NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on Confirmation of Project 2025 Architect to Lead Budget Office

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Luján Voted Against Project 2025 Architect Who Attempted to Withhold Trillions of Dollars From Americans

    WATCH HERE: Minutes Before Confirmation Vote, Luján Highlighted Concerns from New Mexicans on OMB Nominee

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M), a member of the Senate Committee on the Budget, issued the following statement after Senate Republicans voted to confirm Project 2025 architect Russell Vought to serve as Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB):

    “Before this vote even took place, Russell Vought was already taking a wrecking ball to the federal programs and services that New Mexicans depend on. Mr. Vought was behind President Trump’s funding freeze when the administration attempted to withhold vital funding to every community across America. Despite this, Senate Republicans voted to confirm Mr. Vought to lead the powerful Budget Office.

    “Mr. Vought wrote Project 2025, he’s implementing it, and he has the full support of the Senate Republican Conference to continue President Trump’s agenda of chaos, corruption, and confusion. I’ve heard from New Mexicans in all corners of the state who are worried and frustrated with the impacts of Mr. Vought’s leadership role. New Mexicans want a government that works for the people and that is what I am fighting for. That is why I, along with every Senate Democrat, voted against his nomination.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Pause on Federal Worker Buyout Offer

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement after a federal judge paused the Trump Administration’s resignation buyout offer—just hours before tonight’s midnight deadline for federal employees to decide whether to accept the offer:

    “I’m relieved to see a federal judge temporarily block the Trump Administration’s sham buyout offer. The Administration has no clear authority to offer this deal. Recent reporting has indicated that the Trump Administration added clauses to the deal that allow the Administration to cancel it at any time, leaving federal employees without pay, as well as requiring federal employees who accept the so-called buyout to waive their rights to any legal recourse. This is proof that Trump has no problem stiffing the American people—just like he has done before as a businessman and President. I’m hearing from federal workers across Virginia who swore an oath to the Constitution to serve their country and the American people; it’s horrific that these Americans are now wondering how they’ll be able to pay their bills and provide for their families. Let me be clear: the fight is not over, and it will continue to play out in court. Virginians should know that they have an advocate in me, and I will continue to stand up for them in the U.S. Senate.”

    Kaine has long advocated for Virginia’s federal workforce and has spoken out strongly against the Trump Administration’s actions to reduce and politicize the nonpartisan, merit-based civil service. He spoke on the Senate floor to share stories from Virginia’s federal workers and oppose the nomination of Russell Vought—a key architect of Project 2025 and plans to gut the federal workforce—to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Kaine recently issued an open letter to federal civil servants. He has also introduced bicameral, bipartisan legislation to protect the merit-based federal workforce system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Warner Lead Colleagues in Raising Concerns about Virginia Community Health Centers’ Delays in Accessing Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) led 20 of their colleagues in writing a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Acting Secretary Dorothy A. Fink, M.D. regarding reports that Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grantees, including community health centers, are experiencing significant delays in accessing funding. The senators also expressed concerns about restrictions on regular communications between HRSA and grantees. These issues come after an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memo that suspended all federal grant and loan funding. The memo has since been rescinded following pressure from the senators, other Democrats in Congress, and the public, but many grantees that rely on federal funding are still experiencing confusion and uncertainty, and have received little to no guidance from the Trump Administration about their funding.

    There are 31 Federally Qualified Health Centers with over 200 locations—a majority of which serve rural areas with limited access to medical care—in Virginia. Due to the funding freeze, several centers within the Capital Area Health Network closed earlier this week. Kaine and Warner met with Virginia community health centers earlier this week.

    “We are writing to express serious concerns regarding reports that Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grantees, such as Community Health Centers (health centers), continue to experience significant delays in accessing funding to support services, as well as restrictions on regular communications with agency staff as a result of the Trump Administration’s January 20, 2025 executive orders to pause external communication from federal agencies, and subsequent memorandum directing all federal departments and agencies to freeze all financial assistance.” wrote the members.

    The members continued, “While nearly 70 percent of health center revenue comes from payments from Medicaid, Medicare, commercial insurance, and self-pay patients, health centers rely on their regular federal grant funding to meet payroll obligations and keep their doors open. Beginning in late January, health centers started reporting issues accessing the Payment Management System (PMS) – getting “locked out”, being denied funding they had been awarded, and experiencing long delays in funding being released. As a result, health centers across the country are experiencing panic, unsure how to pay their staff and keep their doors open.”

    “Despite a judge’s order blocking the funding freeze, we are troubled by reports that health centers are unable to access funding duly appropriated by Congress through the PMS. To compound this issue, our offices have heard troubling reports that since the Trump Administration’s executive orders and funding freeze, funding that has already been appropriated and directed by Congress is still being restricted, and standing webinars, briefings, and meetings are being cancelled at the last minute,” they wrote. “Health centers are receiving little communication regarding these cancellations and changes, and the communication they have received from HRSA has been unclear, directing actions that may conflict with current court orders.”

    “Two-thirds of Virginia’s community health centers are located in the rural areas of our Commonwealth,” said Tracy Douglas, CEO of the Virginia Community Healthcare Association. “For countless hardworking individuals and families in these regions, these health centers are not just a place for medical care—they are a lifeline. People rely on them to stay healthy so they can work, care for their families, and live full, productive lives. It is absolutely imperative that we ensure the continued operation of these vital health centers to protect the well-being of our communities and our nation.”

    In addition to Kaine and Warner, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-CT), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The letter is also signed by U.S. Representatives Bobby Scott (D-VA-02), Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), and Sarah McBride (D-DE-At-Large).

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Acting Secretary Fink,

    We are writing to express serious concerns regarding reports that Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grantees, such as Community Health Centers (health centers), continue to experience significant delays in accessing funding to support services, as well as restrictions on regular communications with agency staff as a result of the Trump Administration’s January 20, 2025 executive orders to pause external communication from federal agencies, and subsequent memorandum directing all federal departments and agencies to freeze all financial assistance.

    Community Health Centers provide high-quality primary and preventive care, dental care, behavioral health and substance use disorder services, and low-cost prescription drugs to more than 32 million Americans annually, serving one in five rural Americans and one in three people living in poverty. Nationally, more than 1,400 health centers operate over 15,000 service sites across every state and Territory, employing more than 500,000 individuals and generating nearly $85 billion in economic output.

    Despite the critical role health centers play in addressing health inequities, many centers struggle to keep up with the growing demand for services and rising costs to deliver high-quality care in their communities. While nearly 70 percent of health center revenue comes from payments from Medicaid, Medicare, commercial insurance, and self-pay patients, health centers rely on their regular federal grant funding to meet payroll obligations and keep their doors open. Beginning in late January, health centers started reporting issues accessing the Payment Management System (PMS) – getting “locked out”, being denied funding they had been awarded, and experiencing long delays in funding being released. As a result, health centers across the country are experiencing panic, unsure how to pay their staff and keep their doors open. Due to delays in funding, health centers have reported:

    • “We have put off signing a contract to replace our mammography machine, which has reached end of life, because of this freeze and the uncertainty.”
    • “I’m also now getting providers asking if they should be looking for a new job. Without any understanding and guidance, I’m pretty limited with how much I can actually assure them to do other than tighten our belts…”
    • “Any services that are directly funded by federal funds will be placed on hold…”
    • “We had to use all reserves in 2024. We will not make payroll or any other payments next week without access to this federal funding. Staff will be dismissed without access to federal funds.”
    • “If everything stays the same…the best guess is that we could be fully operational for six months.”
    • “We have the ability to sustain current or full operations for 60 days…Outreach and case management staff…would be in the first wave of layoffs. Unfortunately, those positions rely on federal support as they are typically not reimbursable through third-party payors. In a short period of time, this has had a profound impact on our staff. [Staff are] concerned that we will lose valuable staff members as they are concerned about the stability of the organization.”
    • “We will step back on hiring and likely implement hiring pause unless this is resolved quickly.”
    • “We have enough in reserve to cover two payroll periods.”
    • “The pause in grant funding would create a deficit for us…We would likely need to start reducing staff and healthcare services to the…patients we serve…within the next couple of weeks if the freeze persists.”

    As safety net providers operating on razor-thin margins, health centers need certainty to provide care in underserved communities. In Virginia alone, ongoing delays in accessing funding have caused health centers to close their doors and cancel patient appointments. When health centers close, people with chronic conditions miss appointments, pregnant women miss prenatal visits, and behavioral health services are interrupted, worsening outcomes and increasing costs to the entire health care system.

    Despite a judge’s order blocking the funding freeze, we are troubled by reports that health centers are unable to access funding duly appropriated by Congress through the PMS. To compound this issue, our offices have heard troubling reports that since the Trump Administration’s executive orders and funding freeze, funding that has already been appropriated and directed by Congress is still being restricted, and standing webinars, briefings, and meetings are being cancelled at the last minute. Health centers are receiving little communication regarding these cancellations and changes, and the communication they have received from HRSA has been unclear, directing actions that may conflict with current court orders.

    We request that you provide answers to the following questions in writing no later than Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

    1. How many health centers have draw-down requests pending in the PMS?
      1. How has that number changed, daily, since January 27, 2025?
      2. What is the average wait time from submission of a draw-down request to disbursement of funds prior to January 27, 2025 and after January 27, 2025?
    2. How many health center draw-down requests have been denied since January 27, 2025?
      1. What is the rationale for these denials?
    3. What is the exact timeline for ensuring the PMS is fully operational and disbursing all pending health center draw-down requests?
    4. What specific authority and under which executive action did HRSA or the Department of Health and Human Services use to restrict health center access to the PMS and funding that they had been previously awarded?
    5. Please provide a list of regular standing calls or meetings between HRSA staff and HRSA grantees that have been cancelled since January 20, 2025. Please include the following:
      1. A description of the grantees impacted, including the type of grantees and number of grantees.
      2. Whether funds appropriated by Congress for the purpose of the grant are being withheld from being awarded to the grantees.
    6. Please provide a list of webinars, briefings, information sessions, and trainings that have been cancelled since January 20, 2025. Please include the following:
      1. A description of the purpose of each webinar, briefing, information session, or training.
      2. Whether or not the webinar, briefing, information session, or training is required by statute and if so, provide the corresponding citation.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Schmitt introduce bill to add work requirements to Medicaid, reduce reliance on government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) today introduced the Jobs and Opportunities for Medicaid Act. The bill would require able-bodied adults without dependents who receive Medicaid benefits to work or volunteer for at least 20 hours per week. This change could save taxpayers more than $100 billion over 10 years.

    “Medicaid doesn’t work the way it should. Able-bodied adults without dependents are better off with jobs than with hand-outs, and so are their communities and American taxpayers. My Jobs and Opportunities for Medicaid Act would help pave a path out of poverty for millions of Americans,” said Kennedy.

    “By incorporating work requirements for able-bodied adults, Medicaid can serve as a bridge to self-sufficiency, fostering pathways to employment, job training, and community engagement. This not only helps recipients gain financial independence but also preserves resources for the most vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities,” said Schmitt.

    “The goal of this bill is straightforward: if you’re a healthy adult on Medicaid, we want to make sure you have every opportunity to find employment that leads to better health coverage. Welfare programs shouldn’t incentivize people against working. This is about empowering Americans—helping them become independent, thrive in the workforce, and reach their highest potential,” said Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas), who introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

    Background:

    • The CBO estimates that Medicaid work requirements would save $109 billion over 10 years.
    • A 2023 Axios-Ipsos survey revealed that 63% of Americans, including 49% of Democrats, supported work requirements for Medicaid and Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program benefits. 
    • Kennedy also penned this op-ed in the National Review explaining the need for Medicaid work requirements.

    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Moran champion bill to protect veterans’ Second Amendment rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, today led 14 colleagues in introducing the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. The bill would prevent veterans from losing their Second Amendment right to purchase or own firearms when they receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.

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

    “Veterans should never be forced to choose between receiving assistance from VA to manage their benefits and their fundamental Second Amendment rights. Our nation should be encouraging veterans to utilize VA services, not discouraging them by denying them due process. The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act makes certain that the rights of those who have served are protected, and that veterans are not penalized for receiving support that they have earned and deserve. I thank Sen. Kennedy for his partnership in this effort,” said Moran. 

    Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

    “It should go without saying that veterans should not be treated like second-class citizens simply because they need help managing their books—but under current law they are. Without a permanent fix in place, VA bureaucrats can continue to strip veterans with fiduciaries of their Second Amendment right with no court ruling in place that they are a danger to themselves or others. It’s as simple as that. I have heard from too many veterans that VA’s current NICS reporting measures prevent them from seeking mental health care at VA—we must change that. I want to thank Chairman Moran, Senator Kennedy, and my House colleagues for working with me last Congress to pass a temporary solution, but veterans need a permanent fix. House and Senate Republicans will fulfill the American people’s mandate to get this bill to President Trump’s desk to protect veterans’ due process and constitutional rights for good,” said Bost. 

    Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (S.D.), Kevin Cramer (N.D.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) cosponsored the legislation.

    “I take the constitutional right to bear arms very seriously. Our bill would preserve due process for veterans and put a stop to unelected bureaucrats unjustifiably stripping away the Second Amendment rights of those who’ve served,” said Grassley.

    “Veterans must not be required to forfeit the Second Amendment without a careful, constitutional process. Attempting to deprive former servicemembers of firearms for protection or recreation simply because they require assistance managing the benefits they have earned is bureaucracy at its worst. Our legislation would correct this injustice and preserve these law-abiding patriots’ rights,” said Boozman.

    “The veterans who served our country shouldn’t lose their 2nd Amendment rights just because they need financial help,” said Cassidy.

    “Veterans who have served our country deserve the same Second Amendment rights and protections as every other American. This commonsense legislation ensures that veterans aren’t punished simply because they need assistance managing their benefits and guarantees they are not denied their constitutional rights without due process,” said Tillis. 

    “Our veterans have sacrificed so much to defend this great country, and it is critical their God-given right to protect themselves and their families doesn’t rest on judgement of unelected bureaucrats. It takes a lot of courage and humility for our brave veterans to admit that they need help managing their financial benefits. But it shouldn’t place their constitutional freedoms in jeopardy. This bill ends the ability of government workers to take away the Second Amendment freedoms of our veterans when they ask for help with their money unless a judge finds them to be a danger to himself or others. I stand with our veterans and will continue to fight to preserve the freedoms they fought for on the battlefield,” said Tuberville.

    “I’m proud to stand with our veterans to ensure equal protection of their rights with the Second Amendment Protection Act. Our veterans have fought to protect our nation and defend our rights, and they deserve to be treated fairly with the same due process under the law,” said Scott.

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

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

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

    Vietnam Veterans of America, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Black Veterans Empowerment Council, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Shooting Sports Foundation, National Rifle Association, Gun Owners of America, AMAC Action, Turning Point Action, Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, National Disability Rights Network and the National Association for Gun Rights support the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act.

    Background:

    • In the 116th Congress, Kennedy introduced the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. 
    • In the 118th Congress, Kennedy and Moran re-introduced the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act with six co-sponsors. 
    • In Oct. 2023, the Senate passed Kennedy and Moran’s amendment to the Consolidated Appropriations Act based on the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. The same language passed into law as part of an appropriations package in March 2024.
    • The language included in the appropriations package only provided a temporary solution tied to appropriations. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would make the fix permanent and prevent future VA administrations from undoing the work to restore veterans’ due process and Second Amendment rights. 

    The bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Make Space Traffic Safer

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    Legislation would improve space traffic coordination in low-Earth Orbit, reduce congestion

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, John Cornyn, Gary Peters, Marsha Blackburn, Eric Schmitt, Mark Kelly, Roger Wicker, and Ben Ray Luján introduced the Situational Awareness of Flying Elements in (SAFE) Orbit Act. The legislation would improve space traffic coordination (STC) in low-Earth orbit by directing the Office of Space Commerce (OSC), which operates within the U.S. Department of Commerce, to acquire and share unclassified information on space activities in low-Earth orbit.

    “The boom in commercial space activities has filled low-Earth orbit with more debris and satellites than ever,” said Hickenlooper. “A cutting-edge traffic coordination system will help preserve our leadership in space.”

    Our current government space situational awareness (SSA) services have not kept pace with the accuracy our space industry needs. The SAFE Orbit Act would fix that.

    Specifically, the legislation would:

    • Make basic-level SSA data, analytics, information, and services available for public use through an easily accessible, free web interface
    • Maintain a public catalog of SSA data and information using data from diverse sources
    • Facilitate the development and adoption of voluntary industry consensus standards to ensure data standardization among satellite owners and operators, commercial service providers, the academic community, and nonprofits
    • Foster collaboration with U.S Government and foreign government operators to encourage participation in data-sharing with respect to their assets in orbit
    • Prioritize purchasing data, analytics, information, and services from commercial SSA providers
    • Ensure any licensing agreements allow private U.S. firms to continue market growth and protect proprietary commercial systems and data

    The Commercial Spaceflight Federation has endorsed this legislation.

    “Commercial space objects in low-Earth orbit can help scientists make new discoveries and spur technological innovation, but this hinges on the ability to conduct safe and effective space traffic coordination,” said Cornyn. “The SAFE Orbit Act would prevent dangerous and costly accidental collisions in low-Earth orbit and improve access to data collection and analysis to help propel the United States into the next phase of space exploration.”

    “To continue as a global leader in commercial space activity, the United States must lead the way to protect astronauts in orbit and space-based assets,” said Peters. “This legislation would provide important data that can help inform space exploration decisions and promote safe expansion.”

    “The world is entering a new space race, and we must equip American innovators with every resource to win,” said Blackburn. “The SAFE Orbit Act would take an important step to centralize and improve space traffic coordination, ensuring there are no tragic collisions in space. As we enter this new frontier, we must be certain that we prioritize safety and coordination with our partners around the globe.”

    “As the commercial space industry continues to grow, we need to safely track and manage objects in orbit and prevent collisions,” said Kelly. “We’re providing the tools for critical space situational awareness that will safeguard public access to orbital data, empower scientists and innovators to advance this critical frontier, and strengthen American leadership in space.”

    “Future expansion in space requires better technology and data coordination. Currently, companies lack the awareness of other objects such as space junk, which could collide with valuable satellites,” said Wicker. “This new emerging business sector represents the new economic frontier, but we must make sure we are prepared to tap its potential.”

    “This legislation will help make essential improvements to how we track objects in Earth’s orbit, enhancing space safety through better tracking and coordination to reduce collision risks,” said Luján. “As the commercial space activity grows, in New Mexico and across the country, access to critical space data is necessary to ensure safety and security.”

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Joins Colleagues In Demanding Secretary Bessent Meet With Senate Democrats To Bring Transparency And Clarity To “DOGE” Chaos At Treasury

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Today, Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-VA) joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gary Peters (D-MI), in sending the following letter to the new Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, after the Treasury Department’s inadequate responses and evasive answers to a request for information following the hostile takeover of the Treasury Department by Elon Musk and the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” (“DOGE”). Specifically, the Senators are concerned about “DOGE” having access to the management and disbursement of trillions of dollars and the highly sensitive information of millions of Americans.

    “The Bureau of the Fiscal Service’s payment system is absolutely vital to our economic and national security. Any infiltration or manipulation must be immediately addressed. Frankly, the information your Department has provided on the matter to date is woefully inadequate,” said the Senators. “We speak for not just the caucus, but for the millions of impacted Americans, when we say this is an urgent matter and your participation is necessary for the American people to have confidence that our government will continue to function effectively and that their privacy remains protected.”

    The full text of the letter can be seen here and below.

    Dear Secretary Bessent:

    Senate Democrats are deeply concerned with the so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” (“DOGE”), Elon Musk, and his unnamed team’s seemingly hostile takeover of the Bureau of the Fiscal Service’s central payment systems. As you know, this is a highly sensitive government system that manages, processes, and disburses trillions of dollars, including Social Security and Medicare payments, tax refunds, and other highly sensitive information for millions of Americans. The seemingly illicit penetration of the system under the guise of an “operational efficiency assessment” demands your immediate attention, and Congress requires answers about the purpose and scope of “DOGE’s” activity. To that end, we request your attendance at a meeting with the Democratic Caucus as soon as possible.

    Although we know that you and your Department have been made aware of these concerns, we have found the Department’s written response to Finance Committee Ranking Member Wyden and Banking Committee Ranking Member Warren wholly insufficient, and even illusive, and evasive and, in many cases, the responses stand in direct conflict to Elon Musk’s public statements about the work of “DOGE.” As you know, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service’s payment system is absolutely vital to our economic and national security. Any infiltration or manipulation must be immediately addressed. Frankly, the information your Department has provided on the matter to date is woefully inadequate.

    We speak for not just the caucus, but for the millions of impacted Americans, when we say this is an urgent matter and your participation is necessary for the American people to have confidence that our government will continue to function effectively and that their privacy remains protected.

    We eagerly await your confirmation and are looking forward to your addressing the Senate Democratic Caucus.

    We request your response by tomorrow, Thursday, February 6, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Highlights His Plans to Hold China Accountable, Protect Louisiana Ricers, Shrimpers to Trump USTR Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON –U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today outlined his plan to hold China accountable through his Foreign Pollution Fee and addressed the need to protect Louisiana ricers and shrimpers from foreign competitors during U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) nominee Jamieson Greer’s confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee.
    “You have been concerned—expressed skepticism—about the need for binding dispute mechanisms at the WTO, but my rice producers and others have won decisions at the WTO on commitments by other countries on agricultural subsidies, and yet they’re not enforced. And so, are my agricultural people just out in the cold? … Help my rice producer here. How are we going to handle that?” asked Dr. Cassidy.
    “Senator, I think you’re exactly right, and that’s part of the reason why I show skepticism sometimes about the WTO,” replied Greer. “We have to have enforcement, and at the end of the day, what that means is USTR has to go to the country and enforce the law, and sometimes that means imposing tariffs on them.”
    “About 40 percent of the imported shrimp to the United States come from India. Now the EU, Japan, and the U.S. finds illegal antibiotics in their shipments. And there’s also allegations that they use forced labor at every step of the supply chain… Would you commit to putting a— slapping a tariff on the shrimp if we can show that it’s being imported under those circumstances?” asked Dr. Cassidy.
    “If we have an investigation and it shows their unfair trading practices, you can certainly impose a tariff or other measures if that trade practice isn’t remedied. I think it’s really important to work with you and the shrimpers because if they feel like they’re not getting the relief they need from trade remedies or other venues, then we need to explore whether it’s section 301, or other tools, to make sure that we’re detecting the unfairnesses and addressing it,” said Greer. 
    When discussing Cassidy’s Foreign Pollution Fee Act, Greer recognized the unlevel playfield that requires the use of tariffs to hold other countries accountable for unfair trade practices. 
    “[O]ne thing I am concerned about is that China is not using, not enforcing environmental regulations… [I]t lowers their cost of manufacturing by not enforcing those environmental regulations by 20 percent, and our industry moves there because they just lowered their manufacturing costs by 20 percent by dumping their air pollution on us. Now if this is classical economics, you would tax the externality, and I have proposed a fee on the carbon-intense product from countries which do not enforce internationally accepted norms on pollution control. Any thoughts upon that?” asked Dr. Cassidy. 
    “I think you’ve articulated the problem statement very well. I think there’s an unlevel playing field, and I think that other countries take advantage of total lack of environmental regulations,” said Greer. 
    Background 
    In December, Cassidy and U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) released a new discussion draft of their Foreign Pollution Fee Act to level the playing field with Chinese manufacturing and expand American production. In addition, the Steel Manufacturers Association, which represents 70 percent of the nation’s steel production, called on President-elect Trump and Congress to institute a foreign pollution fee.
    The Foreign Pollution Fee Act was a key topic at Cassidy’s Louisiana Energy Security Summit last fall. The summit featured ten panels that explored protecting U.S. interests from unfair trade practices, Louisiana’s low-emission manufacturing advantage, and the role of natural gas in strengthening U.S. geopolitical influence. Panelists included the CEOs of Entergy, First Solar, Buzzi UnicemUSA, Orsted, and Aluminum Technologies, former Trump administration officials, and leaders from Louisiana trade associations and major energy and Fortune 500 companies. 
    In 2023, the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives unanimously adopted a resolution urging Congress to pursue an industrial manufacturing and trade policy to counter competition from China. 
    On Louisiana shrimp and rice, Cassidy introduced two bills last Congress to protect both industries against China and India’s dumping of cheap agricultural products into U.S. markets. The Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act and the India Shrimp Tariff Act will protect the Louisiana agricultural industry while ensuring that food that appears on U.S. store shelves meets U.S. health standards.
    Last year, Cassidy worked to secure $27,152,411.00 for Louisiana fisheries, shrimpers, and fishing communities affected by natural disasters between 2017 and 2022.
    In April 2024, Cassidy advocated for Louisiana shrimpers and rice producers at a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing with USTR Ambassador Katherine Tai. He pressed her on progress USTR is making to prevent shrimp dumping from Asia. Cassidy also highlighted a whistleblower report on the safety of shrimp imported from India.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Britt, Warnock, Peters Reintroduce Retirement Fairness Legislation for Non-Profit Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Gary Peters (D-MI) reintroduced the Retirement Fairness for Charities and Educational Institutions Actto enhance investment options for 403(b) retirement plans. 403(b) plans are a type of retirement savings plan, similar to a 401(k), offered to employees of non-profit organizations like public universities, hospitals, churches, and charities.
    “Non-profit employees should have the same access to investment strategies for their retirement plans as private sector employees,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Social Security is going insolvent. We need to give Americans every tool to help make their retirement more secure.”
    “The Retirement Fairness for Charities and Educational Institutions Act would level the playing field so more hardworking Americans can access retirement resources that best fit their needs. Our legislation would allow Americans in the non-profit sector to access the same investment options available to those in the private sector,” said Senator Britt. “This commonsense bipartisan bill would help Americans who work for non-profits, including many of our hospitals, achieve long-term financial stability.” 
    “America’s retirees deserve the peace of mind that comes with financial security when they transition into retirement. This is especially true for non-profit workers who dedicate their lives to serving their communities— they deserve access to the same retirement investment opportunities private sector employees have,” said Senator Warnock. “That’s why I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan legislation which provides equal opportunity for non-profit employees and helps ensure they can retire with dignity.”
    “Hardworking public service and non-profit employees who support our health care and human services, arts and culture, civic engagement, and more deserve access to all available financial tools that can help them plan for retirement,” said Senator Peters. “This legislation would put those using a 403(b) plan on a level playing field with other retirement plan participants by allowing them to invest in collective investment trusts, giving them an equal opportunity to achieve their financial goals.” 
    The Retirement Fairness for Charities and Educational Institutions Actwould expand retirement savings opportunities for non-profit employees by allowing 403(b) plan participants to invest in collective investment trusts (CITs). A CIT is a tax-exempt investment vehicle that provides a diversified, pooled investment option—similar to a mutual fund. CITs offer greater flexibility in investment strategies for retirement plans and reliable, often higher, net returns for plan participants.
    Under current law, unlike 401(k) holders, 403(b) plan sponsors are not able to use this stable investment option in their plan. This legislation would create parity between 403(b) and 401(k) retirement savings plans, benefitting over 15 million hardworking employees at hospitals, universities, charities, and other non-profit organizations.
    The Retirement Fairness for Charities and Educational Institutions Actis supported by the American Bankers Association, American Benefits Council, American Heart Association, American Life Insurance Association, American Retirement Association, Aon, Church Alliance, Great Gray, Insured Retirement Institute, Investment Company Institute, March of Dimes, MetLife, Mercer, Mission Square, National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, National Council of Nonprofits, Nationwide, Prudential, SPARK Institute, Stable Value Investment Association, United Way, and Vanguard.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall on RFD-TV: President Trump Will Take Care of Our American Farmers and Ranchers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined RFD-TV to discuss this week’s Senate Ag Committee hearing, the challenges farmers are facing, trade agreements, and President Trump’s tariffs on China, Mexico, and Canada.

    [embedded content]

    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:
    On the challenges farmers are facing:
    “I don’t have to tell your listeners that we had a record drop in net farm income that was basically due to high interest rates and high input costs. Again, you’re all well aware of those as well and the regulatory environment we’re drowning in.”
    “The mental health of farmers, the farmer suicide issue comes to mind. The right to work on your own property and work on your own tractors and machinery. All those little issues add up, the average age of the farmer, I think is in the 60s now. So plenty of challenges out there, and our challenge up here now is just to prioritize those and do what we can to help the American farmer and rancher.”
    On the importance of trade agreements benefitting farmers:
    “We got to talk about trade. And certainly, we’re grateful for the past trade agreements. President Trump got done with USMCA, South Korea, Japan…And Joe Biden didn’t do any new trade agreements. So for four years, we’ve sat idle, and we’re looking forward to President Trump hopping back in there and doing some strong bilateral trade agreements.”
    On President Trump’s tariffs on Mexico and Canada:
    “This is a drug war and not a trade war. And first and foremost, my farmers and ranchers, they’re parents and grandparents. And this is about the fentanyl drug war, that we’re losing 200 Americans every day from fentanyl poisoning. We’re losing 75,000 Americans every year from fentanyl poisoning, more than we lost in the entire Vietnam War. So President Trump has asked Canada, Mexico, and China, to stop the nonsense.” 
    “These precursors were mostly made in China, but now a lot of the precursors are in laboratories in Canada. So we need those countries to step up. And they are.” 
    “I think as long as over the next 30 days, we see significant progress that the tariffs on Mexico and Canada won’t come to fruition, at least I hope they don’t. But I do appreciate President Trump worried about our national security, and I appreciate that our farmers and ranchers are patriots and still supporting him.” 
    “And don’t forget one last thing, the last time we had it out with China, President Trump gave farmers and ranchers $28 billion from that tariff money. He’s not forgotten about us. We’re a huge priority to President Donald J. Trump.”
    On China promising retaliatory tariffs:
    “China is just next to impossible to deal with, and America needs to divorce from China as much as possible. You know, they’re constantly stealing our intellectual property. We talked about the fentanyl issues already. They’re trying to buy up American farmland. They don’t play fair. They simply don’t.”
    “We’ve given them huge breaks for decades now. They’ve had 25-50, 75% tariffs on American goods and products forever, and now we just want it to be fair and equal. They’re no longer a developing nation, so we have to play hardball with them before they’re going to come to the table.” 
    “This is why USMCA was so important – that Canada and Mexico are our number one trade partners now for agriculture…at the end of the day, I have faith in President Trump that he’s going to take care of the American farmer and rancher. I think we could come back and talk about 45Z someday, and how we’re hoping President Trump will support that in the biofuels industry, rolling back regulations. I think that you can count on President Trump to champion that so we can’t look at all these issues in little single silos.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Honors Victims and Families of Wichita, KS Plane Crash on Senate Floor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. spoke on the Senate floor before passing a resolution to honor the memory of the 67 lives lost in the tragic mid-air collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a United States Army helicopter on January 29, 2025. 
    The resolution also commemorates the bravery, dedication, and swift action of the first responders who played a critical role in the recovery efforts under harsh conditions. Shortly after speaking, the resolution passed unanimously through the Senate.
    The full text of the resolution can be found HERE.

    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full remarks. 
    Quotes from Senator Marshall’s remarks include:
    “It’s been more than a week since that horrific night, but it feels as if it just happened hours ago. It doesn’t seem possible. In the blink of an eye, we lost 67 brave souls. Each morning I wake up hoping it was all just a nightmare, that somehow it wasn’t real, but we all know it was, and it is.”
    “The psalmist writes in the 34th chapter, the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit…It’s times like these, when grief is overwhelming that we hold on to the promise of Scripture and the faith passed down from generation to generation, a faith that’s carried Kansans through hardship and loss.”
    “We remember 1955 a tornado leveled the little city of Udall and 75 Kansans lost their lives. Another horrific plane crash in 1970 carrying the Wichita State University football team and 31 souls were lost, the tornadoes, the storms, the floods, the wildfires, all these disasters have taken too many lives and left so many hearts shattered, and yet through it all, one thing has remained: our faith and the love and support of our families and our communities. That’s what’s carried us before, and that’s what will carry us now.”
    “I fear for the loved ones left behind, because I know this pain never truly goes away, and I know, like my colleagues have said, there’s truly no words that can capture the depth of our sorrow that we all feel right now, and we can’t begin to imagine the grief of these family members. But yet we want you, each to know you don’t stand alone, that we’re with you. We stand beside you. We’re mourning with you. Our communities are wrapping their arms around you in prayer and support.”
     “To speak to the family specifically, we too are broken hearted just like you, and that we’re also crushed in spirit, but yet there’s hope, and we want you to know this, that even in this tragedy, God has not deserted us. He walks with us through these darkest of valleys, and he weeps with those who weep. We’re praying for your strength. We’re praying for God’s comfort and peace to cover you all as we mourn together.”
     “I want to express my deepest gratitude for all the emergency responders and especially the divers who I really believe risked their own lives by jumping into a dark, fast, cold river in search of survivors. Thank you so much for doing that and for doing your job so well. Your courage will not be forgotten.”
    “I said this the night of the tragedy. When one life is lost, it is a tragedy. When many are lost at once, it’s an unbearable sorrow. It’s a heartbreak beyond measure. Again, to the families, we’re with you, and so is our Father in Heaven.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Israel withdraws from UN human rights body

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar informed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Thursday that Israel will no longer participate in it.

    Israel’s move came two days after U.S. President Donald Trump announced his country’s withdrawal from the top UN human rights body.

    Sa’ar wrote to UNHRC President Jurg Lauber that “the decision was reached in light of the ongoing and unrelenting institutional bias against Israel in the Human Rights Council, which has been persistent since its inception in 2006.”

    Sa’ar mentioned that the council “has become a political tool and a convenient platform, cynically used to advance certain political aims, to bash and delegitimize Israel.”

    He claimed that Israel has been subject to over 20 percent of all condemnatory resolutions ever passed in the council, “more than (those) against Iran, Cuba, North Korea, and Venezuela, combined.”

    He added that since Oct. 7, 2023, “the council has employed every platform to spread misinformation and blood libels against Israel.”

    The Israeli minister wrote on social media platform X that “joining President Trump’s just decision, Israel will no longer tolerate the council’s blatant antisemitism.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is DOGE a cybersecurity threat? A security expert explains the dangers of violating protocols and regulations that protect government computer systems

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Richard Forno, Teaching Professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, and Assistant Director, UMBC Cybersecurity Institute, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

    People protest DOGE’s access to sensitive personal data. AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

    The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), President Donald Trump’s special commission tasked with slashing federal spending, continues to disrupt Washington and the federal bureaucracy. According to published reports, its teams are dropping into federal agencies with a practically unlimited mandate to reform the federal government in accordance with recent executive orders.

    As a 30-year cybersecurity veteran, I find the activities of DOGE thus far concerning. Its broad mandate across government, seemingly nonexistent oversight, and the apparent lack of operational competence of its employees have demonstrated that DOGE could create conditions that are ideal for cybersecurity or data privacy incidents that affect the entire nation.

    Traditionally, the purpose of cybersecurity is to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of information and information systems while helping keep those systems available to those who need them. But in DOGE’s first few weeks of existence, reports indicate that its staff appears to be ignoring those principles and potentially making the federal government more vulnerable to cyber incidents.

    Technical competence

    Cybersecurity and information technology, like any other business function, depend on employees trained specifically for their jobs. Just as you wouldn’t let someone only qualified in first aid to perform open heart surgery, technology professionals require a baseline set of credentialed education, training and experience to ensure that the most qualified people are on the job.

    Currently, the general public, federal agencies and Congress have little idea who is tinkering with the government’s critical systems. DOGE’s hiring process, including how it screens applicants for technical, operational or cybersecurity competency, as well as experience in government, is opaque. And journalists investigating the backgrounds of DOGE employees have been intimidated by the acting U.S. attorney in Washington.

    DOGE has hired young people fresh out of – or still in – college or with little or no experience in government, but who reportedly have strong technical prowess. But some have questionable backgrounds for such sensitive work. And one leading DOGE staffer working at the Treasury Department has since resigned over a series of racist social media posts.

    Wired’s Katie Drummond explains what the magazine’s reporters have uncovered about DOGE staffers and their activities.

    According to reports, these DOGE staffers have been granted administrator-level technical access to a variety of federal systems. These include systems that process all federal payments, including Social Security, Medicare and the congressionally appropriated funds that run the government and its contracting operations.

    DOGE operatives are quickly developing and deploying major software changes to very complex old systems and databases, according to reports. But given the speed of change, it’s likely that there is little formal planning or quality control involved to ensure such changes don’t break the system. Such actions run contrary to cybersecurity principles and best practices for technology management.

    As a result, there’s probably no way of knowing if these changes make it easier for malware to be introduced into government systems, if sensitive data can be accessed without authorization, or if DOGE’s work is making government systems otherwise more unstable and more vulnerable.

    If you don’t know what you’re doing in IT, really bad things can happen. A notable example is the failed launch of the healthcare.gov website in 2013. In the case of the Treasury Department’s systems, that’s fairly important to remember as the nation careens toward another debt-ceiling crisis and citizens look for their Social Security payments.

    On Feb. 6, 2025, a federal judge ordered that DOGE staff be restricted to read-only access to the Treasury Department’s payment systems, but the legal proceedings challenging the legality of their access to government IT systems are ongoing.

    DOGE email servers

    DOGE’s apparent lack of cybersecurity competence is reflected in some of its first actions. DOGE installed its own email servers across the federal government to facilitate direct communication with rank-and-file employees outside official channels, disregarding time-tested best practices for cybersecurity and IT administration. A lawsuit by federal employees alleges that these systems did not undergo a security review as required by current federal cybersecurity standards.

    There is an established process in the federal government to configure and deploy new systems to ensure they are stable, secure and unlikely to create cybersecurity problems. But DOGE ignored those practices, with predictable results.

    For example, a journalist was able to send invitations to his newsletter to over 13,000 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration employees through one of these servers. In another case, the way in which employee responses to DOGE’s Fork in the Road buyout offer to federal employees are collected could easily be manipulated by someone with malicious intent – a simple social engineering attack could wrongly end a worker’s employment. And DOGE staff members reportedly are connecting their own untrusted devices to government networks, which potentially introduces new ways for cyberattackers to penetrate sensitive systems.

    However, DOGE appears to be embracing creative cybersecurity practices in shielding itself. It’s reorganizing its internal communications in order to dodge Freedom of Information Act requests into its work, and it’s using cybersecurity techniques for tracking insider threats to prevent and investigate leaks of its activities.

    Lacking management controls

    But it’s not just technical security that DOGE is ignoring. On Feb. 2, two security officials for the U.S. Agency for International Development resisted granting a DOGE team access to sensitive financial and personnel systems until their identities and clearances were verified, in accordance with federal requirements. Instead, the officials were threatened with arrest and placed on administrative leave, and DOGE’s team gained access.

    The Trump administration also has reclassified federal chief information officers, normally senior career employees with years of specialized knowledge, to be general employees subject to dismissal for political reasons. So there may well be a brain drain of IT talent in the federal government, or a constant turnover of both senior IT leadership and other technical experts. This change will almost certainly have ramifications for cybersecurity.

    DOGE operatives now have direct access to the Office of Personnel Management’s database of millions of federal employees, including those with security clearances holding sensitive positions. Without oversight, this access opens up the possibilities of privacy violations, tampering with employment records, intimidation or political retribution.

    Support from all levels of management is crucial to provide accountability for cybersecurity and technology management. This is especially important in the public sector, where oversight and accountability is a critical function of good democratic governance and national security. After all, if people don’t know what you’re doing, they don’t know what you’re doing wrong.

    At the moment, DOGE appears to be operating with very little oversight by anyone in position willing or able to hold it responsible for its actions.

    Mitigating the damage

    Career federal employees trying to follow legal or cybersecurity practices for federal systems and data are now placed in a difficult position. They either capitulate to DOGE staffers’ instructions, thereby abandoning best practices and ignoring federal standards, or resist them and run the risk of being fired or disciplined.

    The federal government’s vast collections of data touch every citizen and company. While government systems may not be as trustworthy as they once were, people can still take steps to protect themselves from adverse consequences of DOGE’s activities. Two good starting points are to lock your credit bureau records in case your government data is disclosed and using different logins and passwords on federal websites to conduct business.

    It’s crucial for the administration, Congress and the public to recognize the cybersecurity dangers that DOGE’s activities pose and take meaningful steps to bring the organization under reasonable control and oversight.

    Richard Forno has received research funding related to cybersecurity from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Department of Defense (DOD), and the US Army during his academic career since 2010.

    – ref. Is DOGE a cybersecurity threat? A security expert explains the dangers of violating protocols and regulations that protect government computer systems – https://theconversation.com/is-doge-a-cybersecurity-threat-a-security-expert-explains-the-dangers-of-violating-protocols-and-regulations-that-protect-government-computer-systems-249111

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Murkowski Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Geothermal Exploration and Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) reintroduced their bipartisan, bicameral legislation to promote geothermal energy. The STEAM Act would expedite geothermal exploration and development in previously studied or developed areas. Representatives Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03) and Celeste Maloy (R-Utah-02) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

    “Nevada’s clean energy economy is spurring innovation and lowering energy costs for residents across the Silver State,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “My commonsense, bipartisan legislation will cut red tape, create good-paying jobs, and let communities take advantage of Nevada’s untapped geothermal potential.”

    “Unleashing the full potential of clean, reliable, baseload geothermal will help to bolster our energy independence and power our communities. The STEAM Act takes a step forward to remove unnecessary hurdles for geothermal exploration and cuts through the red tape slowing down deployment of geothermal technologies,” said Senator Murkowski. “I look forward to continuing to advocate for this legislation to help boost geothermal as a source of domestic energy.”

    “Nevada has incredible energy potential and geothermal energy is a key piece of that,” said Rep. Lee. “Yet, red tape has prevented us from fully unleashing its potential. This bipartisan bill will cut red tape, help strengthen U.S. energy independence, and lower costs.”

    “Utah’s second district has some of the most abundant geothermal resources in the world,” said Rep. Maloy. “Unfortunately, bureaucratic red tape and inefficiency makes developing geothermal resources risky. The STEAM Act will clear the way for Utah to produce more energy and create more jobs.”

    “In 2005, the U.S. faced an energy crisis and rightly granted oil and gas a categorical exclusion to produce more energy to meet demand,” said Jeremy Harrell, CEO, ClearPath Action. “As the U.S. faces new challenges to meet rising demand, this bill helps achieve parity for 24/7, clean, reliable geothermal power. This legislation is important in unlocking American geothermal energy to support our economy and the environment.”

    “The STEAM Act is an important step in advancing geothermal energy exploration and development in previously studied or developed areas,” said Jeanine Vany, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Eavor. “By ensuring geothermal exploration can move forward as efficiently and responsibly as other energy resources, this bill paves the way for the expansion of a proven, clean, and reliable energy solution. We’re encouraged by continued bipartisan action that prioritizes domestic geothermal applications as a key part of our future energy portfolio.”

    “The bipartisan STEAM Act would extend permitting parity across oil, gas, and geothermal for American generation projects,” said Ben Serrurier, Senior Manager of Government Affairs and Policy, Fervo Energy. “The permitting improvements from the STEAM Act have been tested and perfected for two decades now — and banks, operators, and agencies know how they work. This will help geothermal projects advance more quickly and at reasonable costs with financing and drilling. Fervo applauds Representatives Celeste Maloy and Susie Lee and Senators Lisa Murkowski and Catherine Cortez Masto for their hard work to advance this source of clean, firm energy to power America.”

    Right now, there is an expedited review and permitting process for oil and gas development projects on land that has already gone through environmental studies. The Streamlining Thermal Energy through Advanced Mechanisms (STEAM) Act would cut red tape by allowing geothermal projects in previously developed or studied areas to also bypass cumbersome, repetitive environmental impact studies.  

    Senator Cortez Masto has consistently worked to support Nevada’s battery supply chain and clean energy industry, which has created nearly 42,000 good-paying clean energy jobs across Nevada. Through her Innovation State Initiative, Senator Cortez Masto has been a proponent of renewable and sustainable energy, passing bipartisan legislation to promote Nevada’s mining and emerging battery industries. She has also set up a sustainable critical mineral supply chain and led efforts in the Senate to create good-paying solar energy jobs. Cortez Masto recently announced that the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) has been designated as a Tech Hub for innovation and job creation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Introduces Bill to Protect Nevadans Who Hold Corporations Accountable in the Courts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto reintroduced legislation to protect American consumers who sue corporations after being defrauded. The End Double Taxation of Successful Consumer Claims Act will help ensure people who win fraud cases receive the full amount of damages they are awarded, rather than being unfairly taxed on fees awarded to their attorneys. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.).  

    “We should be encouraging Nevadans who are victims of fraud and abuse to hold bad actors accountable,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Right now, the tax code unfairly punishes people who successfully sue corporations for fraud. My bill would make sure consumers who win fraud cases get their award and are not forced to pay thousands of dollars in taxes on funds awarded to their attorneys.”

    Currently the U.S. tax code unfairly penalizes people who sue corporations or companies for abuse or fraud. Consumers who win their cases often receive money to cover damages and their lawyer fees. But the tax code makes plaintiffs pay income tax on the full amount awarded by a court, even though most of that money goes to attorneys’ fees and not directly to the consumers. Many consumer fraud cases award only small amounts in damages, and if the consumer is taxed for the total amount they often end up owing more money in taxes than they are personally awarded. The End Double Taxation of Successful Consumer Claims Act will ensure that consumers are not liable for federal income taxes on money awarded to their attorneys. 

    As the former top law enforcement official in Nevada, Senator Cortez Masto has been a leading voice in the fight to protect consumers from fraud throughout her career. She sounded the alarm on increasing check fraud scams, which cost consumers millions of dollars each year. She introduced legislation to protect and support whistleblowers reporting wrongdoing to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and her bipartisan legislation to deter disruptive and potentially harmful phone calls and texts was signed into law in 2020.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 72

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 0072
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0641 PM CST Thu Feb 06 2025

    Areas affected…Parts of middle/eastern TN into southeast KY and
    far southwest VA

    Concerning…Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4…

    Valid 070041Z – 070215Z

    The severe weather threat for Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4 continues.

    SUMMARY…Some threat for a tornado or two, hail, and damaging wind
    will continue through the evening.

    DISCUSSION…A supercell has gradually matured over the last 1-2
    hours to the northeast of Nashville, while other cells continue to
    develop and intensify near and just north of a surface boundary
    across southeast KY. Some increase in low-level flow/shear was noted
    earlier from the KOHX VWP, with short-term guidance suggesting that
    low-level flow will continue to increase this evening as ongoing
    convection spreads eastward into eastern TN and far southeast
    KY/southwest VA. With nocturnal cooling/stabilization expected to be
    only gradual through the evening, MLCAPE will likely remain in the
    500-1000 J/kg range in advance of the ongoing convection, with
    favorable deep-layer shear continuing to support supercell
    structures and potentially one or more semi-organized clusters.

    With only a slow increase in MLCINH expected, ongoing supercells may
    persist through much of the evening, with some potential tendency
    toward modest upscale growth with time. While low-level flow remains
    rather veered, effective SRH in excess of 200 m2/s2 will support
    some tornado threat with any persistent right-moving supercells.
    Otherwise, isolated large hail will be possible, especially with any
    left-moving supercells, while damaging wind could accompany any
    stronger supercells or organized clusters.

    ..Dean.. 02/07/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…RLX…GSP…MRX…JKL…LMK…OHX…

    LAT…LON 37188239 36728210 36528206 36028259 35718317 35648440
    35698527 35888546 36518537 36898492 37048449 37268346
    37278306 37188239

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Search by city or zip code. Press enter or select the go button to submit request
    Local forecast by”City, St” or “ZIP” 

    SPC on Facebook

    @NWSSPC

    NCEP Quarterly Newsletter

    Home (Classic)SPC Products   All SPC Forecasts   Current Watches   Meso. Discussions   Conv. Outlooks   Tstm. Outlooks   Fire Wx Outlooks     RSS Feeds   E-Mail AlertsWeather Information   Storm Reports   Storm Reports Dev.   NWS Hazards Map   National RADAR   Product Archive   NOAA Weather RadioResearch   Non-op. Products   Forecast Tools   Svr. Tstm. Events   SPC Publications   SPC-NSSL HWTEducation & Outreach   About the SPC   SPC FAQ   About Tornadoes   About Derechos   Video Lecture Series   WCM Page   Enh. Fujita Page   Our History   Public ToursMisc.   StaffContact Us   SPC Feedback

    Watch 4 Status Reports

    Watch 4 Status Message has not been issued yet.

    Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 4/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

    Weather Topics:Watches, Mesoscale Discussions, Outlooks, Fire Weather, All Products, Contact Us

    NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: February 07, 2025
    DisclaimerInformation QualityHelpGlossary
    Privacy PolicyFreedom of Information Act (FOIA)About UsCareer Opportunities

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 4

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 4
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    730 PM EST Thu Feb 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Kentucky
    Northeast Tennessee
    Extreme Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Thursday night from 730 PM until Midnight EST.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered intense storms will track southeastward across
    the watch area for the next few hours, capable of hail and damaging
    winds. A tornado or two is also possible.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 45
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles northwest of
    Knoxville TN to 30 miles north northeast of Hot Springs NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27030.

    …Hart

    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 4
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    730 PM EST Thu Feb 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Kentucky
    Northeast Tennessee
    Extreme Southwest Virginia

    * Effective this Thursday night from 730 PM until Midnight EST.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Scattered intense storms will track southeastward across
    the watch area for the next few hours, capable of hail and damaging
    winds. A tornado or two is also possible.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 45
    statute miles north and south of a line from 50 miles northwest of
    Knoxville TN to 30 miles north northeast of Hot Springs NC. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    27030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 4 SEVERE TSTM KY TN VA 070030Z – 070500Z
    AXIS..45 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    50NW TYS/KNOXVILLE TN/ – 30NNE HSS/HOT SPRINGS NC/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 40NM N/S /44NW VXV – 25WSW HMV/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27030.

    LAT…LON 36988464 36958261 35658261 35688464

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 4 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (5%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (80%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Two Strong Winter Storms Expected Through Sunday

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to use caution as two strong winter storms are expected to impact areas throughout the State Friday through Sunday. The first storm will arrive on Friday and impact Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. The second storm that will occur Saturday through Sunday will be more widespread, affecting much of the State. Snowfall rates of up to two inches per hour on Friday and one inch per hour on Saturday in the heaviest bands may create hazardous travel conditions. People should monitor their local forecasts closely and take precautions when travelling in impacted areas.

    “Wind and snow is expected to impact most of the State starting tomorrow, and I have mobilized State resources to respond and assist our local partners in keeping New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is no stranger to winter weather, but I encourage everyone to make sure you and your family are prepared, exercise caution if traveling and continue to monitor your local forecast.”

    During the first storm, winds of up to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph will impact most of the State through Friday evening. Starting early Friday morning, snow will begin to impact areas from Herkimer to Oswego County and they can expect four inches of snow, with peak accumulations up to a foot in some areas. Peak snowfall rates of up to 2” per hour can be expected and may impact commutes in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.

    The second storm will begin on Saturday afternoon and continue through Sunday afternoon. Widespread snow will fall across the State with the potential for moderate to heavy accumulations from Central New York to the Capital Region. A widespread four to eight inches of snow is possible in those areas. A widespread three to six inches is expected north of the Thruway. Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour. Wind gusts are expected to remain below 35 mph with isolated gusts of up to 40 mph. Snow may change to a mix of rain and snow across New York City and Long Island, Saturday through Sunday morning.

    Lake Effect Snow warnings are in effect for Northern Erie and Genesee counties through Tuesday morning, in Oswego, Lewis and Jefferson counties through Wednesday afternoon and Southern Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties through next Thursday morning with significant accumulations possible east of Lakes Ontario and Erie.

    For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

    Agency Preparations

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
    The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely. Winter preparedness tips can be found here.

    New York State Department of Transportation
    The State Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with 3,701 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. All available response equipment is ready to deploy and all residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors, and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.

    Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

    • 1,639 large plow trucks
    • 350 large loaders
    • 158 medium duty plows
    • 52 tow plows
    • 34 snow blowers
    • 19 graders

    The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event.

    For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State’s official traffic and travel information source.

    Thruway Authority
    The Thruway Authority is monitoring the forecast and ready to respond with 689 operators and supervisors available. Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:

    • 347 large and medium duty plow trucks
    • 9 tow plows
    • 65 loaders
    • 98,000+ tons of salt on hand

    Variable Message Signs and social media (X and Facebook) are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

    New this snow and ice season, all of the Thruway’s more than 250 heavy-duty plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights, complementing the standard amber hazard lights. Green lights are intended to improve visibility and enhance safety during winter operations, particularly in low-light conditions and poor weather. Drivers are reminded that Thruway snowplows travel at about 35 miles per hour — which in many cases is slower than the posted speed limit — in order to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. The safest place for motorists is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and treated.

    The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

    New York State Department of Public Service
    New York’s utilities have about 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State, as necessary. Agency staff will track utilities’ work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

    New York State Police
    State Police have instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles, including Utility Terrain Vehicles and snowmobiles, are staged and ready for deployment.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
    DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor the developing situation and weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow.

    DEC reminds those responsible for the removal and disposal of snow to follow best management practices to help prevent flooding and reduce the potential for pollutants like salt, sand, oils, trash and other debris from affecting water quality. Disposal of snow in local creeks and streams can create ice dams, which may cause flooding. Public and private snow removal operators should be aware of these safety issues during and after winter storms. Additional information is available at Division of Water Technical and Operational Guidance Series: Snow Disposal.

    Unpredictable winter weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas, can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and the cold to ensure a safe winter experience. Snow depths range greatly throughout the Adirondacks, with the deepest snow at higher elevations in the High Peaks region and other mountains over 3,000 feet. Most lower elevation trails are frozen, including many trails in the Catskill Mountains.

    While some waterways are currently frozen, DEC advises outdoor enthusiasts to review ice safety guidelines before heading out.

    Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

    Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

    Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Arrives Worldwide

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics today announced the global availability of the new Galaxy S25 series. Together with One UI 7, Gemini is officially available at launch in 46 languages,1 making it easier than ever to perform seamless interactions across Samsung and Google apps.
     
    ▲ New York 500 Broadway, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    “The Galaxy S25 series is a fundamental shift in how we interact with our phones,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are thrilled to see how our users will enjoy this true AI companion that offers seamless and intuitive solutions in their daily lives.”
     
    ▲ Dubai The Bay Festival City Mall, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    On the Galaxy S25 series, AI agents with multimodal capabilities are integrated within the One UI 72 platform to perform complex tasks seamlessly across apps and enable natural user interactions through speech, text, videos and images. Now Brief3 provides tailored suggestions to guide through the day and Now Bar4 offers a new hub for ongoing activities. From enhanced productivity with Writing Assist to limitless creativity unleashed by Drawing Assist,5 the expanded capabilities of Galaxy AI6 continue to empower users in every aspect of their daily lives.
     
    Interactions with the Galaxy S25 series are also more intuitive. With just a single command, Gemini7 can effortlessly find a user’s favorite sports team’s schedule and add it to Samsung Calendar. Additionally, Google’s enhanced Circle to Search8 now gives users more helpful information with AI Overviews and one-tap actions.
     
    ▲ Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City, Galaxy AI Sai Gon Terminal
     
    The Galaxy S25 series further refines and enhances the core capabilities that define the Galaxy experience. Powering the Galaxy S25 series globally, the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy fuels on-device processing for more responsive AI experiences. With unique customizations for Galaxy, including ProScaler9 and Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe), the Galaxy S25 series boasts enhanced AI image processing and display power efficiency. The newly introduced 50MP ultrawide camera sensor for the Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers epic shots from every range in exceptional clarity, while professional grade controls like Virtual Aperture and Samsung Log turn any photo or video into the ultimate visual experience.

     
    ▲ Indonesia Jakarta Kota Kasablanka, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    The Galaxy S25 series is the industry’s first smartphone lineup to support Content Credentials, based on the open technical standard from the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA). Samsung has also joined the C2PA as a member, alongside industry leaders including Adobe, Microsoft, OpenAI, Google, Publicis Groupe and more, all collaborating to establish Content Credentials as the universal standard for digital content provenance. In line with its commitment to responsible mobile AI innovation, Samsung adopted this standard to enhance transparency for content created and edited with generative AI.
     
    Starting February 7, the Galaxy S25 series will be widely available through carriers and retailers and on Samsung.com. Galaxy S25 Ultra is available in Titanium Silverblue, Titanium Black, Titanium Whitesilver and Titanium Gray. Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ come in Navy, Silver Shadow, Icyblue and Mint. More unique color options are also available exclusively at Samsung.com,10 including Titanium Pinkgold, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Jadegreen for Galaxy S25 Ultra as well as Blueblack, Coralred and Pinkgold for Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25.
     
    All Galaxy S25 devices will come with six months of Gemini Advanced and 2TB of cloud storage at no extra cost. Gemini Advanced comes with Samsung’s most capable AI models and priority access to the newest features like Gems, custom AI experts for any topic, and Deep Research, which acts as a personal AI research assistant.
     
    For more information about Galaxy S25 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsungmobilepress.com and Samsung.com.
     
    ▲ Mexico City Santa Fe Mall, Galaxy Experience Space
     
    ▲ Brazil Sao Paulo, Galaxy S25 launch event
     
    ▲ Germany Berlin, Galaxy Experience Space
     
     
    1 Supported languages include Arabic, Bengali, Bulgarian, Chinese (Simplified / Traditional), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Farsi, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Gujarati, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Kannada, Korean, Latvian, Lithuanian, Malayalam, Marathi, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swahili, Swedish, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu and Vietnamese.2 The official One UI 7 release will commence with the latest Galaxy S series devices. The update is expected to gradually roll out to other Galaxy devices.3 Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model, or apps. Some features may require a network connection.4 Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.5 Drawing Assist feature requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.6 Samsung Account login may be required to use certain Samsung AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region / country, OS / One UI version, device model and phone carrier. Some function availability may vary by device model. Galaxy AI service may be limited for minors in certain regions with age restrictions over AI usage. Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties.7 Gemini Extensions feature availability varies based on content. Internet connection, Android device, and set up required. Language availability varies. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Check responses for accuracy.8 Sequences shortened and simulated. Results for illustrative purposes only. Service availability may vary by country, language, or device model. Requires internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.9 ProScaler feature is supported on Galaxy S25+ and Ultra models. Image quality can be enhanced up to QHD+, depending on the screen resolution setting of the device.10 Availability of colors may vary by market and network provider.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Lake Tahoe Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Prison for Impersonating Federal Officers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Anton Andreyevich Iagounov, 38, of South Lake Tahoe, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to two years and three months in prison for four counts of impersonating a federal officer, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, and evidence presented at a three-day trial in July 2024, Iagounov pretended to be a federal law enforcement agent by creating and sending counterfeit investigative documents, which he signed in the name of a fictional federal agent, seeking highly protected information from the Department of Defense.

    “The defendant impersonated federal officers and tried multiple times to obtain protected information using fake court documents,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “Many federal agencies including NASA have devoted law enforcement officers, and we will not tolerate federal officers being illegally impersonated.”

    “Mr. Iagounov’s attempt to undermine public trust in order to obtain sensitive government information posed a significant risk, potentially endangering national security and the integrity of NASA and government operations,” said Michael Graham, Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations. “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of NASA OIG, the USAO, and our law enforcement partners to safeguarding Federal assets and holding accountable those who undermine justice.”

    “The defendant impersonated a federal law enforcement officer and took advantage of the trust that exists between federal agencies,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz of the FBI Las Vegas Division. “All officers carry badges and credentials that are used to verify their identity. If you believe someone is impersonating an officer, you may ask their agency to confirm their official business. This sentencing demonstrates the excellent work achievable through partnerships.”

    On July 5, 2022, Iagounov sent a search warrant he had created to the U.S. Capitol Police, falsely claiming it was signed by a Special Agent of NASA Office of Inspector General (NASA‑OIG) and appearing to be authorized by a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Columbia. The Capitol Police investigated the document, determined it was fake, and referred it to NASA-OIG for further investigation.

    On July 11, 2022, Iagounov again pretended to be the same fictional NASA-OIG agent and sent the warrant to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. This time, he sent it without a judge’s signature, indicating it was for an “emergency filing” and required a judge’s signature. He sent it from an email address designed to look like it was from a United States government agency, but which Iagounov owned and had named to look like a government agency’s internet domain.

    On July 18, 2022, Iagounov again sent the fake search warrant, purporting to be signed by the same fictitious NASA-OIG agent. He sent it to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Georgia, again indicating that it was for an emergency filing and needed a judge’s signature immediately.

    Finally, on July 24, 2022, Iagounov faxed a letter, under the name of a real NASA-OIG supervising agent, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. In that letter, he claimed to be following up on the warrant, stating that an “exigent circumstance” required a judge’s signature immediately. The faxed letter included an anonymous email address for the agent that actually belonged to Iagounov. Several days earlier, on July 15, Iagounov had sent his warrant to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida but had received no response.

    In each case, given the apparently sensitive nature of the materials Iagounov’s warrant sought, the receiving personnel for the Courts referred the matter to NASA-OIG for review and investigation.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and NASA Office of Inspector General, with assistance by the South Lake Tahoe Police Department and the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Conolly and Audrey Hemesath prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Eliminate Tax on Social Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    Nearly 143,000 Alabamians received Social Security in 2024

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act to stop the unjust double tax on Social Security benefits. The legislation follows Senator Tuberville’s recent announcement that he will serve on the Senate Committee on Aging in the 119th Congress.

    “Seniors work the majority of their adult lives so that they can spend their retirement comfortably,” said Senator Tuberville. “In a day and age where the cost of living has skyrocketed, our seniors should not experience a second tax on their Social Security, when they’ve already paid income tax on their paychecks. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Aging Committee, I’ll continue to fight for our seniors to enjoy their hard-earned Social Security benefits.”

    U.S. Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 

    “Although seniors have already paid tax on their Social Security contributions via the payroll tax, they are still required to list these benefits as taxable income on their tax returns,” said Rep. Massie. “This is simply a way for Congress to obtain more revenue for the federal government at the expense of seniors who have already paid into Social Security. My bill would exempt Social Security retirement benefits from taxation and boost the retirement income of millions of older Americans.”

    Read the bill here.

    BACKGROUND:

    As the Congressional Research Service reports, “Before 1984, Social Security benefits were exempt from the federal income tax. Congress then enacted legislation to tax a portion of those benefits, with the share gradually increasing as a person’s income rose above a specified income threshold.”

    The Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to terminate the inclusion of tier I railroad retirement benefits and Social Security benefits in an individual’s gross income. As this legislation takes effect, seniors will notice their tax liability is significantly reduced and will no longer deal with the ‘double tax’ on their federally earned benefits.

    MORE:

    Tuberville Rails Against Double Taxing Americans on Social Security

    Tuberville Calls Out Joe Biden for Voting to Tax Social Security

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Wiregrass Peanut Farmer at Senate Ag Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) introduced Garrett Moore from Chancellor, Alabama, at a U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ag) hearing. Today’s hearing is the first in a series titled, “Perspectives from the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy.”

    In yesterday’s hearing, Senator Tuberville also spoke with American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall about how President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 helped bolster the agriculture community and the need to eliminate the “death tax” to help preserve family farms. Senator Tuberville has been, and will continue to be, a staunch advocate to eliminate the death tax. 

    Earlier this year, it was announced that Senator Tuberville will remain on the Senate Ag Committee where he will continue to be a voice for Alabama’s farmers, foresters, and producers as the Senate prepares to draft a Farm Bill.

    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s remarks can be found below, and his full remarks can be found on YouTube or Rumble. 

    INTRODUCTION OF GARRETT MORE OF CHANCELLOR

    “Today, I’m proud to introduce Mr. Garrett Moore from Chancellor, Alabama. Garrett’s a proud fourth-generation farmer in Alabama’s Wiregrass region, which is the Southeastern part of the state. He is also a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, having served as an infantryman for four years, some of that overseas in Japan and near the DMZ of South Korea. After completing his military service, Garrett wanted to return to his roots and farm in LA – that’s Lower Alabama. He currently farms nearly 1,500 acres of peanuts, cotton, corn, and cattle with his father across Southeast Alabama. Garrett is Chairman of the Coffee County Young Farmers Association, “Alabama Row Crop Farmer of the Year” recipient, and part of the Southern Peanut Farmers’ Leadership Academy. I am grateful for the hard work Garrett has done to produce food and fiber for Alabama and advocate for our young farmers, and also being an Auburn Tiger fan—War Eagle. Garrett, thanks for being here today.”

    OPENING REMARKS

    “Thank you Mr. Chairman, for holding this hearing. As everyone in this room knows, the state of the agriculture economy is in dire straits. We’re in trouble, and it’s not getting much better. Our farmers are struggling. Producers have lost over $40 billion in net farm income since 2022, and the current agriculture trade deficit is $45.5 billion. We cannot stay on that same track. Producers in my state of Alabama and across the country are producing bumper crops, but they can’t break even, much less make a profit due to low commodity prices and high input costs, interest rates, and inflation. It’s been 13 years since reference prices for Title 1 commodities have been updated. Yet, the costs of production are not what they were 13 years ago – in fact, they are 30 to 40% higher. Our farmers need a new Farm Bill with a strong and reliable farm safety net to support producers amidst fluctuating market conditions, natural disasters, and skyrocketing production costs. The $10 billion in economic assistance Congress passed in December was a crucial lifeline to keep some producers afloat – and we need to ensure it is implemented quickly.”

    ON HOW PRESIDENT TRUMP’S TCJA HELPS FARMERS

    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Duvall—In your testimony, you discuss the importance of extending the expiring provisions of President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act(TCJA) to keep farmers in business. Can you discuss the tax provisions that our producers rely upon the most?”

    DUVALL: “Yes sir, I can. One, it provided for a reduced tax rate. Most of our farmers—98% of them—are operating under pass-through entities, and that’s important to them. Section 199A is important to them very much because it preserves that 20%business income deduction. Section 179 also needs to be continued—it’s called ‘bonus depreciation.’ It allows our farmers to reinvest in their business so they can meet the goals that our country has for us, whether it be conservation, climate, whatever it might be—soil health. But we have to have that bonus depreciation. And then of course, the last one we spoke about—young farmers and beginning farmers—estate taxes. Estate taxes—itneeds to be eliminated—so that we can continue to pass our farms on for generations to come and make sure we bring stability to our system—our food system. This is something people sweat blood from to pay for. This is their land, their home, and they want to keep it in production. And there’s so many pressures on that land staying in production—it’s just unreal and this pressure makes it unbelievable when a family person dies and you have to sell part of the farm to pay the taxes and what does that do? It takes it out of production, puts it into houses or solar panels or whatever and it never comes back to agriculture .”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Bonus depreciation, estate taxes—my phone rings off the wall. And we need to listen to it. And I’m sure the rest of the senators are the same. Mr. Duvall, the agriculture trade deficit, as I just said, is $45.5 billion. This is shameful. America has the best farmers and producers in the world. What suggestions do you have to improve ag trade and close the gap?”

    DUVALL: “We’ve got to have new agreements. We got to open up the markets. We can compete with anybody in the world as long as we’re allowed to use innovation and the research that has come into our farms that keeps us on cutting edge, and as long as our farmers are led by voluntary, market-based programs, we will do anything this country asks us to do if it’s led in that direction and we have proven that in conservation by putting over 140 million acres into conservation efforts over the last few decades—and that’s the size of California and New York state together.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Paul Introduce Legislation to Rein in Government, Hold Bureaucrats Accountable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) to introduce theRegulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act to put power back in the people’s hands instead of the administrative state. This legislation would require Congressional approval for federal regulations that will have an annual economic impact of $100 million or more before the proposed rule can take effect.

    “D.C. bureaucrats need less power, not more,” said Senator Tuberville. “The Constitution clearly outlines that Congress, not unelected swamp creatures, are supposed to make our laws. This bill compliments the great work Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency are doing to cut wasteful spending and get the government working for the people again. It is vital that Congress reins in Big Government and gives the power back to the American taxpayers.” 

    U.S. Senators Tuberville and Paul were joined by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Jim Risch (R-ID), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring the legislation.

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    BACKGROUND:

    Under the REINS Act, once major rules are drafted, they must then be affirmatively approved by both chambers of Congress and then signed by the President, satisfying the bicameralism and presentment requirements of the Constitution. Currently, regulations ultimately take effect unless Congress specifically disapproves.

    The bill defines a “major” rule as one that the Office of Management and Budget determines may result in an economic impact of $100 million or greater each year; “a major increase in costs or prices” for American consumers, government agencies, regions, or industries; or “significant adverse effects” on the economy.

    The REINS Act also includes the following changes from the original bill, which was introduced in the past:

    • New Defense for Individuals: Individuals can argue that the average person would not have known their actions violated federal law if the statute did not clearly state it.
    • Right to Sue: People can sue to stop enforcement if an agency implements a major rule without getting congressional approval.
    • LIBERTY Act: Agency guidance with an economic impact of $100 million or more needs congressional approval just like major rules.
    • Deregulatory Actions Exempted: Agencies do not need congressional approval to withdraw costly or burdensome rules.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey Leads Members of Massachusetts Delegation, Unions in Disavowing Trump’s Attempt to Dismantle Education Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (February 6, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and members of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation — Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09) — along with the Massachusetts Teachers Association, American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, Massachusetts Association of School Committees, and Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, released the following statement today after President Trump vowed to dismantle the Department of Education. 

    “President Trump’s vow to dismantle the Department of Education is an attack on the entire public school system, and it is an attack that we cannot accept. Every day, educators, students, administrators, and parents in Massachusetts demonstrate what a world class public education system can do: provide every child with the opportunity to thrive, strengthen our communities, and drive economic growth. Students, parents, educators, and communities deserve consistent leadership committed to improving education for all, not to be used as political pawns. 

    “We stand united in our determination to resist President Trump’s attacks on public education; united in our belief that a strong and well-funded public education system is crucial to the well-being of our country; and united in our determination to deliver the promise of education to every student in the Commonwealth and across the country.”

    In Fiscal Year 2024 in Massachusetts, the Department of Education provided more than $720 million to support 1,800 K-12 schools and more than 926,000 students, including:

    • $366 million in annual funding for 182,000 students with disabilities – reflecting 20% of Massachusetts’s student population;
    • $289 million in annual funding for schools enrolling 425,000 students from low-income backgrounds – reflecting 46% of Massachusetts’s student population; 
    • $20.5 million in annual funding for about 97,000 English learners – reflecting 10% of Massachusetts’s student population;  
    • $1.5 million in annual funding for students enrolled in rural schools; and 
    • $812,000 in annual funding to support children living on military bases or Native American reservations.

    President Trump’s nominee to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Education, Linda McMahon, is expected to appear before the HELP Committee on Thursday, February 13.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Cramer Introduce IRON DOME Act to Defend Against Chinese, Russian Missile Threats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    02.06.25
    Legislation Complements President Trump’s “Iron Dome” Executive Order
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), members of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today introduced the Increasing Response Options and Deterrence of Missile Engagements (IRON DOME) Act, legislation to strengthen and expand the U.S. missile defense system to protect the entire country from increasing nuclear missile threats posed by America’s adversaries. The IRON DOME Act will enhance domain awareness, the eyes and ears of missile defense architecture; bolster U.S. missile defense capacity to meet peer and near-peer threats; and accelerate the development of new capabilities to counter future threats. The legislation is intended to work in concert with President Trump’s executive order, “Iron Dome for America.”
    “For decades, American missile defense strategy has focused on protecting our country from ballistic missile threats posed by rogue nations or accidental launches from a peer nation,” said Sen. Sullivan. “We’ve made significant progress in recent years to strengthen this capability, notably through the implementation of my bipartisan 2017 Advancing America’s Missile Defense Act. But the proliferation of new hypersonic and cruise missile threats from our adversaries demands that we change this paradigm. Senator Cramer and I are introducing legislation to build a homeland missile defense system that can protect our country from the intensifying threats and growing arsenals of China and Russia. The IRON DOME Act dovetails with and reinforces President Trump’s historic ‘Iron Dome for America’ EO and builds upon a number of the recommendations from the 2022 Missile Defense Review. Specifically, our legislation invests billions of dollars to develop new capabilities, like space-based sensors and new intercept technologies, significantly expand and modernize existing infrastructure, like the ground-based missile interceptor fields at Alaska’s Fort Greely and North Dakota’s PARCS radar system, and integrate all aspects of U.S. missile defense, including Aegis. I urge my colleagues to join us in this initiative to meet the evolving missile threats on the horizon and deliver greater security for all Americans.”
    “Now more than ever, we have to ensure the United States is properly equipped to address the pressing threats that are posed by our very capable adversaries,” said Sen. Cramer. “Protecting the homeland is obviously our first Constitutional duty. The IRON DOME Act forces modernization of our missile defense systems from Alaska to North Dakota to Maine to Florida to California and back up to Alaska. This will ensure that we’re never caught off guard from a modern missile attack on our homeland.” 
    Among other provisions, the IRON DOME Act would authorize:
    $12 billion to expand missile interceptor fields at Fort Greely in Alaska with new Next Generation Interceptors
    $1.4 billion for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system
    $1.5 billion for PAC-2 and PAC-3 munitions and MM-104 Patriot batteries
    $1 billion to build Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense infrastructure in Alaska and on the East Coast
    $900 million to research and develop space-based missile defense
    $750 million to modernize terrestrial-based domain awareness radars
    $500 million to research and develop directed energy or missile interception capabilities across all military departments
    $250 million to complete and certify Hawaii’s Aegis Ashore system
    $100 million for the procurement and fielding of dirigibles
    $60 million to develop space-based satellite sensors
    $63.1 million to build a Missile Defense Complex and Fire Team Readiness Facility
    $25 million for Missile Defense Agency planning and design activities for an East Coast-based missile defense interceptor site at Fort Drum, New York
    Most of Sen. Sullivan’s 2017 legislation, the Advancing America’s Missile Defense Act, was included as an amendment to the FY 2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which significantly bolstered America’s homeland missile defense system and became law in December 2017.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Colleagues Call for Quick Implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    02.06.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and 27 of his Senate colleagues sent a letter this week to the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration calling for the immediate implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act to provide full Social Security benefits for millions of public servants impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The Social Security Fairness Act, which fully repeals the two unfair Social Security provisions, WEP and GPO, was signed into law on January 5, 2025.

    “The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” wrote the senators.

    “The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, ‘SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits’ owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO,” continued the senators. 

    Senator Sullivan was joined by U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Hickenlooper (D-Co.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Dick Durbin (D-Il.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Min.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.).

    Read the full letter here or below:

    Dear Acting Commissioner King,

    We write to you concerning the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act (Public Law No: 118-273). This legislation passed Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis on December 21st, 2024 and was signed into law on January 5th, 2025. The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).

    The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, “SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits” owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO. In the interim, we request monthly updates and briefings regarding the status of the Social Security Administration’s progress towards implementing the Social Security Fairness Act. 

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.  We look forward to your response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Mexico Rescinds Ban on Genetically-Engineered Corn Imports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    02.06.25

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee and a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after Mexico announced that it was rescinding its ban on the importation of genetically-engineered (GE) corn:

    “This is great news, not only for U.S. farmers, but for the people of Mexico who will continue to have access to a high-quality, safe and affordable food staple,” said Hoeven. “Mexico’s ban on the importation of GE corn flew in the face of years of scientific review and regulatory oversight, while creating yet another barrier for U.S. farmers trying to access the Mexican market. Rescinding this policy is the right call and will benefit both nations.”

    • This follows Hoeven and his colleagues calling on the U.S. Trade Representative and Agriculture Secretary to push back on Mexico’s policy.
    • The senators stressed that the ban undermines food security in Mexico, ignores the longstanding, science-based regulatory regime that had proven the safety of GE corn and would stifle future agricultural innovations.
    • Accordingly, the senators urged for Mexico to be held to its trade commitments and for the U.S. to pursue a dispute settlement through the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
      • Last month, a USMCA dispute settlement panel found that Mexico violated its obligations under the trade agreement and ruled in favor of American farmers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons leads Democratic colleagues in resolution reaffirming USAID’s role in safeguarding U.S. national security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a resolution reaffirming that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is essential for advancing the national security interests of the United States in the wake of President Trump’s efforts to halt U.S. foreign assistance operations and dismantle USAID. The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and 40 other members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. 

    Senator Coons went to the Senate floor Monday evening to introduce and ask for unanimous consent on the resolution; U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) objected. You can watch his full remarks here.

    “President Donald Trump’s unprecedented attacks on USAID and our entire foreign aid apparatus weaken our standing in the world, create power vacuums for our adversaries to fill, and put American lives in danger,” said Senator Coons. “For less than one percent of the federal budget, USAID and foreign aid stop pandemics before they reach America, prevent terrorism, human trafficking and organized crime from finding footholds, and prevent Chinese and Russian disinformation from spreading. Congress created USAID as an independent agency and only Congress can reverse that. I’m glad to see so many of my colleagues standing with me to defend the separation of powers and our foreign aid programs.”

    “There will be suffering all over the world because of Trump and Musk’s illegal steps to dismantle USAID,” said Senator Schatz, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. “Right now, families are waiting for medicine and food that’s already been paid for, including food produced by American farmers, and Musk just cut them off. The law is on our side, but in the meantime, the Trump administration is illegally fueling chaos that will lead to death across the world and make America less safe.”

    “For a small fraction of the overall U.S. budget, USAID promotes global health and stability, fights terrorism, and strengthens U.S. relationships abroad. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I want to be clear: The latest attempt by the Trump administration to freeze U.S.-funded foreign aid assistance and punish the men and women who are working at the agency is a gift to our adversaries that will make us less safe. No one is more delighted that the United States is retreating from its global leadership role than the Communist Party of China,” said Senator Warner.

    The resolution is a direct response to the efforts by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk to eliminate USAID and pause the vast majority of U.S. foreign assistance programs, including reports that President Trump would sign an executive order folding the agency into the State Department— moves that are illegal without congressional approval. Senator Coons and his Senate Democratic colleagues are demanding clarity amid purges of USAID’s top personnel, aid freezes, and chaos. 

    Accounting for less than one percent of the federal budget, our foreign assistance programs, many of which are led by USAID, play an indispensable role in promoting global stability and protecting our nation. Examples include the agency’s vital humanitarian assistance work during global conflicts, efforts to combat infectious diseases before they spread to the United States, to counter terrorism recruitment worldwide and to reduce the number of children pulled into gangs supporting organized crime and human trafficking.

    In addition to Senators Coons, Schatz, and Warner, this resolution is cosponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) Lisa Blunt Rochester, (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray, (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.).

    The full text of the resolution is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo: Greer Capable and Qualified to be USTR

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–At a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Jamieson Greer to be the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) praised Mr. Greer’s extensive trade experience and secured his commitment to expand global market access for American producers and manufacturers. 

    Chairman Crapo and Mr. Greer discussed agricultural exports, where Greer pledged to defend Idaho’s more-than 24,000 farms and ranches from unfair trade practices and grow global access for their products.  They also discussed U.S. digital trade leadership, and the need for transparency and timely communication between USTR and Congress.  Mr. Greer assured members of the Committee that he would “follow the law to a T,” adding that he is “convinced that American workers, farmers, ranchers and service providers can compete with anyone else in the world—in this market and beyond—so long as they have a level playing field.”

    Crapo concluded the hearing by telling the nominee, “I think you’ve done a phenomenally good job.  You have shown that you are completely capable and qualified for this job.  I look forward to working with you and making sure that we get your nomination confirmed as soon as possible.”

    Watch Chairman Crapo’s opening statement here, and the question-and-answer portion with Mr. Greer here.

    On agricultural exports:

    Crapo:

    Agriculture is important to many Committee members and members of the Senate as a whole.  Idaho’s 24,000 farms and ranches produce 185 commodities, and Idaho leads the nation in potato, barley and hay production and is the third largest producer of milk and cheese.  We have not opened up any new markets for our farmers in the last four years.  Farmers are also concerned that they may become the target of retaliation if we use tariffs to pressure other countries to change their ways.  How will you support the interests of America’s farmers and ranchers once you’re confirmed as our nation’s chief trade negotiator?

    Greer:

    . . . In my view, American agricultural producers are the most competitive in the world, and they need to have markets commensurate with that competitiveness.  To me, that means that we need to go and gain market access where things have been closed until now.  For many decades, we have had a trading system where the United States opens its market over and over again, and others do not.  In India, for example, their average bound tariff rate on agricultural products is 39 percent; in Turkey, it’s 39.8 percent.  These are markets where they need to open to the United States, and I think we need to use all the tools at our disposal to do so.

    On digital trade:

    Crapo:

    We lost ground during the last Administration because we turned our back on digital trade rules, including promoting data flows, combating forced technology transfer and promoting nondiscrimination.  A number of jurisdictions, including the European Union and South Korea, utilize that opportunity to advance measures that target U.S. technology companies with special requirements or taxes while accepting their domestic companies or even Chinese companies.  Do you agree that ensuring U.S. technological leadership means that we need to confront these types of measures?

    Greer:

    Yes, Chairman, I strongly believe that we need to do that.  Again, this is an area where the United States is very competitive, and I understand that we are having a domestic conversation about how to regulate digital trade and technology companies, etc.  My view is that is where the conversation should be happening.  We should not be outsourcing our regulation to the European Union or Brazil or anyone else, and they can’t discriminate against us and won’t it be tolerated.

    On Congressional oversight:

    Crapo:

    The law states that the USTR reports directly to the President and Congress, though my colleagues and I may disagree on policy, occasionally, we are united in defending this Committee’s jurisdiction.  If confirmed, do you commit to provide timely and thorough briefings on trade negotiations and to share proposals with this Committee in advance of sharing them with foreign governments?

    Greer:

    Chairman Crapo, we certainly expect to follow the law to the T with respect to consultations with Congress.  I agree with you exactly that the statute directs me to report directly to the President and to you, and that includes all of these consultation requirements, including before we approach foreign governments with serious offers that we need to come to you and talk about it so we can be on the same page.

    Crapo:

    Thank you, and will you also keep us apprised and consider our input with respect to USTR led investigations and reports in the January 20th America First Trade Policy Memorandum?

    Greer: Yes. 

    On reporting trade barriers:

    Crapo:

    Finally, with regard to trade reporting on trade barriers.  By law, the USTR is required to issue an annual report called the National Trade Estimate that identifies foreign barriers of U.S. exports of goods and service or services.  The last Administration decided it would not list a barrier if the Administration agreed with the foreign government’s ideology for enacting the barrier in the first place.  If confirmed, this year’s National Trade Estimate may be one of the very first things you review.  Do you agree that the USTR report should, as statutorily required, identify the full range of discriminatory barriers to U.S. trade, regardless of what agenda or excuse our trading partners may offer?

    Greer:

    I agree with that, Chairman.

    MIL OSI USA News –