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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Announces Fired Federal Worker as State of the Union Guest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    March 03, 2025

    Doug Kowalewski was recently fired from the National Science Foundation amid Trump’s and Musk’s unlawful firings, massive cuts to federal agencies

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) announced that Doug Kowalewski of Wellesley will be her guest at the 2025 State of the Union. Doug is a former National Science Foundation (NSF) employee who, after 3.5 years at the agency, was fired unexpectedly in Elon Musk’s and the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) gutting of the federal workforce. Doug shared his story at Senator Warren’s recent town hall in Framingham, Massachusetts. 

    “I’m bringing Doug to force Trump to confront the federal workers he fired – the people who make this country run,” said Senator Warren. “The National Science Foundation is the engine that powers our nation’s basic scientific research, and by taking a sledgehammer to this agency, Trump and Musk are gutting our research and innovation pipeline and our local economy in Massachusetts. That isn’t efficient — it’s cruel, short-sighted, and it’s costing American jobs and devastating millions of families.”

    “Donald Trump and Elon Musk are firing dedicated civil servants and plotting to replace us with new hires who will make critical science funding decisions with a political agenda, not a scientific one. Millions of Americans who have dedicated their careers to this country are suffering because of unelected billionaires like Elon Musk. I’m in Washington with Senator Warren to fight back against these illegal firings and stand up for hardworking federal workers,” said Doug Kowalewski. 

    At Senator Warren’s town hall in Framingham, Doug shared the story of his unexpected firing from the agency along with 167 of his colleagues. At the NSF, Doug was a Program Director for Partnerships and Innovation, helping bring in millions in funding to the federal government. The NSF provides a quarter of federal support for basic research at colleges and universities across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: HuffPost: Democrats Alarmed By DOGE’s Access To ‘Sensitive Databases’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    February 27, 2025

    Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and other lawmakers pressed the Education Department on Wednesday to clarify how much access Elon Musk’s team had been granted to student loan borrowers’ sensitive data and what they planned to do with it.

    In a letter to acting Education Secretary Denise Carter, Democrats said the agency had provided “woefully inadequate” information about who was using the data and to what end. They said the Education Department’s written response to their questions earlier this month raised “new concerns” about what Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency is up to.

    “The Department refused to confirm or deny whether DOGE had been granted access to the National Student Loan Data System or other databases with sensitive federal student loan data,” Warren wrote in the letter, joined by 14 other Democrats.

    DOGE’s access to the data is now the subject of a federal lawsuit brought by veterans and labor unions alleging the Trump administration violated the Privacy Act by sharing social security numbers and other sensitive information without consent.

    …

    Read the full article here.

    By:  Dave Jamieson
    Source: HuffPost

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: HuffPost: Elizabeth Warren Presses X To Find 25,000 Tweets Deleted By Trump Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    February 27, 2025

    Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wants to know what happened to 25,000 tweets that a key Donald Trump nominee deleted soon after the 2024 election, and she on Wednesday wrote a letter to X CEO Linda Yaccarino requesting those records.

    Bill Pulte, an investor whose grandfather founded PulteGroup and made it a housing construction empire, is President Trump’s nominee to serve as director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which regulates trillions of dollars in the housing finance system. 

    The self-proclaimed “inventor of Twitter philanthropy” also deleted about 25,000 tweets a few days after the 2024 presidential election. 

    “My staff discovered that virtually all of Mr. Pulte’s tweets are missing and appear to have been deleted,” Warren, the ranking member of the Senate banking committee, wrote to Yaccarino, according to a copy of the letter shared with HuffPost. “Mr. Pulte’s account appears to have been purged of virtually all of his social media activity on your platform.” 

    Warren told Yaccarino that she was writing “to seek your assistance in gathering previously public information about Mr. Pulte that he appears to have deleted and is now hidden from the public.” 

    …

    Read the full article here.

    By:  Matt Shuham
    Source: HuffPost

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reuters: Exclusive: Senators ask Trump’s Air Force nominee to respond to allegations of favoring Musk’s SpaceX

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    February 27, 2025

    Two members of the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday asked President Donald Trump’s Air Force secretary nominee whether he unfairly favored Elon Musk in a classified, multibillion-dollar spy satellite contract.

    In a letter sent Thursday, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tammy Duckworth, both Democrats, asked nominee Troy Meink how his role in the contract solicitation may have favored SpaceX, Musk’s rocket and satellite company.

    The Massachusetts and Illinois lawmakers cited a recent Reuters report that Meink, a top official at the National Reconnaissance Office, changed the contract requirements in a way that made SpaceX the company best suited to fulfill it.

    Complaints about Meink’s role, Reuters reported, prompted the inspector general of the agency, which controls the country’s spy satellite programs, to investigate whether Meink had improperly directed the transaction toward SpaceX. Musk’s space venture ultimately won the classified contract in 2021.

    It isn’t clear whether the inspector general concluded a report or if any investigation remains underway.

    Reuters was unable to reach Meink for comment on the letter.

    …

    Read the full article here.

    By:  Marisa Taylor, Alexandra Ulmer
    Source: Reuters

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Seeking public comment on proposed rule updates for electric assisted bicycles

    Source: US State of Oregon

    ALEM, Oregon — Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comments on proposed rule updates to electric assisted (e-assisted) bicycle use at Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore now through April 1.

    The proposed updates clarify definitions of e-assisted bicycles, outline areas for operation and prohibited areas of operation and set safe usage requirements for the operator, other visitors and park resources. The updates would allow access for e-assisted bicycles in many of the same ways that non-electric bicycles access parks and the ocean shore with some caveats and safety requirements.

    An internal workgroup developed the proposed updates after extensive research and conversations with partner agencies, subject matter experts and the Rules Advisory Committee (RAC). The agency conducted a public survey in summer 2024 to better understand the use and needs. The proposed updates seek to maintain access to recreation for enjoyment while protecting natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites and resources.

    The public is invited to comment on the proposed updates through 5 p.m. Apr. 1, 2025:

    • Submit comments online on the rules webpage
    • Attend a virtual public hearing Monday, Mar. 17 or Wednesday Mar. 26 at 5:30 PM

    Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Jo Niehaus at least three days in advance of the meeting at jo.niehaus@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-580-9210.

    The RAC met four times in 2024 to suggest changes to current rules and discuss potential impacts from the changes. The committee included diverse stakeholders who currently use state parks and those who have faced barriers. Members included park visitors with different recreational focuses including cyclists and e-bicyclists, mountain bikers, trail groups, representatives from the disability community, equestrians, environmental conservationists, wildlife experts, other land management agencies and members of law enforcement. Those meetings are also posted online at https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams.

    Once the public comment period ends, the proposal with any incorporated updates will go to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in April or June for possible adoption. Implementation is expected in July after the agency can update any necessary signs and maps.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy On State Of The Union: Trump Wants Our Closest Relationships With Despots So It’s Easier For His Billionaire Pals To Steal From Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    March 03, 2025

    [embedded content]
    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined CNN’s State of the Union with Dana Bash to discuss President Donald Trump’s meeting with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and the upcoming joint address to Congress.
    Murphy explained why President Trump appears to be aligning himself with Vladimir Putin: “The White House has become an arm of the Kremlin…It appears as if America is trying to align itself with dictators. Donald Trump wants us to have our closest relationships with despots all around the world because that makes it easier for him to transition America into a kleptocratic oligarchy where Elon Musk and Donald Trump rule and steal from the American people. If we were allied with democracies, that would be harder. But if the United States’ closest partner is Russia, then it makes it a lot easier for Donald Trump, Elon, and their billionaire pals to steal from the American people, to steal our data, to steal our Medicare, to steal our Medicaid in order to enrich themselves.”
    On the Trump-Zelensky meeting, Murphy said: “The back half of that meeting ended up just being the Kremlin literally driving the message of the White House. It is a sad day in America when we are getting closer and closer to Russia, a brutal dictatorship, and we are getting further and further away from democratic allies. Nobody in America wants that. People in America want that war to end, but they don’t want it to end by handing the entirety of Ukraine to Russia and elevating the power of a dictator in the Kremlin.”
    On President Trump’s upcoming joint address to Congress, Murphy said: “I think that State of the Union speech is going to be a farce. I think it’s going to be a MAGA pep rally, not a serious talk to the nation. I think Donald Trump is going to spew a series of lies about his alignment with Russia, about what he’s trying to do to allow Elon Musk to essentially monetize the American government to enrich Musk and his billionaire crowd. And I’m just not going to be a part of that.”
    He continued: “Listen, the case I’m making to Democrats is that we have to fight every single day. Every single day. Republicans flood the zone. Democrats have to flood the zone. They flood the zone with lies. We flood the zone with truth. We are going to stop this billionaire takeover of government. We are going to stop their destruction of democracy, which they have to do, because what they are attempting to do – gut Medicaid in order to feed another set of tax cuts to Elon Musk and his billionaire friends – it’s unpopular. We’re going to stop that billionaire takeover, that destruction of our democracy, only by fighting them every single day.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Colleagues Press for Timely Disaster Assistance for All Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and 12 other Democratic Senators in pressing the Administration for assurances that assistance for economic challenges in 2024 and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 will be provided to all farmers—including row crop and specialty crop farmers—as quickly as possible. The Senators emphasized the need for farmers to receive this aid as they make decisions for spring planting season.
    In a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, the Senators wrote: “Farmers are making decisions right now about fertilizer usage and their crop mix and are working with their bankers to figure out if they can secure the financing they need to continue farming this year. Without the timely delivery of economic and disaster assistance, farmers face the prospect of reducing plantings or liquidating assets to remain in business as they head into another potentially difficult growing season.”
    The Senators continued, “The American Relief Act included a detailed formula for determining economic loss, which was intended in part to speed implementation. During implementation, we ask that you engage with impacted farmers and other groups, particularly regarding the implementation of the per-acre payment rates for commodities. We urge you to use the precedent of previous ad hoc programs to simplify the experience for farmers by leveraging existing loss data and to pre-fill applications for producers.”
    In addition to Senators Luján, Klobuchar, and Warnock, the letter was joined by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tina Smith (D-MN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Patty Murray (D-WA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
    The full letter is available here and below. 
    Dear Secretary Rollins,
    As you work to establish priorities for the coming weeks and months, we urge you to move forward as quickly as possible on providing disaster relief for farmers.
    As you know, the American Relief Act provided significant natural and economic disaster assistance for row crop farmers who experienced economic losses resulting from declining prices and stagnant input costs during the 2024 crop year. Specialty crop growers have faced similar economic challenges, and USDA must complete the planned second round of assistance for them.
    The Senate Agriculture Committee recently held a hearing where we heard compelling testimony from farmers across the country who face uncertainty heading into spring planting season. Proposed tariffs on key trading partners like Canada, which could drive up input prices, and the potential for retaliatory tariffs from key export markets have only exacerbated that uncertainty.
    Farmers are making decisions right now about fertilizer usage and their crop mix and are working with their bankers to figure out if they can secure the financing they need to continue farming this year. Without the timely delivery of economic and disaster assistance, farmers face the prospect of reducing plantings or liquidating assets to remain in business as they head into another potentially difficult growing season.
    The American Relief Act included a detailed formula for determining economic loss, which was intended in part to speed implementation. During implementation, we ask that you engage with impacted farmers and other groups, particularly regarding the implementation of the per-acre payment rates for commodities. We urge you to use the precedent of previous ad hoc programs to simplify the experience for farmers by leveraging existing loss data and to pre-fill applications for producers.
    Farmers of fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops have also experienced difficult economic conditions and high input prices. Specialty crop producers have already applied for and received initial payment under the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC), and USDA should make the planned additional payments before we get into the growing season.
    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to working with you to help our farmers succeed.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS Hydrology Technicians measure peak flows after a recent storm in West Virginia

    Source: US Geological Survey

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Waterbury Teens Research Ways to Improve Public Health in their Hometown

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Nine rising ninth graders from Waterbury public high schools participated in the Health Equity Scholars Program this past summer, led by the UConn Health Disparities Institute (HDI) in partnership with Waterbury Bridges to Success.

    Health Equity Fellows Marie Syla and Julian Chaparro teaching the young scholars at the UConn Waterbury campus.

    The free four-week program introduced the scholars to health equity research, career exploration, and Photovoice, a research method that uses photography and storytelling to spark conversations and document their experiences, perspectives, and concerns on pressing public health challenges in their city and proposing actionable solutions to improve their community’s well-being.

    Each scholar was taught how to identify the factors that influence and impact health in Waterbury and tasked with developing their own health equity research project offering possible solutions to improve public health issues facing Waterbury.

    With the mentorship and guidance from the Health Equity Fellows – Marie Syla, from Waterbury and a sophomore at UConn majoring in Biology and Julian Chaparro, a junior at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Studio Art – scholars were able  research topics that ranged from the importance of clean air, to repairing abandoned buildings, access to public transportation and access to recreation areas for exercise, clean waterways, and even access to places of worship for holistic health.

    At the close of the program students publicly presented their findings to the UConn Health Disparities Institute, their supportive peers, mentors, family members, and community members. Scholars were presented with a certificate to celebrate the completion of the special program.

    “This program is about more than research — it’s about creating opportunities for youth to see themselves as researchers, public health advocates, and as leaders, who can help to address complex community priorities. Their work has the potential to shape the future of public health in Waterbury and beyond,” says Dr. Linda Sprague Martinez, director of the UConn Health Disparities Institute.

    The air pollution research project of Lino Delgado, a freshman at Wilby High School in Waterbury, was featured by the 62nd CT Junior Science and Humanities Symposium hosted by CT-AHEC at UConn Health on Feb. 22. Lino celebrating with his father Felix and HDI’s Trisha Pitter.

    Lino Delgado, 14, a freshman at Wilby High School and Health Equity Scholar, shared how the program gave him a newfound passion for engineering and environmental advocacy.  Delgado was selected as a STEM exhibitor and virtually presented his environmental health research project, which explored the importance of curbing air pollution during the week leading up to the 62nd CT Junior Science and Humanities Symposium hosted by CT-AHEC and held at UConn Health.  His research on the impact of air pollution and the need for electric buses highlighted how local youth can drive innovative environmental solutions.

    “Lino’s family is so proud of him, and so are we,” says UConn HDI’s Trisha Pitter, who directed the Health Equity Scholars Program. “The research program was very transformational for Lino.”

    “Everyone needs public health,” says Delgado who attends Wilby High School. “The program was good, and I really enjoyed making the poster.”

    Delgado adds, “Eventually people are going to need electric buses. The buses right now are producing pollution in our community.”

    “This great program gave Lino a boost of confidence,” says his older sister Maileen Delgado. “He’s a whole new kid. It has changed his whole outlook on his future. Kids in Waterbury don’t get a lot of experiences like this. We really appreciated it!”

    “HDI piloted the Health Equity Scholars Program in Waterbury to explore its impact, and the experience was incredible. It was truly heartwarming to see how engaged the scholars were and open to sharing what they are seeing inside their Waterbury communities and offering solutions. They know what they and their communities need to achieve health equity,” Pitter adds. “It was an honor for UConn Health Disparities Institute to equip scholars with the tools and knowledge to create meaningful change beyond the program. We are also thankful to our Healthy Equity Fellows Marie and Julian who engaged our scholars every step of the way and built personal connections with them that made the research program fun.”

    The scholars presented their research projects and received a certificate at the end of the program.

    “I had an incredible experience with the UConn Health HDI Team, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with the incoming high school students of Waterbury,” says Syla,19, the Health Equity Fellow from Waterbury who attends UConn Storrs. “Sharing knowledge about the social determinants of health is vital, and I feel honored to have played a role in educating the next generation of scholars. Watching them engage with these important concepts in fun, creative ways was truly inspiring. The lessons they learned will help shape their understanding of health in society, fostering awareness that will ripple through communities for years to come.”

    Health Equity Fellow Marie Syla is from Waterbury and a sophomore at UConn majoring in Biology.

    Syla adds, “As someone from Waterbury, it was especially meaningful to discuss the disparities affecting my own community. Being able to contribute to this conversation and to empower young minds with knowledge was both rewarding and fulfilling. I look forward to seeing the lasting impact of these efforts as these students carry forward what they’ve learned.”

    After UConn, Syla aspires to pursue a career in health care and continue to medical school, striving to make a meaningful impact in the medical field.

    Additionally, as part of the program students explored their possible future health-related career interests and pathways. To broaden career awareness, the program invited guest speakers from Connecticut’s only public academic medical center UConn Health. The faculty shared insights into their career journeys, the motivations behind their work, and the diverse pathways within public health and health equity careers. These sessions were designed as interactive engagements, allowing scholars to lead discussions and explore both traditional and non-traditional career opportunities through fun and creative discussions. Guest speakers included UConn School of Medicine’s Dr. Linda Barry and Dr. Anton Alerte, Dr. Moises Y. Salas, and Rev. Cecil Tengatenga.

    “Exposing our scholars to traditional and nontraditional pathways to public health, shapes their future career outlook and interests. We explored being a physician, researcher, social worker, therapist, educator, artist and entrepreneur to name a few. I could envision each scholar being   future leaders of Waterbury,” says Pitter.

    Delgado now wants to be an engineer thanks to the Health Equity Scholars Program experience with the UConn Health Disparities Institute.

    Lino Delgado.

    “I want to be an engineer, so I can drive trains someday,” says Delgado.

    “We hope to keep the momentum and community engagement of this new pilot program and its students going. Next year, we plan to go back to Waterbury and, also to grow the program in other areas of the state given the great success, interest, and public health need,” says Pitter.

    Lino Delgado’s research project poster.

    “Our goal is to build on this momentum and bring this program to more communities across Connecticut,” says Sprague Martinez. “Young people are impacted by public health decision making but are rarely invited to contribute to those very decisions that impact them. Programs like this create opportunities to ensure public health efforts reflect the priorities of young people and communities, while also increasing college and career readiness.”

    This initiative would not have been possible without the support of Waterbury Bridges to Success, which funded the pilot program, and UConn Waterbury, which provided classroom space for scholars to learn and collaborate. The program’s success is also a testament to the dedicated HDI team, including Sprague Martinez (Principal Investigator), Dr. Rocio Chang (Advisor to the Health Equity Fellows), and Peter Zapata (Program Coordinator).

    “People in communities are experts in their own lives and know what they need to be healthy,” Sprague Martinez concludes. “This is just the beginning. We are interested in advancing efforts that ensure public health efforts reflect the priorities in CT communities including young people. Their voices matter, and they are already making a difference.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, Attorney General Bonta Releases California’s Top 10 Consumer Complaints

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND — In recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released 2024’s Top 10 Consumer Complaints and highlighted ongoing efforts to protect California consumers. The list released today includes the top consumer complaint categories the California Department of Justice (DOJ) has received in the last calendar year. Attorney General Bonta urges Californians to report misconduct or violations of state consumer protection laws to DOJ at oag.ca.gov/report. Complaints submitted by the public provide DOJ and sister agencies with important information about potential misconduct to help determine whether to investigate a business or individual.

    “California is a pillar of strong state consumer protection laws and an outspoken advocate for robust federal protections,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This National Consumer Protection Week, I urge Californians to help us further this work. If you see misconduct or are the victim of a scam, my office wants to know about it: I encourage consumers to immediately file a complaint online at oag.ca.gov/report. Whether protecting our kids online, stopping egregious bank fees, or cracking down on illegal price gouging, as the People’s Attorney, I am committed to going to the mat for California consumers.” 

    Top 10 Consumer Complaint Categories from 2024:

    1.    Social Media Platforms 
    2.    Online Retailers
    3.    Banks
    4.    Contractors
    5.    Landlord/Tenant Issues
    6.    Online Scams 
    7.    Debt Collection 
    8.    Credit Reporting 
    9.    Telephonic Scams
    10.  Brick and Mortar Retail Sales

    Fighting to Keep More Money in the Pockets of Californians:

    Attorney General Bonta took on bad actors and archaic policies that hurt Californians pocketbooks. Last year, DOJ announced a $700 million multistate settlement with Johnson & Johnson for failing to disclose if asbestos was present in its talc products; secured a settlement with ticket reseller StubHub, Inc. for failing to pay timely refunds to Californians for canceled events during the COVID-19 pandemic; and sponsored successful legislation to protect Californians’ financial future by banning the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports.

    Last month, Attorney General Bonta supported lawsuits challenging the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Since its creation, the CFPB has actively worked to make the lives of everyday people better and has returned over $20 billion to Americans nationwide. The shuttering of the CFPB would cause catastrophic harm to consumer protections, leaving no federal oversight over large banks, and saddling state agencies with the sole responsibility to protect consumers from conduct regulated by the CFPB.

    Putting Social Media Companies on Notice:

    In response to a dramatic uptick of consumer complaints, last March, Attorney General Bonta sent a letter to Meta expressing deep concern regarding the increase in account takeovers and lockouts on Facebook and Instagram and the inadequacy of the company’s response to prevent and address consumer harm from these takeovers. The letter asked Meta to take immediate action to increase mitigation tactics and respond to users whose accounts have been taken over.

    Sticking up for Students: 

    In the last year, Attorney General Bonta continued to protect students by securing a decision that upheld a judgment against Ashford University for giving students false or misleading information about career outcomes, cost and financial aid, and transfer credits, as well as a $4.5 million settlement with University of Phoenix for aggressive and unlawful military student recruitment tactics. 

    Protecting Children Online:

    Attorney General Bonta continued to take action to create a safer internet for children and teens. In October 2024, DOJ filed a lawsuit against TikTok for harming young users and deceiving the public about the social media platform’s dangers; and secured a decision in his lawsuit against Meta that largely denies Meta’s attempt to evade responsibility for their role in the children’s mental health crisis. DOJ proudly supported legislation that would put consumers in control of their relationship with social media, like SB 976 (Skinner), recently enacted legislation which interrupts the ability of social media companies to use addictive design features, and AB 56 (Bauer-Kahan), newly proposed legislation that would require warning labels on social media platforms. 

    Advancing Your Data Privacy Rights: 

    In January, Attorney General Bonta reminded Californians of their right to stop or “opt-out” of the sale and sharing of their personal information under the California law, and encouraged consumers to consider familiarizing themselves with the Global Privacy Control (GPC), an easy-to-use browser setting or extension that allows consumers to take back control of their personal data. 

    Last year, Attorney General Bonta announced a settlement with DoorDash for violating California privacy laws by selling its customers’ personal information; and worked with local partners to secure a settlement with a video game developer for illegally collecting and sharing children’s data. 

    Scram, Scams! 

    Attorney General Bonta continued educating and warning consumers about financially harmful and widespread AI-generated scams, toll booth scams, romance scams, and package delivery text-based scams; and continued the fight against annoying and illegal robocalls, which are often a vehicle for scams.

    Setting the Record Straight on AI:

    In January, Attorney General Bonta issued two legal advisories, reminding consumers of their rights, and advising businesses and healthcare entities who develop, sell, or use artificial intelligence (AI) about their obligations under California law. Many consumers and patients are not aware of when and how AI systems are used in their lives or by institutions that they rely on.

    Businesses use AI systems to evaluate consumers’ credit risk and guide loan decisions, screen tenants for rentals, and target consumers with ads and offers, as such, must comply with California consumer protection laws.

    Tackling Price Gouging During a Natural Disaster: 

    In the wake of Los Angeles Fires, Californians should be coming together to help our neighbors, not attempting to profit off their pain. DOJ takes its duty to protect the public from price gouging, rental bidding, and unsolicited property offers by predatory buyers extremely seriously. In addition to sending over 700 warning letters to hotels and landlords, DOJ has several active investigations into price gouging and has announced price gouging charges against three Los Angeles real estate agents and a landlord (January 22, January 28, and February 18). These investigations are often the result of review of complaints received by DOJ.

    DOJ established the Disaster Relief Task Force to work closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement and regulatory partners; last month, DOJ collaborated with, Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto on misdemeanor price gouging charges against a homeowner and real estate agent who allegedly engaged in price gouging in violation of the law.

    For more tips and information on consumer protection, please visit https://oag.ca.gov/consumers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Consumer Protection Week: Attorney General’s Office empowers Washingtonians through action, education

    Source: Washington State News

    OLYMPIA — Today marks the start of Consumer Protection Week in Washington. Which allows the Attorney General’s Office to highlight the successful work of our consumer protection division, and help Washingtonians protect themselves.

    Consumers can do more to protect themselves against fraud, identity theft and scams through what they can learn at a series of in-person and virtual events next week supported by the Attorney General’s Office and employees from select state agencies.

    “There are sophisticated ways companies and individuals try to deceive and steal from Washingtonians,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “Our consumer protection events will give people the tools and knowledge to empowered and protect themselves.”

    The Consumer Protection Division is largely funded through money recovered from businesses who have violated Washington’s Consumer Protection Act and similar laws. not by taxpayers. Specifically, a portion of Consumer Protection recoveries go into the Attorney General’s Civil Justice Operating Fund, which supports the Consumer Protection, Antitrust, Wing Luke Civil Rights, and Environmental Protection divisions. It also funds Medicaid Fraud Control and the Complex Litigation divisions.

    Here are some recent key consumer protection victories:

    • $1.3 billion in recoveries dedicated to combatting the opioid epidemic at the state and local level.
    • Blocking the Kroger and Albertson’s anticompetitive grocery store merger.
    • Up to $40.6 million will be distributed to Washingtonians who overpaid for chicken and tuna products that were part of a price-fixing conspiracy.
    • A nationwide agreement requiring Dollar Tree to monitor its testing labs to ensure they follow appropriate testing methods for lead and cadmium that are audited and verified through independent experts.
    • Over $43 million in direct refunds and debt forgiveness to student loan borrowers.
    • More than $158 million in debt relief to patients who Washington hospitals failed to screen for charity care.
    • Our Consumer Protection Division has  successfully challenged consumer “non-disclosure” agreements to make sure online reviews are honest.
    • Returning funds to consumers who signed illegal contracts.
    • The Manufactured Housing Landlord Tenant Act, recouping millions of dollars for tenants subjected to illegal rent hikes and other misconduct.
    • The Wing Luke Civil Rights Division addresses discrimination in housing, employment, insurance, credit, and in government services and businesses open to the public. Recent wins illustrating the breadth of that work include wins against Allianz ($1.5 million, insurance discrimination), Greenridge Farming ($470,000, farmworker sexual harassment and retaliation) and Operation Veterans Assistance & Humanitarian Aid (more than $2.15 million, sexual harassment and retaliation at a chain of thrift stores).

    Our Consumer Resource Center, which answers between 25,000-30,000 calls annually, returns over $10M to consumers every year via its informal dispute resolution efforts. Assistant attorneys general also take calls and complaints throughout the year that result in additional consumer protection actions.

    A full list of public Consumer Protection Week events is available below:

    In-person only events

    Come to your local library for National Consumer Protection Week 2025! The Office of the Attorney General, Secretary of State’s Office, and Department of Financial Institutions will host your questions and a table of information on how you can protect yourself and your families from scams, stay safe online, and how to file a consumer complaint. Please join us!

    Monday, March 3:

    National Consumer Protection Informational Event (Public)

    1 PM-3 PM

    Puyallup Municipal Library: 324 S Meridian, Puyallup, WA 98371

    Tuesday, March 4:

    National Consumer Protection Informational Event (Public)

    10 AM – Noon

    Edmonds Library: 650 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020

    Friday, March 7:

    National Consumer Protection Informational Event (Public)

    2 PM – 4 PM

    Des Moines Library: 21620 11th Ave S, Des Moines, WA 98198

    Virtual only

    Monday, March 3:

    Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Presentation (Zoom) (Public)

    10 AM-11:30 AM

    https://atg-wa.zoom.us/j/87327455542?pwd=cY5nba4bbw1N3LtPPtsjOI8aEq5cch.1

    Are you an owner of a manufactured/mobile home that rents space from a park or community? Are you the owner, landlord, or manager of a manufactured/mobile home park? Come learn about the Manufactured Housing Dispute Resolution Program with Public Programs Director, Cynthia Lockridge, and Assistant Attorney General Sebastian Miller for National Consumer Protection Week 2025!

    Presentación del Programa de Resolución de Disputas de Casas Móviles (Zoom) (Español) (Publico)

    6 PM-7:30 PM

    https://atg-wa.zoom.us/j/89656449126?pwd=Hz4Duw1HeFXt82HEXVRv5Jmaha040t.1

    ¿Es usted propietario de una casa móvil o manufacturada que alquila espacio en un parque o comunidad? ¿Es usted propietario, arrendador o administrador de un parque de casas móviles o manufacturadas? ¡Venga a conocer el Programa de Resolución de Disputas de Casa Móviles con la Oficina del Procurador General del Estado de Washington durante la Semana Nacional de Protección al Consumidor 2025!

    Hybrid events (English)

    Ready to protect yourself from fraud, identity theft, and scams? Want to stay on top of your credit, shop smart for a used car, or keep yourself and your family safe online? Then don’t miss these chances to meet with the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General! Join us for National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW)  — and stay informed year-round at www.atg.wa.gov. NCPW is your time to connect with government agencies, consumer protection experts, and our team as we share vital tips to help you spot, report, and avoid scams. Let’s make smart choices together and stay one step ahead!

    Tuesday, March 4:

    Fort Vancouver Library Series: Three Creeks (Public) (Virtual)

    3 PM – 4 PM

    https://meet.google.com/utx-pubt-asx?hs=122&authuser=0

    Wednesday, March 5:

    Fort Vancouver Library Series: Vancouver (Public) (Virtual)

    11 AM – Noon

    https://meet.google.com/gba-ankm-pks?hs=122&authuser=0

    Thursday, March 6:

    Fort Vancouver Regional Library: Woodland (Virtual) (Public)

    2 PM – 3 PM

    https://meet.google.com/wsk-jevd-bsc?hs=122&authuser=0

    Saturday, March 8:

    Walla Walla Library (Zoom) (Public)

    1 PM – 2 PM

    https://atg-wa.zoom.us/j/86149303444?pwd=mxU5BKPx0mGlLEfcpEuBz6QwApgksu.1

    Hybrid events (Español)

    ¿Listo para protegerse del fraude, el robo de identidad y las estafas? ¿Quiere estar al tanto de su crédito, comprar un automóvil usado de manera inteligente o mantener a usted y a su familia seguros en línea? ¡Entonces no pierda la oportunidad de reunirse con la División de Protección al Consumidor de la Procuraduría General del Estado de Washington! Únase a nosotros durante la Semana Nacional de Protección al Consumidor (NCPW, sus iniciales en inglés) y manténgase informado durante todo el año en www.atg.wa.gov. NCPW es su momento para conectarse con agencias gubernamentales, expertos en protección al consumidor y nuestro equipo mientras compartimos consejos vitales para ayudarlo a detectar, denunciar y evitar estafas. ¡Tomemos decisiones inteligentes juntos y así sobresaltamos a los estafadores!

    Thursday, March 6:

    Fort Vancouver Regional Library: Vancouver (Español) (Virtual) (Publico)

    11 AM – Mediodía

    https://meet.google.com/mjy-dgbk-drq?hs=122&authuser=0

     -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the State of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Trump’s spat with Zelensky threatens the security of the world – including the US

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

    After the catastrophic press conference on February 28 between Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and US president Donald Trump, it is clear that there has been a global realignment.

    What the press conference revealed was that Trump’s position is a lot closer to Russian president Vladmir Putin than long-time US ally Ukraine, and also that other US allies cannot count on Washington to promote the global world order.

    The extraordinary spectacle ended with Trump and vice-president J.D. Vance shouting at Zelensky, telling him he wasn’t thankful for US aid. Since then, the expected mineral deal between Ukraine and the US has been called off – at least for now.

    There was already a wake-up call for European allies about how reliable the US might be during Trump’s first term when he launched his “American first” policy. This included chastising Nato member countries for not paying enough, and characterising Europe as free-riding on US security guarantees.

    While this sparked alarm among some European leaders over how to ensure that the continent becomes less dependent on the US, Europeans are now scrambling to respond to Trump 2.0’s much more extreme version of America first. After the press conference, European Union foreign minister Kaja Kallas declared: “Today it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It’s up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge.”

    Trump’s relationship with Russia

    To some extent Europe was caught off guard because it was hard to imagine that a US president would swing US support behind Russia, especially after Russia’s unlawful invasion of Ukraine in 2022. But Trump has turned the page on challenging Russian aggression, and does not seem to see Putin’s ambitions as a threat to global security.

    Instead in the press conference – as in previous statements – Trump has echoed some of Putin’s talking points, such as Ukraine not having any cards to play, being unwilling to do a peace deal, and having to give up land to Russia.

    Trump also refused to say that Putin started the war, and even claimed that peace could have been possible early on in the war had Zelensky wanted peace. Trump even repeatedly opined that both Putin and Trump were brothers of sorts — victims of the same investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 US election.

    The press conference also revealed that the security guarantees that Zelensky pushed Trump to confirm were secondary at best. Trump remained vague and offered no details, possibly because he has no intention of the US providing any security to Ukraine.

    The aim may have been to goad Zelensky – just weeks ago on Fox News Trump stated that he did not know if Ukrainians would one day become Russian. Meanwhile, Trump’s claim that Ukraine did not have any cards to play is unhelpful to highlight if you are trying to negotiate a great deal for one of your allies.

    What Trump seemed to forget is that Ukraine once had a lot of cards — holding the third largest nuclear arsenal in the world with 1,900 strategic warheads, 176 intercontinental ballistic missiles and 44 strategic bombers. Ukraine was coaxed into returning all of its nuclear warheads in exchange for security assurances from Russia and the west, in a 1994 agreement known as the Budapest Memorandum.

    But while this memorandum might mean little to the current US president, allies around the world can see how quickly a US leader can forget their country’s commitments. The message that Trump is sending now is that every country must fight for themselves. All interactions are transactional, and economic interests trump the genuine security needs of allies.



    Read more:
    Raised voices and angry scenes at the White House as Trump clashes with Zelensky over the ‘minerals deal’

    This plays perfectly into China’s hands. To China, Trump has signalled that he primarily cares about the tariff issue. In addition, he could implement higher tariffs on the US’s biggest trading partners (and allies), Canada, the EU and Mexico, than on China.

    The symbolism of the unsigned mineral deal with Ukraine and the capitulation to Russia’s territorial interests in Ukraine should be music to the ears of China’s president, Xi Jinping.

    What it means for China

    China has inundated Taiwan with a propaganda campaign that says the self-governing island is part of China. Part of the campaign focuses on the notion that if China were to invade, the US would abandon Taiwan, citing the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 as evidence of this.

    The US’s abrupt abandonment of Ukraine adds fuel to this fire. Xi could be emboldened to execute his plan of uniting Taiwan by 2049, if not earlier, which could have disastrous consequences for the global economy.

    European leaders met with President Zelensky after the Trump press conference.

    Taiwan produces 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors needed for artificial intelligence and quantum computing, and has a market share of 68%.

    An invasion could lead to a block on global access to semiconductors, causing shortages of all sorts of tech, a possible stock market crash and a fall in trade between Taiwan and western economies. This could cost around US$10 trillion (£7.9 trillion), equal to 10% of global GDP.

    Additionally, for countries such as South Korea and Japan that have been persuaded to not embark on nuclear programmes, the US U-turn sows doubt about its commitment to provide a nuclear shield to its Pacific allies. This could prompt these countries to reverse policies of nonproliferation.

    What happens to Nato?

    Nato has been traditionally led by a US general, but it’s not even clear that the US will remain in the alliance. In the past few weeks Europe has been forced to hold a series of emergency meetings to try to rise to the various global challenges – with or without the US as a key partner.

    All of this makes the US more vulnerable as well. The US is more secure and prosperous when it is part of a long-term alliance, working in partnership with its allies to ensure security, stability, free trade and investment. If the US were to even reduce its security commitments to Nato by 50%, estimates suggest trade with members would fall by US$450 billion.

    The alliance system has been a backbone of US security since 1949. The cost to Nato’s credibility and to defending its borders if Ukraine loses the war would be trillions, not billions, of dollars.

    With Trump appearing desperate to do a deal on Putin’s terms with no concessions, Russia will become much stronger as a result. In spite of the fact that more than 95,000 Russians have died, it’s likely that Russia will act even more boldly, becoming a more attractive ally to US adversaries.

    Trump’s support for Putin not only encourages a hostile nuclear power on the doorstep of the US’s top Nato allies, but also suggests that the US cannot be counted on in future.

    Natasha Lindstaedt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Trump’s spat with Zelensky threatens the security of the world – including the US – https://theconversation.com/how-trumps-spat-with-zelensky-threatens-the-security-of-the-world-including-the-us-251229

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: The overlooked bond: Why mental health professionals should ask questions about pets

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Renata Roma, Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Saskatchewan

    Pets increasingly play a central role in people’s lives. Mental health professionals who overlook this may be missing an opportunity to understand an important aspect of their clients’experience. (Shutterstock)

    Pets have become an integral part of people’s lives, with some having stronger bonds with their pets than with their siblings and other family members. Some feel more empathy toward animals than toward humans.

    According to a survey, for nearly 90 per cent of Canadians, pets are considered not only family members, but also an essential source of emotional support.

    As researchers interested in the psychology of human-animal relationships, we believe that given these findings, it is imperative to understand how the relationship with pets shapes people’s routines, their self-perceptions, emotional states and ability to cope.

    Asking pet-related questions can be particularly relevant for mental health professionals seeking a deeper understanding of clients’ family dynamics. Exploring the role of pets in a client’s life can offer valuable insights into factors shaping their well-being.

    Client-centred approach: What if pets are part of the story?

    Using a client-centred approach, mental health professionals should understand and validate clients’ perspectives. The goal is to work with clients to understand what shapes their experiences, worldview, strengths and support systems.

    Asking pet-related questions can be particularly relevant for mental health professionals seeking a deeper understanding of clients’ family dynamics.
    (Shutterstock)

    More specifically, during intake sessions and assessments, the focus should be on being attuned to the client’s needs. Professionals who overlook the central role pets play in people’s lives risk missing an opportunity to understand an important aspect of their clients’ experience. Shifting this perspective can lead to deeper insight into clients’ emotional states and behaviours, ultimately leading to more tailored and effective treatment.

    The benefits of such holistic framework can be invaluable. Researchers have found pet-related questions can not only reduce anxiety, but also improve communication and rapport. These questions also allow professionals to access clinically relevant information that can guide their therapeutic approach.

    Unlocking deeper insights in therapy

    There are several specific ways that pet-related questions can influence the direction of therapeutic interventions.

    1) Help clients feel more comfortable:

    Asking pet-related questions can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. This, in turn, strengthens the therapeutic alliance and creates an inviting atmosphere. For example, many couples treat their pets as children. Among younger generations, there is often a preference for pets over children.

    For these clients, neglecting this important aspect of their lives may negatively impact the therapeutic relationship. By asking pet-related questions, professionals can help clients to feel valued and seen. This inclusive approach acknowledges an essential part of their social system and open space for them to talk about how their pets shape their identity.

    Among younger generations there is often a preference for pets over children.
    (Shutterstock)

    2) Create trust:

    In general, building rapport with clients can create a foundation of trust. This makes it easier for them to share difficult and personal information. Discussing the dynamic between a client and their pet can help them feel more comfortable addressing sensitive topics. Nearly 90 per cent of women experiencing domestic violence report mistreatment of their pets.

    Children who are victims of domestic violence often share stories of their pets being mistreated. These clients usually feel more comfortable addressing violence against their pets before they address violence against themselves.

    3) Offer insights on the client’s strengths and resources:

    Pets can provide support in several ways. For some people, spending time with their pets during moments of stress can alleviate feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

    For others, the presence of a pet facilitates engaging in social and physical activities. Also, the bond with the pet can increase feelings of belonging and reduce self-harm behaviours. By understanding the role pets play in the client’s life, clinicians gain insight into their coping strategies and available resources. This helps inform more tailored clinical interventions.

    4) Offer insight into a client’s broader challenges:

    Pets can have a positive impact on emotional attachment. However, strong attachment to pets may sometimes be associated with increased psychological stress and trust issues. Others may experience worry and guilt when their health issues affect their ability to provide care for their pets, which can worsen their psychological distress.

    Additionally, the ways clients approach and resolve issues related to their pets can provide insight into their problem-solving abilities. Exploring these areas with clients can highlight target areas for therapy.

    5) Help to identify sources of stress:

    The relationship with pets is complex, and can fluctuate. Pets with behavioural or health issues may create significant social barriers, reducing social interactions and heightening negative emotions in owners. Also, the inability to afford veterinary care can undermine a person’s well-being. These situations can be associated with anxiety and caregiver burden. Therefore, the dynamics they share with their pets can directly influence the issues presented in therapy.

    In such scenarios, not asking about clients’ relationship with their pets may cause professionals to overlook crucial aspects of clients’ overall well-being. This can result in missing important insights into clients’ strengths and challenges.

    Not asking about clients’ relationship with their pets, may cause professionals to overlook crucial aspects of clients’ overall well-being.
    (Shutterstock)

    The missing piece

    Pet-related questions are not just a trivial detail. The structure of families has evolved. As we work toward more holistic and empathetic therapeutic approaches, exploring the presence of pets in people’s lives is a critical step to fostering an environment of acceptance, openness and trust.

    By exploring this bond, mental health professionals can strengthen therapeutic alliances. They would also learn about essential aspects of a client’s emotional life, their strengths and challenges.

    Simple questions like: “do you have a pet at home?” and “how would you describe the role of your pet in your life?” can help strengthen connections with clients. These questions create opportunities for deeper engagement. They also promote a practice that is client-centred, inclusive and aligned with the evolving configurations of families.

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

    – ref. The overlooked bond: Why mental health professionals should ask questions about pets – https://theconversation.com/the-overlooked-bond-why-mental-health-professionals-should-ask-questions-about-pets-250702

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: How businesses and consumers can protect themselves against digital supply chain disruptions

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Raymond A. Patterson, Professor, Area Chair, Business Technology Management, Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary

    Digital supply chain disruptions are particularly problematic because they can have immediate global effects and can’t rely on inventory as a buffer. (Shutterstock)

    Digital supply chain disruptions are becoming increasingly common, with a recent notable increase in cyberattacks and supplier errors.

    A significant incident in July 2024 saw a flawed security upgrade by CrowdStrike impact 8.5 million Windows computers. The fallout impacted various industries, including airlines, hospitals and 911 services. This led to the cancellation of 2,800 flights and delays for 11,000 more.

    Threats surrounding the looming trade war between Canada and the United States are also threatening the digital supply chain. The digital supply chain encompasses many goods and services, including video streaming platforms, software, digital content, video games, e-books, online storage, education and training content, and food delivery services.

    According to a McKinsey report from October 2024, companies seem to be easing up on efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience, even as disruptions continue to occur. The survey found “considerable gaps in the ability of organizations to identify and mitigate supply chain risks, with few new initiatives aimed at addressing those weaknesses.”

    Digital supply chain disruptions are particularly problematic because they can have immediate global effects. Unlike physical supply chains, digital suppliers can’t rely on inventory as a buffer. As is clear from major industry disruptions to the digital supply chain, organizations often lack feasible alternatives for their digital suppliers — there is no plan B.

    However, the resilience of digital supply chains is given little attention, despite its critical role in the global economy.

    Risks of sharing digital suppliers

    Our recent research explored how businesses’ choice of digital supplier — either the same as their competitors or different ones — impacts competition and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions.

    Using an economic model, we analyzed how disruptions at a service provider impacted a firm’s customer demand and, in turn, how the firm managed service provider risks.

    We found that when companies rely on the same digital suppliers, they also share risks. In contrast, choosing alternative suppliers can help mitigate those risks. However, businesses often mimic their competitors and share suppliers — a strategy that is not always wise.

    Disruptions to digital supply chains are inevitable, and the effects of these disruptions, particularly on consumer demand, are often underestimated. These disruptions can spread rapidly, without giving companies enough time to react. Cyberattacks or service losses at a single supplier can take multiple businesses offline at once.

    Issues like privacy breaches and service disruptions can even cause customers to change their buying habits. While a disruption at one firm may lead consumers to switch to competitors, broader industry disruptions can diminish overall trust and demand.

    Companies with complementary products should consider using different digital suppliers to mitigate the compounded negative effects of any disruption.

    Additionally, advanced technologies like AI are transforming industries such as customer support and health care, meaning digital supply chain disruptions are also more likely. Automation can also exacerbate this risk.

    Addressing supply chain risks

    Canadians have many concerns about online privacy and security, and business leaders face challenges addressing these concerns moving forward.

    Addressing these concerns is difficult due to several factors, including rapidly changing technology, expanding opportunities for attacks, high costs to address privacy and security, and lack of employee awareness, among others.

    Our research leads to a number of suggestions for companies, industry coalitions, governmental regulators and consumers. For businesses, building resilience against digital supply chain disruptions and supplier outages requires strategic partnerships. Companies must consider how inevitable disruptions will affect not only their customer demand, but also how competitors’ disruptions could affect them, and vice versa.

    For industry coalitions and governmental regulators, understanding the ripple effects of shared digital supply chain risks can help determine whether supply chains should be shared or separated. Industry-specific needs may differ and change over time, which could justify breaking up digital service monopolies to increase supplier diversity or, in some cases, maintaining them.

    Consumers should also be aware of the potential for a digital supply chain disruptions. If an industry-wide outage occurs, having a workaround plan can be essential. For example, when purchasing services that can’t be physically stored, like airline tickets, it’s wise to plan for unexpected disruptions. Booking a flight a day earlier than necessary or allowing extra time to return home can provide a buffer against system-wide failures.

    Breaches of online privacy and service disruptions caused by unforeseen events, bad actors and foreign governments can cause customers to alter their buying habits and negatively impact Canadian competitiveness.

    With Canadians expressing grave concerns over online privacy and security, everyone must recognize the importance of preparing for and mitigating these risks.

    Raymond A. Patterson currently receives funding from the Haskayne School of Business and the National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC). Previous funding has been obtained from a variety of private and public sources.

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

    – ref. How businesses and consumers can protect themselves against digital supply chain disruptions – https://theconversation.com/how-businesses-and-consumers-can-protect-themselves-against-digital-supply-chain-disruptions-250009

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump tariffs have sparked a ‘Buy Canadian’ surge, but keeping the trend alive faces hurdles

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Melise Panetta, Lecturer of Marketing in the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University

    Escalating trade tensions between Canada and the United States have ignited a new wave of Canadian patriotism, with consumers consciously choosing made-in-Canada products as an act of economic self-preservation and national pride.

    U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to impose tariffs on most Canadian and Mexican goods on March 4, after a month-long delay. This, along with Trump’s calls to make Canada the 51st U.S. state, has prompted Canadians to rally around the so-called “Buy Canadian” movement.

    Recent research indicates a significant number of Canadians are now showing a strong preference for domestic products, with many willing to modify their purchasing behaviours. One recent poll revealed 42 per cent of Canadians polled will “absolutely do everything” to avoid purchasing U.S. products. Eighty-eight per cent said they would buy a product promoted as “made in Canada.”

    Another poll found that 56 per cent of Canadians said they would stop buying a certain product altogether if there is no Canadian-made alternative.

    While the “buy local” movement has deeper roots, often resurfacing during periods of economic tensions, the current surge stems from a desire to support homegrown brands and manufacturers they see as reflecting their values.

    Buy Canadian movement challenges

    While the Buy Canadian movement is gaining traction, actually sustaining it comes with notable challenges. Some experts caution that reducing reliance on U.S. imports is a gradual process contingent on consistent consumer commitment.

    Two primary barriers stand in the way of this sustained change: the higher costs of Canadian-made goods, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and the difficulty consumers face in identifying domestically produced items.

    Addressing these two issues is crucial for the long-term viability of the Buy Canadian movement.

    CBC News segment about the Buy Canadian movement.

    Buying Canadian can be pricey

    The first primary obstacle facing the Buy Canadian movement is the price disparity between domestic goods and their imported counterparts.

    Canadian domestic goods often come with a higher price tag due to production costs, economies of scale, transportation and other economic factors. These factors make it difficult for local manufacturers to compete with cheaper foreign alternatives.

    The ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which is driving up prices for goods and services across various sectors, is further intensifying the challenge. One of the biggest household expenses, the cost of groceries, remain particularly high, having jumped by 7.8 per cent in 2023 — its highest level in nearly 40 years.

    Higher prices across almost all sectors has resulted in 71 per cent of Canadians naming the cost of living as a top domestic concern, making it the leading news story in the country in 2024.

    While many consumers express a desire to support local businesses even if they are pricier, the reality of higher costs could make it difficult for consumers to consistently choose domestic products over more affordable foreign alternatives.

    Is it really ‘Made in Canada’?

    The second major obstacle for the Buy Canadian movement lies in confusion over product labels. For many Canadians, identifying which products are truly Canadian versus imported alternatives can be a challenging task.

    A recent poll found that 42 per cent of Canadians believe grocery food products are made in Canada, while the actual number of products fully made in Canada is closer to 10 per cent.

    Compounding matters further, understanding country of origin labelling can also be challenging. Labels such as “Made in Canada” and “Product of Canada” have specific definitions.

    “Made in Canada” means the last substantial transformation of the good or service occurs in Canada but may contain up to 49 per cent imported ingredients, while “Product of Canada” means all, or nearly all, significant parts and processing are Canadian.

    This nuanced labelling and similarity in wording can lead to confusion, making it difficult for consumers to make informed choices.

    Building on the Buy Canadian momentum

    Canadian businesses and retailers have been responding to growing consumer demand for domestic products with concrete marketing strategies. For instance, Loblaw Companies, Canada’s largest food retailer, has committed to “doubling down on securing food grown and made” locally.

    Grocery stores are also making it easier for consumers to identify local products. Several grocery chains have revamped their in-store displays by using shelf tags, stickers and end-of-aisle signage to clearly identify Canadian-made food items.

    Retailers and brands are increasingly spotlighting domestic brands by rolling out targeted pricing deals. Major grocery chains have begun offering significant price reductions and exclusive promotions on items branded as “Made in Canada.”

    Additionally, Canadians are flocking to websites such as Madeinca.ca, which aim to demystify country of origin and labelling so shoppers can distinguish domestic products from imports.

    Although maintaining this momentum may be challenging, consumers are eager to showcase their patriotism at the check-out. With businesses and policymakers actively improving product transparency and addressing cost concerns, the Buy Canadian movement is poised to gain further traction. After all, nothing embodies unity quite like a little patriotic shopping, the Canadian way.

    Melise Panetta does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump tariffs have sparked a ‘Buy Canadian’ surge, but keeping the trend alive faces hurdles – https://theconversation.com/trump-tariffs-have-sparked-a-buy-canadian-surge-but-keeping-the-trend-alive-faces-hurdles-250245

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: How rebellion against moralizing has become a surprising rallying point for the political right

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Alexis Shotwell, Professor, Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Carleton University

    A couple of weeks before the astonishing Feb. 28 White House Oval Office meeting that saw United States President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance scold Ukraine’s leader, Vance told European leaders at the Munich Security Conference: “If American democracy can survive 10 years of Greta Thunberg’s scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk.”

    Vance was responding — with humour, he said — to pushback over Elon Musk’s vocal support for Germany’s far-right parties, expressed on X in a livestream event and in a December 2024 German newspaper op-ed.

    Newsweek reported that the administration of Germany’s lower house of parliament “is investigating whether Musk’s support for the AfD on the platform where he has 210 million followers could constitute an illegal party donation.”

    Are Musk’s actions, which some allege are interference, comparable to a young woman’s moralizing?

    It might seem odd to equate the richest person in the world supporting far-right political parties with an eco-activist saying politicians should address climate change. However, there is a long history of people seeing scolding as one of the worst things we can do.

    Our research has been concerned with how “purity politics” shape people’s attempts to live ethical lives, and what it means to reason about ecological catastrophe. We are writing a book about how rebellion against moralizing has become a surprising rallying point for the political right, and how to think about moralizing more broadly.



    Read more:
    How Trump’s compulsion to dominate sabotages dealmaking, undermines democracy and threatens global stability

    Rage against moralizing

    Whereas conservatives used to be defenders of morals, they now rage against moralizing, seeing “wokism” as a threat to freedom. Religious conservatives used to position themselves as bastions of morality. But research shows secular societies do not behave less morally as a whole than religious ones.

    Philosopher Judith Butler argues that while Trump displays a “shameless sadism”
    we are seeing his supporters revel in his rejection of moral repression.

    The rejection of moralizing seems to be creating a terrain in which many on the right feel liberated by the current turn against “wokism.” But even on the left, some now worry about too much moralism in what is called “cancel culture.”



    Read more:
    Cancel culture looks a lot like old-fashioned church discipline

    How did moralizing come to this? Could understanding this help us navigate political deadlocks? The history of philosophy has some surprising suggestions here.

    Traditionalism, scolding

    First: there are some dangers in moralizing. One is a kind of traditionalism, which shows up in the creation of moral panics about transgender people, street gangs, abortion, immigrants and so on.

    Another is if someone scolds: “you should take the bus rather than driving” — but the bus doesn’t run to your neighbourhood. Moralizing like this is just posturing. Maybe it makes the driver feel bad, but it doesn’t create more public transit.

    Still, many of us have strong ethical convictions, and we try to live according to what we believe is right or wrong. Even if we judge someone else for the way they are living or behaving, we might hesitate to say something directly. Having personal ethics is socially acceptable; telling others what to do turns us into a scold. Why?

    Our stance

    The word “ethos” in ancient Greek means something like “posture” or “standing.” Aristotle saw ethos as marking our credibility, our character; we enact our ethics only in a shared world. Contemporary ethical approaches often focus on the personal side of this, setting an example without pushing values on others.

    Aristotle saw ‘ethos’ as marking our character.
    (Shutterstock)

    The related word “moral” comes from the Latin mores, usually understood as naming shared customs. Ancient Roman philosopher Cicero used the term moralis to translate ethos, (ἠθική) from Greek. “Morals” were regarded as “the common consent of all living together, constituted from shared traditions,” to quote the influential definition of Roman scholar Marcus Terentius Varro.

    This “common consent” did not claim to apply to everyone. As late as the 16th century, philosophers such as Michel de Montaigne, Cardano or Agrippa of Nettesheim developed a comparative study of various customs and value systems known as “scienta moralis.”

    Moral philosophers discussed different inclinations and life-ways of people without postulating one superior norm that would govern everyone. There was a Christian strand of moral theology that saw morality as a universal principle, but even after the era of 16th-century Reformation in the western church, it was not primarily about condemnation and judgement. Rather, this branch of “humanist” moral inquiry examined how people create and maintain shared norms in a pluralistic society.

    This changed with ideas that we could have a universally applicable moral science, governed by reason. Philosophers like Immanuel Kant helped formulate this idea. If we think of morality as a law everyone can be subjected to, it makes sense that people rebel against it.

    Channeling opponents of moralizing

    When Vance characterised Thunberg as “scolding,” he unwittingly channelled opponents of moralizing, such as philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche.

    Nietzsche once defined his philosophical project as a “declaration of war against morals and moralists.” For him and the thinkers he inspired, moralizing is conceived as a negative emotion motivated by resentment and envy.



    Read more:
    Stephen Bannon’s world: Dangerous minds in dangerous times

    Nietzsche’s almost total rejection of morals can be understood as one of the many roots of the contemporary hesitation (though this idea is debated). No one wants to be denigrated by being seen as one of the sheep who unquestioningly embraces a herd mentality.

    In this context, paradoxically, moralizing — scolding — has come to mean that anyone who says they think something is bad, or should be otherwise, is oppressing the people they criticize.

    ‘Scolding’ people in power

    When we look at the extraordinary difference in power between Musk and Thunberg, this definition of moralizing begins to seem a little weird. Is scolding so dangerous to people in power?

    For people interested in pushing back against authoritarianism, maybe we should hope that it is. We can look to the earlier ideal of morality as forging “common consent” for direction here.

    In the philosophical sense, addressing our “mores” suggests moving towards a collective re-evaluation of how people want to live. Saying “no, I do not agree with this” can perhaps express our character in a way that shapes our shared world.

    Moralizing could then be the process of building new customs. It would be about building morale and seeing hope and agency in these admittedly dire times. Moralizing with others, rather than at them, could help people move beyond feeling immobilized and cynical.

    Studies about “bystander intervention” usually focus on the ways that people go along with things they think are wrong. Research does suggest our moral actions are shaped by the people around us, but this also means moral courage is contagious.

    Standing up for something allows other people to also express their moral convictions. It can be a testament about hope or agency and could be more powerful than we think.

    It is perhaps the fear of this powerful potential that is the core of truth in Vance’s otherwise absurd equation.

    Perhaps this signals the true threat moralizing poses to the status quo — the possibility that there is a better way to live together in a shared world.

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

    – ref. How rebellion against moralizing has become a surprising rallying point for the political right – https://theconversation.com/how-rebellion-against-moralizing-has-become-a-surprising-rallying-point-for-the-political-right-250549

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hit By Trump’s Tariffs, Welch’s Guest to President’s Joint Address to Congress Will Be Head of Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Allison Hope During Welch’s Tariff Town Hall: “Our industry has grown in production almost 500% over the last 20 years, and these tariffs would go a long way towards potentially slowing that production.”
    Vermont sugar makers produce the most maple syrup in the nation.
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced Allison Hope, Executive Director of the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association, will join Senator Welch for President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress on Tuesday evening.  
    Vermont’s maple industry—as well as farms and businesses across Vermont—are bracing for the economic fallout of the Trump’s 25% tariff on Canada, which will go into effect tomorrow. Sugar makers expect the cost of Canadian-made sugaring equipment to dramatically increase. Bulk maple sales to major retailers like Costco, Target, and Whole Foods rely on both U.S. and Canadian producers and most of the equipment needed to produce syrup is manufactured in Canada. 
    “These tariffs are really going to hurt our economy in Vermont, and the impacts will be far-reaching. President Trump is singlehandedly raising costs for Vermonters—from the food on our table, to our energy bills, to the materials and equipment our home construction companies and manufacturers need. It’s important that the Trump Administration and my colleagues across the aisle hear directly from those who are impacted and that they drop this misguided plan,” said Senator Welch. 
    During Senator Welch’s virtual town hall on tariffs in February, Allison Hope of the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association shared: “Our industry has grown in production almost 500% over the last 20 years, and these tariffs would go a long way towards potentially slowing that production.” 
    Today, Senator Welch will join Governor Phil Scott, the Solinsky Family, who are fourth-generation sugar makers from the northeast kingdom, Vermont Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts, the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association, and community members at the Governor’s annual ‘First Tapping’ event, which celebrates Vermont’s maple industry and the Green Mountain State’s sugar makers. Vermont sugar makers produce the most maple syrup in the nation, with 3.1 million gallons produced in 2024, an increase of nearly 20% from 2023. 
    Last week, Senator Welch expressed opposition to the Trump Tariffs in voting against the nomination of Jamieson Greer for United States Trade Representative. He also joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen’s (D-N.H.) Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act, which would shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The bill would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.   
    In January, Welch introduced the Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential (MAPLE) Act and the Supporting All Producers (SAP) Act, two bipartisan, bicameral bills to support Vermont’s maple industry.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Announces She Will Bring Nevada Teenager Enrolled in Medicaid for Lifesaving Health Care As Guest to Trump’s Joint Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    This Comes After Congressional Republicans Passed A Cruel Budget With Extreme Cuts To Medicaid As A Way To Pay For Tax Cuts For The Ultra-Wealthy
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced that she will be joined by a Las Vegas teenager and his mom who rely on Medicaid for health care coverage to attend President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress. Dominic Rampa, who will be accompanied by his mother Rebecca Ennis, has relied on Medicaid since he was a child to help cover treatments for a number of health conditions associated with nine genetic disorders – including two immunodeficiencies, a genetic blood clotting disorder, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and more. Without Medicaid coverage, Dominic would lose the health care coverage he needs to live, which at a minimum comes out to around $200,000 per year.
    Medicaid is a lifeline for Nevadans to access health care. Nearly 42 million children nationwide rely on Medicaid/CHIP for their health coverage. In Nevada, more than 350,000 children are enrolled in this critical program.
    “Since he was a young child, Dominic has relied on Medicaid to get the health care he needs to stay alive. This critical program is a lifeline for Dominic and his family, and I’m grateful to be joined by him and his mom at the Joint Address to Congress,” said Senator Rosen. “Congressional Republicans’ efforts to make cuts to Medicaid to pay for more tax giveaways for the ultra-wealthy would be a disaster for Nevadans like Rebecca and Dominic. As long as I’m representing Nevada in the U.S. Senate, I will continue to speak out against cutting funding for programs that Nevandas rely on.”
     “Having a child with multiple rare diseases is very difficult,” said Rebecca Ennis. “The cost is more than most people could afford, so losing Medicaid would cause my son to lose the treatments that keep him alive.” 
    Senator Rosen has been a vocal critic of Republicans’ budget plans that would give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy by cutting programs Nevadans rely on. Earlier this month, Senator Rosen opposed Republicans’ extreme budget resolution that will gut programs like Medicaid and SNAP to pay for more tax cuts for only the richest Americans. She also took to the Senate floor to call out Congressional Republicans for this extreme budget plan. Senator Rosen joined her Senate colleagues in urging President Donald Trump to reject Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans to increase the cost of living for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: 03.03.2025 Sen. Cruz at Press Conference for Inaugural SAT-DCA Direct Flight: ‘Texas Prevailed’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, delivered remarks during a press conference at San Antonio International Airport (SAT), celebrating the first direct flight from San Antonio to Washington, D.C.’s Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. This flight was made possible due to a provision Sen. Cruz secured in his FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.

    Excerpts of Sen. Cruz’s remarks are included below:
    “Last year, we passed the FAA Reauthorization Act. At the time, I was the Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The Ranking Member was the senior Republican, not yet in the majority. And that FAA bill, I wrote alongside Maria Cantwell, the chairman of the Committee, a Democrat from Washington state. As we wrote that landmark legislation, it was $110 billion in new resources invested in aviation safety — directing the FAA to hire the maximum number of air traffic controllers to keep passengers safe as you and your family board flights to travel across America and across the world — investing in technology on runways to prevent the multiple near misses that we’ve seen on runways to enhance the ability to avert those disasters — expanding competition and investing in new technology in airports here in San Antonio and all across Texas.
    “Now, that bill was a bipartisan bill that had enormous support. And do you know what the single greatest battle on that bill was? The new flight for San Antonio to DCA. On that new flight, you had millions of dollars of lobbying trying to prevent that flight from happening. It was as bare-knuckle a fight as I’ve seen in Washington. You had the senators from Virginia and Maryland both lobbying vigorously against it. The battle ended up delaying the entire bill on the floor of the Senate for two days. Now, we ended up having, thankfully, the entire congressional delegation united.
    “In the House, you had Chip Roy, who did a phenomenal job. You had Joaquin Castro, Greg Casar, Tony Gonzales, and Henry Cuellar all working together — Republicans and Democrats, hand in hand. In San Antonio, you had the city, the elected leadership, the business community — all standing as one — united. In the Senate, John Cornyn and I worked hand in hand, whipping the votes. I have, if you come to my office, and Mayor, I’ll show you the whip sheet for the slots, which I have framed, back-to-back, with every one of the Senators because it was literally hand-to-hand combat to get the votes. At the end of the day, Texas prevailed.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Colombian Nationals Charged with Drug-Trafficking on Alabama Interstate

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury indicted two Colombian nationals for drug crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Steven N. Schrank.

    A two-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Cristian Yesid Lugo-Beltran, 24, and Johan Leandro Zapata-Valencia, 23, with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.

    According to the indictment, on February 6, 2024, Lugo-Beltran and Zapata-Valencia possessed with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. The traffic stop of both men occurred on Interstate 65 in Shelby County.  

    HSI investigated the case, along with Calera Police Department and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany T. Byrd and Olivia C. Brame are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment contains only charges.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: “Friday Night Baseball” returns to Apple TV+ on March 28

    Source: Apple

    Headline: “Friday Night Baseball” returns to Apple TV+ on March 28

    March 3, 2025

    UPDATE

    “Friday Night Baseball” returns to Apple TV+ on March 28

    Exclusive weekly doubleheaders return for a fourth season, with New York Mets at Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles at Toronto Blue Jays

    “Fight for Glory: 2024 World Series,” the new docuseries on Apple TV+, premieres later this month, and a new Apple Immersive baseball film “VIP: Yankee Stadium” to debut next month

    Apple and Major League Baseball (MLB) announced that “Friday Night Baseball,” a weekly doubleheader available on Apple TV+, is set to return for the 2025 regular season. Fans across 60 countries and regions can enjoy two marquee matchups over 25 weeks, featuring enhanced production quality, expert commentary, and no local broadcast restrictions.

    The 2025 season of “Friday Night Baseball” kicks off on Friday, March 28, with some of the game’s biggest stars taking center stage for opening weekend. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET as All-Star Adley Rutschman and the Baltimore Orioles host Silver Slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and division rivals the Toronto Blue Jays. In the second game of the opening doubleheader, superstar Juan Soto and the New York Mets will take on Jose Altuve and the Houston Astros, with coverage beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET.

    Apple and MLB also announced the “Friday Night Baseball” game schedule for the first half of the season through June 27. Notable matchups include a Yankees-Dodgers World Series rematch in Los Angeles, a Texas showdown between the Rangers and Astros, and additional appearances by MVP Shohei Ohtani and the star-studded Dodgers who travel east to face off against Bryce Harper’s Philadelphia Phillies and Juan Soto’s New York Mets. See below for the full schedule.

    “We’re thrilled to bring another season of ‘Friday Night Baseball’ to Apple TV+, with top-tier production quality that baseball fans love,” said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Apple Music, Apple TV+, Sports, and Beats. “This season, we’re excited to offer an amazing lineup of games with no blackouts, available across more devices than ever before.”

    For the third straight season, “Friday Night Baseball” games will be called by broadcast teams Wayne Randazzo (play-by-play), Dontrelle Willis (analyst), and Heidi Watney (sideline reporter), and Alex Faust (play-by-play), Ryan Spilborghs (analyst), and Tricia Whitaker (sideline reporter). Lauren Gardner, Russell Dorsey, and Xavier Scruggs return to host live pre- and postgame coverage both in-studio and on the field. Additionally, Siera Santos will host select pregame shows and Rich Waltz will call select games.

    “Friday Night Baseball” is produced by MLB Network’s Emmy Award-winning production team in partnership with Apple’s live sports production team. Each game will feature state-of-the-art cameras and immersive sound in 5.1 with Spatial Audio enabled, including player and field-level mics to immerse fans in the stadium atmosphere. Fans in the U.S. and Canada will also have the option to listen to home and away local radio broadcasts during “Friday Night Baseball” games.1

    Beginning opening day on March 27, fans in the U.S. can enjoy the MLB Big Inning whip-around show featuring live look-ins and in-game highlights every weeknight, and a full slate of MLB-related content on Apple TV+, including Countdown to First Pitch, MLB Daily Recap, and MLB This Week. Fans can also access MLB programming free in the Apple TV app, including game recaps, classic games, highlights, interviews, and more.

    With the multiview feature on Apple TV 4K devices and iPad, fans can watch up to four simultaneous streams, including “Friday Night Baseball” games, Major League Soccer matches, and select MLS and MLB live shows.2 With Post Play, viewers can seamlessly transition into other live games at the conclusion of the studio show or match they’re currently watching.

    Apple today also announced VIP: Yankee Stadium, a new Apple Immersive Video for Apple Vision Pro that gives viewers an all-access pass to one of the world’s most iconic sports venues. In the film, available for free next month, broadcasting legend Joe Buck welcomes viewers to Yankee Stadium for a June 2024 “Friday Night Baseball” matchup between the Yankees and their longtime rivals: the Los Angeles Dodgers. From early morning prep scenes to a tense nighttime finale, viewers will go far beyond the front row — with an all-encompassing look at how elite athletes, die-hard fans, dedicated staff, and epic moments make the Bronx ballpark legendary.

    The forthcoming season will also be accompanied by Fight For Glory: 2024 World Series on Apple TV+ — the first all-access docuseries exploring the dramatic, high-stakes world of the World Series where the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers battle to capture the most storied trophy in American sports. The new three-part documentary offers a never-before-seen view of each team’s journey through the postseason, with exclusive access to behind-the-scenes coverage and interviews with players, coaches, fans, journalists, and family members. The project is produced in partnership with MLB and Imagine Documentaries; R.J. Cutler’s This Machine, a part of Sony Pictures Television; and five-time World Series Champion, executive producer Derek Jeter, alongside his production company, Cap 2 Productions.

    The free Apple Sports app for iPhone is the best way for fans to stay up to date on scores, stats, standings, and their favorite clubs throughout the MLB season, and allows users to navigate between scores and upcoming games, explore play-by-play information, stats, live betting odds, and more.3 Apple Sports also seamlessly syncs with favorites selected within the My Sports experience, including in the Apple TV app and Apple News. With iOS 18 and watchOS 11, the Apple Sports app offers Live Activities for all MLB games, delivering live scores and play-by-play info at a quick glance to a user’s iPhone Lock Screen and Apple Watch.

    In Apple News, fans can easily follow the league and their favorite teams in the MLB feed, and watch personalized MLB highlights. Each Friday, fans can also access a curated group of the most exciting stories from around the league. In Apple Music, fans can find exclusive official playlists featuring the walk-up songs from each week’s teams, as well as a collection of classic songs celebrating baseball.

    How to Watch “Friday Night Baseball”

    Apple TV+ subscribers can watch “Friday Night Baseball” on the Apple TV app, which comes preinstalled on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, as well as online at tv.apple.com. New for this season, Android users can download the Apple TV app from Google Play on Android mobile devices to subscribe to Apple TV+ and enjoy “Friday Night Baseball,” and Prime Video customers in the U.S., UK, and Canada can subscribe to Apple TV+ via Prime Video as an add-on subscription. The Apple TV app is also available on select smart TVs, including Samsung, LG, Panasonic, Sony, TCL, VIZIO, and others; Amazon Fire TV and Roku devices; PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles; Chromecast with Google TV; and set-top boxes, including Sky Q, SK Broadband, and Comcast Xfinity. More information is available at apple.com/apple-tv-app.

    DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS is the national home of “Friday Night Baseball” for commercial establishments in the U.S., delivering all the action to its network of more than 300,000 restaurants, bars, hotel lounges, retail shops, and other venues in the U.S.

    2025 “Friday Night Baseball” Schedule on Apple TV+

    Friday, March 28
     Baltimore Orioles at Toronto Blue Jays
    7:00 p.m. ET

    New York Mets at Houston Astros
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, April 4
     Los Angeles Dodgers at Philadelphia Phillies
    6:30 p.m. ET

    Tampa Bay Rays at Texas Rangers
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, April 11
     Pittsburgh Pirates at Cincinnati Reds
    6:30 p.m. ET

    Detroit Tigers at Minnesota Twins
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, April 18
     Minnesota Twins at Atlanta Braves
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Seattle Mariners at Toronto Blue Jays
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, April 25
     Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Texas Rangers at San Francisco Giants
    10:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, May 2
     San Diego Padres at Pittsburgh Pirates
    6:30 p.m. ET

    Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, May 9
     St. Louis Cardinals at Washington Nationals
    6:30 p.m. ET

    San Francisco Giants at Minnesota Twins
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, May 16
     Houston Astros at Texas Rangers
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Seattle Mariners at San Diego Padres
    9:30 p.m. ET

    Friday, May 23
     Los Angeles Dodgers at New York Mets
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Arizona Diamondbacks at St. Louis Cardinals
    8:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, May 30
     Boston Red Sox at Atlanta Braves
    7:00 p.m. ET

    New York Yankees at Los Angeles Dodgers
    10:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, June 6
     Arizona Diamondbacks at Cincinnati Reds
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Chicago Cubs at Detroit Tigers
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Friday, June 13
     Los Angeles Angels at Baltimore Orioles
    7:00 p.m. ET

    San Diego Padres at Arizona Diamondbacks
    9:30 p.m. ET

    Friday, June 20
     New York Mets at Philadelphia Phillies
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Kansas City Royals at San Diego Padres
    9:30 pm. ET

    Friday, June 27
     Tampa Bay Rays at Baltimore Orioles
    7:00 p.m. ET

    St. Louis Cardinals at Cleveland Guardians
    7:00 p.m. ET

    Pricing and Availability

    Apple TV+ is available for $9.99 (U.S.) per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a limited time, eligible customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.4

    1. Radio broadcasts for the Los Angeles Angels are available only for the team’s home games. In Canada, radio broadcasts are available only for Toronto Blue Jays home games.
    2. Multiview is supported on iPad (7th generation) or later.
    3. Available in the U.S., the UK, and Canada.
    4. Special offer is good for three months after the first activation of the eligible device. One offer per Family Sharing group. Plans automatically renew until cancelled. Other restrictions and terms apply; visit apple.com/promo for more information.

    Press Contacts

    Sam Citron

    Apple

    citron@apple.com

    Hayden Zelson

    Apple

    h_zelson@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Brothers from Youngstown, Ohio, Each Sentenced to at Least a Decade in Prison for Participation in Interstate Cocaine Trafficking Operation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Two Youngstown, Ohio, residents were sentenced in federal court in Pittsburgh on February 26, 2025, for their convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and related firearms and drug trafficking charges, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. The defendants were among 17 individuals from Lawrence County, Pennsylvania; Puerto Rico; and Youngstown, Ohio, indicted in March 2024 for violating federal narcotics, firearms, and racketeering laws by conspiring to distribute cocaine throughout Western Pennsylvania and Youngstown (read the Indictment news release here).

    Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentences on brothers Ruben Noel Sanchez, 29, and Rubel Sanchez, 22. Ruben was sentenced to a total of 13 years of imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, with the latter two charges having been filed by Information in the Northern District of Ohio. Rubel was sentenced to 10 years of prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

    According to information presented to the Court, the Sanchez brothers were part of an organized drug trafficking group that shipped kilogram quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico, often mailing drug parcels through the U.S. Postal Service to co-conspirators responsible for selling the cocaine in Western Pennsylvania; Youngstown, Ohio; and elsewhere. This included the Sanchez brothers receiving kilograms of cocaine directly through the mail as well as receiving and paying for cocaine that was shipped to Philadelphia and then transported across Pennsylvania to Youngstown, Ohio. Upon receipt of the cocaine, the brothers and their co-conspirators distributed the drugs to customers and multiple other co-conspirators, who then distributed the cocaine in Youngstown, Ohio, and throughout Lawrence County, Pennsylvania.

    In March 2024, investigators executed a federal search warrant at a Youngstown residence utilized by the brothers in connection with their drug distribution operations, where investigators seized three Glock pistols—including one equipped with a machinegun conversion device known as a Glock switch and another loaded with ammunition; three unattached Glock switches; assorted ammunition; baggies of powder and pills that included separate mixtures and substances containing 1) fentanyl, cocaine, and xylazine, 2) fentanyl and xylazine, 3) cocaine, 4) fentanyl, 5) methamphetamine, and 6) heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and xylazine; a kilo press plate used in connection with the packaging and distribution of large quantities of powdered controlled substances; and the brothers’ cell phones. Evidence, including from these cell phones and other surveillance, established that the brothers knowingly possessed the drugs with the intent to distribute them and possessed the firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking. The brothers each were responsible for distributing and/or possessing with intent to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine, at least 40 grams of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and methamphetamine.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler prosecuted this case on behalf of the government, with valuable assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Lawrence County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Drug Task Force, and United States Postal Inspection Service, as well as the New Castle Police Department, Ellwood City Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and United States Department of Agriculture for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sanchez brothers.

    Lawrence County is one of six Western Pennsylvania counties officially designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area by the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy. The county received its HIDTA designation in July 2022, allowing it to receive dedicated federal resources to coordinate federal, state, and local governments in fighting drug trafficking and abuse.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Over 30 individuals sentenced to federal prison following Angelina County drug trafficking investigation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas – Over 30 individuals have been sentenced to federal prison following a five-year investigation into drug trafficking in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    According to information presented in court, in 2019, law enforcement in Angelina County began investigating numerous individuals for trafficking methamphetamine into and through East Texas.  As of February 2025, over 30 individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for offenses including conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and other related offenses.  The investigation and prosecution of individuals from East Texas, Houston, and elsewhere, resulted in the dismantling of a drug trafficking organization that operated between Mexico, Houston, Angelina County, Tyler County, and other areas.

    The following individuals were sentenced for various roles in the methamphetamine distribution conspiracy:

    • Jesus Sanchez-Rueda, 33, of Houston – 360 months
    • Jesse Canseco, 35, of Houston – 292 months
    • Oscar Negrete, 26, of Humble – 68 months
    • Adolfo Lopez-Lemus, 35, of Houston – 57 months
    • Ryan Canseco, 35, of Houston – 120 months + 60 months for a firearms violation (for a total of 180 months)
    • Jason Thompson, 44, of Lufkin – 210 months + 60 months consecutively for a firearms violation (for a total of 295 months)
    • Krista Thompson, 38, of Lufkin – 95 months + 60 months for a firearms violation (for a total of 155 months)
    • Rogers Williams, 31, of Houston – 135 months
    • Edgar Reyes, 26, of Houston – 57 months
    • Edwin Galicia, 26, of Houston – 150 months
    • Joel Hernandez, Jr., 30, of Humble – 57 months
    • Matthew Rogers, 43, of Houston – 70 months
    • Robert Rogers, 68, of Woodville – 120 months + 60 months for a firearms violation (for a total of 180 months)
    • Dustin Dauzart, 32, of Alexandria, LA – 140 months
    • Everett Charles Lutz, 67, of Lufkin – 235 months
    • Amanda Jane Lorentz, 37, of Lufkin – 235 months
    • Kevin Edward Hughes, 30 of Lufkin – 120 months
    • Aaron Dewberry, 52, of Lufkin – 120 months
    • Charles Gregory Runnels, 46, of Zavalla – 137 months
    • Richard Lyles, 44, of Lufkin – 84 months
    • Shane Gammons, 44, of Lufkin – 96 months
    • Andrea Bosley, 49, of Lufkin – 37 months
    • Paul Smith, 62, of Lufkin – 77 months
    • Joshua Gilpin, 37, of Lufkin – 121 months + 60 months consecutively for a firearms violation (for a total of 181 months)
    • Martin Deanda, 32, of Houston – 121 months
    • Lorenzo Hernandez, 24, of Houston – 121 months
    • Larry Sanchez, 30, of Houston – 121 months
    • Eric Copaus, 44, of Houston – 135 months
    • Autumn Farley aka Autumn Sheppard, 30, of Houston – 57 months
    • Santos Navarro, 50, of Houston – 130 months
    • Fernando Arias, 26, of Humble – 87 months
    • Lamarcus Morris, 38, of Houston – 235 months
    • Luke Bridges, 49, of Missouri City – 235 months
    • Brian Jones, 45, of Pensacola, FL – 48 months

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Lufkin; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Angelina County Sheriff’s Office; Lufkin Police Department; Harris County Sheriff’s Office; Houston Police Department; and the Texas Department of Public Safety-Criminal Investigations Division.  These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Gaston.                                                                                                                                  

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Connolly Renew Push to Expand Access to IVF, Other Assisted Reproductive Technology

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 28, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—the author of the Right to IVF Act—and U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11) reintroduced legislation to expand and protect access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technology (ART) that millions of Americans rely on to have children. The Family Building FEHB Fairness Act would require Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) Program—the largest employer-sponsored health insurance plan in the world—carriers to cover IVF and ART and would give the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) one year to implement its requirements from the date of enactment. The bill’s reintroduction comes after President Trump’s toothless executive order, which fails to take any serious, meaningful action to protect and expand fertility services—despite him promising to do so during his presidential campaign.

    “Donald Trump promised to make IVF more affordable—but instead, he is focused on cutting vital programs and firing thousands of federal employees to fund tax cuts for billionaires while wasting time with a toothless IVF executive order that fails to deliver on his promise,” said Senator Duckworth. “The devoted public servants in our federal workforce—and all Americans—who rely on IVF to build their families deserve better. If Donald Trump is serious about protecting IVF, calling on Republicans in Congress to support our commonsense bill that would help make sure more Americans have access to IVF through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program—the largest employer-sponsored health insurance plan in the world—would be a great start.”

    “Federal employees, like every American, should have the right to start and build a family on their own terms,” said Congressman Connolly. “If Donald Trump is serious about his support for IVF, he can take meaningful action right now to protect and expand this fundamental right for millions of Americans. The Family Building FEHB Fairness Act presents an opportunity for the federal government to lead by example by modernizing the FEHB program and embracing high-quality fertility coverage to become the employer of choice for millions of talented Americans looking to serve their country and start a family. It’s time for Donald Trump to put his money where his mouth is and support this legislation that offers real solutions, not empty promises, for American women and families.”

    Full text of the legislation is available on the Senator’s website.

    The Family Building FEHB Fairness Act is one of four bills that is included in Senator Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act—which Senate Republicans blocked not once, but twice last year. The Senator’s Right to IVF Act would both establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, Veterans and federal employees, as well as lower the costs of IVF for middle-class families across the country. Overall, Senate Republicans have blocked Duckworth-led legislation four times that would protect access to IVF nationwide.

    Duckworth was the first Senator to give birth while serving in office and had both of her children with the help of IVF. In 2018, she advocated for the Senate to change its rules so she could bring her infant onto the Senate floor.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Schiff Demand Answers From NASA, FAA Over Conflict of Interest in Federal Contract Awards to Musk’s Private Companies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 28, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Ranking Member of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation—and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) demanded answers from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Acting Administrator Janet Petro and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau on why, despite Elon Musk’s conflicts of interest, each agency has or may soon award billions of dollars in federal contracts to private companies controlled by Musk while he serves as a government employee.

    “If accurate, this presents a striking new phase in Mr. Musk’s conflicts of interest. Mr. Musk holds unprecedented leverage over you and your agencies by directing ongoing efforts to substantially influence, alter, and undercut your departments’ operations, personnel, and funding. Simultaneously awarding his private companies with billions of dollars in federal contracts raises grave questions as to whether you and your agencies are enabling corrupt favoritism to benefit Mr. Musk,” wrote the Senators.

    Full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth’s website and below:

    Dear Ms. Petro and Mr. Rocheleau: 

    We write with serious concerns regarding recent reports that the federal agencies you lead – the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), respectively – have awarded or may soon award billions of dollars in federal contracts to private companies controlled by Elon Musk, a Special Government Employee. If accurate, this presents a striking new phase in Mr. Musk’s conflicts of interest. Mr. Musk holds unprecedented leverage over you and your agencies by directing ongoing efforts to substantially influence, alter, and undercut your departments’ operations, personnel, and funding. Simultaneously awarding his private companies with billions of dollars in federal contracts raises grave questions as to whether you and your agencies are enabling corrupt favoritism to benefit Mr. Musk. 

    On February 21, 2025, NASA announced that it selected Mr. Musk’s company, SpaceX, to provide launch services for the Near-Earth Object Surveyor mission, which is intended to detect and observe asteroids and comets that could potentially pose an impact threat to Earth. According to NASA, the total cost of the launch service on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is approximately $100 million.

    Three days later, on February 24, 2025, the FAA announced via Mr. Musk’s platform, X, that the agency “has been considering the use of Starlink,” a subsidiary of Mr. Musk’s company, SpaceX, to increase reliable weather information for the aviation community. The same day, Mr. Musk posted on X: “The Verizon system is not working and so is putting air travelers at serious risk.” In an effort to take over a $2.4 billion federal contract with the FAA held by Verizon, Mr. Musk has reportedly approved a shipment of 4,000 Starlink terminals to the FAA to upgrade critical infrastructure. FAA officials confirmed that several Starlink terminals had been installed in New Jersey and Alaska6 and the agency is reportedly “close to canceling” Verizon’s contract and awarding the work to Mr. Musk’s company in a significant dismantling of conflict of interest protections in government contracts. Furthermore, several employees of Mr. Musk’s parent company of Starlink, SpaceX, have joined the FAA – an agency tasked with regulating SpaceX activities and one of several federal Departments that have conducted investigations and reviews of Mr. Musk’s company for violating safety rules.

    We strongly support the need to upgrade federal technological systems through public-private partnerships and contracts, but this cannot be done through corruption and graft. Mr. Musk – a man worth over $350 billion – carries significant influence over President Trump and federal government agencies, even as he faces regulatory reviews and federal investigations across almost a dozen federal departments and independent agencies, including the Department of Transportation, of which FAA is a part. Mr. Musk’s profound conflicts of interest risk fundamentally undermining public trust in your agencies at a moment in which trust in the missions of NASA and the FAA have never been more important. 

    On February 10, 2024, Senator Schiff sent letters to former Director of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), David Huitema, and White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles requesting clarification regarding Mr. Musk’s compliance with federal conflicts of interest, ethics, and reporting requirements. Following President Trump’s announcement firing Mr. Huitema without cause and designating Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins as acting OGE Director, Senator Schiff sent a follow-up letter requesting that the OGE preserve all records and correspondence regarding Mr. Huitema’s removal and inquiring, yet again, about Mr. Musk’s financial reporting obligations and any conflict of interest considerations communicated with the OGE on behalf of the White House.

    To ensure that the Senate can undertake its constitutional oversight and legislative functions, including consideration of potential reforms to strengthen existing statutes, please take the following measures and respond to the questions below by March 7, 2025: 

    1. Preserve all records and correspondence since January 20, 2025, in NASA and the FAA’s possession regarding federal contract awards. 
    2. Preserve all records and correspondence in NASA and the FAA’s possession regarding any companies in which Mr. Musk retains a financial interest. 
      1. Please provide all records and correspondence in NASA and the FAA’s possession with Mr. Musk or any Department of Government Efficiency employees regarding any companies in which Mr. Musk retains a financial interest.
    3. Provide the status of any reviews or investigations underway or closed since January 20, 2025, involving companies in which Mr. Musk retains a financial interest, including an investigation by the FAA of SpaceX’s Starship rocket following a failed test flight14 and the FAA’s review of alleged safety measure violations related to SpaceX launches.15 
    4. Did any White House officials communicate with any NASA or FAA officials about Mr. Musk’s conflict of interest considerations, including whether Mr. Musk would need a waiver under 18 U.S.C. § 208, prior to Mr. Musk’s appointment as a special government employee? If so, please explain the nature of those communications. 
    5. Did any NASA or FAA employees raise concerns about awarding federal contracts to Mr. Musk’s companies, given his role as a Special Government Employee? If so, please explain the nature of those concerns and communications and preserve all records and correspondence in your possession regarding these concerns. 

    Congress has yet to receive responses from the White House or the OGE regarding Mr. Musk’s compliance with federal criminal conflicts of interest law and other ethics and reporting requirements, which reinforces concern that Mr. Musk may not be complying with his legal obligations. 

    We look forward to reviewing your responses.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Booker Join Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Codify DOJ’s Office of Environmental Justice

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    February 28, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—founding co-chairs of the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus—joined U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and other Senate colleagues in introducing bicameral legislation to permanently codify the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). The introduction of the Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act comes after Attorney General Pam Bondi’s recent order eliminating all environmental justice efforts at the DOJ on her first day as Attorney General.

    “The Trump Administration seems determined to undermine the protections aimed at helping every American—no matter their zip code—to be able to breathe safe air, drink clean water and live, work and play on uncontaminated land,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bill would help ensure the Justice Department holds polluters accountable and fulfills its promise to serve all Americans, including those in communities who have been hit hardest by environmental injustice and are suffering from severe health consequences.”

    The Empowering and Enforcing Environmental Justice Act would strengthen efforts at the Department of Justice to enforce environmental laws, hold polluters accountable and support state and local environmental enforcement capacity. The legislation would also authorize $50 million in annual grant funding to assist state and local governments with their own environmental enforcement efforts.

    A copy of the bill text can be found on Senator Duckworth’s website.

    As co-chair and co-founder of the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, Duckworth has been a strong advocate for bringing environmental justice to Illinois and across the country. Her Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA), which was included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is the most significant federal investment in water infrastructure in history, including $15 billion for national lead pipe replacement. DWWIA, which focuses on disadvantaged communities, is helping rebuild our nation’s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing wastewater systems, with many of the provisions to help low-income communities designed specifically for communities like Chicago, Cahokia Heights and East St. Louis. Duckworth also led the reintroduction of the A. Donald McEachin Environmental Justice For All Act—the most comprehensive environmental justice legislation in history—which would help achieve health equity and climate justice for all, particularly in underserved communities and communities of color that have long been disproportionately harmed by environmental injustices and toxic pollutants.

    Duckworth has consistently worked to bring attention to the environmental injustice, calling on EPA to conduct enhanced monitoring and enforcement in the Metro East, requesting a formal public health assessment by ATSDR on the impact of decades of flooding in Cahokia Heights, as well as ATSDR health assessments for several other communities like Sauget, Southside Chicago and Lake Couty. Duckworth has frequently met with residents to discuss the persistent inland flooding and environmental justice issues the community faces, including leading a federal delegation tour of the area. In Sauget, Duckworth has made multiple requests for air monitoring in the area and secured EPA enhanced air monitoring in 2021. She has also helped secure multiple funding streams for environmental justice across the state of Illinois and the country, such as the $3 billion in Environmental Justice grants under the Biden Administration and several Congressionally-directed grants.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM statement to the House of Commons: 3 March 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Oral statement to Parliament

    PM statement to the House of Commons: 3 March 2025

    The Prime Minister’s statement to the House of Commons on Ukraine.

    Mr. Speaker… 

    Less than a week since I called on this House to show the courage of our predecessors…

    We see clearly before us – the test of our times.  

    A crossroads in our history.   

    So with permission I will update the House on my efforts… 

    To secure a strong, just and lasting peace… 

    Following Russia’s vile invasion of Ukraine. 

    Mr. Speaker – it begins in this House… 

    Where on Tuesday, I announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

    A recognition of the fact that once again, we live in an era…

    Where peace in Europe depends upon strength and deterrence.

    But also – a rediscovery of the old post-war argument… 

    Long-held on these benches…  

    That economic security is national security. 

    Because Mr. Speaker, the demands we now have to make of Britain… 

    Must come alongside a new foundation of security for working people. 

    The tough choices we made last week… 

    They are not done. 

    We must use the process of getting to 3% of our national income spent on defence… 

    To fundamentally rebuild British industry. 

    Use our investment in military spending…

    To create new jobs and apprenticeships in every part of our country. 

    And that’s why, last night, I announced a deal that perfectly symbolises this new era. 

    A partnership with Ukraine… 

    That allows them to use £1.6 billion of UK Export Finance… 

    To buy 5,000 air defence missiles, manufactured in Belfast. 

    That means UK jobs… 

    UK skills… 

    UK finance…

    Pulling together for our national interest… 

    Putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace… 

    And protecting innocent civilians from the terror of Russian drones. 

    Mr. Speaker, my efforts continued on Thursday… 

    When I met President Trump in the White House… 

    To strengthen our relationship with America. 

    Now, what happened in his subsequent meeting with President Zelenskyy… 

    Is something nobody in this House wants to see. 

    But I do want to be crystal clear… 

    We must strengthen our relationship with America… 

    For our security, for our technology, for our trade and investment… 

    They are and always will be – indispensable. 

    And we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic. 

    In fact, Mr. Speaker… 

    If anything, the past week has shown that that idea to be totally unserious. 

    Because while some people may enjoy the simplicity of taking a side…  

    This week has shown with total clarity… 

    That the US is vital in securing the peace we all want to see in Ukraine. 

    So I welcome the opportunity for a new economic deal with the US… 

    Confirmed by the President last week… 

    Because it is an opportunity I am determined to pursue. 

    I welcome the positive discussions we had on European security… 

    Including his clear support for Article 5 of NATO.   

    I welcome the understanding, from our dialogue…  

    That our two nations will work together on security arrangements for a lasting peace in Ukraine. 

    And I also welcome the President’s continued commitment to that peace… 

    Which nobody in this House should doubt for a second – is sincere. 

    Mr. Speaker, I now turn to events this weekend…

    And the moving scenes that greeted President Zelenskyy as he arrived in London on Saturday. 

    Mr. Speaker I saw for myself that he was taken aback when the crowd in Whitehall cheered at the top of their voices, and they were speaking for the whole of our country.

    A reminder – that this Government, this House and this nation… 

    Stand in unwavering support behind him and the people of Ukraine. 

    Mr. Speaker, we resolved together…

    To move forward the strong cause of just and lasting peace for Ukraine.  

    And then on Sunday… 

    I hosted European leaders from across our continent, equally committed to this cause…  

    Including President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni… 

    The leaders of NATO, the European Commission and Council… 

    And the Prime Minister of Canada… 

    A vital ally of this country, the Commonwealth and Ukraine… 

    Responsible for training over 40,000 Ukrainian troops.  

    I also had the privilege beforehand… 

    Of speaking online to the leaders of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia… 

    Each of whom, as close as they are to the frontline with Russia… 

    Stressed the urgency of the moment. 

    And Mr. Speaker, it was a productive summit.  

    Together, we agreed a clear strategy.  

    That the United Kingdom, France and our allies…  

    Will work closely with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting… 

    Which we will then discuss directly with the United States. 

    It is a plan that has four clear principles, which I will now share in full with the House. 

    First, that we must keep the military aid to Ukraine flowing…

    Keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia. 

    And to that end, alongside our partnership on air defence…

    We are doubling-down on military aid. 

    Already this year we have taken our support to record levels…

    But on Saturday we also agreed a new £2.2 billion loan for Ukraine… 

    Backed, not by the British taxpayer…

    But by the profits from frozen Russian assets.

    Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must guarantee the sovereignty and security of Ukraine. 

    And that Ukraine must be at the table when negotiating their future… 

    That is absolutely vital. 

    Third, we agreed that in the event of a peace deal…

    We will continue to boost Ukraine’s defences and Ukraine’s deterrence. 

    And finally, fourth…

    We agreed to develop a “coalition of the willing” ready to defend a deal in Ukraine… 

    And guarantee the peace. 

    After all, the Ukrainian position is completely understandable. 

    For them – the war did not begin three years ago…

    That was merely the latest and most brutal escalation.  

    They have signed agreements with Putin, before. 

    They have experienced the nature of his diplomacy…

    And the calibre of his word.  

    We can’t accept a weak deal like Minsk again… 

    No, we must proceed with strength… 

    And that does now require – urgently… 

    A coalition of the willing. 

    Mr. Speaker – we agreed on Sunday that those willing to play a role in this… 

    Will intensify planning now.  

    And as this House would expect… 

    Britain will play a leading role. 

    With, if necessary and together with others… 

    Boots on the ground and planes in the air. 

    Mr. Speaker, it is right that Europe do the heavy lifting… 

    To support peace on our continent. 

    But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing. 

    I want to assure the House… 

    I take none of this lightly. 

    I visited British troops in Estonia.

    And no aspect of my role weighs more heavily… 

    Than the deployment of British troops in the service of the defence and security in Europe.

    And yet I do feel very strongly…  

    That the future of Ukraine is vital for our national security. 

    Russia is a menace in our waters and skies… 

    They have launched cyber-attacks on our NHS… 

    Assassination attempts in our streets.  

    In this House, we stand by Ukraine because it is the right thing to do… 

    But we also stand by them because it is in our interest to do so. 

    Because if we do not achieve a lasting peace…

    Then the instability and insecurity that has hit the living standards of working people in Britain…

    That will only get worse. 

    And Putin’s appetite for conflict and chaos…

    That will only grow. 

    So a strong peace…

    A just peace… 

    A lasting peace… 

    That has now to be our goal.  

    It is vital… 

    It is in our interest… 

    And its pursuit – Britain will lead from the front. 

    For the security of our continent…

    The security of our country…

    And the security of the British people… 

    We must now win the peace. 

    And I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: March Proclaimed as Rendez Vous De La Francophonie in Saskatchewan

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 3, 2025

    Saskatchewan Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, Alana Ross, proclaimed the month of March as Rendez-vous de la Francophonie to promote Francophone culture and the French language. 

    “Everyone should find time to celebrate our amazing French communities,” Ross said. “Celebrating French culture is vital for unity and identity. It enriches our heritage, strengthens bilingualism and fosters inclusivity. We are so fortunate to have such a rich French culture in Saskatchewan.”

    As Saskatchewan marks the 27th anniversary of Rendez-vous celebrations, communities across the province are gearing up for a month filled with exploration and excitement under this year’s theme, “Cultivate your roots.” From vibrant local concerts showcasing Francophone artists to events like flag raising ceremonies, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy through the festivities. 

    Later this month, an event will be held at the Legislature in partnership with the Assemblée communautaire fransaskoise (ACF) to recognize the International Day of La Francophonie which is celebrated nationwide on March 20.

    “For 27 years, we have celebrated the French heritage in Saskatchewan through the Rendez-vous de la Francophonie in partnership with the province,” ACF President Denis Simard said. “This year, under the theme ‘Cultivate Your Roots,’ we invite everyone to take a moment to explore and embrace the Francophone culture around them.”

    To find events near you, visit the calendar section of the Rendez-vous de la Francophonie website at www.rvf.ca, available in both English and French.

    For information on French-language services provided by the Government of Saskatchewan, visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/bonjour.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Le mois de mars a été désigné comme le mois des Rendez-vous de la Francophonie en Saskatchewan

    La ministre responsable des affaires francophones de la Saskatchewan, Alana Ross, a désigné le mois de mars comme le mois des Rendez-vous de la Francophonie afin de promouvoir la culture francophone et la langue française.

    « Nous devrions tous et toutes prendre le temps de célébrer nos formidables communautés francophones, a soutenu la ministre Ross. Célébrer la culture francophone est vital à notre unité et à notre identité. Cela permet d’enrichir notre patrimoine, de renforcer le bilinguisme et de promouvoir l’inclusivité. Nous sommes tellement privilégiés d’avoir une culture francophone aussi riche en Saskatchewan. »

    À l’occasion du 27e anniversaire des célébrations des Rendez-vous en Saskatchewan, des collectivités partout dans la province se préparent à un mois rempli d’exploration et d’exaltation sous le thème de cette année, « Cultive tes racines ». Chacun et chacune pourront découvrir et apprécier le festival tout au long des festivités, que ce soit en assistant à des concerts locaux électrisants mettant à l’avant-plan des artistes francophones, ou encore en participant à des événements comme les cérémonies de la levée du drapeau.

    Plus tard au cours du mois, un événement se découlera au palais législatif, en partenariat avec l’Assemblée communautaire fransaskoise (ACF), pour souligner la Journée internationale de la Francophonie qui est célébrée partout au Canada le 20 mars.

    « Depuis 27 ans, nous célébrons la présence francophone en Saskatchewan à travers les Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, en partenariat avec la province, » a indiqué le président de l’ACF, Denis Simard. « Cette année, sous le thème “Cultive tes racines”, nous invitons la population à prendre le temps de découvrir et d’apprécier la richesse de la francophonie qui les entoure. »

    Pour trouver des événements près de chez vous, visitez la section du calendrier des activités du site Web des Rendez-vous de la Francophonie au www.rvf.ca, disponible en anglais et en français.

    Pour obtenir des informations sur les services en français offerts par le gouvernement de la Saskatchewan, visitez le www.saskatchewan.ca/bonjour.

    – 30 –

    PCS Media
    Ministère des Parcs, de la Culture et du Sport
    Téléphone : 306-798-1020
    Courriel : pcsmedia@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority Warns Investors About “Pig Butchering Scams” in Advertising Campaign

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 3, 2025

    During March, which is Fraud Prevention Month, the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) is releasing an informative advertising campaign for investors and consumers. 

    The campaign that spans province-wide informs investors and consumers about a type of investment fraud known as “pig butchering scams”.

    In 2024, over $3.4 million was reported lost in Saskatchewan to these scams.

    A “pig butchering” scam is a type of long-term investment fraud where scammers build trust with the victims over time, often through social media or messaging apps. They may try to befriend the victim, develop an online romance with them or pretend to be a legitimate investment advisor.

    Eventually, the scammer will recommend putting money into an investment opportunity with the promise of high returns. They will show falsified gains on these investments to encourage the victim to invest more. Once the victim has invested a significant amount or asks for a withdrawal, the scammer disappears with the victim’s money. The scammers are often part of organized crime rings operating outside of Canada.

    These types of scams are referred to as “pig butchering scams” because they are akin to fattening a pig before slaughter.

    Red Flags to Watch Out For:

    • Unsolicited messages from strangers.  
    • Unsolicited investment offers.
    • Too-good-to-be-true returns.
    • Pressure to act quickly.
    • Requests for payments or personal information.
    • Requests for large sums of money to unlock “earnings”.
    • Requests to keep the investment secret. 
    • Requests to access your computer.
    • Pressure you to borrow money in order to invest.

    How to Protect Yourself:

    • Be cautious when approached by strangers online.
    • Always verify that the investment person or company offering the investment is registered in Saskatchewan. To check registration, visit The Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca. 
    • Never send money to someone unless you have verified their identity.
    • Know exactly what you are investing in and make sure you understand how the investment, product, or service works.
    • Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
    • Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer.

    If you think you have been targeted or are the victim of a pig butchering scam, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-5936.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    March 4, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Media Advisory: Supreme Court of Maryland to hold off-site oral arguments at Montgomery College

    Source: US State of Maryland

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    March 3, 2025

    Government Relations and Public Affairs
    187 Harry S. Truman Parkway
    Annapolis, Maryland 21401

    Media Advisory:
    Supreme Court of Maryland to hold off-site oral arguments at Montgomery College

    ROCKVILLE, Md. – On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Supreme Court of Maryland -will hold oral arguments in Montgomery County. The arguments will be heard at Montgomery College in the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center auditorium and livestreamed. The Supreme Court of Maryland holds oral arguments at secondary or post-secondary educational institutions twice a term year at geographically diverse locations. This event marks the beginning of the third year that the Supreme Court is holding oral arguments outside the city of Annapolis.

    Please contact the Maryland Judiciary, Government Relations and Public Affairs, by email at [email protected] or 410-260-1488, if you plan to cover the hearing or have questions.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    March 4, 2025
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