to enable her to increase defence spending and stabilise the public finances. Here’s what our panel of experts made of the statement:

    Falling inflation wasn’t enough to prevent further disability cuts

    Shampa Roy-Mukherjee, Vice Dean and Professor in Economics, University of East London

    The independent Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has halved the UK’s 2025 growth forecast to 1%, down from the previously projected 2%. This sluggish growth, coupled with increased borrowing costs, has effectively eliminated the government’s £9.9 billion “fiscal headroom” – its financial buffer – resulting in a £4.1 billion shortfall by 2029-30.

    There was some short-term relief in the latest inflation figures. These showed a slowdown in price rises in February (2.8% against 3% in January). The dip was caused by discounting of items like clothing. But given around half of businesses are considering price rises to combat tax hikes and the national living wage increase coming in April, this relief is likely to be short-lived. The OBR forecasts that inflation will climb back up to 3.2% this year.

    The government had previously set out its controversial plans for £5 billion in welfare cuts. But the OBR rejected the claim that the reforms would save that much, estimating the savings at £3.4 billion, leaving Reeves with a £1.6 billion shortfall. As such, she has had to announce additional welfare reforms.

    These include freezing the universal credit health element until 2030 and reducing it to £50 a week for new claimants. This is aimed at saving an additional £500 million by 2030 – and combined with other planned welfare reforms could affect more than 3 million people. But the standard allowance for universal credit will see an above-inflation increase from 2026-27 and the incomes of those with the most severe lifelong conditions will be protected.

    Civil service administrative budgets are also to be reduced – by 15% by 2029-30. This, along with other efficiency and productivity improvements, will lead to annual savings of £3.5 billion. These cuts will focus on areas like human resources, policy advice, and office management, rather than frontline services.

    Reeves resorted to tricks and ‘efficiency savings’

    Steve Schifferes, Honorary Research Fellow, City St George’s, University of London

    Reeves has announced a series of tweaks to her spending plans to address the economic situation which has meant that she is in danger of breaking her self-imposed fiscal rules. The chancellor was at pains to say that these rules are “non-negotiable”.

    But these are unlikely to tackle the deeper problem – that in the short term she cannot rely on economic growth to square the circle of Labour’s three contradictory election pledges. These were more spending on public services, lower taxes and strict fiscal rules.

    The UK, in fact, is particularly vulnerable to the disruption of global trade that is likely to result from US president Donald Trump’s tariff wars. And the productivity gains from her long-term infrastructure plans will take years – if not a decade – to translate into higher growth.

    Like many chancellors, Reeves has resorted to various tricks – such as counting money moved to the defence budget to build tanks and aircraft as capital spending (and therefore exempt from the borrowing rules). And she has called for “efficiency savings” in the civil service and government departments that are unlikely to be realised.

    But the biggest savings are coming from deeper than expected cuts in disability payments and other welfare payments, reducing the income of more than 3 million people. This is upsetting many Labour MPs. Her big sweetener – £2 billion for social housing next year – is actually less than that already allocated by the previous Conservative government.

    Crucially, the further savings likely to be demanded in the spending review (announced on June 11) from unprotected departments including local government, justice and environment, will certainly look a lot like a return to austerity.

    In the end – and possibly as soon as the autumn budget – the chancellor will have to accept that as well as spending cuts, she will have to consider tax increases and possibly even a revision of the fiscal rules.

    Otherwise, she will remain at the mercy of the markets and the forecasters. Any long-term strategy will be strangled by the need to continually adjust policy to meet the fiscal “headroom” target she has set which leaves little room for manoeuvre. This requires an implausibly accurate prediction of the state of the economy in five years’ time by the OBR.

    The Civil Service could see 10,000 jobs axed.
    pxl.store/Shutterstock

    Commitment to financial stability is actually increasing uncertainty

    Linda Yueh, Fellow and Adjunct Professor of Economics, University of Oxford

    The chancellor’s self-imposed fiscal rules are intended to provide stability – one of the foundations of economic growth. One of those rules, which Rachel Reeves has said she will not bend, is that government day-to-day spending must be balanced by tax receipts by the end of this parliament.

    This is intended to provide transparency on fiscal policy. And Reeves clearly understands the importance of how international financial markets react to the UK’s level of spending – and its public debt (currently about 100% of GDP).

    But the world is not a stable place. And with the OBR halving its 2025 GDP growth forecast from 2% to 1%, unplanned cuts to public spending followed.

    Consistency in fiscal policy helps households and business to plan for the future. But during times of heightened uncertainty with global tariffs looming, GDP is likely to remain volatile. This makes not changing the government’s fiscal stance particularly challenging.

    It is also challenging for chancellor personally, as she would prefer to have one “fiscal event” a year, rather than two. But the OBR is obliged to provide economic forecasts twice a year, and when it slashes expected growth, she is duty bound to respond.

    Somewhat ironically then, the government’s stability rule is having the unintended consequence of adding policy uncertainty to an already uncertain overall economic environment – and more frequent changes to fiscal policy.

    ‘Let’s shake on increasing defence spending, bigly.’
    Joshua Sukoff/Shutterstock

    Modest defence spending boost will struggle to reverse years of decline

    Jamie Gaskarth, Professor of Foreign Policy and International Relations, the Open University

    In two months, the UK defence sector has been turned upside down – primarily by Donald Trump. His administration has made implied threats to invade a NATO ally (Denmark), challenged the sovereignty of another (Canada) and pulled support for Ukraine, openly siding with Russia in ceasefire negotiations. There is a real chance the US will draw down its security presence in Europe.

    If European countries are to meet the full cost of their own security, this will have to mean a dramatic increase in defence budgets. So far, the UK has redistributed aid money to help fund an increase in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP (from 2.3%) by 2027, with the ambition to raise it to 3% in the next parliament.

    It has also offered an extra £2 billion to underwrite defence exports. But this is small beer.

    As with many areas of public spending, dramatic cuts to the defence budget during the years of austerity (22% in real terms) have meant delays to procurement, crumbling estates and a chronic lack of investment.

    This will take a substantial uplift to redress. Recent increases under the Conservatives were eaten up by capital costs and inflation.

    And while ideas such as the £400 million ringfenced to support innovation in AI and new technology are welcome, these are tiny amounts in the grand scheme of things. The UK is not going to be a “defence industrial superpower” any time soon if budget announcements are this small, and increases so modest.

    Promise to disabled people in tatters

    William E. Donald, Associate Professor of Sustainable Careers and Human Resource Management, University of Southampton

    In November, social security and disability minister Sir Stephen Timms spoke passionately at the Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 awards, vowing to undo past injustices and declaring: “We now want to put that right.” As a disabled person, I cheered. That promise now lies in ruins.

    Despite government claims there will be no return to austerity, sick and disabled people face a real-terms cut to their incomes and the criteria for claiming personal independence payment (Pip) will become stricter than ever. This isn’t just a policy to save £5 billion, it’s cruelty and a devastating attack on disabled people.

    Pip isn’t means-tested and is paid regardless of whether you work. It exists because, according to disability charity Scope, disabled households need an additional £1,010 a month to achieve the same standard of living as others. Stripping this support away while NHS mental health waiting lists grow, energy and food prices rise, and the disability pay gap sits at 12.7% won’t push people into work. It will push them into crisis.

    Last year, Labour promised to break barriers for disabled people. Instead, they are building new ones. These cuts come at the expense of society’s most vulnerable. The consequences will be catastrophic.

    Building a future?
    Ian Dyball/Shutterstock

    Social housing boost – but homes could be improved now

    Nicky Shaw, Senior Lecturer in Operations Management, Leeds University Business School, and Simon Williams, Associate Faculty, Leeds University Business School

    The chancellor’s £2 billion investment in new homes will certainly help to increase the availability of affordable social housing. Everyone agrees that access to decent, affordable homes is important, but the quality and maintenance of existing social houses remains critical. Replacing cladding, for example, is stubbornly challenging.

    But beyond just building more social housing, our research has explored key measures of tenant satisfaction. The potential ways for digital tools such as AI to improve the efficiency of tasks like repairs and maintenance in future are numerous.

    But social housing’s tenant demographic includes many people who are more vulnerable, some of whom prefer not to – or simply cannot – engage with digital services. This means that sustaining face-to-face contact with tenants is critical. Investing in tenants’ experience now could really deliver tangible benefits for some of Britain’s most vulnerable people.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Spring statement: defence spending boosted as further disability benefit cuts announced – experts react – https://theconversation.com/spring-statement-defence-spending-boosted-as-further-disability-benefit-cuts-announced-experts-react-253149

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Statement on Polar Security Cutter Contract Modification

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    Chairman Wicker Statement on Polar Security Cutter Contract Modification

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to modify the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) icebreaker contract to include an additional $951 million investment at Bollinger Shipyards in Pascagoula, Mississippi:

    “As the Arctic grows as an arena of great power competition, the United States will require far more icebreaking capability from the U.S. Coast Guard to defend our interests in the region. Today’s award is a testament to the good work that Bollinger continues to do on the Polar Security Cutter program and the growing urgency with which their platforms are needed to boost our national defense,” Chairman Wicker said. “The Mississippi Gulf Coast will not only benefit from even more national security-focused quality jobs and economic development, but it will also continue to be a national player and powerhouse in mission-critical innovation and military capability.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Peters and Slotkin Accepting Applications from Candidates Interested in Nomination for Federal Judgeship, U.S. Attorney, and U.S. Marshal in Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Elissa Slotkin (MI) announced they are accepting applications from qualified persons interested in being nominated for United States District Court judge in the Eastern District of Michigan. The senators are also accepting applications for United States Attorney and United States Marshal in the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan. Interested candidates should request an application by emailing JudicialNominations@peters.senate.gov.

    • The deadline to submit an application for U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of Michigan is 5:00PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
    • The deadline to submit an application for U.S. Attorney in the Eastern or Western Districts of Michigan is 5:00PM on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

    “Michigan’s federal judges, U.S. Attorneys, and U.S. Marshals play a critical role in keeping our communities safe and administering justice fairly and compassionately,” said Senator Peters. “I’m committed to making sure these important positions are held by those with the legal experience and temperament needed to serve our state well. As we begin the process of evaluating and recommending highly qualified candidates to fill current vacancies, I encourage applicants who are interested in public service to apply.”

    “A critical part of the job of a U.S. Senator is to review and recommend qualified, fair and upstanding nominees to the federal bench, U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshall’s offices,” said Senator Slotkin. “Michigan is home to some of the most talented legal minds in the country, and I encourage qualified applicants interested in serving in the federal judiciary to apply.”

    It is the Senate’s tradition for both home state Senators to recommend judicial nominees to the President for consideration. After someone is nominated, it is Senate procedure for the home state senators to agree to consideration of a nominee before the Senate Judiciary Committee conducts hearings and votes. This is commonly called the “blue slip” process. Nominations approved by the Committee are then considered by the full Senate.

    Peters and Slotkin will continue to listen to public input and consult with Michigan’s legal community to ensure that our state is served by highly qualified, fair, and impartial judges that put the people of Michigan first.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Trump Tariff “Liberation Day,” Warren Presses Commerce Secretary Lutnick on Tariffs As Cover for Corporate Greed-Driven Inflation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    March 26, 2025

    Warren sounds alarm on new data from the Fed showing chaotic Trump tariff strategy enabling price hikes for American consumers

    “[Trump is] creating widespread confusion and uncertainty that may give big corporations cover to increase their prices on all goods”

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee and Member of the Finance Committee, wrote to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick ahead of President Trump’s announcement on proposed reciprocal tariffs on April 2, pressing him to explain how he will prevent big corporations from using tariffs as a cover for price hikes. The letter follows new data released last week by the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) indicating that President Trump’s chaotic tariffs rollout is stalling progress on inflation and giving big corporations a new set of excuses to price-gouge American consumers.

    “We should use tariffs to support American manufacturing, strengthen onshore critical supply chains, and create good-paying jobs here at home. Instead, we are seeing executives pull back on investment and threaten to impose new and unjustified price increases on consumers,” wrote Senator Warren.

    Last week, FRB Chair Jerome Powell announced that the Federal Reserve System will hold interest rates at their current level, reflecting the bureau’s belief that progress towards reducing inflation has stalled. Powell noted that “a good part of [the higher inflation forecast] is coming from tariffs” and that manufacturers tend to “just follow the crowd” and raise prices, even on goods that aren’t subject to tariffs. 

    The Trump administration currently has no plans to prevent companies from using tariffs as an excuse to hike prices up even further, despite corporate executives’ warnings that tariffs would lead them to preemptively raise prices. 

    “I am deeply concerned that President Trump is now enabling this corporate greed, allowing companies to increase prices across the board, regardless of whether goods are actually subject to tariffs,” continued Senator Warren.

    Big corporations have continuously threatened that tariffs would lead them to preemptively raise prices. AutoZone’s CEO said: “We’ll generally raise prices ahead of [tariffs]—we know what the tariffs will be—we generally raise prices ahead of that.” At an earnings call in mid-March, MasterBrand’s CFO said they “anticipate that wide-ranging price increases will be needed across our various products.”

    Senator Warren also demanded Lutnick answer specific questions, including whether he agrees with Powell’s assessment that price increases may be a result of companies’ choosing to pass on the cost of tariffs to consumers, whether the Commerce Department has analyzed the impact of Trump’s tariffs on prices, and whether price increases have been limited to products subject to increased tariffs. Senator Warren also asked Lutnick to share specific actions Trump has taken—if any—to limit companies’ ability to pass on the costs of tariffs or impose broad price increases onto consumers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Stands Up Against Trump Administration’s First Amendment Hypocrisy: “Our obligation…is to defend the rights of people to have free speech—whether they agree with our political position or they don’t.” 

    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 Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, yesterday took to the Senate floor and called on Congress to defend the right to free speech and freedom of the press. Senator Welch discussed how our First Amendment rights are essential to the well-being of America’s democracy, and highlighted how President Trump has sought to silence or to punish journalists and citizens who speak out about the Trump Administration’s lawless agenda.  
    “This is a very important inflection point in our democracy. The First Amendment is being challenged by the executive, who’s unravelling the protections that have been absolute through thick and thin. We all, in this chamber, have to stand up for the First Amendment. And we can have disagreements on the speech that we agree with and that we disagree with, vehemently…But our obligation, as a separate branch of government, as members of the U.S. Senate, is to defend the rights of people to have free speech—whether they agree with our political position or they don’t,” said Senator Welch. 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

    Read the Senator’s remarks as delivered here. 
    On Tuesday, Ranking Member Welch addressed far-right false claims of a vast censorship conspiracy during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution hearing titled “The Censorship Industrial Complex.” Instead of focusing the first Subcommittee hearing on actual and proven instances of censorship by the Trump Administration against journalists, political adversaries, and critics, the Majority focused the first Subcommittee hearing on an alleged—and unproven—censorship enterprise against conservatives.   
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CWA Statement in Response to the Supreme Court Hearing Oral Argument on the Universal Service Fund

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the Supreme Court hearing oral argument in Consumers’ Research v. Federal Communications Commission considering the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) releases the following statement:

    We firmly believe the decades-old Universal Service Fund is fully constitutional and look forward to the Supreme Court affirming that position.

    We can’t let today’s Supreme Court case distract us from the bigger problem: that Congress must act now to reform the Universal Service Fund and ensure its viability for the future. We need to update the program for the internet age, to ensure that the major players who benefit from our networks contribute their fair share to universal service in this country, and to ensure that we can provide the broadband affordability programs that our economy needs. Congress must move forward with contribution reform to the USF program and not overreact to an extremist legal position threatening the program’s constitutionality. If the Supreme Court were to make a decision jeopardizing the USF—which would be in sharp contrast with the overwhelming public support conveyed in amicus briefs from the communications sector, labor, schools, libraries, health care providers, low-income advocates, and others—Congress should be ready to quickly address that decision in a manner targeted to the Court’s opinion and complementary to the necessary structural reforms.

    Every American household, business, hospital, library, and school should have access to affordable communications services no matter where they are located, and the Universal Service Fund is critical to making that happen. CWA members include technicians and customer support representatives who build and service broadband networks. We see the positive impact of these programs every day. As fiber broadband networks expand, the Universal Service programs will be even more important to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to realize the benefits that high-speed internet service provides.

    ###

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

    cwa-union.org @cwaunion

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore Statement on Election Administration Executive Order

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    PROVIDENCE, RI � Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore today released the following statement after the signing of a new Executive Order targeting election administration:

    “President Trump has a long history of undermining voters’ confidence in our election systems and spreading misinformation about how elections work. Despite these efforts, which are at the heart of this Executive Order, I remain confident that our elections, managed by professional administrators, are safe, secure, and trustworthy.

    Beyond that, elements of this Executive Order closely echo pieces of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (the SAVE Act), which I have already voiced my opposition to. The SAVE Act deviates from pro-voter and pro-democracy policies that make it easier for people to cast a ballot by placing an undue burden on American citizens. It is already illegal for non-citizens to vote, and requiring documentation proving citizenship effectively creates a poll tax for voters. Through this Executive Order, President Trump is disregarding our country’s separation of powers as the SAVE Act makes its way through Congress.

    While our team works diligently to review President Trump’s Executive Order in full, and ultimately it will be up to the courts to determine if the provisions within the Order will hold, it’s important that Rhode Islanders are reminded of the facts of how elections are administered in our state.

    Our democracy depends on the continuation of our democratic processes � and participating in that democracy is one of the most fundamental tenets of our American values.

    I look forward to continuing to safeguard those processes as Rhode Island’s Secretary of State, ensuring that all eligible Rhode Islanders can successfully cast their ballot.��”

    Despite the claims made in the Executive Order, the following election administration facts remain true in Rhode Island:

    All voters already attest to their United States citizenship and eligibility to vote, under penalty of perjury. Whether Rhode Islanders register online, at the Division of Motor Vehicles, or by paper form, they affirm their eligibility to vote on their registration form.

    Rhode Island already uses paper ballots. Even votes marked via touch-screen accessible ExpressVote devices generate a paper record.

    Rhode Island is already a participant in the very type of information-sharing agreements mentioned in the Order, intended to identify potential instances of election fraud, including federal and state agencies. Despite the misinformation that has been publicized about the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), the RI Department of State’s Elections Division has found ERIC to be an effective tool in both voter list maintenance and identification of potential instances of election fraud.

    Rhode Island already undergoes regular voter list maintenance efforts. A statewide voter mailing in 2020 ultimately resulted in 60,619 inactive voter registrations being removed from the state’s voter list. The Department of State is committed to continuing this work, and in this year’s budget request, Secretary Amore requested funds to support an additional voter list maintenance mailing effort.

    All ballots must be cast in person or received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. The only exception is for military and overseas voters.

    To learn more about elections in Rhode Island, visit https://vote.sos.ri.gov/.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sidetrade Annual Results for 2024: Operating Margin exceeds 15% of Revenue and Net Profit up 40%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New record in year-over-year bookings (+13% in ACV)

    Strong revenue growth: up 26% with SaaS subscriptions up 22%

    Operating margin (3)exceeds 15% of revenue (+45%)

    Surge in net profit to €7.9 million, up 40%

    Operating cash flow strongly supporting the acquisition of SHS Viveon

    Recognized ESG commitment: Platinum by EthiFinance and Silver by EcoVadis

    Sidetrade, the global leader in AI-powered Order-to-Cash applications, today announces a 26% increase in revenue for 2024, with a surge in operating margin (3)of €8.4 million (+45%) and in net profit of €7.9 million (+40%).

    Sidetrade

    (€m)

    		 2024 2023 Change
           
    Revenue 55.0 (1) 43.7 +26%
    SaaS subscriptions 45.5 (2) 36.6 +22%
           
    Gross margin 43.1 35.3 +22%
           
    Operating expenses (OPEX) (34.6) (29.4) +18%
           
    Operating margin (3) 8.4 5.8 +45%
    as a % of revenue 15% 13%  
    Net profit 7.9 5.6 +40%

    2024 information is from consolidated, unaudited data.
    (1) includes €4.4m in SHS Viveon revenue
    (2) includes €3.0m in SHS Viveon recurring revenue
    (3) Operating margin corresponds to operating profit based on 2024 accounting standards in France, including the French Research Tax Credit.

    Olivier Novasque, CEO of Sidetrade commented:

    “2024 once again illustrates the strength of Sidetrade’s business model, combining growth with profitability. Our 26% revenue increase was driven by a major breakthrough in the North American market, a leading-edge AI offering embraced by large enterprises, and the acquisition of SHS Viveon in Germany, which has further solidified our leadership in Order-to-Cash solutions across Europe. For the first time in our history, we have surpassed €8 million in operating profit, a significant 45% increase, highlighting the effectiveness and balance of our expansion strategy. But the real story goes beyond this impressive performance. We are witnessing an accelerated revolution in how businesses leverage artificial intelligence, marked by the emergence of specialized AI agents. Unlike traditional automation models that rely on rigid rule-based programming and constant human oversight, AI agents bring a new level of autonomous decision-making and real time operational optimization. These are no longer mere automation tools; they are intelligent entities capable of anticipating needs and acting independently within a company’s IT infrastructure, with minimal human intervention. Where traditional software simply organizes workflows using pre-defined rules, an AI agent trains, learns, adapts, and executes complex processes on its own. And this agentic revolution is only just beginning! At Sidetrade, Aimie represents the next generation of AI, evolving into an agentic AI that will orchestrate a network of AI agents, each managing a specific link in the Order-to-Cash cycle: risk, disputes, collections, cash application, and more. Aimie will direct, coordinate, and interconnect these high-specialized agents. Backed by the Sidetrade Data Lake, the most unique in the Order-to-Cash market and built on $7.2 trillion in B2B transactions spanning over 39.9 million businesses, Aimie is already powered by a one-of-a-kind training dataset in our field that will give its AI agents unmatched intelligence. Thanks to intensified R&D investments in 2024, we are set to launch our first next-gen AI agent in 2025, one that will redefine the boundaries of autonomy and capability. Companies that fail to embrace this paradigm shift will be rapidly outpaced by those that embed AI agents at the core of their operational excellence. With Aimie, Sidetrade is fully aligned with this AI agent revolution and is uniquely positioned to lead the race in its field.”

    New record in year-over-year bookings (+13% in ACV)
    Sidetrade maintained its growth trajectory in 2024 and set a new record with Annual Contract Value (ACV) reaching €12.73 million, up 13% compared to 2023. Annual Recurring Revenue (New ARR), increased by 6%, amounting to €6.53 million while Services bookings grew by 21%, totaling €6.2 million.

    Bookings by new customers (“New Business”) accounted for 63% of total new bookings in 2024, while contract extensions (“Cross-sell”) and additional modules to existing customers (“Upsell”) contributed 18% and 19% of bookings, respectively.

    Strong revenue growth in 2024: up 26% with SaaS subscriptions up 22%

    In 2024, Sidetrade reported annual revenue of €55.0 million, marking a 26% increase compared to the previous year, and a 16% increase on a reported basis (excluding the acquisition of SHS Viveon finalized in June 2024). Several factors contributed to this strong performance:

    • Sustained organic growth: Overall revenue (excluding the acquisition of SHS Viveon) grew by 16%, while SaaS subscriptions increased by 15%. Meanwhile, Services showed impressive growth of 24%, driven by global implementation projects.
    • Strategic acquisition of SHS Viveon opening the DACH region: Since July 1, 2024, SHS Viveon has contributed €4.4 million to Sidetrade’s revenue, now accounting for 15% of total revenue in the second half of 2024.
    • Expanding international reach: The integration of SHS Viveon has increased the share of revenue generated outside of France to 65%. With 70% of its workforce now based internationally, Sidetrade demonstrates its ability to scale globally while maintaining strong local client relationships, key to building trust and driving operational efficiency.
    • Outstanding performance in North America: North America recorded the highest growth in 2024, with a 36% increase, bringing annual revenue to €16.6 million. This strategic market is central to Sidetrade’s ambitions.

    Sidetrade continues to strengthen its position among multinationals, with a 44% increase in subscriptions from companies generating over €2.5 billion in revenue. These contracts now represent 50% of total subscriptions. More broadly, companies generating over €1 billion in revenue account for 79% of the portfolio, cementing Sidetrade’s status as a preferred partner for large enterprises.

    Gross margin and operating margin: strongly accelerating performance

    • Strong growth in gross margin: +22% with an increase of €7.8 million

    The sustained momentum in subscription growth continued to drive the expansion of the gross margin in 2024. On a like-for-like basis (excluding SHS Viveon), the gross margin rate for subscriptions remained particularly high at 92%, compared to 93% in 2023. SaaS subscriptions now represent 97% of the total gross margin.

    Sidetrade’s overall gross margin rate on a like-for-like basis stood at 80%, versus 81% the previous year. Including the impact of SHS Viveon acquisition, the consolidated gross margin rate reached 78% of total revenue for the 2024 fiscal year.

    In total, in 2024, Sidetrade delivered an incremental gross margin increase of €7.8 million compared to 2023, representing a +22% year-over-year growth.

    • Operating margin exceeding 15% of revenue (vs 13% in 2023)

    Sidetrade’s operating margin showed a remarkable increase, reaching €8.4 million in 2024, up 45% from €5.8 million in 2023. This profitability is driven by sustained business growth, an excellent gross margin and disciplined cost management.

    Thanks to this momentum, Sidetrade has continued its investment strategy, with an increase in expenditure of €5.2 million over 2023, and a particular focus on R&D (+€2.4 million), notably to accelerate the integration of generative AI into its core product offering.

    The 2024 operating margin includes a French Research Tax Credit of €2.6 million (versus €2.4 million in 2023) as well as activation of €0.16 million in marginal R&D costs, i.e., 2% of R&D costs for the full year.

    As a result, Sidetrade’s operating margin stands at 15% of revenue versus 13% in 2023, representing a 2-point gain year-over-year.

    Surge in net profit to €7.9 million: up 40%

    Sidetrade’s financial income, recorded as of December 31, 2024, stands at €0.7 million, up significantly from 2023 (€0.4 million). This performance is mostly due to interest earned on short-term investments during the year and the foreign exchange gains realized over the period.

    Corporate income tax for 2024 is estimated at €1.1 million, versus €0.6 million in 2023.

    All told, Sidetrade’s net profit for 2024 was €7.9 million, an increase of 40%, confirming the solid balance between growth and profitability.

    Operating cash flow strongly supporting the acquisition of SHS Viveon

    In 2024, Sidetrade generated a solid operating cash flow of €9.6 million, up €3.3 million (excluding the timing impact of the French Research Tax Credit refund). This level of cash generation enabled the Company to fully self-finance the acquisition of SHS Viveon, with a net cash outlay of €5.2 million (€6.6 million for the purchase of shares, offset by €1.4 million in available cash held by SHS Viveon).

    As of December 31, 2024, Sidetrade reported €25.2 million in gross cash, up €1.3 million compared to year-end 2023.

    In addition, Sidetrade held 85,437 of its own shares, valued at €19.1 million as of December 31, 2024.

    Financial debt stood at €7.9 million, down €2.3 million year-over-year. Even after the SHS Viveon acquisition, Sidetrade retains substantial investment capacity, well-positioned to support its continued expansion strategy.

    Recognized ESG commitment: Platinum by EthiFinance and Silver by EcoVadis

    In 2024, Sidetrade accelerated its transition toward becoming a more responsible company and was awarded a Platinum medal from EthiFinance and a Silver medal from EcoVadis, with respective scores of 84/100 and 70/100. Now ranked among the top 15% of the most highly rated companies audited by EcoVadis, demonstrating its leadership in social responsibility.

    These accolades confirm the relevance of Sidetrade’s strategy and its ability to anticipate the environmental and social challenges of tomorrow.

    Sidetrade looks ahead to the fiscal year 2025 with confidence and a clear vision, and has the resources to fulfill its ambitions.

    Next financial announcement
    First Quarter Revenue for 2025: April 15, 2025, after the stock market closes.
    Investor relations
    Christelle Dhrif                00 33 6 10 46 72 00           cdhrif@sidetrade.com
    Media relations @Sidetrade
    Becca Parlby                  00 44 7824 5055 84           bparlby@sidetrade.com

    About Sidetrade (www.sidetrade.com)
    Sidetrade (Euronext Growth: ALBFR.PA) provides a SaaS platform designed to revolutionize how cash flow is secured and accelerated. Leveraging its next-generation AI, nicknamed Aimie, Sidetrade analyzes $7.2 trillion worth of B2B payment transactions daily in its Cloud, thereby anticipating customer payment behavior and the attrition risk of 39.9 million buyers worldwide. Aimie recommends the best operational strategies, dematerializes and intelligently automates Order-to-Cash processes to enhance productivity, results and working capital across organizations.
    Sidetrade has a global reach, with 400+ talented employees based in Europe, the United States and Canada, serving global businesses in more than 85 countries. Amongst them: Bidcorp, Biffa, Bunzl, Engie, Inmarsat, KPMG, Lafarge, Manpower, Page, Randstad, Saint-Gobain, Securitas, Tech Data, UGI, and Veolia.
    Sidetrade is a participant of the United Nations Global Compact, adhering to its principles-based approach to responsible business.

    For further information, visit us at www.sidetrade.com and follow @Sidetrade on LinkedIn.
    In the event of any discrepancy between the French and English versions of this press release, only the French version is to be taken into account.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Quadient SA: FY 2024 results: Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Quadient FY 2024 results:
     Solid 1st year delivery of “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, with Digital Solution achieving €267m in revenue and 61% EBITDA growth to €47m

    Key highlights

    • FY 2024 financial targets achieved
    • Two operating profitability milestones reached:
    • Digital EBITDA margin at 17.5%, up 5.7pts yoy, reflecting strong profitability improvement
    • All three solutions are EBITDA positive
    • Consolidated sales of €1,093 million, up +2.8% on a reported basis, including the contribution of the latest acquisitions
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue up +10.2% in Digital and up +11.5% in Lockers
    • FY 2024 subscription-related revenue of €777m, representing 71% of total revenue, up +€30m yoy,
      vs. +      €90m 2026 target
    • FY 2024 Group current EBIT of €146 million, up +2.2% organically
    • Proposed dividend of €0.70 per share, up by €0.05 for the fourth consecutive year
    • FY 2025 outlook: acceleration both in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth vs. 2024

    Paris, 26 March 2025

    Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT), an Intelligent automation platform powering secure and sustainable business connections, today announces its 2024 fourth-quarter consolidated sales and full-year results (period ended on 31 January 2025). The full year 2024 results were approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting held on 25 March 2025.

    Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated: “We have delivered a solid first year of our Elevate to 2030 strategic plan.

    Our Digital Automation platform has reached the record level of c.€270 million in revenue thanks to both the addition of 2,600+ new customers and the contribution from the increased usage and upsell from our existing 16,500 customer base. This strong revenue increase has been delivered together with a significant improvement in profitability with EBITDA rising by 61% to reach €47 million. We are now in a good position to exceed the 20% EBITDA margin ambition set for 2026.

    2024 also saw the highest level of Digital cross-sold deals into our Mail customer base while at the same time our Mail business continues to outpace competition. In Lockers, investments made over the past couple of years are paying off, contributing to a strong performance in H2 with double digit growth in revenue thanks to increased usage of the locker base across all regions. In addition, Lockers have reached EBITDA breakeven over the full year and profitability will further improve as we continue to increase the size of our network, grow its usage and take advantage of the recent addition of Package Concierge in the US residential sector.

    At Company level, this solid performance translates into a €30 million increase in annual recurring revenue, well on track to deliver the €90 million increase targeted by 2026. Based on this solid start to the strategic plan, we are confident in our ability to continue building a €1bn recurring revenue platform by 2030, generating €250 million current EBIT. Therefore, we are proposing to increase our dividend for the fourth consecutive year in a row, to €0.70.

    While macro uncertainties have recently been growing, we are expecting an acceleration of organic growth in revenue and current EBIT in 2025 against 2024 levels.”

    Comments on FY 2024 performance

    Group sales came in at €1,093 million in FY 2024, a +2.8% increase on a reported basis, and +0.4% organic growth compared to FY 2023, in line with Quadient’s expectations. The reported growth includes a positive currency impact of €2 million and a positive scope effect of €24 million, which is related to the acquisitions of Daylight (September 2023), Frama (February 2024) and Package Concierge (December 2024).

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, reported revenue growth stood at +4.1% and organic revenue growth was broadly flat, at -0.2%, compared to Q4 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue reached €777 million in FY 2024, growing +1.6% organically, and representing 71% of total sales. This represents a €30 million increase year-on-year (compared to the +€90 million target by 2026), progressing toward the €1 billion subscription-related revenue target by 2030. Performance in the fourth quarter of 2024 was steady, up 2.1% organically against Q4 2023, driven by a double-digit organic increase in Digital and in Lockers. Non-recurring revenue declined by 2.4% organically in FY 2024, including a 5.1% decline in Q4 2024, essentially due to a high comparison basis in Mail hardware sales.

    By geography, North America (58% of revenue) continued to outperform other regions with a +2.8% organic growth achieved in FY 2024.

    Consolidated sales and EBITDA by Solution

    FY 2024 consolidated sales

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 267 245 +9.1% +7.7%
    Mail 732 729 +0.4% (2.5)%
    Lockers 94 88 +5.7% +4.3%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%

     

    EBITDA and EBITDA margin

      FY 2024 FY 2023
    In € million EBITDA EBITDA margin EBITDA EBITDA margin
    Digital 47 17.5% 29 11.8%
    Mail 200 27.4% 218 29.9%
    Lockers 1 0.6% (3) (3.0)%
    Group total 247 22.6% 244 23.0%
     

    Digital

    In FY 2024, revenue from Digital reached €267 million, up 7.7% organically (+10.1% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023) and up 9.1% on a reported basis (including the contribution from Daylight) compared to FY 2023.

    This solid performance was driven by a strong 10.2% organic growth in subscription-related revenue in FY 2024 (+10.5% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), including a good contribution from North America and continued positive commercial trends across the platform with further solid cross-selling and up-selling. In FY 2024, subscription-related revenue was representing 82% of Digital total sales, a further increase compared to 80% in FY 2023.

    At the end of FY 2024, annual recurring revenue (ARR), which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached €232 million, up from €206 million at the end of FY 2023, representing a 12.7% organic growth.

    EBITDA for Digital was €47 million in FY 2024, up +61% year-on-year. EBITDA margin was at 17.5%, a strong improvement of 5.7 points compared to FY 2023. In H2 2024, EBITDA margin further improved, reaching 19.1%, after 15.7% in H1 2024. This positive evolution in profitability reflects the combination of subscription-related revenue growth and platform maturity. The Digital solution is well on track to reach its target of EBITDA margin greater than 20% in 2026.

    As part of its customer acquisition strategy, Digital continues to demonstrate strong commercial momentum. Over
    2,600 new customers were added     in FY 2024 thanks in particular to robust cross-selling with Mail, especially in North America. Digital experienced a dynamic fourth quarter, with several key deals secured in the US. Additionally, a new partnership was established with Avaloq to deliver Customer Communications Management capabilities to the financial services industry.

    As part of the customer expansion process, the focus continues to be on further increasing up-selling, notably in financial automation process. Several platform innovations have been made, to bring added value to customers, including the ramp-up and extension of Repay for direct supplier invoice payments in the US and Canada, and new electronic invoice formats (UBL, CII, Factur-X) to align with upcoming European e-invoicing regulation.

    In Quadient’s core geographies, the addressable demand for its Digital automation platform is set to grow from
    c.€6 billion in 2023 to c.€9 billion in 2027, representing a +10% CAGR, creating substantial growth opportunities in both communication and financial automation.

    To capture this growth, Quadient is strongly positioned, leveraging on:

    • a sound base of highly predictable business, with over 16,500 customers, 82% subscription-based revenue,
      and a churn rate well below 5%,
    • a highly recognized platform in financial & communication automation, and 84.5% of Saas customers,
      across three regions,
    • a fully scalable and modulable platform, for small to large customers, driving new client acquisition (+2,600 in FY 2024) and record cross-sell of Digital solutions into Quadient Mail customers and increased upsell opportunities among existing customers,
    • an efficient go-to-market organisation that driving a 34% year-on-year increase in bookings in Q4 2024 and +12.7% growth of ARR at the end of the year.

    Mail

    Mail revenue reached €732 million in FY 2024, down 2.5% on an organic basis (-4.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023). The reported growth stood at +0.4%, including the contribution of Frama.

    Hardware sales recorded a minor -1.7% organic decline in FY 2024, despite a 7.3% drop registered in Q4 2024, mainly reflecting a high comparison basis related to deals signed in H2 2023.

    Subscription-related revenue (68% of Mail sales) recorded a 2.9% organic decline in FY 2024.

    EBITDA for Mail was €200 million for FY 2024. EBITDA margin reached 27.4%, down 2.5 points compared to FY 2023. Mail EBITDA margin was impacted by the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, including integration costs. Frama’s performance is due to improve significantly from 2025 onward, with positive current EBIT already reached in FY 2024 and payback of the acquisition expected in FY 2025.

    Thanks to its strong focus on customer acquisition, Quadient’s Mail business continues to outperform the market. In Q4 2024, commercial performance remained resilient in North America, particularly in highly regulated industries where secure mail communications are key.

    As part of the customer expansion focus, outlook remains strong driven by a high customer satisfaction rate of 95.7% and robust cross-selling performance, especially in the US where a record-breaking performance in placement of Digital solutions was recorded in Q4 2024. Mail business also benefited from the positive impact of the ongoing US mailing systems decertification, though this impact is expected to conclude in Q1 2025. Lastly, Quadient aims at upgrading Frama’s installed base and initiating some cross-selling to promote its Digital offer to Frama’s customers.

    At the end of January 2025, already 42.4% of Quadient installed base has been upgraded with its newest technology.

    Lockers

    Lockers revenue reached €94 million in FY 2024, a +4.3% increase on an organic basis, with strong momentum in the latter part of the year (+8.0% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023, after a strong Q3 2024, up +14.3% year-on-year) and a +5.7% increase on a reported basis compared to FY 2023, including a marginal contribution from Package Concierge.

    Subscription-related revenue was up 11.5% organically in FY 2024 (+19.6% in Q4 2024 vs. Q4 2023), benefiting from:

    • the continued strong volumes ramp up in the British and the French open networks;
    • the sustained strong momentum in the US, driven by higher monetization of usage fees;
    • a resilient performance in Japan, despite an unfavorable e-commerce environment.

    Overall, subscription-related revenue stood at 64% of total revenue in FY 2024, up from 61% in FY 2023.

    Non-recurring revenue (license & hardware sales and professional services) were down 6.8% organically in FY 2024. Hardware sales were still impacted by slower new installations in North America.

    Quadient’s global locker installed base reached c.25,700 units at the end of FY 2024, including c. 3,000 units from Package Concierge, vs. c.20,200 units at the end of FY 2023. This is reflecting an acceleration in the pace of installation of new lockers, notably in the UK, fueled by the partnerships signed by Quadient to host parcel lockers in new suitable locations.

    EBITDA for Lockers was above breakeven, at €1 million in FY 2024. EBITDA margin stood at 0.6%, up by 3.6 points compared to FY 2023. This significant profitability improvement, illustrated by a 6.7% EBITDA margin in H2 2024, was driven by growing recurring revenue and increased usage. Additionally, the revised commercial agreement with Yamato for the Japanese installed base was implemented at the beginning of H2 2023.

    As part of the customer acquisition focus, Quadient is accelerating the pace of installation for new lockers in its open networks in Europe, mostly in France and the UK, with installed base up 145% year-on-year. This is supported by the additional deals signed for premium locations (including Morrisons Daily Stores and ScotRail…). Additionally, the trend for new installations in North America has turned positive in Q4, where market share leadership position in Residences and Universities remains robust.

    As part of the customer expansion strategy, volumes from both pick-up and drop-off in European open networks saw a significant increase, growing sevenfold between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The momentum in North America for the locker network, particularly across the multifamily sector and higher education campuses was strong in Q4 2024. In Japan, macroeconomic conditions have impacted parcel volumes, but new initiatives, such as the new partnership with Japan Post, are aimed at driving volume growth and increasing adoption.

    REVIEW OF 2024 FULL-YEAR RESULTS

    Simplified P&L

    In € million FY 2024 FY 2023 Change
    Sales 1,093 1,062 +2.8%
    Gross profit 818 788 +3.7%
    Gross margin 74.8% 74.2%  
    EBITDA 247 244 +1.2%
    EBITDA margin 22.6% 23.0%  
    Current EBIT 146 147 (0.5)%
    Current EBIT margin 13.4% 13.8%  
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15) +58.0%
    EBIT 123 132 (7.0)%
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31) +24.8%
    Income before tax 84 101 (16.8)%
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0) n/a
    Income taxes (17) (17) +2.8%
    Net income of continued operations 68 84 (19.4)%
    Net income from discontinued operations (0) (14) (98.7)%
    Net attributable income 66 69 (3.4)%
    Earnings per share 1.94 2.02  
    Diluted earnings per share 1.94 2.01  
     

    Gross margin stood at 74.8% in FY 2024 slightly up compared to FY 2023, due to lower cost of sales.

    EBITDA(1) for the Group reached €247 million in FY 2024, up €3 million compared to FY 2023. EBITDA grew by 3.0% organically, driven by strong growth of 80% in Digital and improved profitability in Lockers, which more than compensated for the softer EBITDA performance in Mail. The EBITDA margin reached 22.6% in FY 2024. It was almost stable compared to FY 2023: despite the impact of the change in revenue mix and the dilutive effect of Frama acquisition, the Group EBITDA margin was supported by significant profitability gains in Digital and Lockers.

    Depreciation and amortization stood at €101 million in FY 2024, compared to €98 million in FY 2023. This slightly higher depreciation mainly reflects the increase in Lockers’ asset base.

    Current operating income (current EBIT) reached €146 million in FY 2024 compared to €147 million in FY 2023, up 2.2% on an organic basis. Current EBIT margin stood at 13.4% of sales in FY 2024 compared to 13.8% in FY 2023.

    Optimization costs and other operating expenses stood at €23 million in FY 2024, versus €15 million in FY 2023. This increase mainly relates to the write-off of an IT project, additional office optimization and Frama restructuring costs.

    Consequently, EBIT reached €123 million in FY 2024, versus €132 million recorded in FY 2023.

    Net attributable income

    Net cost of debt was up from €29 million in FY 2023 to €39 million in FY 2024, impacted by higher interest rates. The currency gains & losses and other financial items was broadly flat in FY 2024, compared to a loss of €2 in FY 2023. Overall, net financial result was a loss of €39 million in FY 2024 compared to a loss of €31 million in FY 2023.

    Income tax expense was stable year-on-year at €17 million.

    Net income from discontinued operations of the Mail Italian subsidiary was null in FY 2024, compared to a €14 million loss in FY 2023. This loss included exceptional charges related to the sale process for this subsidiary, which was sold to a local mail distribution company in October 2024.

    Net attributable income after minority interests amounted to €66 million in FY 2024 compared to €69 million in FY 2023.

    Earnings per share(2) stood at €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.02 in FY 2023. The fully diluted earnings per share(2) was €1.94 in FY 2024 compared to €2.01 in FY 2023.

    Cash flow generation

    The change in working capital was a net cash inflow of €9 million in FY 2024 compared to a net cash outflow of €6 million in FY 2023, mostly reflecting the positive impact from timing on prepaid expenses and customers deposits.

    The leasing portfolio and other financing services stood at €623 million as of 31 January 2025, compared to €598 million as of 31 January 2024, up on an organic basis (i.e. excluding currency impact of €18 million) for the first time in several years thanks to good hardware placements in Mail. While generating future subscription-related revenue, this increase in lease receivables resulting from the good performance in the placement of new equipment translates into a cash outflow of
    €7 million in FY 2024. At the end of FY 2024, the default rate of the leasing portfolio stood at around 1.1% compared to c.1.3% at the end of FY 2023.

    Interest and taxes paid increased to €67 million in FY 2024 versus the amount of €55 million paid in FY 2023. The difference was mostly explained by higher interest rates in FY 2024.

    Capital expenditure reached €108 million in FY 2024, up €7 million compared to FY 2023, mostly due to UK locker open network deployment. Capex for Digital reached €24 million in FY 2024, slightly up compared to €22 million in FY 2023 and was mainly focused on R&D and platform development. Capex for Mail remained at fairly high level of €51 million
    (vs. €53 million in FY 2023), due to continued high placement of machines related to the US decertification, which is expected to end in Q1 2025. Capex for Lockers increased from €26 million to €33 million to support the ramp-up of the deployment of the open network in the UK. The sale of Frama real estate in Switzerland generated €6 million in cash inflows in FY 2024.

    All in all, cash flow after capital expenditure (free cash flow) reached €66 million in FY 2024, compared to €64 million in FY 2023.

    Leverage and liquidity position

    Net debt stood at €741 million as of 31 January 2025, a slight increase against €709 million as of 31 January 2024. In FY 2024, Quadient successfully raised approximately €325 million in new facilities, including the following transactions in H2 2024:

    • in October 2024, the Company secured EBRD financing, including a €25 million Schuldschein;
    • in December 2024, the Company secured a USD 50 million bank loan;
    • in January 2025, Quadient further strengthened its financial position with the issuance of a USD 100 million USPP.

    These new facilities enabled Quadient to repay post-closing its €260 million bond due in February 2025 and settle the repayment of Schuldschein loans for €29 million, also due in early 2025. As a result of these transactions, the Company’s average debt maturity has been extended to four years as of the end of February 2025, compared to three years at the end of FY 2023.

    The leverage ratio (net debt/EBITDA) remained broadly stable at 3.0x(3) as of 31 January 2025 compared to 2.9x(3) as of 31 January 2024. Excluding leasing, Quadient leverage ratio remained stable at 1.7x(3) as of 31 January 2025, despite the acquisitions of Frama and Package Concierge in 2024, as well as the implementation of a share buyback programs.

    As of 31 January 2025, the Group had a strong liquidity position of €667 million, split between €367 million in cash and a €300 million undrawn credit line, maturing in 2029.

    Shareholders’ equity stood at €1,113 million as of 31 January 2025 compared to €1,069 million as of 31 January 2024. The gearing ratio(4) stood at 66.6% as of 31 January 2025.

    SHAREHOLDER’ RETURN

    Proposed dividend for FY 2024 stands at €0.70 per share, representing an 8% increase against FY 2023, and a payout ratio of 36.1% of net income, higher than Quadient’s minimum 20% pay-out ratio of net income as per the Group’s dividend policy. This represents a €0.05 year-on-year increase, for the fourth consecutive year. The dividend is subject to approval by the Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 13 June 2025, and will be paid in cash in one instalment on 6 August 2025.

    In addition, Quadient’s announced in September 2024 the launch of a share buyback program for a total consideration of up to €30 million. To date, €10 million worth of shares have been repurchased, with the program set to be executed over an
    18-month(5) period. This operation demonstrates Quadient’s confidence in the value creation potential of its “Elevate to 2030” strategic plan, its ability to reach its FY 2026 leverage ratio target(6) and is in line with the capital allocation policy of the Company, while improving shareholders’ return.

    OUTLOOK

    The evolving dynamics within Quadient’s business portfolio, characterized by strong growth in Digital and Lockers revenue alongside a moderate decline in Mail revenue, will naturally drive a year-on-year acceleration in the Company’s total revenue growth.

    As Digital and Lockers continue to expand their share of Quadient’s revenue and profit, while simultaneously improving their profitability, this shift is expected to contribute to a higher growth in current EBIT

    As a result, Quadient targets an acceleration in organic revenue growth and in current EBIT organic growth in 2025 compared to 2024.

    Quadient also confirms its 3-year guidance for the 2024-2026 period of minimum 1.5% organic revenue CAGR and minimum 3% organic current EBIT CAGR.

    Q4 2024 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    Avaloq and Quadient Partner to Elevate Client Communications for Financial Services
    On 3 December 2024, Quadient and Avaloq announced today their partnership to offer unrivaled customer communications management (CCM) capabilities for the financial services industry. Avaloq has selected Quadient Inspire as its standard CCM solution, seamlessly integrating it into the Avaloq platform.

    Quadient Launches SimplyMail in Europe to Help Small Businesses Leverage Digital Solutions to Enhance Efficiency in Mail Operations
    On 11 December 2024, Quadient announced the launch in Europe of SimplyMail, a solution designed to address the growing needs for smaller businesses to automate and optimize their mail operations with ease.

    Quadient Named a Worldwide Automated Document Generation and CCM Leader by IDC
    On 12 December 2024, Quadient announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Automated Document Generation and Customer Communication Management 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Recognized in Two IDC MarketScape Reports for Accounts Receivable Automation Applications
    On 16 December 2024, announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for Small and Midmarket 2024 Vendor Assessment. Additionally, Quadient has been recognized for the first time as a Major Player in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Accounts Receivable Automation Applications for the Enterprise 2024 Vendor Assessment.

    Quadient Surpasses 25,000 Global Locker Installations with US Package Concierge Acquisition, Setting Sights on Exceeding €100M of Locker Revenue in 2025
    On 18 December 2024, Quadient announced the acquisition of US-based parcel management solutions provider Package Concierge®, exceeding the 25,000-unit mark in its global installed base. Package Concierge provides innovative digital locker technology that addresses the growing challenges of package management in residential, commercial, retail and university campuses across the United States.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position with a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America
    On 20 December 2024, announced a USD50 million bank loan from Bank of America. This new credit facility, which comes with a 3-year maturity at a variable rate, strengthens Quadient’s financial position ahead of debt maturities due in 2025.

    Report by Leading Analyst Firm Shows Quadient Recorded the Fastest Growth in 2023 Among CCM Market Leaders
    On 10 January 2025, Quadient announced that a newly released report by market research and consulting firm IDC shows Quadient rapidly closing the gap on the top position. Quadient’s 13.7% year-on-year revenue growth in 2023 has accelerated from its 11% growth in 2022. This is also the fastest growth among the major Customer Communications Management (CCM) vendors globally, outperforming the overall market growth.

    Quadient Secures New c.$1.6 Million Contract to Enhance US Government Agency’s Mail Automation Capacity
    On 14 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has been selected by a US government agency to modernize its mail automation infrastructure in a contract valued at c.$1.6 million. This follows a previous announcement in October 2024, where Quadient was awarded a contract worth nearly $1 million for a similar modernization project with another federal agency.

    Leading Human Resources Technology Company Selects Quadient for Accessibility Compliance in Customer Communications
    On 16 January 2025, Quadient announced that a leading US provider of integrated benefits, payroll, and human resources cloud solutions has selected customer communications management (CCM) platform Quadient Inspire to ensure accessibility compliance for its US federal agency client.

    Quadient Partners with ScotRail to Introduce Parcel Lockers at Stations Across Scotland
    On 21 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with ScotRail to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers across Scotland’s rail network. ScotRail, Scotland’s national rail operator, is enhancing its passenger experience and operational efficiency with the installation of parcel lockers in its stations.

    Quadient strengthens its financial position through a USD100 million US Private Placement from MetLife
    On 22 January 2025, Quadient announced that it has signed a new USD100 million US Private Placement (USPP) with MetLife Investment Management (“MIM”), reinforcing its financial position. This new USPP of USD 100 million senior notes has a
    7-year average maturity and comes with an additional shelf facility allowing the issue of senior notes for a maximum aggregate principal amount of USD50 million.

    Quadient Teams Up with Buzz Bingo to Bring Convenient Parcel Lockers to Bingo Clubs Across the UK
    On 28 January 2025, Quadient announced a partnership with Buzz Bingo to deploy Parcel Pending by Quadient automated lockers in 35 of its 81 bingo clubs across the UK, with plans for further installations in the future. This collaboration enhances parcel collection, delivery, and return convenience while improving the customer experience at Buzz Bingo locations.

    Leading US Law Firm Chooses Quadient in a Deal Over $1M to Streamline Mailing, Shipping, and Accounting Processes
    On 30 January 2025, Quadient announced a new contract with one of the largest injury law firms in the US, transitioning the firm from its long-standing provider to Quadient. Under the new agreement, worth over 1 million dollars, the firm is rolling out nearly 100 Quadient iX-Series mailing systems at offices across the country, all seamlessly integrated with Quadient’s cloud-based S.M.A.R.T. accounting and shipping software.

    Quadient Reports Strong Year-End Locker Usage Growth in Multifamily and Higher Education Campuses in North America
    On 31 January 2025, Quadient announced strong year-end momentum in the adoption and usage of its Parcel Pending by Quadient locker network across multifamily and higher education campuses in North America.

    POST-CLOSING EVENTS

    Morrisons Partners with Quadient for Convenient Parcel Delivery at its Morrisons Daily Stores
    On 18 February 2025, Quadient announced a new partnership with Morrisons. The partnership will see Parcel Pending by Quadient parcel lockers installed at 230 Morrisons Daily stores by spring 2025.

    Quadient Enables New Shipping Service with Japan Post on its Open Locker Network, Driving Convenience and Increased Parcel Volume
    On 3 March 2025, Quadient announced an expanded partnership between Japan Post and Packcity Japan, a joint venture between Quadient and Yamato Transport. Thanks to the extended partnership, consumers will not only receive Japan Post deliveries at Packcity Japan’s nationwide open network of automated parcel lockers, but they will also now be able to ship parcels from the lockers, called PUDO stations. Consumers using Japan Post’s Yu-Pack parcel service use a mobile app to ship from a PUDO station, eliminating the need to wait at delivery counters or manually handling shipping slips.

    Quadient Maintains Leader Position on Aspire Leaderboard for Customer Communications and Interaction Experience Software
    On 13 March 2025, Quadient announced it has maintained its leadership position on the Aspire Leaderboard. Produced by independent advisory firm Aspire CCS, the Aspire Leaderboard highlights and compares vendors in the customer communications management (CCM) and customer experience management software space. It is updated in real-time as vendors release enhancements and adjust strategies.

    To know more about Quadient’s news flow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en/newsroom.

    CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST

    Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time).

    To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast.

    To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers:

    ▪ France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66.
    ▪ United States: +1 786 697 3501.
    ▪ United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200.

    Password: Quadient

    A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient’s Investor Relations website for 12 months.


     

    Calendar

    • 3 June 2025: Q1 2025 sales release (after close of trading on the Euronext Paris regulated market)
    • 13 June 2025: Annual General Meeting

    About Quadient®

    Quadient is a global automation platform provider powering secure and sustainable business connections through digital and physical channels. Quadient supports businesses of all sizes in their digital transformation and growth journey, unlocking operational efficiency and creating meaningful customer experiences. Listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and part of the CAC® Mid & Small and EnterNext® Tech 40 indices, Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing.

    For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/en/.

    Contacts

    APPENDIX

    Digital: New name for Intelligent Communication Automation

    Mail: New name for Mail-Related Solutions

    Lockers: New name for Parcel Locker Solutions

    FY 2024 and Q4 2024 consolidated sales

    FY 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million 2024 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 632 607 +4.0% +2.8%
    Main European countries(a) 369 354 +4.5% (2.0)%
    International(b) 92 101 (9.7)% (5.4)%
    Group total 1,093 1,062 +2.8% +0.4%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by Solution

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic change
    Digital 73 65 +11.5% +10.1%
    Mail 196 196 (0.3)% (4.6)%
    Lockers 27 22 +20.2% +8.0%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
     

    Q4 2024 consolidated sales by geography

    In € million Q4 2024 Q4 2023 Change Organic
    change
    North America 171 160 +7.0% +2.5%
    Main European countries(a) 100 97 +3.3% (2.9)%
    International(b) 24 27 (10.7)% (6.9)%
    Group total 295 284 +4.1% (0.2)%
    1. Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy (excluding Mail), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
    2. International includes the activities of Digital, Mail and Lockers outside of North America and the Main European countries

    Financial statements – Full-year 2024

    Consolidated income statement

    In € million FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Sales 1,093 1,062
    Cost of sales (275) (274)
    Gross margin 818 788
    R&D expenses (63) (63)
    Sales and marketing expenses (287) (275)
    Administrative and general expenses (187) (176)
    Service and support expenses (116) (109)
    Employee profit-sharing, share-based payments and other expenses (10) (7)
    M&A and strategic projects expenses (8) (11)
    Current operating income 146 147
    Optimization expenses and other operating income & expenses (23) (15)
    Operating income 123 132
    Financial income/(expense) (39) (31)
    Income before taxes 84 101
    Income taxes (17) (17)
    Share of results of associated companies 1 (0)
    Net income from continued operations 68 84
    Net income of discontinued operations (0) (14)
    Net income 67 70
    Of which:

    • Minority interests
    		 1 1
    • Net attributable income
    		 66 69

    Simplified consolidated balance sheet

    Assets
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Goodwill 1,131 1,082
    Intangible fixed assets 119 121
    Tangible fixed assets 170 156
    Other non-current financial assets 65 65
    Other non-current receivables 2 2
    Leasing receivables 623 598
    Deferred tax assets 38 17
    Inventories 75 67
    Receivables 240 228
    Other current assets 79 84
    Cash and cash equivalents 367 118
    Current financial instruments 1 2
    Assets held for sale 0 9
    TOTAL ASSETS 2,910 2,550
    Liabilities
    In € million    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    Shareholders’ equity 1,113 1,069
    Non-current provisions 12 12
    Non-current financial debt 722 715
    Current financial debt 347 66
    Lease obligations 38 46
    Other non-current liabilities 3 2
    Deferred tax liabilities 101 104
    Financial instruments 5 5
    Trade payables 104 79
    Deferred income 223 212
    Other current liabilities 242 225
    Liabilities held for sale 0 15
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,910 2,550

    Simplified cash flow statement

     

    In €millions

    		 FY 2024
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2025)    		 FY 2023
    (period ended
    on 31 January 2024)
    EBITDA 247 244
    Other elements (15) (19)
    Cash flow before net cost of debt and income tax 233 225
    Change in the working capital requirement 9 (6)
    Net change in leasing receivables (7) (0)
    Cash flow from operating activities 235 219
    Interest and tax paid (67) (55)
    Net cash flow from operating activities 168 165
    Capital expenditure (108) (101)
    Disposal of assets 6 0
    Net cash flow after investing activities 66 64
    Impact of changes in scope (37) (5)
    Net cash flow after acquisitions and divestments 29 59
    Dividends paid (22) (21)
    Change in debt and others 219 (39)
    Net cash flow after financing activities 226 (1)
    Cumulative translation adjustments on cash (6) (2)
    Net cash from discontinued operations (1) (9)
    Change in net cash position 219 (11)

    ([1]) EBITDA = current operating income + provisions for depreciation of tangible and intangible fixed assets.
    ([2]) For the FY 2024, the average compounded number of shares is 34,114,060. Diluted number of shares is 34,486,288.
    ([3]) Including IFRS 16
    ([4]) Net debt / shareholder’s equity
    ([5]) Subject to the renewal of the share buyback authorizations at the 2025 AGM
    ([6]) FY 2026 leverage ratio excluding leasing target of 1.5x

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs HB 495 into Law

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 26, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, during a bill signing ceremony at the Missouri State Capitol, Governor Mike Kehoe signed House Bill (HB) 495 into law. Governor Kehoe was joined by the sponsors of the bill, Representative Brad Christ, and Senators Nick Schroer and Travis Fitzwater.

    Also in attendance for the signing was Attorney General Andrew Bailey, Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Mark James, Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Michael Turner, and leaders from statewide law enforcement associations, including the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri State Troopers Association, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, the Missouri Sheriffs Association, and the Ethical Society of Police.

    “We thank the Missouri General Assembly and the bill sponsors for prioritizing public safety and getting this legislation to my desk so quickly this session,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “In addition to establishing a citizen board to oversee the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, HB 495 benefits law enforcement across our state with tools they need to crack down on crime and illegal immigration.”

    Developed in close collaboration with law enforcement partners and representatives across all levels of law enforcement in the state, Governor Kehoe’s Safer Missouri initiative includes HB 495, budget priorities, and the executive orders signed on day one of the Kehoe Administration.

    Governor Kehoe will hold a ceremonial bill signing of HB 495 tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at the Saint Louis Police Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 68 (3710 Hampton Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63109.)

    For more information on HB 495, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –