NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast Announces Foreign Arms Sales Task Force

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast announced the formation of a new task force charged with crafting legislative reforms to ensure the foreign arms sales process meets the demands of the future.

    “This task force will examine the process, make it more transparent, and ensure we’re getting instruments of war – which are also instruments of peace – into the hands of the right partners at the pace that war, deterrence and preparation require,” Chairman Mast said.

    “This is a no-fail mission for our committee, and I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to ensure the arms sales process places American interests and those of our closest allies front and center.” 

    The task force will propose overdue reforms aimed at eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that encumber the current foreign arms sales process. These efforts will result in more efficient partnerships between the government and private sector stakeholders, a stronger defense industrial base, and foreign partners being better armed more quickly with American systems and hardware.

    In addition to announcing the formation of the task force, Chairman Mast named Rep. Ryan Zinke, (MT-01), to serve as its chairman.

    “The United States military is the finest fighting force and the strongest force for good on the planet. We operate with high lethality and some of the most technologically advanced systems ever created by man. And yet, our closest allies get the bureaucratic shaft when they try to meet their defense needs with made-in-America equipment and systems,” Rep. Zinke said.

    “My goal with the task force is to examine the red tape in foreign military sales and streamline the process for our allies and American companies, while also ensuring mission-critical information is not shared with adversaries.”

    Members serving on the task force include:

     

    Republican Members:

    Rep. Ryan Zinke, (MT-01)

    Rep. Michael Lawler, (NY-17)

    Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, (PA-7)

    Rep. Maria Salazar, (FL-27)

    Rep. Young Kim, (CA-40)

    Rep. Scott Perry, (PA-10)

    Rep. Michael Baumgartner, (WA-5)

    Democrat Members:

    Rep. Brad Sherman, (CA-32)

    Rep. William Keating, (MA-9)

    Rep. Joaquin Castro, (TX-20)

    Rep. Sara Jacobs, (CA-51)

    Rep. Madeleine Dean, (PA-4)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Together with Recently Established Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force Secure 11 Arrests in Online Child Sexual Predator Sting

    Source: US State of California

    TURLOCK – California Attorney General Rob Bonta in partnership with the recently established Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force (Sac HTTF), today announced the arrest of 11 individuals for allegedly attempting to contact a minor for sex and other related crimes. The arrests are the result of a partnership between state and local law enforcement and have been referred to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office for potential criminal prosecution.

    “I have a simple message for all those who target children for sex online: If you go after children in California, we’ll go after you,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Today’s announcement makes it clear that child sexual abuse will not be tolerated. I’m extremely grateful to all of our partners for their dedication and commitment to keeping our communities safe. When we work together, we get results. My office always stands ready to work with our partners across California to stand up for our children and for public safety.”

    “The Sacramento Police Department stands unwavering in the fight against human trafficking, a crime that strips victims of their freedom, dignity, and humanity,” said Sacramento Police Chief Kathy Lester. “This is why our partnership with the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force is so critical. By working alongside our local, state, and federal partners, we are attacking this crisis from every angle, relentlessly pursuing traffickers, rescuing and empowering survivors, and making our communities safer.”

    “CDCR is proud to be part of this task force, which is making significant strides in keeping our communities safe,” said Bryan Bishop, Deputy Chief of the Office of Correctional Safety at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. “CDCR is committed to using its expertise to hold human traffickers accountable.” 

    During the sting, law enforcement personnel worked undercover, posing as children on various websites, as young as 13 years old, to identify, contact, and arrest anyone who may be trying to target children for sex. In these encounters, suspects allegedly used sexually explicit language and sent graphic photos to undercover personnel. Once suspects requested to meet with a child, law enforcement directed them to a predetermined location and arrested them. The operation was carried out in early March and targeted individuals across Stanislaus County. Many of the arrests involved individuals who allegedly attempted to meet with undercover personnel.

    The sting was conducted by law enforcement personnel with the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force (Sac HTTF), Turlock Police Department, Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, and the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation. The suspects are facing multiple felony charges including lewd and lascivious conduct with minor, contact with minor sex acts, meeting with minor with the intent to commit sex acts, harmful matter sent to a minor, manufacturing child pornography, and possession of child pornography. 

    Child sexual abuse remains a significant public safety problem. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, child sexual abuse includes instances where the child does not fully comprehend, does not consent or is unable to give informed consent, or is not developmentally prepared for and cannot give consent to sexual activity. In particular, online enticement — communicating with someone believed to be a child via the internet with the intent to commit a sexual offense or abduction — is a growing problem and form of exploitation, which can include children being groomed to take sexually explicit images or meeting face-to-face with someone for sexual purposes. This type of victimization can occur on a wide array of online platforms, including social media, messaging apps, or online games. 

    Many children wait to report or never report child sexual abuse and research on the subject likely underestimates the true impact of the problem. Although estimates vary across studies, the research shows that about 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys in the United States experience child sexual abuse. Ninety-one percent of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by someone known and trusted by the child or child’s family members. Experiencing child sexual abuse can affect how a person thinks, acts, and feels over a lifetime. This can result in short- and long-term physical, mental, and behavioral health consequences.
     
    It is important to note that criminal charges are only allegations against a person. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on New Nonpartisan Government Data Exposing How the Republican Budget Plan Will Explode Debt and Deficit for Decades

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) published 10- and 30-year projections of the debt and deficit if Congressional Republicans permanently enact the Trump Tax Scam:

    “Congressional Republicans are once again attempting to pass a partisan budget that will fund the Trump Tax Scam 2.0 by ripping away health care, taking food off the table, and making it harder to get a quality education – all to give a tax handout to the wealthiest Americans and corporations.

    “This nonpartisan analysis from the CBO makes it clear that if Congressional Republicans move forward with this budget, the debt will skyrocket, the deficit will explode, and working Americans will be left to pay the price. Make no mistake, Congressional Republicans are pushing this partisan budget to fund their latest tax scam on the backs of hardworking Americans with no regard for the devastating impacts it will have on our nation’s economy now and into the future.”

    CBO projects that under the Republicans’ budget plan, the national debt will expand by $4.6 trillion over the next 10 years. A second round of the Trump Tax Scam – which Republicans are trying to claim is cost-free by using a “current policy baseline” – a gimmick that will increase the national debt to 214 percent of GDP by 2054. The CBO highlights a few points that would be detrimental to the nation’s economy if Republicans continue down this path:

    • A new round of the Trump Tax Scam will increase the primary (non-interest) deficit by $4 trillion. A previous CBO estimate found they would cost $4.6 trillion with interest.
    • By 2054, extending the Trump tax giveaways would increase debt to 214 percent of GDP, growing almost twice as fast as under current law. The extension would be responsible for adding almost 30 percent to the national debt.
    • A new round of the Trump Tax Scam would mean that long-term economic growth would be slower, and interest rates would be higher, making it harder for businesses to start or to grow and Americans to afford buying a home or a car.

    The CBO report can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Scott Reintroduce Legislation to Support Treatment of Pregnant and Postpartum Women

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) announced the reintroduction of the Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) Treatment Reauthorization Act to reauthorize residential treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women who have a substance use disorder.

    Drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl reached record highs in 2020 and 2021, with pregnant women experiencing more overdoses than ever before. The PPW Treatment Reauthorization Act addresses this health crisis by authorizing funding to enhance comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, recovery support services, and harm reduction interventions supported by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.

    “I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that strengthens resources for pregnant and postpartum women, supports families, and tackles health disparities in reproductive care,” said Senator Luján. “Substance use disorder continues to significantly impact New Mexico, and this legislation will help address the issue by reauthorizing funding to ensure that all communities have access to the necessary resources for preventing health complications and treating substance use disorders.”

    “By extending and strengthening these essential programs, we are ensuring pregnant and postpartum women are receiving the support and care they need to navigate substance use disorders and mental health challenges,” said Senator Scott. “I’m proud to lead legislation that helps to build a future where every mother and child can thrive.”

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Permanent supportive, complex-care homes planned for Kamloops

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People living with complex mental-health and substance-use challenges in Kamloops will soon have access to robust health and social supports in housing, with 20 new complex-care homes planned for the community.

    “This project is part of our work to make communities safer for everyone by delivering real solutions to address the complex challenges people face,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “By providing a safe place to live with enhanced supports, individuals facing complex challenges can find a pathway to hope and healing.”

    The Province, through BC Housing, is proposing to build the 20 complex-care homes on a subdivided portion of a 5.5-hectare (13.5 acres) lot in the Columbia Precinct area of Kamloops. BC Housing will be partnering with a housing provider to operate the site, at 1100 Glenfair Dr., as well as Interior Health, which will provide health services to complex-care clients. The operator, not yet selected, will bring proven experience in providing support for residents and being a point of contact for neighbours. Staff will work with residents and the surrounding community on an ongoing basis to address any concerns.

    “People living with substance-use challenges are often experiencing multiple concurrent challenges such as homelessness, health and mental-health conditions, which pose significant barriers to accessing the treatment they need,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “The new Kamloops complex-care housing project will provide comprehensive care and supports for people and will help many community members get the support they need to lead healthier lives.”

    Complex-care housing provides voluntary housing and support services to people with significant health needs, including mental-health or substance-use challenges and other health issues, such as brain injuries or mobility challenges. Teams of professionals will work with residents to provide the supports needed to maintain stable housing and improve their quality of life. A non-profit operator will manage the building and provide support services. Interior Health staff will provide and connect tenants to the health services they need.

    “These new homes will provide much-needed support for some of our most vulnerable residents, ensuring they have access to the care and stability they need,” said Margot Middleton, deputy mayor of Kamloops. “This project is an important step toward building a healthier, more inclusive community for everyone in Kamloops.”

    Before construction can begin on a new three-storey building, one of the nine aging buildings requires demolition. BC Housing is working with its partners to develop individualized relocation plans based on personal housing needs for each of the 21 current tenants to ensure no one is displaced. Moving expenses will be covered by BC Housing.

    “With dedicated health and social services in place, we’ve seen and experienced how complex-care housing supports people in communities,” said Susan Brown, president and CEO, Interior Health. “This expansion of purpose-built housing will enable us to meet the diverse needs of some of our most vulnerable community members in Kamloops.”

    This site was selected for complex-care housing because of its proximity to health services, transit, shops and other amenities in the area.

    Quick Facts:

    • The project will be funded through the Province’s Complex-Care Housing Program, announced in Budget 2022.
    • BC Housing continues to work toward replacing the aging housing units at 1100 Glenfair in Kamloops with approximately 340 new, high-quality affordable homes for seniors.
    • This complex-care housing project is one of several projects in the Columbia Precinct that will expand the housing options available to people in Kamloops.
    • Once complete, the complex-care housing will be a separate property from the year-round seniors shelter planned for 1055 Glenfair Dr. in Kamloops, which is in the planning stages.
    • The new complex-care building will be separated with fencing, separate entrances and exits.
    • Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending approvals.

    Learn More:

    For more information on the complex-care housing project, visit the Let’s Talk Housing page here: https://letstalkhousingbc.ca/kamloops-complex-care-housing

    To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

    A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available online: Homes for BC – Map of Building Projects Across BC | BC Housing (bchousing.org)

    Join BC Housing to listen and learn from people in British Columbia who are creating inclusive housing communities. Subscribe to BC Housing’s podcast, Let’s Talk Housing on:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Better, faster, cheaper auto insurance

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Amendments to the Income Tax Act, 2000 will Continue to Make Life More Affordable for Saskatchewan Residents

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 24, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan will amend The Income Tax Act, 2000 to incorporate initiatives announced in the 2025-26 Budget. Changes to the Act include introducing the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit and Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit, as well as ensuring the continued indexation of tax credits for initiatives in The Saskatchewan Affordability Act and other income tax programs. 

    “Our government listened to the priorities of Saskatchewan people and delivered a budget that addresses those priorities, including making life more affordable,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Jim Reiter said. “These tax credits provide relief for parents trying to grow their families without worrying about the high costs of fertility treatments and create incentives for businesses to invest and scale-up their operations.”

    The Fertility Treatment Tax Credit supports access to fertility treatments by offering a refundable tax credit of 50 per cent toward the costs of an eligible fertility treatment in Saskatchewan of up to $20,000.  

    The Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit supports Saskatchewan’s small and medium-sized businesses, which are critical to a growing economy. It includes a 45 per cent non-refundable tax credit for individuals or corporations who invest equity in eligible small and medium-sized businesses in Saskatchewan. The credit focuses on sectors such as food and beverage manufacturing, as well as machinery and transportation equipment manufacturing sectors.

    “The introduction of the Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit will have a positive effect on the Regina and Saskatchewan business communities,” Regina and District Chamber of Commerce President Mike Tate said. “By introducing tax relief and incentives, the amendments will reduce the financial burden on businesses and allow for reinvestment in innovation, expansion and job creation. This will enable local businesses to thrive while attracting new investments to Saskatchewan.”

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI Dr. Paul Joined Sen. Kennedy in Protecting Veterans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    March 24, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On friday, enator Rand Paul (R-KY) joins Senator John Kennedy’s (R-LA) legislation to prevent veterans from losing their Second Amendment right to purchase or own firearms when they receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would preserve the constitutional rights of Veterans.

    “No veteran should have to choose between getting the help they need and preserving their constitutional rights. The VA’s longstanding policy unfairly targets those who served our country, placing bureaucratic decisions above due process. I’m proud to join this effort to defend the Second Amendment rights of our veterans and ensure they are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.” – Dr. Rand Paul

    “Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice.” – Senator Kennedy

    Because of the VA’s interpretation of current law, the VA sends a beneficiary’s name to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) whenever a fiduciary is appointed to help a beneficiary manage his or her VA benefit payments.

    Ultimately, VA employees decide whether veterans receive help from a fiduciary.

    The bill would prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from transmitting a veteran’s personal information to NICS unless a relevant judicial authority rules that the beneficiary is a danger to himself or others.

    You can read the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE, Law Enforcement Partners Arrest 370 Alien Offenders During Enhanced Operation in Massachusetts

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and federal law enforcement partners apprehended 370 illegal aliens in Massachusetts during an enhanced targeted enforcement operation focusing on transnational organized crime, gangs, and egregious illegal alien offenders March 18-23.

    “The Commonwealth is a safer place for our residents to live and work because ICE and our federal law enforcement partners arrested hundreds of alien offenders and removed them from the streets of Massachusetts,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Throughout this enhanced enforcement operation, we targeted the most dangerous alien offenders in some of the most crime-infested neighborhoods in and around Boston. Our efforts resulted in 370 arrests throughout the commonwealth. ICE and our federal law enforcement partners are committed to protecting the homeland through the eradication of transnational criminal organizations, dismantling dangerous criminal gangs preying on the American public, locating and arresting criminal alien offenders, and making our communities a safer place to live.”

    During the six-day enhanced operation, ICE and federal law enforcement partners targeted egregious criminal alien offenders including transnational criminal organizations known to operate in and around Boston and throughout Massachusetts. These organizations include the notorious MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Trinitarios, and 18th Street gangs.

    “This week’s enhanced enforcement operations with our partners from the FBI, DEA, ATF, DSS and CBP prove that we are taking a whole of government approach to protecting our communities from foreign nationals involved in transnational gangs, drug traffickers, child predators, violent criminals and dangerous individuals living in New England,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “ICE will use every resource and authority we have to prioritize the safety and security of our communities.”

    “Everyone should agree that we cannot and will not tolerate individuals who not only violate our immigration laws but then commit crimes that endanger our communities. Those who enter and remain in this country unlawfully are breaking the law,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah B. Foley. “My office remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure that dangerous individuals are identified, prosecuted, and removed, so that the people of Massachusetts can live and work in safe and secure communities.”

    205 of those arrested had significant criminal convictions or charges. Six were foreign fugitives currently facing charges or convictions for murder, drug trafficking, organized crime, and money laundering

    “Safeguarding the integrity of the immigration and citizenship process is critical. We simply can’t permit violent and dangerous criminals to enter or remain in the United States under false pretenses, with unknown allegiances and intentions. It’s a direct threat to public safety and our national security,” said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Jodi Cohen. “There’s no question our communities are safer today because of this enhanced, targeted operation. FBI Boston, like all our federal partners, will continue to support ICE with these efforts.”

    Law enforcement officials seized approximately 44 kilograms of methamphetamines, 5 kilograms of fentanyl, 1.2 kilograms of cocaine, three firearms and ammunition from illegal alien offenders during the operation.

    “DEA is proud to have worked with our federal partners in this successful enforcement effort using all of the resources of the federal government to remove violent criminal aliens from our communities, said DEA New England Field Division acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau. “DEA has prioritized investigations on those involving violent, illegal criminal aliens responsible for flooding our communities with deadly and dangerous drugs. DEA’s core mission is to keep the American public safe by seizing deadly and dangerous drugs before they get into our communities, and to bring justice to the criminals responsible for manufacturing, distributing, and supplying these drugs.”

    ICE and their federal law enforcement partners made many of the apprehensions after local jurisdictions refused to honor immigration detainer requests to turn over the offenders and instead chose to release aliens from custody, forcing officers and agents to make at-large arrests in Massachusetts communities.

    “The successful outcome of this immigration enforcement operation demonstrates the dedication and collaboration of our law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Boston Field Division James M. Ferguson. “By targeting individuals who pose a threat to public safety, we are reinforcing our commitment to protecting our communities and upholding the integrity of our nation’s immigration laws.”

    “The Diplomatic Security Service is fully committed to supporting the Administration’s priority to reduce illegal immigration and root out those who endeavor to exploit the U.S. travel system,” said Diplomatic Security Service Boston Field Office Special Agent in Charge Matthew O’Brien. “This enhanced operation definitively made our communities safer. DSS proudly coordinates with our U.S. and international law enforcement partners to conduct passport, visa fraud, and human trafficking investigations and assist in apprehending fugitives to protect the integrity of U.S. borders and prevent illegal immigration.”

    Among those arrested during the enhanced targeted operation include:

    • A Dominican alien who illegally re-entered the U.S. after removal charged with multiple drug distribution crimes, arrested in Boston.
    • A Dominican alien who illegally re-entered the U.S. after removal charged with trafficking fentanyl, arrested in Boston.
    • A Chilean alien convicted of 4 counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 years old, arrested in Marlborough.
    • A Brazilian alien charged with manslaughter, homicide by a motor vehicle, homicide while under the influence of liquor, breaking and entering in the nighttime with intent to commit a crime, and larceny, arrested in Worcester.
    • A Honduran alien who illegally re-entered the U.S. after removal convicted of rape of a child, assault and battery of a person over 14 and failure to register as a sex offender, arrested in Salem.
    • A Brazilian alien wanted for murder and convicted for firearms trafficking in his native country, arrested in Milford.
    • A Brazilian alien wanted for homicide in in his home country, arrested in Lowell.
    • A Russian alien charged with unlawful possession of ammunition and wanted in his native country for armed robbery and membership in a criminal organization, arrested in Medford.
    • A Dominican alien wanted for homicide in his native country, arrested in Dorchester.
    • A Brazilian alien wanted in his native county for failure to serve a sentence after his convictions for homicide and illegal possession of a firearm arrested in Marlborough.
    • A Salvadoran alien previously deported from the U.S. and documented 18th Street gang member convicted of assault and battery and sentenced to two and a half years committed arrested in Wakefield.
    • A Guatemalan alien charged with rape and convicted of enticing a minor under the age of 16, released by the New Bedford District Court without the ICE detainer being honored, arrested in New Bedford.
    • A Jamaican alien previously deported from the U.S. convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, armed robbery, possession of a firearm, and assault arrested in Pittsfield.
    • A Brazilian alien wanted for in his native country for drug trafficking, money laundering, membership in a criminal organization arrested in West Yarmouth.

    Partner law enforcement participating in the operation were the Boston offices of the FBI, DEA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service and DSS, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston and @HSINewEngland.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Warren Press Social Security Commissioner Nominee on Trump, Musk Efforts to Gut Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    March 24, 2025

    Ahead of Finance Committee hearing, lawmakers push nominee to make commitments to stop further cuts to Americans’ benefits Senators say “we are gravely concerned about the current trajectory of the SSA and more specifically, that those charged with leading it might profit off its destruction.”

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said today they are pressing the Social Security Commissioner nominee to commit to stopping the Trump Administration and the self-styled “Department of Government Efficiency’s” ongoing efforts to hollow out the Social Security Administration (SSA).

    Wyden, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee; and Warren, a member of the Finance Committee, warned those Social Security schemes may be a “prelude to privatization.” 

    The lawmakers highlighted recent reports of significant staffing cuts, office closures, and new burdensome administrative requirements on seniors who receive Social Security. At the same time, reports have also revealed that Elon Musk’s Wall Street allies have infiltrated the agency.

    “These new developments leave us deeply concerned that DOGE and the Trump Administration are setting up the SSA for failure—a failure that could cut off Social Security benefits for millions of Americans—and that will then be used to justify a ‘private sector fix,” the lawmakers wrote to Social Security Commissioner nominee Frank Bisignano ahead of his Tuesday hearing at the Finance Committee..

    Last week, the lawmakers wrote to Bisignano with concerns about how layoffs and office closures are impacting Americans’ Social Security benefits and services. In recent days, SSA officials have only intensified their efforts to undermine the program.

    One policy change will require beneficiaries who can’t verify their identity online to do so in person. This change could force seniors and people with disabilities to travel more than 100 miles to sign up for benefits, creating particular problems for vulnerable populations, including people with severe disabilities or illnesses. An internal memo from SSA revealed inside officials have acknowledged the policy could lead to “service disruptions.” 

    “Republicans have flirted with the idea of privatizing Social Security for over two decades. The latest changes at the Social Security Administration leave us worried that Elon Musk—with his clear disdain for the program that provides financial security to millions of Americans—has taken up the mantle as the latest privatization crusader,” the lawmakers continued.

    Beyond Musk planting a number of his private equity friends in various roles in the agency, Bisignano’s payment firm, Fiserv, which enables money movement for thousands of financial institutions and millions of people, could potentially also stand to benefit from SSA privatization. 

    The senators laid out specific commitments they expect Bisignano to make before the Finance Committee votes on his nomination. 

    The full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merkley, Risch, Wyden, Crapo Team Up for Bipartisan Bill to Boost Mass Timber Industry Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    March 24, 2025

    International Mass Timber Conference Kicks off in Portland, Oregon

    Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and Idaho’s U.S. Senator James Risch today launched a renewed bipartisan effort to promote the use of mass timber in federal building projects and military construction.

    The bipartisan Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act—which is cosponsored by Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden and Idaho’s U.S. Senator Mike Crapo—would incentivize the use of mass timber building materials by providing a preference in federal building contracts for mass timber products, giving mass timber companies the ability to compete for federal construction, renovation, or acquisition of public buildings and for military construction. The bill’s reintroduction coincides with the start of the International Mass Timber Conference—the largest gathering of mass timber experts in the world—in Portland this week.

    “Mass timber creates jobs in rural and urban communities, reduces wildfire risk, increases forest resiliency, and helps us shrink our carbon footprint,” said Merkley. “This expanding industry presents a huge opportunity for Oregon, and we must do all we can to harness its power for our economy and environment. By using mass timber in federal projects, our bipartisan effort around this critical industry will help tackle our nation’s biggest challenges while creating good-paying jobs in Oregon and across the Pacific Northwest.”

    “As a trained forester, I understand how important the timber industry is to Idaho communities, wildfire risk reduction, and forest management,” said Risch. “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is commonsense legislation to benefit Idaho’s forests, create jobs, and increase economic growth.”

    “Mass timber has huge potential to generate jobs in Oregon, reduce carbon emissions, and build an innovative approach to combat the shortage of housing in Oregon and nationwide,” said Wyden. “This fresh use for timber also directly addresses the immediate threat of wildfires caused by the climate crisis. Simply put, the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act adds up to a huge win for our state that helps protect Oregonians and boosts our timber economy.”

    “Idaho’s timber industry already provides a wealth of benefits in its resourcefulness across a number of critical projects in our state,” said Crapo. “Boosting demand for Idaho timber in the construction of federal buildings will harness the incredible work already done in our forests, and create new opportunities for Idaho companies, workers and products.”

    The bipartisan bill creates a two-tier contracting preference for mass timber and other innovative wood projects. The first-tier preference applies to mass timber that is made within the U.S. and responsibly sourced from state, federal, private, and Tribal forestlands. The optional second tier applies to mass timber products that are sourced from restoration practices, fire mitigation projects, and/or underserved forest owners. Additionally, this bill contains a reporting requirement for a whole building lifecycle assessment. The results of this assessment will help provide additional evidence of the carbon sequestration benefits of mass timber buildings.

    The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is endorsed by the American Wood Council, Sustainable Northwest, Forest Landowners Association, National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO), Weyerhaeuser, Freres Engineered Wood, Oregon Forest Industries Council, Composite Recycling Technology Center (CRTC), Oregon iSector, Washington Mass Timber Accelerator, Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub, American Forest Resource Council, and Oregon Department of Forestry.

    “Mass timber and wood construction presents a real opportunity to grow our domestic manufacturing and sustain our rural communities in the process. The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is an important first step in expanding new markets for wood products, ensuring that the nation’s single biggest developer – the federal government – can help invest in this emerging technology. This is a win-win proposal: not only would the bill expand markets and support domestic manufacturing; it would also support active forest management, help reduce wildfire risk and create jobs in forestry, manufacturing and construction. We applaud Senators Merkley and Risch for their bipartisan leadership and support for forestry communities nationwide,” said Jackson Morrill, President and CEO of the American Wood Council.

    “Sustainable Northwest commends Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for introduction of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. This practical legislation will spur use of innovative wood products in public buildings, support American manufacturing, and build critical markets for restoration of our nation’s forests,” said Dylan Kruse, President of Sustainable Northwest.

    “Private forest landowners, many from multi-generational family businesses, are the backbone of forest health in the U.S. But rising natural disasters and limited recovery tools threaten their ability to keep forests healthy and resilient. Expanding market access is critical to their success, and we thank Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for their leadership on the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act of 2025. By replacing carbon-intensive materials with American-grown timber, this policy strengthens our wood products supply chain, supports rural economies, and ensures the future of our working forests,” said Scott Jones, CEO of the Forest Landowners Association.

    “We commend Senators Merkley and Risch for re-introducing the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. Wood is an abundant, renewable, and sustainable building material. When we build with American-grown wood, we bolster our nation’s private working forests and the rural communities that depend on them. As global leaders in modern, sustainable forest management, U.S. forest owners are already growing the wood needed to expand mass timber construction. Because of the strong relationship between forest products markets and sustainable forest management, today we have 60% more wood in our forests than we had in the 1950s. This positions mass timber construction to deliver wins for the economies of rural communities, our nation’s water quality, wildlife, and more. We look forward to working with the Senators as well as their colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives to advance this important legislation,” said Dave Tenny, President and CEO of NAFO.

    “Wood products are the most sustainable, versatile and cost-effective building material we have. Building more with wood decreases the country’s dependence on materials that have a much higher environmental impact and rely on large amounts of fossil fuels in their production. Additionally, wood products manufacturing facilities are critical drivers of rural economies, and increased wood products demand and usage will bolster and continue to provide jobs in these communities. Mass timber has emerged as a transformative way to use wood in larger and taller buildings and grow the market for wood construction and wood buildings. The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act recognizes the importance of sustainably managed wood as a building material in the construction of federal buildings, and we commend Senator Merkley and Senator Risch for introducing this important piece of legislation,” said Kristen Sawin, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Weyerhaeuser.

    “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act seeks to foster innovative wood products development by encouraging the use of sustainable, renewable, and domestically supplied wood products for Federal projects. Freres Engineered Wood wholeheartedly supports this act for encouraging innovation inbuilding design and construction, as well as the social benefits of resilient forests, healthy habitats, and prosperous rural communities, from sustainable forest management across our Federal lands,” said Tyler Freres, Vice President at Freres Engineered Wood.

    “The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is not just legislation; it is a commitment to building a sustainable future. By embracing mass timber, we are investing in our planet, expanding economic opportunities, and setting a standard for environmentally responsible construction. This legislation will not only allow us to create structures that stand tall but it will foster a legacy of stewardship for generations to come,” said David Walter, CEO of the CRTC Building Innovation Center.

    “The private, public and civic sectors are coming together to support Mass Timber as never before in Oregon and Washington. This bill will find support for its preferences and lifecycle assessment provisions from our Mass Timber partnerships,” said Greg Wolf, Executive Director of Oregon iSector.

    “The Washington Mass Timber Accelerator, a nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating sustainable and equitable adoption of mass timber in construction in Washington and nationally, is pleased to support the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act. The State of Washington is poised to supply high-quality mass timber products to public buildings across the United States, sourced from federal forest restoration projects and forests cared for and managed by Tribal Nations – contributing to wildfire risk reduction and rural community economic development. These mass timber buildings can be built with labor standards and apprenticeship opportunities, and will endure long into the future, and serve as a celebration and reminder of our commitment to people and planet,” said Erica Spiritos, Director at the Washington Mass Timber Accelerator.

    “The Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub enthusiastically welcomes and strongly endorses the introduction of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act bill, which will help the United States restore well-paying jobs to rural communities, tackle the urgent challenges of wildfire risk and housing supply, and contribute to national security through a reduced reliance on foreign-sourced steel,” said Iain Macdonald, Director at the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub.

    Full text of the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act can be found by clicking here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation Crimes

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to transporting a minor across state lines with the intent to sexually abuse the child and to accessing child sexual abuse material.

    According to court documents, George “Travis” Woodfield, 41, of Macungie, Pennsylvania, drove an eleven-year-old child across state lines for an overnight trip to New York City in November 2018 in order to engage in sexual activity with the child. During the trip, Woodfield sexually abused the child in their hotel room. Further, between September 2015 and July 2024, Woodfield accessed numerous depictions of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including images of prepubescent children being sexually abused.

    Woodfield pleaded guilty to one count of transporting a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and one count of accessing with intent to view child pornography, including that of a prepubescent minor. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced by the court on July 1 and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI investigated the case.

    Senior Trial Attorney Jennifer Toritto Leonardo and Trial Attorney Jessica L. Urban of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca J. Kulik for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Commission on Limits of Continental Shelf Concludes Sixty-Third Session

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    NEW YORK, 24 March (Office of Legal Affairs) ― The Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf held its sixty-third session at United Nations Headquarters from 17 February to 21 March.  The plenary parts of the session were held from 24 to 28 February and from 10 to 14 March.  The remainder of the session was devoted to the technical examination of submissions at the premises of the Division, including geographic information systems laboratories and other technical facilities.

    During the first plenary part of the session, the Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel, Elinor Hammarskjöld, addressed the Commission for the first time since her appointment.  She acknowledged the crucial contribution of the Commission to the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and paid tribute to the significant work carried out by the members of the Commission in this regard.  Noting the ongoing liquidity crisis affecting regular budget operations of the United Nations Secretariat, the Under‑Secretary-General reiterated that the Division would continue to do its utmost to deliver high-quality support to the Commission within the available means.

    The Submissions of the following coastal States were considered by the Commission and its subcommissions: Mauritius in respect of the region of Rodrigues Island (partial submission); Palau in respect of the North Area (partial amended submission); Portugal; Spain in respect of the area of Galicia (partial submission); Namibia; Cuba in respect of the eastern polygon in the Gulf of Mexico; Mozambique; and Madagascar; as well as revised submissions made by Brazil in respect of the Brazilian Equatorial Margin (partial revised submission); Cook Islands concerning the Manihiki Plateau (revised submission); Iceland in respect of the western, southern and south-eastern parts of the Reykjanes Ridge (partial revised submission); Brazil in respect of the Brazilian Oriental and Meridional Margin (partial revised submission); and the Russian Federation in the Area of the Gakkel Ridge in the Arctic Ocean (partial revised submission).

    The Commission approved three sets of recommendations, namely in regard to the submissions made by Brazil in respect of the Brazilian Equatorial Margin (partial revised submission); Cuba in respect the eastern polygon in the Gulf of Mexico; and Iceland in respect of the western, southern and south-eastern parts of the Reykjanes Ridge (partial revised submission).

    During its plenary meetings, with regard to the submission made by Guyana, the Commission decided to defer its consideration in view of an objection conveyed by Venezuela.

    The Commission further heard presentations on the submission of Mozambique, which was a repeat presentation made upon the request of the coastal State; the partial revised submission made by Brazil in respect of the Brazilian Oriental and Meridional Margin; and the partial submission made by Viet Nam in respect of the Central Area.

    Underscoring the importance that submitting States attach to the work of the Commission, delegations were represented in the plenary at the high level:  the delegation of Mozambique was headed by the Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy, Estêvão Tomás Rafael Pale; the delegation of Cuba was headed by the Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Carlos Fernández de Cossío Domínguez; and the delegation of the Russian Federation was headed by the Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, Alexander Kozlov.

    In view of the progress in its work, the Commission decided to establish subcommissions to consider the partial submission made by Mexico in respect of the eastern polygon in the Gulf of Mexico; the submission made by the United Republic of Tanzania; and the partial submission made by Denmark in respect of the Southern Continental Shelf of Greenland. With a view to facilitating the efficient consideration of submissions, the Commission decided that subcommissions could actively consider two submissions in parallel, as needed.

    The Commission appointed the new member of the Commission, Ahmed Er Raji (Morocco), to subcommissions.  In view of the resignation of Mr. Brekke due to health reasons and the establishment of new subcommissions, the Commission also adjusted the membership of some existing subcommissions and subsidiary bodies.  The Commission also elected David Cole Mosher (Canada) as Vice-Chair of the Commission for the remainder of the current two-and-a-half-year term — until 15 December.

    With regard to the request of the General Assembly in its resolution 79/144 for the Secretary-General to develop and make available training courses to assist States in relation to the preparation, making and maintenance of submissions, as well as their consideration, the secretariat informed the Commission that no earmarked voluntary trust fund contributions for such activities had been received as of 13 March, and that, if no contributions were received by April, the secretariat would not be in a position to deliver on this mandate in 2025.

    The Commission also continued its consideration of initiatives to enhance efficiency in its work, including the development of technical bulletins and templates for presentations and recommendations.

    Further details on the sixty-third session will be available in the Statement of the Chairperson of the Commission (document CLCS/63/2).

    The background press release on this session is available at https://press.un.org/en/2025/sea2206.doc.htm.

    Background

    Established pursuant to article 2 of annex II to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Commission makes recommendations to coastal States on matters related to the establishment of the outer limits of their continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles from the baselines from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured, based on information submitted by those coastal States.  The recommendations are based on the scientific data and other material provided by coastal States in relation to the implementation of article 76 of the Convention and do not prejudice matters relating to the delimitation of boundaries between States with opposite or adjacent coasts or prejudice the position of States that are parties to a land or maritime dispute, or application of other parts of the Convention or any other treaties.  The limits of the continental shelf established by a coastal State on the basis of the recommendations are final and binding. In the case of disagreement by a coastal State with the recommendations of the Commission, the coastal State shall, within a reasonable time, make a revised or new submission to the Commission.

    Under rule 23 of its rules of procedure (Public and private meetings), the meetings of the Commission, its subcommissions and subsidiary bodies are held in private, unless the Commission decides otherwise.

    As required under the rules of procedure of the Commission, the executive summaries of all the submissions, including all charts and coordinates, have been made public by the Secretary‑General through continental shelf notifications circulated to Member States of the United Nations, as well as States Parties to the Convention.  The executive summaries are available on the Division’s website at:  www.un.org/depts/los/clcs_new/clcs_home.htm.  The summaries of recommendations adopted by the Commission are also available on the above-referenced website.

    The Commission is a body of 21 experts in the field of geology, geophysics or hydrography serving in their personal capacities. Members of the Commission are elected for a term of five years by the Meeting of States Parties to the Convention having due regard to the need to ensure equitable geographical representation. Not fewer than three members shall be elected from each geographical region.

    Currently, two seats on the Commission are vacant as a result of the resignation of Mr. Brekke and the long-standing vacancy resulting from a lack of nominations from the Group of Eastern European States.  A call for nominations has been circulated to States Parties with a view to filling these vacancies at a by-election to be conducted at the thirty-fifth Meeting of States Parties, scheduled to be convened from 23 to 27 June. The nomination period opened on 12 February and will close on 12 May at midnight.

    The Convention provides that the State party which submitted the nomination of a member of the Commission shall defray the expenses of that member while in performance of Commission duties.  A voluntary trust fund for the purpose of defraying the cost of participation of the members of the Commission from developing countries has been established.  It has facilitated the participation of several members of the Commission from developing countries in the sessions of the Commission.

    The convening by the Secretary-General of the sessions of the Commission, with full conference services, including documentation, for the plenary parts of these sessions, is subject to approval by the General Assembly of the United Nations.  The Assembly does so in its annual resolutions on oceans and the law of the sea, which also address other matters relevant to the work of the Commission and the conditions of service of its members.

    For additional information on the work of the Commission see the website of the Division at www.un.org/depts/los/index.htm.  In particular, the most recent Statements by the Chair on the progress in the work of the Commission are available at http://www.un.org/depts/los/clcs_new/commission_documents.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces Estimated March 2025 Cash Distributions for Ninepoint Cash Management Fund – ETF Series

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint Partners”) today announced the estimated March 2025 cash distribution for the ETF Series of Ninepoint Cash Management Fund (the “Fund”). Ninepoint Partners expects to issue a press release on or about March 28, 2025, which will provide the final distribution rate. The record date for the cash distribution is March 31, 2025, payable on April 7, 2025.

    All estimates in this document are based on the accounting data as of March 21, 2025. Due to subscriptions and/or redemptions and/or other factors, the final February 2025 distribution may differ from these estimates and the difference could be material. The information included in this letter is for reference purposes only. Please reconcile all information against your official client statements. This is not intended to be a statement for official tax reporting purposes or any form of tax advice.

    The actual taxable amounts of distributions for 2025, including the tax characteristics of the distributions, will be reported to CDS Clearing and Depository Services Inc. in early 2026. Securityholders can contact their brokerage firm for this information.

    The per-unit estimated March 2025 distribution is detailed below:

    Ninepoint ETF Series Ticker Cash Distribution per unit Notional Distribution per unit CUSIP
    Ninepoint Cash Management Fund NSAV $0.13007 $0.00000 65443X105


    About Ninepoint Partners

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or for inquiries regarding the offering, please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Ninepoint Partners LP is the investment manager to the Ninepoint Funds (collectively, the “Funds”). Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, performance fees (if any), and other expenses all may be associated with investing in the Funds. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer or solicitation by anyone in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. Prospective investors who are not resident in Canada should contact their financial advisor to determine whether securities of the Fund may be lawfully sold in their jurisdiction.

    Please note that distribution factors (breakdown between income, capital gains and return of capital) can only be calculated when a fund has reached its year-end. Distribution information should not be relied upon for income tax reporting purposes as this is only a component of total distributions for the year. For accurate distribution amounts for the purpose of filing an income tax return, please refer to the appropriate T3/T5 slips for that particular taxation year. Please refer to the prospectus or offering memorandum of each Fund for details of the Fund’s distribution policy.

    The payment of distributions and distribution breakdown, if applicable, is not guaranteed and may fluctuate. The payment of distributions should not be confused with a Fund’s performance, rate of return, or yield. If distributions paid by the Fund are greater than the performance of the Fund, then an investor’s original investment will shrink. Distributions paid as a result of capital gains realized by a Fund and income and dividends earned by a Fund are taxable in the year they are paid. An investor’s adjusted cost base will be reduced by the amount of any returns of capital. If an investor’s adjusted cost base goes below zero, then capital gains tax will have to be paid on the amount below zero.

    Sales Inquiries:

    Ninepoint Partners LP
    Neil Ross
    416-945-6227
    nross@ninepoint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces Fourth Quarter and Year End 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce its financial results for the three months (“Q4 2024”) and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Highlights

    • The weighted average organic royalty growth1 of DIV’s diversified royalty portfolio was 5.9% in Q4 2024 and 5.0% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to 6.8% for the three months ended December 31, 2023 (“Q4 2023”) and 8.4% for the year ended December 31, 2023. The weighted average organic royalty growth1 on a constant currency basis was 5.4% in Q4 2024 and 4.8% for the year ended December 31, 2024.
    • Revenue was $17.0 million in Q4 2024 and $65.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, up 3.9% and 15.0%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023.
    • Adjusted revenue1 was $18.4 million in Q4 2024 and $70.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, up 3.8% and 14.0%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023.
    • Distributable cash1 was $12.6 million in Q4 2024 and $44.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, up 21.5% and 17.5%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2023.
    • Payout ratio1 was 82.3% in Q4 2024 based on dividends of $0.0625 per share for the quarter, compared to 84.2% in Q4 2023 based on dividends of $0.0609 per share for the comparable quarter and 90.0% for the year ended December 31, 2024 based on dividends of $0.2487 per share for the year, compared to 90.2% based on dividends of $0.2415 per share for the comparable year.
    • In celebration of DIV’s 10-year anniversary, we are proud to recognize the following:
      • On October 6, 2014, we announced our name change to “Diversified Royalty Corp.”
      • DIV’s very first dividend was $0.0157 per share, paid on November 28, 2014
      • The total dividends paid to shareholders since then is $269.1 million, or $2.25 per share

    Fourth Quarter Commentary

    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer of DIV stated, “Overall, DIV is pleased with how its royalty partners performed with weighted average organic royalty growth of 5.9% in Q4 2024 and 5.0% for the year ended December 31, 2024. As with all portfolios, there are varying degrees of performance within the portfolio. Mr. Lube, our largest royalty partner, continued to see strong double-digit growth, generating SSSG1 (defined below) of 12.0% for the three-month period ended December 31, 2024, and 10.5% for the year ended December 31, 2024. This exceptional performance is the result of Mr. Lube’s management team working with their franchisees to share best practices and optimize the performance of each location. DIV’s other variable royalty partners generated mixed results with Oxford generating positive SSSG and Mr. Mikes generating negative SSSG in Q4. DIV’s fixed royalty partners, Nurse Next Door, Stratus and BarBurrito made their fixed royalty payments. DIV is deferring 20% of Sutton’s royalties to help them invest in the business and build on the positive momentum in Q4. DIV continues to see a decrease in royalty income from AIR MILES® because of the loss of Metro as a loyalty partner and continued softness across the AIR MILES® Rewards Program.”

    1. Adjusted revenue and distributable cash are non-IFRS financial measures, payout ratio is a non-IFRS ratio and weighted average organic royalty growth and Same-store-sales growth or SSSG are supplementary financial measures – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Fourth Quarter Results

       Three months ended December 31,
    		     Year ended December 31,
    		  
    (000’s)   2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Mr. Lube + Tires $ 8,602   $ 7,810     $ 31,190   $ 28,429  
    Stratusa   2,268     2,099       8,714     8,171  
    BarBurrito   2,101     2,032       8,403     2,032  
    Nurse Next Doorb   1,341     1,316       5,309     5,207  
    Oxford   1,206     1,162       4,530     4,521  
    Sutton   899     1,095       4,206     4,339  
    Mr. Mikes   1,040     1,130       4,226     4,570  
    AIR MILES®   896     1,044       3,640     4,352  
    Adjusted revenuec $ 18,352   $ 17,688     $ 70,218   $ 61,621  
                               

    a) Stratus royalty income for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, was US$1.6 million and US$6.4 million, respectively, translated at an average foreign exchange rate of $1.4000 and $1.3703 to US$1, respectively (three months and year ended December 31, 2023 – royalty income of US$1.5 million and US$6.1 million, respectively, translated at an average foreign exchange rate of $1.3610 and $1.3493 to US$1, respectively).
    b) Represents the DIV Royalty Entitlement plus management fees received from Nurse Next Door.
    c) DIV Royalty Entitlement and adjusted revenue are non-IFRS financial measures and as such, do not have standardized meanings under IFRS. For additional information, refer to “Non-IFRS Measures” in this news release.

    In Q4 2024, DIV generated $17.0 million of revenue compared to $16.4 million in Q4 2023. After considering the DIV Royalty Entitlement2 (defined below) related to DIV’s royalty arrangements with Nurse Next Door, DIV’s adjusted revenue2 was $18.4 million in Q4 2024, compared to $17.7 million in Q4 2023. Adjusted revenue increased primarily due to incremental revenue received through the acquisition of the BarBurrito rights on October 4, 2023, positive SSSG2 at Mr. Lube + Tires and Oxford, the annual contractual royalty increases at Stratus and Nurse Next Door, partially offset by negative SSSG from Mr. Mikes and lower royalty income from AIR MILES® and the 20% deferral of the Sutton royalties, all as discussed in further detail below.

    2. Adjusted revenue and DIV Royalty Entitlement are non-IFRS financial measures and SSSG are supplementary financial measures – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Royalty Partner Business Updates

    Mr. Lube + Tires: Mr. Lube Canada Limited Partnership (“Mr. Lube + Tires”) generated SSSG3 of 12.0% for the Mr. Lube + Tires stores in the royalty pool for Q4 2024 and 10.5% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to SSSG of 14.0% and 17.1%, for the same respective prior periods in 2023.

    3. Same-store-sales growth or SSSG is a supplementary financial measure – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Stratus: Royalty income from SBS Franchising LLC (“Stratus”) was $2.3 million (US$1.6 million translated at an average foreign exchange rate of $1.4000 to US$1.00) for Q4 2024 and $8.7 million (US$6.4 million translated at an average foreign exchange rate of $1.3703 to US$1.00) for the year ended December 31, 2024. The fixed royalty payable by Stratus increases each November at a rate of 5% until and including November 2026 and 4% each November thereafter during the term of the license, with the most recent increase effective November 15, 2024.

    Nurse Next Door: The royalty entitlement to DIV (the “DIV Royalty Entitlement4”) from Nurse Next Door Professional Homecare Services Inc. (“Nurse Next Door”) was $1.3 million in Q4 2024 and $5.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The DIV Royalty Entitlement from Nurse Next Door grows at a fixed rate of 2.0% per annum during the term of the license, with the most recent increase effective October 1, 2024.

    4. DIV Royalty Entitlement is a non-IFRS measure – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Mr. Mikes: SSSG5 for the Mr. Mikes Restaurants Corporation (“Mr. Mikes”) restaurants in the Mr. Mikes royalty pool was -4.7% in Q4 2024 and -3.4% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to SSSG of 7.3% and 10.1%, for the same respective prior periods in 2023. The lower SSSG percentage in the current period is primarily due to lower restaurant guest traffic. In addition, in the comparable period, SSSG was measured against quarters that included the impact from COVID-19 related government regulations, including vaccine mandates.

    Royalty income and management fees of $1.0 million were generated by Mr. Mikes in Q4 2024, compared to $1.2 million in Q4 2023, which excludes approximately $0.05 million from the partial payment of deferred contractual royalty fees and accrued management fees. Royalty income and management fees of $4.2 million were generated for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $4.4 million generated for the year ended December 31, 2023, excluding approximately $0.18 million from the partial payment of deferred contractual royalty fees and accrued management fees.

    5. Same-store-sales growth or SSSG is a supplementary financial measure – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Oxford: The Oxford Learning Centres, Inc. (“Oxford”) locations in the Oxford royalty pool generated SSSG6 (on a constant currency basis) of 4.0% in Q4 2024 and 0.2% for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to SSSG of -0.2% and 5.9%, for the same respective prior periods in 2023. Oxford’s SSSG has returned to being positive after lapping the completion of the Ontario Government funding of student learning support, which included private tutoring, which funding completed in the first half of 2023.

    6. Same-store-sales growth or SSSG is a supplementary financial measure – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    AIR MILES®: In Q4 2024, royalty income of $0.9 million was generated from the AIR MILES® Licenses compared to $1.0 million generated in Q4 2023, a decrease of 14.2% from the comparable quarter. For the year ended December 31, 2024, royalty income of $3.6 million was generated compared to $4.4 million generated in the comparable year, a decrease of 16.4%. The decrease is largely due to the loss of AIR MILES® sponsor Metro and continued softness in the AIR MILES® Rewards Program.

    Sutton: In Q4 2024, royalty income of $0.9 million was generated by Sutton, which is net of a 20% royalty deferral, compared to $1.1 million generated in Q4 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024, royalty income of $4.1 million was generated, which includes a 20% royalty deferral for Q4, 2024, compared to $4.3 million generated in the comparable year. DIV and Sutton entered into a royalty deferral agreement during Q4 2024, which provides Sutton with a 20% deferral of royalties from October 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025. The deferred royalties do not accrue interest and are due in full on December 31, 2027. Sutton finished 2024 on a strong note, opening two new franchise locations in Q4 and has a growing pipeline of franchise opportunities across Canada. Sutton intends to invest the deferred royalties to complete the rebuild of its management team, increase investment in marketing, roll out its rebranded logo across Canada, increase business development, and build on the positive momentum that began in the back half of 2024.

    BarBurrito: Royalty income from BarBurrito Restaurants Inc. (“BarBurrito”) was $2.1 million for Q4 2024 and $8.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The royalty payable by BarBurrito initially grows at a fixed rate of 4% per annum each March from and including March 2025 to and including March 2030 and, commencing on January 1, 2031, will fluctuate based on the gross sales of the BarBurrito locations in the royalty pool.

    Distributable Cash and Dividends Declared

    In Q4 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, distributable cash7 increased to $12.6 million ($0.0759 per share) and $44.8 million ($0.2762 per share), respectively, compared to $10.4 million ($0.0723 per share) and $38.1 million ($0.2671 per share), in the respective periods in 2023.

    The increase in distributable cash7 for the quarter was primarily due to higher adjusted revenue7, lower general and administrative expenses, lower professional fees, lower interest expense, and lower salaries and benefits. The increase in distributable cash7 for the year was primarily due to higher adjusted revenue7, lower general and administrative expenses, and lower professional fees, partially offset by higher interest expense and higher and salaries and benefits.

    The increase in distributable cash per share7 for the quarter and year end were primarily due to an increase in distributable cash, partially offset by a higher weighted average number of common shares outstanding.

    In Q4 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, the payout ratio7 was 82.3% on dividends of $0.0625 per share and 90.0% on dividends of $0.2487 per share, respectively, compared to the payout ratio of 84.2% on dividends of $0.0609 per share and 90.2% on dividends of $0.2410 per share for the same respective periods in 2023. The decrease in payout ratio for the quarter and year end were primarily due to higher distributable cash per share7, partially offset by higher dividends declared per share.

    7. Adjusted revenue and distributable cash are non-IFRS financial measures and distributable cash per share and payout ratio are non-IFRS ratios – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    Net Income

    Net income for Q4 2024 and for the year ended December 31, 2024, was $4.0 million and $26.6 million, respectively, compared to net income of $9.1 million and $31.7 million for the same respective periods in 2023. The decrease in net income in Q4 2024 was primarily due to impairment loss on intangible assets and higher share-based compensation expense, partially offset by higher adjusted revenue8 and lower general and administrative expenses, interest expense on credit facilities, and income tax expense. The decrease in net income for the year was primarily due to impairment loss on intangible assets, higher share-based compensation expense, salaries and benefits, and interest expense on credit facilities, partially offset by higher adjusted revenue8 and lower general and administrative expenses, and income tax expense.

    8. Adjusted revenue is a non-IFRS financial measure – see “Non-IFRS Measures” below.

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: Sutton having a growing pipeline of franchise opportunities across Canada; Sutton intends to invest the deferred royalties to complete the rebuild of its management team, increase investment in marketing, roll out its rebranded logo across Canada, increase business development and build on the positive momentum that began in the back half of 2024; DIV’s intention to pay monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular, risks and uncertainties include: DIV’s royalty partners may not make their respective royalty payments to DIV, in whole or in part; the decline in royalties received under the AIR MILES® licenses could cause AM Royalties Limited Partnership (“AM LP”) to be required to make partial or full repayment of the outstanding principal amount under its credit agreement, or cause AM LP to be in default under its credit agreement; current positive trends being experienced by certain of DIV’s royalty partners (and their respective franchisees) may not continue and may regress, and current negative trends experienced by certain of DIV’s royalty partners (including their respective franchisees) may continue and may regress; DIV and its royalty partners performance may not meet management’s expectations; DIV may not be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; Sutton may not pay all deferred royalties in accordance with the timing required or at all; Sutton’s investment of the deferred royalties may not achieve their intended effects; Sutton may require further deferrals of royalties beyond those contemplated by the current deferral agreement; dividends are not guaranteed and may be reduced, suspended or terminated at any time; or DIV may not achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release is not a guarantee of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 24, 2025 and in DIV’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, copies of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; lenders will provide any necessary waivers required in order to allow DIV to continue to pay dividends; lenders will provide any other necessary covenant waivers to DIV and its royalty partners; the performance of DIV’s royalty partners will be consistent with DIV’s and its royalty partners’ respective expectations; recent positive trends for certain of DIV’s royalty partners (including their respective franchisees) will continue and not regress; current negative trends experienced by certain of DIV’s royalty partners (including their respective franchisees) will not materially regress; Sutton will pay all deferred royalties in accordance with the required timing in full and will not require further deferrals; Sutton’s investment of the deferred royalties will achieve its intended effects; the businesses of DIV’s respective royalty partners will not suffer any material adverse effect; and the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    All of the forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that it will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information in this news release is made as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    Non-IFRS Measures

    Management believes that disclosing certain non-IFRS financial measures, non-IFRS ratios and supplementary financial measures provides readers with important information regarding the Corporation’s financial performance and its ability to pay dividends and the performance of its royalty partners. By considering these measures in combination with the most closely comparable IFRS measure, management believes that investors are provided with additional and more useful information about the Corporation and its royalty partners than investors would have if they simply considered IFRS measures alone. The non-IFRS financial measures, non-IFRS ratios and supplementary financial measures do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Investors are cautioned that non-IFRS measures should not be construed as a substitute or an alternative to net income or cash flows from operating activities as determined in accordance with IFRS.

    “Adjusted revenue”, “adjusted royalty income”, “DIV Royalty Entitlement” and “distributable cash” are used as non-IFRS financial measures in this news release.

    Adjusted revenue is calculated as royalty income plus DIV Royalty Entitlement and management fees. The following table reconciles adjusted revenue and adjusted royalty income to royalty income, the most directly comparable IFRS measure disclosed in the financial statements:

       Three months ended December 31,
    		     Year ended December 31,
    		  
    (000’s)   2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Mr. Lube + Tires $ 8,543   $ 7,750     $ 30,953   $ 28,196  
    Stratus   2,269     2,099       8,714     8,171  
    BarBurrito   2,080     2,013       8,320     2,013  
    Oxford   1,194     1,152       4,487     4,481  
    Sutton   872     1,068       4,096     4,229  
    Mr. Mikes   1,025     1,115       4,181     4,520  
    AIR MILES®   896     1,044       3,640     4,352  
    Royalty income $ 16,879   $ 16,241     $ 64,391   $ 55,962  
    DIV Royalty Entitlement   1,320     1,295       5,228     5,126  
    Adjusted royalty income $ 18,199   $ 17,536     $ 69,619   $ 61,088  
    Management fees   153     152       599     533  
    Adjusted revenue $ 18,352   $ 17,688     $ 70,218   $ 61,621  
                               

    For further details with respect to adjusted revenue and adjusted royalty income, refer to the subsection “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” under “Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures, Non-IFRS Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures” in the Corporation’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    The most closely comparable IFRS measure to DIV Royalty Entitlement is “distributions received from NND LP”. DIV Royalty Entitlement is calculated as distributions received from NND LP, before any deduction for expenses incurred by NND Holdings Limited Partnership (“NND LP”), which expenses include legal, audit, tax and advisory services. Note that distributions received from NND LP is derived from the royalty paid by Nurse Next Door to NND LP. The following table reconciles DIV Royalty Entitlement to distributions received from NND LP in the financial statements:

       Three months ended December 31,     Year ended December 31,
    		  
    (000’s)   2024     2023       2024     2023  
    Distributions received from NND LP $ 1,314   $ 1,284     $ 5,197   $ 5,095  
    Add: NND Royalties LP expenses   2     2       27     22  
    DIV Royalty Entitlement   1,316     1,286       5,224     5,117  
               
    Less: NND Royalties LP expenses   (2 )   (2 )     (27 )   (22 )
    DIV Royalty Entitlement, net of NND Royalties LP expenses $ 1,314   $ 1,284     $ 5,197   $ 5,095  
                               

    For further details with respect to DIV Royalty Entitlement, refer to the subsection “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” under “Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures, Non-IFRS Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures” in the Corporation’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    The following table reconciles distributable cash to cash flows generated from operating activities, the most directly comparable IFRS measure disclosed in the financial statements:

      Three months ended December 31,
    		     Year ended December 31,
    		  
    (000’s)   2024     2023       2024     2023  
               
    Cash flows generated from operating activities $ 11,724   $ 7,400     $ 46,491   $ 30,816  
               
    Current tax expense   (1,300 )   (845 )     (6,516 )   (5,061 )
    Accrued interest on convertible debentures   788     788       –     –  
    Accrued interest on bank loans   (13 )   –       (438 )   –  
    Distributions on MRM units earned in current periods   (34 )   (38 )     (138 )   (164 )
    Mandatory principal payments on credit facilities   –     (577 )     (643 )   (1,008 )
    Payment of lease obligations   (28 )   (28 )     (110 )   (107 )
    NND LP expenses   (2 )   (2 )     (27 )   (22 )
    Accrued DIV Royalty Entitlement, net of distributions   2     –       27     –  
    Foreign exchange and other   (13 )   394       146     229  
    Changes in working capital   (33 )   (527 )     303     3,579  
    Transactions costs   –     32       –     32  
    Taxes paid   1,512     1,648       6,012     7,691  
    Note receivable   –     2,130       (305 )   2,130  
    Distributable cash $ 12,603   $ 10,376     $ 44,802   $ 38,115  
                               

    For further details with respect to distributable cash, refer to the subsection “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” under “Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures, Non-IFRS Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures” in the Corporation’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    “Distributable cash per share” and “payout ratio” are non-IFRS ratios that do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, and therefore may not be comparable to similar ratios presented by other issuers. Distributable cash per share is defined as distributable cash, a non-IFRS measure, divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The payout ratio is calculated by dividing the dividends per share during the period by the distributable cash per share, a non-IFRS measure, generated in that period. For further details, refer to the subsection entitled “Non-IFRS Ratios” under “Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures, Non-IFRS Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures” in the Corporation’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    “Weighted average organic royalty growth” is the average same store sales growth percentage related to Mr. Lube + Tires, Oxford and Mr. Mikes (excluding the collection of Mr. Mikes deferred royalty management fees) plus the average increase in adjusted royalty income from AIR MILES®, Sutton (less 20% deferral in Q4, 2024), Nurse Next Door and Stratus over the prior comparable period taking into account the percentage weighting of each royalty partner’s adjusted royalty income in proportion of the total adjusted royalty income for the period, excluding BarBurrito as there was no full-period adjusted royalty income generated from BarBurrito in the prior period. Weighted average organic royalty growth is a supplementary financial measure and does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. However, the Corporation believes that weighted average organic royalty growth is a useful measure as it provides investors with an indication of the change in year-over-year growth of each royalty partner, taking into account the percentage weighting of royalty partner’s growth in proportion of total growth, as applicable. The Corporation’s method of calculating weighted average organic royalty growth may differ from those of other issuers or companies and, accordingly, weighted average organic royalty growth may not be comparable to similar measures used by other issuers or companies.

    “Same store sales growth” or “SSSG” and “system sales” are supplementary financial measures and do not have standardized meanings prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. SSSG and system sales figures are reported to DIV by its Royalty Partners – see “Third Party Information”. For further details, refer to the subsection entitled “Supplementary Financial Measures” under “Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures, Non-IFRS Ratios and Supplementary Financial Measures” in the Corporation’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, a copy of which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Third Party Information

    This news release includes information obtained from third party company filings and reports and other publicly available sources as well as financial statements and other reports provided to DIV by its royalty partners. Although DIV believes these sources to be generally reliable, such information cannot be verified with complete certainty. Accordingly, the accuracy and completeness of this information is not guaranteed. DIV has not independently verified any of the information from third party sources referred to in this news release nor ascertained the underlying assumptions relied upon by such sources.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    The information in this news release should be read in conjunction with DIV’s consolidated financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8470

    Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8471

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ninepoint Partners Announces March 2025 Cash Distributions for ETF Series Securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ninepoint Partners LP (“Ninepoint Partners”) today announced the March 2025 cash distributions for its ETF Series securities. The record date for the distributions is March 31, 2025. All distributions are payable on April 7, 2025.

    The per-unit March 2025 distributions are detailed below:


    About Ninepoint Partners

    Based in Toronto, Ninepoint Partners LP is one of Canada’s leading alternative investment management firms overseeing approximately $7 billion in assets under management and institutional contracts. Committed to helping investors explore innovative investment solutions that have the potential to enhance returns and manage portfolio risk, Ninepoint offers a diverse set of alternative strategies spanning Equities, Fixed Income, Alternative Income, Real Assets, F/X and Digital Assets.

    For more information on Ninepoint Partners LP, please visit www.ninepoint.com or for inquiries regarding the offering, please contact us at (416) 943-6707 or (866) 299-9906 or invest@ninepoint.com.

    Ninepoint Partners LP is the investment manager to the Ninepoint Funds (collectively, the “Funds”). Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, performance fees (if any), and other expenses all may be associated with investing in the Funds. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer or solicitation by anyone in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. Prospective investors who are not resident in Canada should contact their financial advisor to determine whether securities of the Fund may be lawfully sold in their jurisdiction.

    Please note that distribution factors (breakdown between income, capital gains and return of capital) can only be calculated when a fund has reached its year-end. Distribution information should not be relied upon for income tax reporting purposes as this is only a component of total distributions for the year. For accurate distribution amounts for the purpose of filing an income tax return, please refer to the appropriate T3/T5 slips for that particular taxation year. Please refer to the prospectus or offering memorandum of each Fund for details of the Fund’s distribution policy.

    The payment of distributions and distribution breakdown, if applicable, is not guaranteed and may fluctuate. The payment of distributions should not be confused with a Fund’s performance, rate of return, or yield. If distributions paid by the Fund are greater than the performance of the Fund, then an investor’s original investment will shrink. Distributions paid as a result of capital gains realized by a Fund and income and dividends earned by a Fund are taxable in the year they are paid. An investor’s adjusted cost base will be reduced by the amount of any returns of capital. If an investor’s adjusted cost base goes below zero, then capital gains tax will have to be paid on the amount below zero.

    Sales Inquiries:

    Ninepoint Partners LP
    Neil Ross
    416-945-6227
    nross@ninepoint.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Announces Experts on First Amendment and Freedom of the Press as Witnesses for Hearing on So-Called ‘Censorship Industrial Complex’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Welch: “Newsflash for my colleagues across the aisle: their claims of a ‘vast cover-up’ against conservatives will get debunked as quickly as their claims about supporting free speech.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on The Constitution, announced the Minority witnesses for the Subcommittee 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 their political adversaries, the Majority has focused this hearing on a perceived—and unproven—censorship enterprise against conservatives.   
    “Newsflash for my colleagues across the aisle: their claims of a ‘vast cover-up’ against conservatives will get debunked as quickly as their claims about supporting free speech,” said Sen. Peter Welch. “The Republican party has pushed disinformation for years, and this sham hearing on the so-called anti-conservative ‘censorship industrial complex’ is yet another example. Instead of focusing on the actual censorship directed, unabashedly, by the White House, they’re pushing this false narrative that their voices are being silenced. I’m thankful to be joined by Professor Mary Anne Franks and Gabe Rottman tomorrow, who will speak on the importance of the First Amendment and press freedom.” 
    Witnesses for the Minority will include: 
    Mary Anne Franks. Ms. Franks is the Eugene L. and Barbara A. Bernard Professor in Intellectual Property, Technology, and Civil Rights Law at George Washington University School of Law, and an expert in the First Amendment and technology.  
    Gabe Rottman: Mr. Rottman is the Vice President of Policy at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. In this role he works at the intersection of press freedom and technology.  
    Majority witnesses will include Mollie Hemingway, senior editor for The Federalist, Jonathan Turley, conservative legal scholar, and Benjamin Weingarten, a Senior Contributor for The Federalist.  
    More details on the hearing are included below: 
    Title:                      The Censorship Industrial Complex
    Date:                      Tuesday, March 25, 2025
    Time:                      2:00 p.m. ET
    Location:   Room 226 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building
    Livestream:           Watch live HERE.
    Media Note: Members of the media who wish to attend the hearing in person should RSVP to their respective Senate press gallery. Hearing room space is limited. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Ordered to Restore Healthcare to Newsroom Workers in 2-Year Strike

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    PITTSBURGH – The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals enjoined the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PG) on Monday, requiring the company to—among other orders—restore the health care it illegally took away from editorial workers, addressing a core demand of the union workers who have struck for more than 29 months.

    “It is further ordered that the Respondent, PG Publishing Co., Inc. d/b/a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and its officers, agents, successors, and assigns, shall: …rescind the changes in the terms and conditions of employment related to health insurance for its unit employees that were unilaterally implemented on about July 27, 2020,” the order, written by Judge Cindy K. Chung, reads.

    The PG is also required to bargain with the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh-CWA Local 38061, submit bargaining progress reports to Region 6 of the National Labor Relations Board, and negotiate with the workers’ union on any changes in wages, hours, or any other terms of employment.

    The Post-Gazette will soon face further consequences as the Third Circuit Court of Appeals is awaiting a final response from the company regarding the NLRB’s request for enforcement of its own September 2024 ruling. If the 3rd Circuit Court enforces the Board’s ruling, the PG will be required to restore working conditions consistent with the entire 2014-17 contract, including paid time off, wages, employees having a guaranteed work week, and the right to question company discipline, among other issues, as well as back pay to workers for wage reductions and increased health care costs.

    In 2020, the company illegally and unilaterally tore up the editorial workers’ union contract, claiming they had bargained to an impasse. Both an administrative law judge and the National Labor Relations Board in D.C. ruled that the company broke federal labor law in this instance, in addition to bargaining in bad faith and illegally surveilling its workers.

    “Members of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh have stood and fought against the Post-Gazette’s illegal union busting since October 2022, and today we have been given the victory that we’ve held the picket line waiting for so long,” said Zack Tanner, striking interactive designer and Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh president. “Our win today is a major victory not just for us striking workers, but for all workers in Pittsburgh who want to stand up and fight.”

    Members of the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh walked out on strike on October 18, 2022, demanding restoration of their 2014-17 contract and dignified health care.

    The striking workers have maintained their picket lines for more than two years and five months in America’s longest-running strike, winning many legal victories over the Post-Gazette. Unlike previous rulings against the PG, the 3rd Circuit Court’s order has both enforcement power and directly addresses strikers’ demands.

    The Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh remains on strike against the Post-Gazette. Striking workers will meet in the coming days to discuss the court order and whether it will lead to the end of the strike.

    “NewsGuild-CWA members have a saying: whatever it takes,” said NewsGuild-CWA President Jon Schleuss. “Guild members have struck for 29 months knowing we were right and the company broke federal law. Today the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with us. We’re thrilled and will continue doing our job holding power to account, especially when it’s the boss.”

    ###

    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 Submissions: Universities sign UK-Borneo strategic forestry research partnership – University of Birmingham

    Source: University of Birmingham

    24 March 2025 – The University of Birmingham and the University College Sabah Foundation (UCSF) have forged ties to create new opportunities exploring how forest ecosystems will behave in in the future as atmospheric carbon dioxide levels rise.

    Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Birmingham joined UCSF Vice-Chancellor Datuk Dr Rafiq Idris by video link to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).  

    The MoU will see Birmingham climate change experts working with their counterparts in Borneo to explore the potential for major forest experiments and to investigate how the island’s forests respond to pressures cause by climate change – particularly in relation to biodiversity.

    The partners will explore opportunities to develop a global research and education centre around forestry management and biodiversity focussed on the needs of the people and nature of Sabah State and beyond.  

    Their partnership also aims to establish knowledge-exchange initiatives around energy infrastructure optimisation and decarbonisation – particularly related to sustainable energy derived from biomass sources.  

    Professor Robin Mason commented: “The University of Birmingham has an excellent track record in this space – particularly in relation to research at our own large-scale Free-Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) facility and its counterpart in the Amazon.

    “As we prepare to contribute to the global discussion on climate change at COP 30 later this year, we look forward to developing our partnership with University College Sabah Foundation in Borneo – pushing forward the boundaries of global forestry research and adding to our understanding of the impact of elevated carbon levels on the world’s forests.”

    Development of the partnership has been supported by UK-Malaysia strategic business advisers WIPPD. Initial discussions between the partners will get to grips with Sabah State’s energy priorities, as well as exploring opportunities for educational and training initiatives.

    Datuk Dr Rafiq Bin Idris commented: “This collaboration marks a significant milestone for UCSF’s partnership with the University of Birmingham. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing research and innovation. UCSF with other stakeholders will work together to participate and support in this global forestry and carbon research wherever possible. By working together, we aim to strengthen collaboration, enrich learning experiences and conduct research in strategic areas of mutual interest. We are happy to formalise this relationship through the signing of this MoU.”

    Mature forests are recognised as medium-term (decades long) carbon stores and natural climate solutions. The long-running FACE experiment at the University of Birmingham’s Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR), in central England, has contributed significantly to increasing global understanding of how forests may behave in response to changes in atmospheric carbon levels.

    FACE experiments mimic future atmospheric composition and provide valuable data on interaction between forests, atmosphere, and climate. In 2017, researchers at BIFoR established the long-term FACE experiment in a 180-year-old deciduous woodland dominated by 26-m tall English (or ‘pedunculate’) oak trees – six 30 metre diameter plots, three exposed to elevated CO2 with the other three plots acting as a control. The southeast Asian rainforests are one of the most important ecosystems for which a FACE experiment has yet to be attempted.

    Notes:  

    The University of Birmingham is ranked amongst the world’s top 100 institutions. Its work brings people from across the world to Birmingham, including researchers, teachers and more than 8,000 international students from over 150 countries.

    The most significant results to date from BIFoR FACE are published in Norby, R. J., … and A. R. MacKenzie (2024). Enhanced woody biomass production in a mature temperate forest under elevated CO2. Nature Climate Change. 14, 983–988. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-024-02090-3 .  

    The University of Birmingham is committed to achieving operational net zero carbon. It is seeking to change society and the environment positively, and use its research and education to make a major global contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Find out at www.birmingham.ac.uk/sustainability 

    The University of Birmingham is ranked 38th in the 2025 QS World Sustainability Rankings and rose 19 places in the 2024 People and Planet sustainability league table. Our global sustainability research is unlocking effective and equitable climate action and sustainability solutions.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Sector – Meet Cotality: CoreLogic Embraces a New Name and Bold Vision for the Future of the Property Industry

    Source: CoreLogic

    CoreLogic to rebrand to Cotality, reflecting the company’s mission to unify property professionals, strengthen industry relationships and drive innovation globally.

    CoreLogic today announced its global rebrand to Cotality, marking the company’s progression to a leader in property information, analytics and data-enabled solutions from its origins in financial services supporting the mortgage industry.

    This rebrand introduces a new name, logo and brand identity that reflect the company’s transformation into an information services provider that is creating a faster, smarter and more people-centric property industry.
    “The property ecosystem underpins the prosperity of individuals, businesses, governments and society as a whole. But at the core, it’s people, businesses and communities that drive it forward. Cotality’s insights build on this, by turning questions into futures you can see,” said Patrick Dodd, President and CEO of Cotality.
    “This rebrand reflects innovation, evolution and commitment to uniting property professionals – strengthening businesses, fostering relationships and powering outcomes that balance logic and data with humanity and emotion. Our name is changing to demonstrate the company’s unmatched dedication and service to clients around the world.”
    The new name, Cotality, reflects the company’s deep commitment to collaboration and connectivity, both internally and externally, while honoring its CoreLogic roots. It also signifies its approach of totality, delivering comprehensive data and insights across the entire property ecosystem and beyond. Tying it all together is the company’s spirit of vitality – placing the idea that helping people thrive is at the center of every insight and workflow.
    “While remaining true to our core DNA, the time is right to launch a refreshed brand that captures our evolution,” said Lisa Claes, CEO of Cotality International, pointing to its significantly expanded capability and customer solution set following a suite of acquisitions, sustained product investment and strengthened industry partnerships.
     Alongside the new Cotality name sits the tagline: Intelligence Beyond BoundsTM. 
    This tagline serves as both a first impression and a powerful expression of the company’s identity. It is an embodiment of the seamless integration of data, technology, artificial intelligence, insights and people that inspire Cotality to collaborate across the entire lifecycle of properties and homeowners.
    “For CoreLogic Australia, New Zealand and UK, Cotality captures our unique position and reinforces to the market that we are part of a global, technology-enabled information services leader, whose solutions truly unlock Intelligence beyond bounds.”
    “Our new name and tagline reflect the essence of who we are and where we’re headed. This transformation is a natural evolution, honoring our roots while embracing a future defined by collaboration, innovation and impact,” said Kristie Vainikos Stegen, Chief Brand and Communications Officer of Cotality. “This isn’t just about a new look; it’s about harnessing the power of data and technology and empowering people – internally and externally – to drive meaningful change globally.”
    Cotality empowers industry professionals across home lending, insurance, real estate and government worldwide. With operations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, India and Germany, Cotality’s new global brand identity will build on CoreLogic’s trusted legacy to deliver innovation and drive smarter decisions while expanding its global reach.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Host National Oil Company (NOC)-International Oil Company (IOC) Forum in Cape Town, Strengthening Public-Private Sector Partnerships in Africa’s Energy Market

    SOURCE: African Energy Chamber

    The inaugural NOC-IOC Forum at African Energy Week 2025: Invest in African Energies will foster collaboration between Africa’s national oil companies and international oil companies to drive investment, enhance capacity building and unlock the continent’s hydrocarbon potential

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 24, 2025/ — This year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference will debut the first-ever National Oil Company (NOC) and International Oil Company (IOC) Forum, a dynamic platform that brings key public and private sector stakeholders into direct conversation to drive investment, secure new deals, foster local capacity building and advance exploration.

    A key focus of the forum will be enhancing collaboration in the exploration, development and production of hydrocarbon resources across the continent, with an emphasis on data sharing and joint decision-making to unlock untapped potential. In South Africa, TotalEnergies is preparing to drill its first exploration well on Block 3B/4B, leveraging 14,000 km of 2D seismic and 10,800 km² of 3D seismic, with a large set of exploration prospects already identified. In Angola, Sonangol is ramping up offshore exploration on Block 6/24, focusing on geological and geophysical studies and seismic data reprocessing to assess the block’s resource potential, which includes a possible commercial oil discovery. Meanwhile, in Equatorial Guinea, GEPetrol has partnered with Panoro Energy on Block EG-23, conducting subsurface studies to evaluate the block’s potential, with the possibility of drilling an exploration well.

    In parallel, new market activity is reshaping Africa’s exploration landscape, as both NOCs and IOCs pursue strategic acquisitions, partnerships and project expansions. Chevron has strengthened its presence in Equatorial Guinea by securing PSCs for two highly prospective offshore blocks. In October 2024, Brazilian NOC Petrobras acquired a 10% stake in the offshore Deep Western Orange Basin in South Africa as part of its strategy to boost reserves and expand its footprint in Africa’s emerging oil and gas markets. Last month, Chinese state-backed company Sinopec signed an $850 million contract with Algerian NOC Sonatrach for exploration and development, securing a PSC covering the Hassi Berkane North license. Sonatrach is also in discussions with Eni, TotalEnergies, Chevron and ExxonMobil for exploration and development activities in the region. The NOC-IOC Forum will provide a key platform to examine these developments, fostering discussions on how public and private sector cooperation can accelerate exploration, attract capital and unlock new resource opportunities.

    The NOC-IOC Forum will also focus on forging new partnerships to drive capacity-building programs and facilitate knowledge-sharing, empowering local talent in the oil and gas sector. The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR) has been active in establishing partnerships to support the country’s goal of producing first oil by year-end. This includes a collaboration with QatarEnergy focused on providing training and development opportunities for NAMCOR employees in industry-specific skills. In October 2024, NAMCOR also signed an agreement with global technology company SLB to improve operational performance in decarbonization, green hydrogen and sustainable energy, with an emphasis on local capacity development. Meanwhile, Mozambique’s Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos is investing in specialized offshore drilling services, reinforcing the state’s involvement in the country’s oil and gas projects through an agreement with Italian multinational oilfield services company Saipem.

    Additionally, the NOC-IOC Forum will facilitate the exchange of insights on regional and global energy regulations, helping participants navigate the evolving energy landscape. In the Republic of Congo, Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo is working closely with private sector companies and IOCs to gather input for its upcoming Gas Master Plan, as well as developing a new gas code aimed at modernizing the regulatory framework to attract foreign investment. This push for regulatory improvements has driven increased IOC activity in the country, with Eni advancing the second phase of its $5 billion Congo LNG project and TotalEnergies committing $600 million to expand its E&P operations, specifically in the deep offshore Moho Nord Field.

    The NOC-IOC Forum offers a strategic platform for both African NOCs and IOCs to present their exploration strategies, access available acreage and showcase ongoing energy developments. By facilitating direct engagement across sectors, the forum will drive insightful exchanges on sharing data and insights to improve decision-making, optimizing operational efficiencies and unlocking new investment opportunities. These discussions will ensure that partnerships are mutually beneficial, aligning national development goals with commercial objectives while fostering a more integrated and strategic approach to Africa’s energy future.

    “The launch of the first-ever NOC-IOC Forum at AEW 2025 marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s energy sector. By positioning key national and international stakeholders in direct dialogue, the forum aims to drive investment, foster collaboration and empower local talent. This is an exciting opportunity for both NOCs and IOCs to present their strategies, forge new partnerships and contribute to the sustainable development of Africa’s hydrocarbon sector,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Moran, and Representative Davids Urge USPS Postmaster General to Build New Post Office in Olathe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kansas-03) in urging the United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to relocate the City of Olathe’s downtown postal facility and construct a new, efficient, and modern post office.
    Olathe is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, and the city is working in partnership with USPS to relocate and modernize the current postal facility.
    In the letter, Senator Marshall, Senator Moran, and Representative Davids wrote: 
    “We write regarding the proposed partnership between the USPS and Olathe, Kansas concerning the relocation of the downtown postal facility and construction of a new, efficient, and modern facility in its place.
    “…We wish to again express our strongest support for the project and remind you that each of us remains committed to following the process closely.
    “As we have stated before, we believe this type of project can be a model for innovating partnerships benefiting both the USPS and local communities. We believe it will be achievable in quick order, and it will send a strong message to those legislatively engaged in USPS related issues.”
    The full text of the letter is available HERE.
    BACKGROUND
    Olathe is one of the fastest growing cities in Kansas, and the city has been hard at work to revitalize downtown Olathe.
    The city initiated the move to mitigate the impact of revitalization efforts on post office operations.
    The Kansas City area has been significantly affected by mail delays, with the region having the sixth-worst on-time delivery rate in the nation in 2024.
    Senator Marshall has worked extensively to restore reliable mail service for Kansans:
    In December 2024, Senator Marshall helped deliver a new post office for Winchester, Kansas.
    In June 2024, Senator Marshall secured an audit from USPS on mail services in the Kansas City area to evaluate the efficiency of mail delivery and post office operations.
    In March 2024, Senator Marshall led a letter with Kansas and Missouri delegation members requesting answers and transparency for the continued decline in performance indicators, inconsistent mail delivery across the two-state region, and insufficient staffing at USPS facilities.
    In February 2024, Senator Marshall sent a separate letter asking for explanations for frequent mail delivery delays to residents in Johnson County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on Atlantic story

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement today in response to today’s article in The Atlantic entitled “The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans:”
    “Jeffrey Goldberg’s reporting in The Atlantic calls for a prompt and thorough investigation. If senior advisors to President Trump in fact used non-secure, non-government systems to discuss and convey detailed war plans, it’s a shocking breach of the standards for sharing classified information that could have put American servicemembers at risk. There needs to be an oversight hearing and accountability for these actions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Washington Examiner: Tuberville is the Senate champion needed to protect female sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, the Washington Examiner published a story highlighting Senator Tuberville’s efforts to protect Title IX from the Radical Left’s attempts to erase women’s and girls’ sports.
    Earlier this year, Senator Tuberville reintroduced the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act to preserve Title IX protections for female athletes. Unfortunately, every single Senate Democrat voted against the legislation to protect women.  
    Read excerpts from the Washington Examiner piece below or read the full story here.
    Tuberville is the Senate champion needed to protect female sports
    “Not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear suits to the Senate and fight to protect women’s sports.
    Another day, another girls’ sporting event is dominated by a male athlete who thinks he is female — an occurrence that keeps happening because Democrats don’t want to protect female sports. Instead, they rather genuflect to the activist mob and allow such travesties to keep happening.
    Ada Gallagher is a 16-year-old at McDaniel High School in Oregon who runs on the school’s female track team. Last week, Gallagher dominated the girls’ 200-meter and 400-meter varsity races in the Portland Interscholastic League, reportedly winning one of the races by nearly seven seconds. It was a fantastic performance that would have drawn unanimous praise if not for one pesky detail: Gallagher is allegedly a boy claiming he is now a girl. 
    If the reports are accurate, this shows why the country desperately needs Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s (R-AL) Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act. Senators voted along party lines earlier this month, 51-45. The proposed legislation failed to earn the necessary 60 votes to prevent a Democratic filibuster. Tuberville’s bill would have prevented Gallagher from defeating the actual high school girls who ran in the races. 
    How many high school and college-aged girls have to suffer because of the radical, left-wing political agendas of Democrats? Furthermore, what could possibly motivate Democrats, let alone any human being, to go against Tuberville’s bill?
    ‘Democrats have clearly learned nothing from this election,’ Tuberville told me in an exclusive interview earlier this month. ‘The American people decisively rejected Democrats’ anti-women, woke ideology and want us to get back to common sense. But surprise, surprise — the party that spent the past four years saying men can get pregnant apparently still thinks men should compete in women’s sports.’
    Gallagher’s athletic victory over actual high school girls competing in a track race is the kind of thing that happens because of Democrats. Their motives defy logic and common sense. Unfortunately, innocent young girls must suffer because of their radicalism, even though the overwhelming majority of the country is against boys competing against girls in sports. It is the country’s far Left, ideologically fanatical and unhinged, that allows this to keep happening.
    ‘It’s deeply unpopular, out-of-touch, and reveals that Democrats would rather stand up for a few trans people than fight for the rights of 50% of this country,’ Tuberville said.
    Boys are boys, and girls are girls. Males are bigger and stronger than females and enjoy a biological advantage when competing against them in sports. It’s the sole reason female athletic leagues were established. The fact that Democrats are intent on ignoring this reality leads one to conclude that they genuinely do not care about protecting female athletes or ensuring they are provided an opportunity to engage in fair athletic competitions and be protected from the dangers and harm of competing against bigger, larger, and stronger male athletes.
    ‘It’s hard to understand why Democrats are so willing to sacrifice the rights of women at the altar of woke ideology,’ Tuberville said. ‘Democrats claim to care about women, which is why I don’t understand why they don’t want women to have fair competition, equal access to scholarships, and safe locker rooms. It’s not about politics. It’s about right and wrong.’
    Democrats’ resistance to this is beyond puzzling, especially given their insistence on championing the rights of females. At this point, it would have to seem that interest groups are influencing them to promote these out-of-touch ideas while sacrificing the rights of female athletes in high schools and colleges. Tuberville mentioned links between interest groups and the left-wing political agenda to allow boys who pretend to be girls to compete in female sports.
    […]
    ‘One of Democrats’ most frequent talking points is that this bill is ‘hateful,’ Tuberville said. ‘That isn’t true. What is hateful is stripping opportunities away from millions of women in favor of the rights of a few trans people. This bill isn’t about excluding or alienating anyone. It is about protecting the rights and safety of our daughters, granddaughters, and nieces.’
    ‘We’ll keep pushing — this fight isn’t over,’ Tuberville said. ‘Nearly 80% of Americans are on our side. And we’ll continue to put pressure on Democrat senators to do the right thing and stand up for women.’”
    BACKGROUND:
    During President Biden’s administration, more than 900 women lost medals to men competing in women’s sports. The issue of men in girls’ and women’s sports proved to be one of the top concerns of voters during the 2024 Presidential Election. A recent New York Times (NYT) poll found 79% of respondents said men should not be allowed to participate in women’s sports. This is a bipartisan issue—the same recent NYT poll found that 67% of Democrats agree that male athletes shouldn’t be allowed in women’s sports.
    In February, President Trump signed a historic Executive Order banning men from competing in women’s sports. President Trump has spoken about the need to keep men out of women’s sports on multiple occasions.
    Unfortunately, Executive Orders can be reversed. That’s why on Monday, March 3, 2025, the Senate voted on Senator Tuberville’s bill, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would make President Trump’s Executive Order permanent. 45 Democrats voted to block the bill from proceeding. 
    Earlier this year, Senator Tuberville also introduced a bill to ban men from competing in women’s U.S. Olympic sports, following USA Boxing’s announcement that it would allow men to box against women.
    Senator Tuberville has vowed to continue fighting until women’s rights to compete fairly and safely are protected.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: More Investment, More Jobs, and More Money in Americans’ Pockets

    Source: The White House

    More Investment, More Jobs, and More Money in Americans’ Pockets

    Today, Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment in the United States — including $5.8 billion for a new steel plant in Louisiana, which will create nearly 1,500 jobs. The investment, which builds on Hyundai’s pledge earlier this year to “further localize production in the U.S.,” is the latest success in President Donald J. Trump’s pursuit of a Made in America renaissance.

    It’s further proof that President Trump’s economic agenda is working.

    Hyundai is far from the only automaker planning major investments as President Trump leverages tariffs to remake the U.S. into a global manufacturing powerhouse:

    • Stellantis announced a $5 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing network — including re-opening an Illinois manufacturing plant — as it pledges to increase domestic vehicle production.
    • Volkswagen is considering shifting production of the high-end Audi and Porsche brands to the U.S.
    • Honda is expected to produce its next-generation Civic hybrid model in Indiana.
    • Nissan is considering moving production from Mexico to the U.S.
    • Rolls-Royce is expected to “ramp up” production in the U.S. by hiring more American workers and expand its U.S.-based operations.
    • Volvo is considering expanding its U.S.-based output.

    It’s not just the auto sector; domestic and foreign companies have pledged trillions in new investments since President Trump took office:

    • Project Stargate, led by Japan-based Softbank and U.S.-based OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion private investment in U.S.-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.
    • Apple announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and training.
    • Nvidia announced it will invest hundreds of billions of dollars over the next four years in U.S.-based manufacturing.
    • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced a $100 billion investment in U.S.-based chips manufacturing.
    • Eli Lilly and Company announced a $27 billion investment in domestic manufacturing.
    • United Arab Emirates-based DAMAC Properties announced a $20 billion investment in new U.S.-based data centers.
    • France-based CMA CGM, a global shipping giant, announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. shipping and logistics, creating 10,000 new jobs.
    • Merck announced it will invest $8 billion in the U.S. over the next several years after opening a new $1 billion North Carolina manufacturing facility.
    • Clarios announced a $6 billion plan to expand its domestic manufacturing operations.
    • GE Aerospace announced a $1 billion investment in manufacturing across 16 states — creating 5,000 new jobs.
    • GE Vernova announced it will invest nearly $600 million in U.S. manufacturing over the next two years, which will create more than 1,500 new jobs.
    • London-based Diageo announced a $415 million investment in a new Alabama manufacturing facility.
    • Dublin-based Eaton Corporation announced a $340 million investment in a new South Carolina-based manufacturing facility for its three-phase transformers.
    • Germany-based Siemens announced a $285 million investment in U.S. manufacturing and AI data centers, which will create more than 900 new skilled manufacturing jobs.
    • Paris Baguette announced a $160 million investment to construct a manufacturing plant in Texas.
    • Switzerland-based ABB announced a $120 million investment to expand production of its low-voltage electrification products in Tennessee and Mississippi.
    • Saica Group, a Spain-based corrugated packaging maker, announced plans to build a $110 million new manufacturing facility in Anderson, Indiana.
    • Paris-based Saint-Gobain announced a new $40 million NorPro manufacturing facility in Wheatfield, New York.
    • India-based Sygene International announced a $36.5 million acquisition of a Baltimore biologics manufacturing facility.
    • Asahi Group Holdings, one of the largest Japanese beverage makers, announced a $35 million investment to boost production at its Wisconsin plant.
    • Samsung is considering moving its dryer production from Mexico to South Carolina.
    • LG is considering moving its refrigerator manufacturing from Mexico to Tennessee.
    • Italian spirits group Campari is “assessing the opportunities to expand its production in the U.S.”
    • Essity, a Swedish hygiene product manufacturer, is considering shifting production to the U.S.
    • Taiwan-based Compal Electronics is considering a U.S.-based expansion.
    • Taiwan-based Inventec is expected to expand its manufacturing operations into Texas.
    • LVMH, a French luxury giant, is “seriously considering” an expansion to its U.S.-based production capabilities.
    • Cra-Z-Art, the biggest toymaker in the U.S., said it will move a “large percentage” of its China-based manufacturing back home.
    • Prepac, a Canadian furniture manufacturer, announced it will move production from Canada to the U.S.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Family doctors embrace new pay model

    Alberta’s government is committed to strengthening primary health care, ensuring every Albertan has access to a primary health care provider no matter where they live. This new compensation model is designed to not only support physicians in their essential work but also to enhance access to family doctors across the province.  

    Developed in partnership with the Alberta Medical Association (AMA), this model was announced in December following months of collaboration. With the AMA meeting the threshold of 500 enrolled physicians, the program is now set to officially launch on April 1. As of March 24, 789 family physicians have signed up to receive compensation through the new model.

    “Implementing the new primary care physician compensation model is an exciting milestone in our journey to strengthen Alberta’s primary health care system. The model will support family physicians and be a recruitment and retention tool to give more Albertans access to the primary care they need.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    The new compensation model will ensure Alberta’s family doctors are competitively paid while promoting patient-focused care. Incentives include increases for:

    • Maintaining high panel numbers (minimum of 500 patients), which will incentivize panel growth and improve access to primary care for patients.
    • Providing after-hours care to relieve pressure on emergency departments and urgent care centres.
    • Enhancing team-based care, which will encourage developing integrated teams that may include family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, dietitians and pharmacists to provide patients with the best care possible.
    • Adding efficiencies in clinical operations to simplify processes for both patients and health care providers.

    Alberta’s government is committed to improving access to family physicians. This new model fosters growth while addressing patient complexity, striking a balance that enhances access to quality care for all Albertans.

    “This new model will strengthen comprehensive, cradle-to-grave primary care. These practices are the foundation of our health care system. The model will help us to retain the family medicine specialists and rural generalists we already have and will go a long way toward attracting more to Alberta.”

    Dr. Shelley Duggan, president, Alberta Medical Association

    “Family physicians welcome this announcement. For us, it signals government’s commitment to making primary care a priority within our health care system. I know many physicians are eager to begin working under this new model so they can stabilize their practices and focus on providing high-quality care to their patients.”

    Dr. Sarah Bates, president, Section of Family Medicine, Alberta Medical Association

    “Primary Care Alberta is pleased to see the extensive training, experience and leadership of family medicine specialists recognized. Primary care providers play an integral role in the health of Albertans. We look forward to working with government and family medicine specialists across the province to increase access to comprehensive primary care for all Albertans, particularly in rural and remote communities.” 

    Kim Simmonds, CEO, Primary Care Alberta

    “The PCPCM model is an important step forward in connecting every Albertan with a family physician and medical home.” 

    Dr. Melanie Hnatiuk, president, Alberta College of Family Physicians

    Alberta International Medical Graduate Program changes

    Alberta’s government is also making changes to the Alberta International Medical Graduate Program (AIMG) to better support Albertans who are studying medicine abroad and help them complete their residency in Alberta. The program assesses the qualifications of Alberta international medical graduates (IMGs) to determine their eligibility for medical residency positions at the University of Alberta and University of Calgary, but it does not select who is chosen for a residency position.

    The changes will adjust the graduation deadline and remove the requirement for an externship assessment, which previously required Alberta IMGs to complete a clinical assessment period in Alberta before beginning residency. Now, they can begin right after graduation. The application period for 2026 is from May 1 to May 30, 2025.  

    For the 2026 application cycle, applicants will be eligible if they graduate by July 1, 2026. Previously, applicants would have had to graduate by Dec. 31, 2025. These changes will make it easier for more Albertans to complete their residency here, helping to retain skilled health care professionals and build a stronger, more sustainable health care workforce for years to come.

    Quick facts

    • If passed, Budget 2025 will provide $66.3 million for postgraduate medical education programs in 2025-26, including $2.3 million for the AIMG Program.
    • Alberta offered 55 IMG residency seats in 2025, with plans to expand to 70 by 2028, and additional IMGs will also have the opportunity to fill unfilled Canadian medical graduate seats.
    • Adjustments to the AIMG program will go into effect for the class of 2026; physicians wanting medical residency positions need to apply to the program in May 2025.

    Related information

    • Primary care physician compensation model
    • Alberta International Medical Graduate Program
    • Modernizing Alberta’s Primary Health Care System (MAPS)

    Related news

    • New pay model, better access to family doctors (Dec. 19, 2024)
    • Competitive compensation for resident physicians (Oct. 9, 2024)
    • Modernizing how family doctors are paid in Alberta (April 17, 2024)
    • Stabilizing Alberta’s primary health care system (April 4, 2024)
    • Helping primary care providers support patients (Feb. 8, 2024)
    • New funding to stabilize primary health care (Dec. 21, 2023)
    • Strengthening health care: A collaborative effort (Oct. 24, 2023)
    • Strengthening health care: Improving access for all (Oct. 18, 2023)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Latest Alberta investment – bringing in the dough

    Crust Craft’s new $51-million high-capacity baking facility in Edmonton will serve local and surrounding markets while boosting our province’s agriculture and food manufacturing sectors. This 120,000 to 150,000 square feet facility will create 55 new, permanent jobs and 25 temporary jobs for hard-working Albertans.

    To support this expansion, Alberta’s government will provide $2 million through the Investment and Growth Fund, a deal-closing program designed to attract high-impact, private sector investments to the province. This $2-million provincial investment helped incentivize Crust Craft’s Alberta investment, highlighting a $25.5 return on investment for every provincial dollar invested.

    At a time of great external economic uncertainty, Alberta was competing with a U.S. jurisdiction for Crust Craft’s investment. The Investment and Growth Fund helped close the deal, keeping these jobs and investment right here at home.

    “Alberta’s government is proud to work with Crust Craft to establish its new facility in Edmonton. Crust Craft choosing to expand its business in Alberta is further proof that our investment-friendly policies and programs, like the Investment and Growth Fund, have a significant impact on retaining and attracting business to Alberta. Looking to the future, the opportunities are endless for Alberta and Crust Craft’s partnership.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    Crust Craft’s products are helping to grow the province’s agri-processing and food manufacturing sectors while providing a local, high-quality option for customers.

    “Alberta-made bakery products are an attractive option for Canadian retail and hospitality businesses and support interprovincial market diversification. I am pleased that Crust Craft is helping to provide Albertans and Canadians with an Alberta option for their crusts, flatbreads and doughs.”

    RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation

    “We are thrilled to be growing and expanding this locally owned company in the province where it started 35 years ago. We will be able to provide not only employment opportunities and growth for our people, but also a larger local market for our farming families and vendor partners. Our goal of ‘Bringing Real Bread to Life’ is being realized with this expansion by introducing our brand of Panaji naan breads to even more people.”

    Paul Flesher, president, Crust Craft Inc.

    As an intake partner, Edmonton Global worked closely with Crust Craft and Alberta’s government to help facilitate the Investment and Growth Fund grant for the new facility, which will help grow and diversify Edmonton’s economy.

    “Crust Craft’s expansion demonstrates how the Edmonton region offers the right mix of talent, infrastructure and government support to help businesses scale. The support from the Investment and Growth Fund was instrumental in ensuring that Crust Craft continues to thrive right here in our region. We’re thrilled to see a homegrown company like Crust Craft investing in its future here, creating new jobs and further cementing the Edmonton region as a leader in food manufacturing.”

    Malcolm Bruce, CEO, Edmonton Global 

    Alberta remains the best place in Canada to invest due to its low tax environment, red tape reduction efforts and business-friendly policies. The Alberta government’s efforts are attracting record investment, creating thousands of jobs and further diversifying the economy for many years to come.

    Alberta’s government continues to support the Investment and Growth Fund. If passed, in Budget 2025, the provincial government is investing $45 million over the next three years to expand opportunity and attract investment across Alberta.

    Quick facts

    • Since fall 2021, 13 Investment and Growth grants have been announced that will create more than 1,250 permanent, full-time jobs and more than 1,000 temporary jobs, with a total capital investment of more than $820 million.

    Related information

    • Crust Craft

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seizure of contraband and unauthorized items at Grande Cache Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    March 24, 2025 – Grande Cache, Alberta – Correctional Service Canada

    On March 18, 2025, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized at Grande Cache Institution, a medium-security federal institution.

    The items seized included methamphetamine, cannabis concentrate, MDMA, steroids, vaping devices, and wireless earphones. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $226,865.

    The police have been notified and the institution is investigating.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) uses a number of tools to prevent drugs from entering its institutions. These tools include ion scanners and drug-detector dogs to search buildings, personal property, inmates, and visitors

    CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.

    CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.

    The toll-free number, 1 866 780 3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Shame on Trump Admin. for Threatening to Shut Down SSA & Denigrating Seniors Who Rely on Social Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    PROVIDENCE, RI – Arbitrary mass-firings, field office closings, and deep staff cuts at the Social Security Administration (SSA) threaten the agency’s capacity to deliver for seniors and Americans with disabilities.  This week, President Trump’s hand-picked temporary SSA boss threatened to shut down the entire agency over an unfavorable court ruling.  Such an irresponsible move would jeopardize the delivery of monthly Social Security payments to millions of Americans.  Yesterday, President Trump’s billionaire Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick went on a podcast hosted by fellow billionaires and doubled down on this threat and declared his 94-year old mother-in-law wouldn’t complain if her Social Security check didn’t arrive; only “fraudsters” would miss monthly Social Security payments; and people wouldn’t mind if the U.S. government stopped sending out Social Security checks for a month.
    In response, U.S. Senator Jack Reed stated:
    “I hope Secretary Lutnick washes his feet frequently because he seems to stick them in his mouth quite a bit.
    “Trump’s cabinet is shamefully out of touch and clearly does not care about everyday Americans.  President Trump and his billionaire golfing buddies have no use for Social Security.  Their Project 2025 manifesto makes clear their intention to eliminate America’s social safety net in order to give themselves a bigger tax break.
    “Americans pay into Social Security rightfully expecting it to deliver when they need it.  Missing a check could mean missing the rent, missing a prescription, or going hungry.  These folks don’t deserve to be denigrated by the Trump Administration and lumped in with ‘fraudsters.’
    “Secretary Lutnick’s message is ‘don’t complain when the payments stop or it means you’re a fraud.’  First of all, there is no reason Social Security payments should be halted.  Second, if they are, Americans have every right to complain and damn well should.  And third, if the Trump Administration follows through with threats to shut Social Security down and stop people’s payments then they will be the ones investigated for fraudulent activity and more.
    “If people aren’t getting their checks on time or if they can’t get through to someone at SSA who can assist, President Trump and his team are to blame and must be held accountable.  Instead of shaming seniors, this Administration should be ashamed of itself.”
    According to SSA data, over 7 million Americans 65 and older receive at least 90 percent of their income from Social Security.
    Unelected billionaire Elon Musk, who heads up Trump’s so-called DOGE office claims there is “massive” fraud in the Social Security payment system and that it is an illegal “Ponzi scheme.”   Lee Dudek, who Trump named as acting commissioner of the SSA, said this week that around $100 million is lost each year in direct deposit fraud, which would make up about 0.006 percent of the total sum paid out each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Trump Slashing SBA, Decimating Service and Oversight, & Shifting New Student Loan Portfolio onto Agency is Another Economic Blow to Main Street and Taxpayers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    PROVIDENCE, RI – After the Trump Administration announced plans to slash 43 percent of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) workforce while also reducing SBA capabilities and shifting management of the federal government’s student loan portfolio from the U.S. Department of Education to the SBA, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) denounced the move as irresponsible and harmful to small businesses, students, and taxpayers alike.
    “Small businesses are a big part of our economy and we should be helping them innovate, grow, and thrive,” said Senator Reed, the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittee, which oversees funding for the SBA.  “Instead of cutting red tape, President Trump is piling on new bureaucratic challenges and decimating customer service capabilities of federal agencies.  He is eliminating key SBA resources and staff that help small businesses access capital and create jobs while at the same time trying to tack on new student loan mandates.  His chaotic tariff taxes are already raising costs for entrepreneurs, and these latest SBA cuts will add more financial pressure and uncertainty for many small businesses.”
    “President Trump’s irresponsible decision to downsize the SBA and saddle it with overseeing a massive $1.6 trillion student loan portfolio of over 40 million-plus Americans makes zero sense. The intent to transfer these loans flies in the face of both education and appropriations law.  It would sow chaos and confusion, burden borrowers, and needlessly cost taxpayers.  If people don’t know where to turn or can’t get the expert help they need from the proper federal agency then it could lead to a spike in loan defaults,” said Reed, noting President Trump can’t legally transfer management of the loan portfolio to the SBA without Congressional authorization.
    Reed continued: “Putting the financial interests of students and small businesses at risk is a screwup by the Trump Administration.  I expect these cynical ploys will be challenged in court.  And I will work with my colleagues in Congress to uphold the law, support small businesses, and ensure that student borrowers can get the loan servicing and protections they need.”
    Reed says Congressional authorization is needed in order to legally transfer management of the extensive student loan portfolio from the U.S. Department of Education to the SBA.
    Created by Congress in 1953, the SBA helps American entrepreneurs nationwide start, build, and grow businesses. The SBA is a key partner for Rhode Island small businesses, offering a variety of services that small businesses can leverage, including:
    Financing: SBA offers a range of loans, grants, and other funding programs to eligible businesses.
    Education and training: SBA offers educational programs and counseling to help small business owners start and grow their businesses.
    Disaster assistance: When disaster strikes, SBA provides critical assistance to businesses, homeowners, and renters.
    Government contracting: SBA helps small businesses compete and win government contracts.
    Policy advocacy: SBA works with Congress and local governments to ensure small business input is heard in policy matters.
    Support underserved businesses: SBA helps level the playing field for veteran, women, and minority small business owners.

    MIL OSI USA News –