NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Cornyn Introduce Bill to Create African Diaspora Heritage Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and John Cornyn (R-TX), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), introduced a bipartisan bill authorizing the formal designation of an African Diaspora Heritage Month to recognize and reaffirm the significant contributions of the African diaspora to the growth and prosperity of the United States. The month is traditionally celebrated by the diaspora community in September.

    “The African diaspora has contributed so much to the fabric of our nation, local communities, and our economy,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to recognize this vibrant community’s achievements by designating a federal African Diaspora Heritage Month.”

    The legislation was also cosponsored by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the SFRC Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy.

    “I know the invaluable impact the African diaspora has made in New Jersey and across our country,” said Booker. “Millions of African immigrants and citizens contribute to the fabric of our nation with their rich culture and heritage. As Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, I’m humbled to work across the aisle to recognize this community and work to designate a federal African Diaspora Heritage Month.”

    Virginia is home to more than 115,000 African immigrants, thousands of whom are small- and medium-sized business owners who have helped bring more than $205 million in international trade to the Commonwealth. The African Diaspora in the U.S. is comprised of approximately 50 million people. In March 2022, the Virginia General Assembly passed a resolution to designate September as Virginia African Diaspora Heritage Month.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, Colleagues Call for Reinstatement of Inspectors General Illegally Fired by President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), alongside a group of 37 senators, wrote to President Trump strongly condemning the President’s recent order to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 government agencies and called on the President to immediately reinstate the officials. According to the Inspector General Independence and Empowerment Act, which was signed into law in 2022, the President is required to provide a 30-day notice and substantive reasons for removal in writing to Congress before an Inspector General can be removed. President Trump failed to alert Congress or provide substantive reasoning.

    In Virginia, IGs have played key roles in much-needed oversight, including over the quality of the United States Postal Services’ work, and in responding to the horrific animal abuse committed by Envigo Global Services against 4,000 beagles in Cumberland County.

    “These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees,” wrote the senators. “Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs.”

    The senators continued, “While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized.  The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal. Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately…”

    IGs are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs and play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness. IGs were removed from at least 18 departments and agencies, including Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, the Social Security Administration, and the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.

    In addition to Warner and Kaine, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and John Fetterman (D-PA). 

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

    Dear Mr. President,  

    Your decision Friday evening to remove Inspectors General (IGs) from at least 18 offices across government—including those overseeing the Departments of Defense, State, Education, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Energy, Commerce, Agriculture, Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Office of Personnel Management, the Small Business Administration, and the Social Security Administration, as well as the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction—does not comply with current law and could do lasting harm to IG independence.  These officials, which include those appointed by Presidents of both parties, including many during your first Administration, collectively conduct oversight of trillions of dollars of federal spending and the conduct of millions of federal employees.  Removing these non-partisan watchdogs without providing a substantive and non-political reason is not lawful, and undermines their independence, jeopardizing their critical mission to identify and root out waste, fraud, and abuse within federal programs. 

    Inspectors General are responsible for providing independent oversight of federal programs by working to root out waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer dollars – oversight our federal agencies desperately need.  They play a key role in improving government efficiency and effectiveness and have helped identify and recover billions of taxpayer dollars.  IG independence is the foundation of this work, and IGs must be free of political influence so that they can carry out their important mission with integrity and credibility.  The federal government and the American people count on these officials to operate in a professional and non-partisan way to hold our government accountable—regardless of who is in power.  Without strong, qualified, and independent officials to lead these critical efforts, the Administration risks wasting taxpayer dollars, and allowing fraud and misconduct to go unchecked. For example, just this week the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued an unlawful memo directing agencies to pause nearly all federal grants and loans, which significantly disrupts the administration of over a trillion dollars of critical assistance to communities, businesses, and organizations across the country.  It is especially vital to have independent watchdogs at each of these agencies to conduct oversight of the impacts of this unconstitutional and unprecedented directive.     

    While the President has the authority to remove Inspectors General from office, Congress has established clear requirements to ensure such removals are transparent and are not politicized.  The law requires that the President provide a written 30-day notice to both Houses of Congress and include “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons for any such removal or transfer.” With respect to your firings Friday night, Congress has not received either the mandatory 30-day notice or a rationale for their removal.  Because your actions violated the law, these Inspectors General should be reinstated immediately, until such time as you have provided in writing “the substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the affected Inspectors General and the 30-day notice period has expired.   

    Lastly, if you believe it is necessary to place any of the affected IGs on administrative leave before the 30-day notice period has ended, the law requires that you submit a separate notification to Congress explaining how the IG presents a threat as defined in the Administrative Leave Act. 

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help More Americans Access High-Quality Job Training, Get Good-Paying Jobs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), co-chair of the Senate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus and a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Susan Collins (R-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, bipartisan legislation to help more Americans get good-paying jobs by allowing students to use federal Pell Grants—need-based education grants for lower-income individuals—to pay for shorter-term job training programs for the first time. Currently, students can only use Pell Grants for two- and four-year colleges and universities. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility, the JOBS Act would help close the skills gap by allowing people to access job training they might otherwise be unable to afford but need for careers in high-demand fields.

    “No one should be priced out of an education—including a technical education—but I hear from many Virginians that access to high-quality job training programs that align with their goals is out of reach because of financial barriers,” said Kaine. “Simultaneously, I hear from employers throughout the Commonwealth about their struggles to fill skilled labor positions. With these Virginians in mind, I wrote the JOBS Act to help remedy these issues and provide more workers with the skills they need to get good-paying jobs and provide for their families. This bill is good for workers, good for employers, and good for our economy as a whole.”

    Thanks to historic investments like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the job market has boomed in recent years. From January 2021–January 2025, the U.S. economy added 14.8 million jobs. But there’s also a skilled labor shortage that is expected to intensify in the coming years, in part because unemployed Americans lack access to the job training needed to fill vacant jobs.

    “Job training programs are proven, successful tools that help people gain the skills they need to prepare for rewarding careers,” said Collins.  “By helping students in Maine and across the country access this career pathway, this bipartisan legislation would assist young people with obtaining good-paying jobs and make it easier for businesses to find qualified workers.”

    “Some of the most in-demand jobs don’t require a four-year college degree — they require shorter-term training. People like welders, machine operators and medical technicians. We need to make it easier to get people into these career fields, and letting students use Pell Grants to make it happen just makes sense,” said Smith. “This bill will open up more career opportunities for people and will help boost our economy.”

    “The JOBS Act will provide an incredible opportunity for students that increasingly don’t find the value of a four-year degree,” said Marshall. “With a changing job market, our legislation will give Americans the chance to learn critical skills for a successful career. I look forward to getting the JOBS Act across the finish line with my colleagues.”

    “We’re so grateful that Senator Kaine has reintroduced the JOBS Act, and is willing to continue advocating for this important legislation which will re-skill and upskill our citizens who want to improve their income and the lives of themselves and their families,” said Virginia Community College System Chancellor David Doré. “Thousands of Virginians are eager to learn new skills to advance their careers and would benefit from being able to use Pell Grants to pay for high quality workforce training for in-demand jobs. We urge Congress to support Senator Kaine’s JOBS Act.”

    The JOBS Act would allow Pell Grants to be used for high-quality job training programs that are at least eight weeks in length and lead to industry-recognized credentials or certificates. Under current law, Pell Grants can only be applied toward programs that are over 600 clock hours or at least 15 weeks in length, rendering students in shorter-term high-quality job training programs ineligible for crucial assistance.

    Specifically, the JOBS Act would amend the Higher Education Act by:

    • Expanding Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in rigorous and high-quality, short-term skills and job training programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials and certificates and ultimately employment in high-wage, high-skill industry sectors or careers.
    • Ensuring students who receive Pell Grants are earning high-quality postsecondary credentials by requiring that the credentials:
      • Meet the standards under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), such as meaningful career counseling and aligning programs to in-demand career pathways or registered apprenticeship programs
      • Are recognized by employers, industry, or sector partnerships
      • Align with the skill needs of industries in the state or local economy
      • Are approved by the state workforce board in addition to the U.S. Department of Education
    • Defining eligible job training programs as those providing career and technical education instruction at an institution of higher education, such as a community or technical college that provides:
      • At least 150 clock hours of instruction time over a period of at least 8 weeks
      • Training that meets the needs of the local or regional workforce and industry partnerships
      • Streamlined ability to transfer credits so students can continue to pursue further education in their careers
      • Students with licenses, certifications, or credentials that meet the hiring requirements of multiple employers in the field for which the job training is offered

    The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Steve Daines (R-MT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dan Sullivan (D-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The JOBS Act is supported by Advance CTE, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), Business Roundtable, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA), Higher Learning Advocates (HLA), HP Inc., the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), Jobs for the Future (JFF), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, NAF, the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB), the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), the National Skills Coalition (NSC), the Progressive Policy Institute (PPI), Rebuilding America’s Middle Class (RAMC), and the Virginia Community College System.

    Full text of the bill is available here, and a summary of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Welch Introduce Bipartisan Bills to Support Maine’s Maple Industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Making Agricultural Products Locally Essential (MAPLE) Act and the Supporting All Producers (SAP) Act, two bipartisan, bicameral bills to support the Maine maple industry. Senator Angus King is a cosponsor of both bills.

    “Maine is the third largest producer of pure maple syrup in the country, producing more than 575,000 gallons in a normal season, and bringing in more than $55 million to our state each year while supporting hundreds of local jobs,” said Senator Collins. “These bills support both local producers and consumers and make this market more accessible for all Mainers.” 

    The MAPLE Act would provide a new market for maple syrup producers while increasing seniors’ access to nutritious, locally sourced maple syrup products by adding maple syrup to the eligible products under the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). SFMNP gives low-income seniors access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs. In addition to Senator King, the bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and led in the House by Representatives Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23) and Joe Courtney (D-CT-02).  

    The SAP Act would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consult with maple producers when determining education and research priorities for the Acer Access and Development Program (Acer), a competitive grant program supporting research and education related to maple syrup production and sustainability in the industry. The House version of the bill is led by Representatives Langworthy and Becca Balint (VT-At-Large). 

    The full text of the MAPLE Act can be read here.  

    The full text of the SAP Act can be read here.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins Receives Fraternal Order of Police Advocacy Award

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video from the event.

    Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for individual photos.

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins was presented with the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) National President’s Legislative Advocacy Award at a ceremony that took place at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington. The FOP recognized Senator Collins with this award for her more than two decades of work to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) with the Social Security Fairness Act (SSFA), which was signed into law last month. This is the first time the FOP has awarded a Legislative Advocacy Award. After the SSFA was signed into law, the FOP sent a letter on behalf of its more than 377,000 members to Senator Collins, thanking her for her leadership on the bill.

    “Receiving this award from the Fraternal Order of Police was a great honor, and I am thankful for the FOP’s steadfast support in the fight to repeal the WEP and GPO,” said Senator Collins. “Repealing these unfair provisions was a great victory for all public servants, including the brave men and women who make up our country’s law enforcement. In Maine and throughout the United States, we are fortunate to have so many law enforcement officers who are devoted to keeping our communities safe, and I was proud to lead the effort to restore their well-earned retirement benefits.”

    “Senator Collins, you have been the lead Republican in the Senate on this bill for more than 20 years and we so very grateful for your leadership and support. Your efforts finally paid off as you worked the bill through the Senate’s often arduous process. Your tenacity and commitment will change the lives of public employees and their families,” said FOP National President Patrick Yoes. “Because of your work, nearly three million law enforcement officers, fire fighters, and other public employees who earned themselves a Social Security benefit, only to see those benefits reduced by the Windfall Elimination Provision, will finally begin to receive every penny that they earned.  Because of your work, families impacted by the Government Pension Offset which reduced or, in most cases, eliminated the survivor’s benefit received by surviving spouses, will finally be able to collect what they are owed. We owe you a debt of gratitude and are pleased to present you with the National President’s Legislative Advocacy Award.”

    The SSFA, which Senator Collins coauthored with former Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio, restored the Social Security benefits for millions of public servants, including law enforcement officers, by repealing two provisions – the WEP and GPO – that unfairly reduced the Social Security benefits that public employees or their spouses have earned. Following the passage of the SSFA, Senators Collins and Brown sent a letter to the Social Security Administration (SSA) requesting that the SSA swiftly implement the Social Security Fairness Act.

    Senator Collins held the first Senate hearing on this policy in 2003 as Chair of the Senate Government Affairs Committee. She, along with the late Senator Dianne Feinstein, first introduced the Social Security Fairness Act in 2005. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create Atmospheric River Forecasting Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create Atmospheric River Forecasting Program

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) announced bipartisan legislation that will reduce flood risks and bolster emergency preparedness by improving atmospheric river forecasting to more precisely predict the timing and location of these storms. The Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a forecast improvement program within the National Weather Service.

    The legislation was announced as major atmospheric river storms bring high winds and heavy rain and snowfall to California.

    Atmospheric rivers — often described as “rivers in the sky” that are hundreds of miles wide and can carry water vapor equivalent to multiple Mississippi Rivers — cause more than 80 percent of flood damage across the West. Climate change will only make these storms increasingly catastrophic: by 2090, atmospheric rivers are expected to cost $2.3 to $3.2 billion in annual damages and increase in width by nearly 25 percent. Over 50 atmospheric rivers made landfall across the West Coast from October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024.

    “For the past several years, California communities have witnessed firsthand the ongoing threat of destructive flooding caused by increasingly intense and frequent atmospheric river storms,” said Senator Padilla. “California has led the way in improving our understanding of these storms, and this bipartisan bill will strengthen forecasts to reduce flood risks while bolstering our water supply and drought resilience.”

    “With greater frequency, we are seeing that atmospheric rivers instill dangerous climate conditions that pose deadly threats to Alaska communities,” said Senator Murkowski. “While there are numerous atmospheric river observatories in the Lower 48, none are in Alaska. This bill ensures that all states along the West coast, including Alaska, have at least one atmospheric river observatory. Along with improved modeling, data collection, and risk communication, this legislation will help protect our communities and ultimately save lives across Alaska.” 

    “Atmospheric rivers are responsible for 30-50% of annual precipitation along the western U.S. and cause the majority of the flooding, with more than $1 billion in annual average flood damage in the western 11 states,” said Marty Ralph, Founding Director of the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes at UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography. “The introduction of this act is critically important to advance forecasts of atmospheric rivers to enable more flexible and resilient water management, improved warning around flooding and overall improvements to public safety. It will also enhance the opportunities for reservoir operators to safely implement Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) at more reservoirs to save additional water after a storm for the dry summer, or release it to mitigate flood risk if an AR storm is predicted in the next few days.”

    Specifically, the Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act would direct NOAA to establish a standalone atmospheric river forecast improvement program that would:

    • Develop accurate, effective, and actionable storm forecasts and warnings in collaboration with public and private partners across the weather forecasting sectors;
    • Evaluate innovative observation tools and emerging technologies to improve atmospheric river analysis, modeling, forecasts, and warnings;
    • Authorize NOAA to procure equipment, aircraft, and personnel contracts to fully monitor atmospheric river events each winter; and
    • Improve atmospheric river hazard communication.

    The Improving Atmospheric River Forecasts Act is endorsed by the Association of California Water Agencies, Bay Planning Coalition, Central Valley Flood Protection Board, Contra Costa Water District, Covington Water District, Irvine Ranch Water District, Kings River Conservation District, the National Association of Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies, Orange County Water District, Pajaro Regional Flood Management Agency, San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency, San Diego County Water Authority, San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District, Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, Sofar Ocean Technologies, Solano County Water Agency, Sonoma Water, Union Sanitary District, Valley Water, WindBorne Systems, and Yuba Water.

    Senator Padilla has fought consistently for California communities devastated by atmospheric river flooding. Last year, Padilla urged the Biden Administration to prioritize sustained federal investment in the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project to protect disadvantaged communities along the central coast of California. Padilla also introduced the Atmospheric Rivers Reconnaissance, Observation and Warning (ARROW) Act to bolster West Coast atmospheric river forecasting, which was passed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024.

    Padilla has also championed funding for programs such as the Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) to improve U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir operations to increase water conservation and reliability at Lake Sonoma and Prado Dam, for example, while maintaining flood control and enhanced public safety during extreme precipitation events.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Ensure Access to Legal Counsel When Entering the United States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Ensure Access to Legal Counsel When Entering the United States

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, introduced the Access to Counsel Act to ensure that U.S. citizens, green card holders, and other individuals with legal status can consult with an attorney, relative, or other interested parties to seek assistance if they are detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for more than an hour at ports of entry, including airports. U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.-07) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

    The bill was introduced in conjunction with the NO BAN Act, legislation to prevent another Muslim Ban, which is led by Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Representative Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28). Senator Padilla is cosponsoring the NO BAN Act.

    “In his first term, President Trump’s cruel and unlawful travel ban led to the detention of countless legally present noncitizens at airports and ports of entry while denying them their basic legal rights,” said Senator Padilla. “Now, with another executive order setting the stage for a new travel ban, the Access to Counsel Act is more important than ever. These important guardrails would prevent CBP from blocking noncitizens it has detained with lawful permission to be in the United States from calling a lawyer or a trusted contact.”

    “It was incredibly clear how critical this legislation was under the first Trump Administration, as he stripped basic civil rights away from individuals for reasons ranging from the color of their skin to the country of their origin. I remember rushing to my local airport and found a U.S. citizen woman waiting to welcome her husband who had been put on a plane back without being allowed to see an attorney, despite traveling on a valid visa,” said Representative Jayapal. “It is more important now than ever, under a second Trump Administration, that we codify the right to access counsel for detained persons who are legally allowed access to the United States. As we continue to see him scapegoat immigrants, we must protect people from unjust detention.”

    The previous Muslim Ban in Trump’s first term unleashed chaos at airports and ports of entry across the country. People from Muslim-majority countries, with lawful permission to enter, were detained for hours without food or water before being deported. These individuals were often pressured to sign documents that amounted to them giving up their legal status. In many cases, these individuals had no opportunity to see an attorney or call anyone for legal guidance. Since then, there have been numerous instances of individuals in California and across the country being denied access to legal counsel while detained for long periods despite having valid visas.

    Specifically, the Access to Counsel Act would:

    • Require the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that people with valid travel documents who present themselves at the border, airports, or other points of interaction can communicate with counsel and other interested parties if they are subjected to prolonged inspection by CBP. 
    • Allow counsel or a covered interested party the ability to advocate on behalf of the individual by providing information or documentation in support of the individual.
    • Invalidate any effort by CBP to persuade someone to relinquish their legal status if that person has been denied access to counsel.

    In the Senate, the legislation is cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.).

    The bill is also endorsed by American Immigration Lawyers Association, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, Immigration Equality Action Fund, Kids in Need of Defense, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Partnership for New Americans, OneAmerica, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC), and UnidosUS.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II and Sen. Sally Harrell to Hold Press Conference on Protecting Reproductive Freedom

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (February 4, 2025) — On Wednesday, February 5, at 2:00 p.m., Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II (D–Augusta) and Sen. Sally Harrell (D–Atlanta) will hold a press conference on Senate Resolution 84. SR 84 proposes a constitutional amendment that would aim to protect access to abortion. It also aims to protect both those who seek an abortion and those who assist a pregnant individual in accessing an abortion from prosecution.

    EVENT DETAILS:                      

    • Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025
    • Time: 2:00 p.m.
    • Where: 203 Coverdell Legislative Office Building, 18 Capitol Square, S.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30334
    • This Event is Open to the Public.

    MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

    We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    More information about SR 84 can be found here.

    # # # #

    Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at harold.jones@senate.ga.gov

    Sen. Sally Harrell represents the 40th Senate District which includes portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett County. She may be reached by phone at (404) 463-2260 via email at sally.harrell@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul Meets With Canadian Consul General

    Source: US State of New York

    Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul met with Canadian Consul General Tom Clark to discuss affordability and key issues related to the New York-Canada relationship.

    VIDEO of the Governor meeting with Canadian Consul General Tom Clark can be found on YouTube and in TV quality (h.264, mp4) format.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Governor Hochul:  These relationships are very important to us, and I welcome you once again for your annual visit. And you come here to talk about our shared interests, including making sure, as I’m focused on, affordability for New Yorkers.

    And relationships with Canada will affect that, depending on what happens out of Washington, so it’s critically important here to have that dialogue. We also know that the price of gas, the price of lumber, the price of every product that affects New Yorkers is going to be something that we can have to stay focused on and work through with you as well.

    [other speakers]

    Governor Hochul: The history is incredible. At one time this was the governor’s office, I’m a little envious that it got turned into the press room.

    But again, you mentioned something that’s so important. That is the trade relationship is critical. And the amount of trade, I don’t think people can appreciate how that impacts the cost of living in a place like New York. And certainly in Canada, but I have to be laser focused on what’s happening to New Yorkers.

    And there has been a sense of anxiety now, for a time period, about the cost of everything going up. The cost collectively for a family of four going up to anywhere from $1,300 to $3,000.

    I’m working hard to put money back in people’s pockets with my budget, and the last thing I want is to have the money taken out of their pocket with higher costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU humanitarian aid following the devastation caused by Hurricane Oscar in Cuba – E-002317/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has closely followed the impacts of recent hurricanes in Cuba, including Hurricane Oscar as of 20 October 2024 and Hurricane Rafael as of 11 November 2024, compounding an already dire situation in the country that was also hit by earthquakes on 10 November 2024.

    The Commission deployed a humanitarian expert to the affected areas to assess the needs and responded immediately when the disasters stroke. In total, the Commission has allocated EUR 3.3 million in humanitarian assistance for the affected population in Cuba. These funds will contribute, inter alia, to the United Nations (UN) Action Plan for Hurricane Oscar Response in the sectors of food and health and will support the Cuban Red Cross in their emergency response in Eastern Cuba.

    Furthermore, the EU has deployed a humanitarian airbridge to transport more than 100 tons of humanitarian supplies from UN partners, EU, and Spanish stocks in 5 flights from its Panama hub to Cuba, which have provided relief to people affected by Hurricane Oscar. This emergency response complements an allocation of EUR 500 000 awarded in June 2024 to respond to urgent health and medical needs in the country. The Commission also continues to support disaster preparedness efforts in Cuba.

    Last updated: 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on Access to Justice Week

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Niki Sharma, Attorney General, has released the following statement on Access to Justice Week, from Feb. 3-7, 2025:

    “Access to Justice Week is an opportunity to reflect on how B.C.’s justice system can best work for British Columbians. This year’s theme is: What does the future of access to justice look like?

    “Throughout the province, we are taking action to modernize our justice system through enhancements to technology that will increase access to justice and convenience for British Columbians. It means breaking down barriers by introducing technology that brings legal services to remote and under-served communities and simplifying processes to reduce complexity for people involved with the justice system. Online platforms, virtual hearings and other innovative tools are making the justice system more accessible, saving time and money.

    “People are at the centre of the changes we are making. For instance, the Province launched new services to help people whose intimate images have been shared without their consent. The Intimate Images Protection Service offers emotional support and helps with applications to the Civil Resolution Tribunal for “take-down” orders. Additionally, these services provide self-help tools, legal information and connections to resources.

    “We have significantly expanded the eligibility criteria for family legal-aid services and have opened two new family law clinics in Victoria and Surrey for people experiencing family violence. Families will also benefit from early access to information and referrals in Provincial Court. We are supporting the early resolution process by adding eight more court registries by November 2025.  

    “The Ministry of Attorney General and the BC First Nations Justice Council will soon open six new Indigenous Justice Centres. Nine centres opened last year, for a total of 15, and a virtual centre is also available provincewide. These centres address systemic barriers faced by Indigenous people by offering culturally appropriate supports, legal advice and representation to Indigenous people.

    “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their communities, and confident that justice is being served. We will ensure strong and safe communities for everyone throughout the province by aggressively pushing the federal government for continuing legal reform and co-operation with the Province that will ensure violent and prolific offenders remain in custody after arrest.

    “The Province is committed to transforming the justice system by enhancing access to services for British Columbians. We have more work to do, and we are committed to doing it, because the work we do today will shape a better tomorrow. I am proud of the strides we’ve made, and I am committed to the modernization of our legal system to increase access to justice in B.C.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Op-Ed – Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face – OPED Conor English

    Opinion – by Conor English
     
    5 February 2025 – Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face – Boxer Mike Tyson famously said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face”.  He was simply pointing out in his own unique direct way, that sometimes things don’t go the way you think. There can be unintended consequences. Your opponent can counter punch, so a “plan b” can be useful!
     
    The new USA government has a plan to use tariffs as a way of incentivising other countries to do things that are helpful to the USA. Things like curtail immigrants or drugs travelling over the border, or to shift their manufacturing jobs to America.  The President has described the word “tariffs” as “the most beautiful word in the dictionary” so its clear he likes the idea of using tariffs. It does have some logic. Maybe this plan will work?
     
    So, using emergency powers that enable quick action, rather than long winded trade negotiation processes, this plan is being implemented this week.  First up, 10% tariff on goods from China, and energy products from Canada. Tariffs will be set at 25% for most other goods from Canada and Mexico. If these countries change their drug, migration and manufacturing policies, the USA will look to review the tariff levels.  That’s the new deal.
     
    New Zealand had its own tariffs for many years as was fashionable. But now we seek fair trade, with no tariffs or quotas, or other non-tariff trade barriers in our trading relationships. It matters to us as a small trading country at the bottom of the world. Multilateral co-operation and enforcement frameworks such as the World Trade Organisation are vital.   
     
    America, like many countries, has a long history of using tariffs. An excellent example of how things can end up like a punch in the face, as Mike Tyson would put it, is the passing of what was known as the “Smoot Hawley” Tariff Act on June 17, 1930. This raised tariffs on over 20,000 imported goods, despite a petition signed by 1,028 economists asking President Hoover to veto the legislation. He didn’t. The theory was it would save jobs in America and protect local producers from international competition following the “Black Thursday” share market crash on October 24, 1929.
     
    But it didn’t make things better, it made things worse.
     
    Americas trading partners punched back. They didn’t do nothing. They retaliated, just as Canada and Mexico now have. The world economy and geopolitics has evolved significantly since the great depression and what happened then may not happen now. However, history can perhaps provide some small insight as to how this might play out.
     
    Wikipedia tells us that after the Smoot- Hawley passed – yes – USA imports did decrease by 66% from $4.4 billion  in 1929, to $1.5 billion in 1933. So that must be good for domestic jobs and industries? Well no, because other countries punched back with their own tariffs, as well as sourcing their own imports from other countries rather than America.
     
    As a result, USA exports also decreased 61% from $5.4 billion to $2.1 billion. GNP fell from $103.1 billion in 1929 to $75.8 billion in 1931, bottoming out at $55.6 billion in 1933, a drop of around 50% over four years. 
     
    So rather than create jobs, jobs were lost, and plenty of them. Unemployment was at 8% in 1930 when the Smoot–Hawley Tariff Act was passed, but the new law failed to lower it. The unemployment rate jumped to 16% in 1931, and 25% in 1932–33. The factories that produced those export goods couldn’t sell their products, so staff lost their jobs.
     
    Unemployment didn’t fall below early 1930s levels until the massive economic stimulus of World War 2.
     
    As with any economy, there is always more than just one thing happening, but at that time, that is what happened in the USA. So how does this current fast changing situation effect New Zealand?
     
    Unlike 100 years ago, we get impacted very quickly by the transmission of changes in our exchange rate, interest rates, commodity prices, share markets and trade flows. This then flows through our economy.
     
    For example, if inflation goes up in America because of the new tariffs, international interest rates may go up, thus reducing the speed of any reductions on our mortgage rates. Dairy commodity prices might rise, but so too might international oil prices, pushing up our fuel prices and inflation. Our dollar may fall, making it cheaper for tourists to visit, but the cost of servicing our increasing national debt more expensive.  Chinese built EVs may be more available and cheaper here as cars are diverted from the USA market.
     
    There will be all sorts of positive and negative impacts, unintended consequences and unforeseen outcomes. It could be overall positive or overall negative for both America and New Zealand, but we just don’t know. We do know though that it creates more uncertainty, and that’s not helpful to anyone.     
     
    So will it be a punch in the face, as Mike Tyson suggests, or a pat on the back?  Either way, we need to be fleet of foot and have a “Plan B”.
     
    Conor English is a Director of Silvereye – a Wellington based Government relations firm, a former exporter, CEO of Federated Farmers, and Independent Advisor to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson urges SC sheriffs to partner with ICE on immigration enforcementRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson sent a letter today to the state’s 46 sheriffs encouraging them to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) to perform some immigration enforcement efforts in their counties.

    “Over the last few years, the United States has witnessed an unprecedented and disastrous influx of illegal immigration. This has led to a serious strain on federal and state resources, while also permitting the permeation of crime throughout our communities,” Attorney General Wilson writes.

    The purpose of the letter is to encourage the state’s sheriffs to apply for ICE’s Section 287(g) program. It’s a voluntary partnership between ICE and state and local officials that authorizes designated officers to perform limited immigration enforcement functions within their own jurisdictions.

    The program allows sheriff’s departments to tailor their participation to one of three levels based on their department’s capabilities and resources.

    “As the chief prosecutor of South Carolina, I share the same sentiment as you about keeping our citizens and communities safe,” Attorney General Wilson writes. “This is an utmost priority, and we are called to faithfully uphold the laws and Constitutions of this State and the United States.

    He says over the last few years, the 287(g) program has become almost useless because of bureaucratic red tape, but after talking to senior officials at the Department of Homeland Security, he’s confident the program will be overhauled to make it more user-friendly.

    “It will enable immigration enforcement to effectively resume and ensure that South Carolina will be safe from criminal illegal aliens. For your reference, South Carolina currently has three counties that have already enrolled in the program. This is a good start, and I strongly encourage your participation for the safety of South Carolinians,” he writes.

    You can read the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Vice President and Controller of Publicly Traded Company Pleads Guilty to Insider Trading

    Source: US State of California

    A Florida man pleaded guilty today in the Southern District of Florida for his role in an insider trading scheme that netted him over $1.6 million in illicit profits.

    According to court documents, Stephen George, 54, of Parkland, was a member of the Finance Department at Company A from November 2017 until April 7, 2023, where he held roles including vice president and controller. Company A is a consumer-packaged goods company headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, that is the maker of a fitness drink and whose securities are publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market. In his role at Company A, George received material non-public information (MNPI) regarding Company A’s profit and revenue performance.

    George’s last day of employment at Company A was April 7, 2023. On that day, George used a Company A computer to generate out of Company A’s enterprise resource planning system a consolidated income statement showing Company A’s financial performance for the first quarter of 2023, which George knew contained MNPI. The income statement showed that Company A’s first quarter of 2023 had greatly exceeded expectations. Shortly after generating the income statement, George emailed it to himself using two personal email accounts.

    Beginning on April 10, 2023, the first trading day after his last day of employment with Company A, and continuing through May 8, 2023, George purchased Company A securities on the basis of MNPI — specifically, 20,000 shares of Company A common stock and 300 call option contracts. On May 9, 2023, after the market close, Company A publicly reported better-than-expected earnings and sales for the first quarter of 2023, including an all-time quarterly record in revenue. After the public announcement, Company A’s stock price increased significantly. During the next trading day, May 10, 2023, George sold all 20,000 shares of common stock and 300 call option contracts, resulting in over $1.6 million in personal profits.

    George pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 28 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Justin E. Fleck of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department appreciates the assistance of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group.

    Trial Attorneys Matthew F. Sullivan and Matt Kahn of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eli S. Rubin and Elizabeth Young for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff for the Southern District of Florida is handling asset forfeiture.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gibson Energy Announces Chief Financial Officer Transition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gibson Energy Inc. (“Gibson” or the “Company”) announced that Sean Brown has stepped down today from his role as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

    “On behalf of the Board and leadership team, I want to thank Sean for his role in building Gibson’s strong financial foundation,” said Curtis Philippon, President & Chief Executive Officer. “Also, his contributions to date to ensure a seamless transition are appreciated and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

    Concurrently, the Company is pleased to announce that effective immediately Riley Hicks, Senior Vice President, Corporate Development, Marketing & Strategy, will succeed Mr. Brown as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

    “Since joining Gibson in 2018, Riley has held critical roles in several areas of the business and was the ideal choice to step into the role of Chief Financial Officer,” Mr. Philippon added. “His deep knowledge of the business and proven leadership will be instrumental in driving our financial strategy forward, delivering long-term value to shareholders and will help position Gibson for future successes.”

    Riley Hicks Biography
    Mr. Hicks joined Gibson in 2018 and most recently held the position of Senior Vice President, Corporate Development, Marketing & Strategy. Prior to this position, Riley held various leadership roles across the finance, commercial, and marketing organizations. Before joining the Company, Riley developed a comprehensive understanding of the midstream and energy sector through experience in accounting, equity research, and corporate valuation consulting for energy clients. Riley holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree from Trinity College, an MBA from Northeastern University, and is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada and Alberta (CPA).

    About Gibson
    Gibson is a leading liquids infrastructure company with its principal businesses consisting of the storage, optimization, processing, and gathering of liquids and refined products. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the Company’s operations are located across North America, with core terminal assets in Hardisty and Edmonton, Alberta, Ingleside and Wink, Texas, and a facility in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

    Gibson shares trade under the symbol GEI and are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. For more information, visit www.gibsonenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, forward-looking statements) including, but not limited to, statements concerning Gibson’s ability to execute its corporate strategy and achieve the expected outcomes therefrom. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words ‘‘anticipate’’, ‘‘plan’’, ‘‘contemplate’’, ‘‘continue’’, ‘‘estimate’’, ‘‘expect’’, ‘‘intend’’, ‘‘propose’’, ‘‘might’’, ‘‘may’’, ‘‘will’’, ‘‘shall’’, ‘‘project’’, ‘‘should’’, ‘‘could’’, ‘‘would’’, ‘‘believe’’, ‘‘predict’’, ‘‘forecast’’, ‘‘pursue’’, ‘‘potential’’ and ‘‘capable’’ and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements.. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as required by securities law. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described in “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” included in the Company’s Annual Information Form and Management’s Discussion and Analysis, each dated February 20, 2024, as filed on SEDAR+ and available on the Gibson website at www.gibsonenergy.com.

    For further information, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    (403) 776-3077
    investor.relations@gibsonenergy.com 

    Media Relations:
    (403) 476-6334
    communications@gibsonenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Enphase Energy Reports Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company and the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems, announced today financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024, which included the summary below from its President and CEO, Badri Kothandaraman.

    We reported quarterly revenue of $382.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, along with 53.2% for non-GAAP gross margin. We shipped approximately 2.01 million microinverters, or 878.0 megawatts DC, and 152.4 megawatt hours of IQ® Batteries.

    Financial highlights for the fourth quarter of 2024 are listed below:

    • Strong U.S. manufacturing: shipped 1.69 million microinverters and 6.7 megawatt hours of IQ Batteries
    • Quarterly revenue of $382.7 million
    • GAAP gross margin of 51.8%; non-GAAP gross margin of 53.2% with net IRA benefit
    • Non-GAAP gross margin of 39.7%, excluding net IRA benefit of 13.5%
    • GAAP operating income of $54.8 million; non-GAAP operating income of $120.4 million
    • GAAP net income of $62.2 million; non-GAAP net income of $125.9 million
    • GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.45; non-GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.94
    • Free cash flow of $159.2 million; ending cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and marketable securities of $1.72 billion

    Our revenue and earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024 are provided below, compared with the prior quarter:

    (In thousands, except per share and percentage data)

      GAAP   Non-GAAP
      Q4 2024   Q3 2024   Q4 2023   Q4 2024   Q3 2024   Q4 2023
    Revenue $ 382,713     $ 380,873     $ 302,570     $ 382,713     $ 380,873     $ 302,570  
    Gross margin   51.8 %     46.8 %     48.5 %     53.2 %     48.1 %     50.3 %
    Operating expenses $ 143,489     $ 128,383     $ 156,893     $ 83,322     $ 81,612     $ 86,551  
    Operating income (loss) $ 54,804     $ 49,788     $ (10,231 )   $ 120,434     $ 101,411     $ 65,587  
    Net income $ 62,160     $ 45,762     $ 20,919     $ 125,862     $ 88,402     $ 73,474  
    Basic EPS $ 0.46     $ 0.34     $ 0.15     $ 0.94     $ 0.65     $ 0.54  
    Diluted EPS $ 0.45     $ 0.33     $ 0.15     $ 0.94     $ 0.65     $ 0.54  
                                                   

    Our revenue and earnings for the fiscal year 2024 are provided below, compared with the prior year:

    (In thousands, except per share and percentage data)

      GAAP   Non-GAAP
      FY 2024   FY 2023   FY 2024   FY 2023
    Revenue $ 1,330,383     $ 2,290,786     $ 1,330,383     $ 2,290,786  
    Gross margin   47.3 %     46.2 %     48.9 %     47.1 %
    Operating expenses $ 551,846     $ 612,647     $ 329,227     $ 382,115  
    Operating income $ 77,292     $ 445,741     $ 321,919     $ 697,210  
    Net income $ 102,658     $ 438,936     $ 321,044     $ 613,241  
    Basic EPS $ 0.76     $ 3.22     $ 2.37     $ 4.50  
    Diluted EPS $ 0.75     $ 3.08     $ 2.37     $ 4.41  
                                   

    Total revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $382.7 million, compared to $380.9 million in the third quarter of 2024. Our revenue in the United States for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased approximately 6%, compared to the third quarter. The increase in revenue was due to higher microinverter sales. Our revenue in Europe decreased approximately 25% for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to the third quarter. The decline in revenue was the result of a further softening in European demand.

    Our non-GAAP gross margin was 53.2% in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 48.1% in the third quarter. Our non-GAAP gross margin, excluding net IRA benefit, was 39.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 38.9% in the third quarter.

    Our non-GAAP operating expenses were $83.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $81.6 million in the third quarter. The increase was driven by higher R&D expense on new products. Our non-GAAP operating income was $120.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $101.4 million in the third quarter.

    We exited the fourth quarter of 2024 with $1.72 billion in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and marketable securities and generated $167.3 million in cash flow from operations in the fourth quarter. Our capital expenditures were $8.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $8.5 million in the third quarter of 2024.

    In the fourth quarter of 2024, we repurchased 2,883,438 shares of our common stock at an average price of $69.25 per share for a total of approximately $199.7 million. We also spent approximately $5.0 million by withholding shares to cover taxes for employee stock vesting that reduced the diluted shares by 68,532 shares.

    We shipped 152.4 megawatt hours of IQ Batteries in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 172.9 megawatt hours in the third quarter. More than 10,300 installers worldwide are certified to install our IQ Batteries, compared to more than 9,000 installers worldwide in the third quarter of 2024.

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, we shipped approximately 1.69 million microinverters from our contract manufacturing facilities in the United States that we booked for 45X production tax credits. We also expanded our higher domestic content product offerings, and shipped our IQ8HC™ Microinverters, IQ8X™ Microinverters, IQ8P-3P™ Commercial Microinverters, and IQ® Battery 5Ps, all with higher domestic content than previous models and produced at our contract manufacturing facilities in the United States.

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, we made great strides with the IQ® Meter Collar, fourth-generation IQ Battery, and new IQ® Combiner products. We launched the IQ® PowerPack 1500, a 1.5 kWh smart, portable energy system for home, work, and on-the-go use. In Europe, we introduced the IQ® EV Charger 2, a next-generation smart charger that integrates with our solar and battery systems seamlessly or works as a standalone. In January 2025, we began shipping the IQ® Battery 5P™ with FlexPhase to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, delivering reliable backup power for both single- and three-phase installations.

    BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

    On Jan. 30, 2025, Enphase Energy announced that it is expanding in Southeast Asia by entering the solar markets in Vietnam and Malaysia with IQ8P™ Microinverters.

    On Jan. 27, 2025, Enphase Energy announced integration with Octopus Energy’s smart tariffs in the UK, such as “Intelligent Octopus Flux” (IO Flux), which can help customers save money on electricity bills.

    On Jan. 23, 2025, Enphase Energy announced that its IQ8™ Microinverters for residential and commercial applications, are now in compliance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act.

    On Jan. 13, 2025, Enphase Energy announced shipments of its most powerful and versatile battery yet, the IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase, for customers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. With reliable backup power and support for single- and three-phase systems, it offers unmatched flexibility for home energy needs.

    On Jan. 9, 2025, Enphase Energy announced that it is expanding into Latin America with IQ8P Microinverters, bringing solar solutions to Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica for residential and commercial use. 

    On Jan. 7, 2025, Enphase Energy announced that IQ8 Microinverters were selected for a 2.2 MW solar project at the Belgoprocess radioactive waste facility in Dessel, Belgium. 

    On Dec. 17, 2024, Enphase Energy announced initial shipments of its most powerful home battery to-date, the IQ Battery 5P, for customers in India. 

    On Dec. 5 and Dec. 9, 2024, Enphase Energy announced collaborations with two energy providers in the Netherlands, Frank Energie and NextEnergy, to enable participation in the grid imbalance energy marketplace.

    On Dec. 3, 2024, Enphase Energy announced the launch of Busbar Power Control software that empowers homeowners to install larger solar and battery systems without costly main electrical panel upgrades.

    On Nov. 11, 2024, Enphase Energy announced an AI-powered do-it-yourself (DIY) permitting feature on Solargraf®, to automate the complex solar permitting process for installers in the USA.

    On Nov. 4, 2024, Enphase Energy announced the launch of its most powerful Enphase Energy System to-date, featuring the IQ Battery 5P and IQ8 Microinverters, for customers in Romania.

    FIRST QUARTER 2025 FINANCIAL OUTLOOK

    For the first quarter of 2025, Enphase Energy estimates both GAAP and non-GAAP financial results as follows:

    • Revenue to be within a range of $340.0 million to $380.0 million, which includes shipments of 150 to 170 megawatt hours of IQ Batteries. The first quarter of 2025 financial outlook includes approximately $50.0 million of safe harbor revenue. We define safe harbor revenue as any sales made to customers who plan to install the inventory over more than one year.
    • GAAP gross margin to be within a range of 46.0% to 49.0% with net IRA benefit
    • Non-GAAP gross margin to be within a range of 48.0% to 51.0% with net IRA benefit and 38.0% to 41.0% excluding net IRA benefit. Non-GAAP gross margin excludes stock-based compensation expense and acquisition related amortization
    • Net IRA benefit to be within a range of $36.0 million to $39.0 million based on estimated shipments of 1,200,000 units of U.S. manufactured microinverters
    • GAAP operating expenses to be within a range of $143.0 million to $147.0 million
    • Non-GAAP operating expenses to be within a range of $81.0 million to $85.0 million, excluding $62.0 million estimated for stock-based compensation expense, acquisition related expenses and amortization, restructuring and asset impairment charges

    For 2025, GAAP and non-GAAP annualized effective tax rate with IRA benefit, excluding discrete items, is expected to be within a range of 17.0% to 19.0%.

    Follow Enphase Online

    Use of non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Enphase Energy has presented certain non-GAAP financial measures in this press release. Generally, a non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company’s performance, financial position, or cash flows that either exclude or include amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP). Reconciliation of each non-GAAP financial measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure can be found in the accompanying tables to this press release. Non-GAAP financial measures presented by Enphase Energy include non-GAAP gross profit, gross margin, operating expenses, income from operations, net income, net income per share (basic and diluted), net IRA benefit, and free cash flow.

    These non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect a comprehensive system of accounting, differ from GAAP measures with the same captions and may differ from non-GAAP financial measures with the same or similar captions that are used by other companies. In addition, these non-GAAP measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all of the amounts associated with Enphase Energy’s results of operations as determined in accordance with GAAP. As such, these non-GAAP measures should be considered as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Enphase Energy uses these non-GAAP financial measures to analyze its operating performance and future prospects, develop internal budgets and financial goals, and to facilitate period-to-period comparisons. Enphase Energy believes that these non-GAAP financial measures reflect an additional way of viewing aspects of its operations that, when viewed with its GAAP results, provide a more complete understanding of factors and trends affecting its business.

    As presented in the “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables below, each of the non-GAAP financial measures excludes one or more of the following items for purposes of calculating non-GAAP financial measures to facilitate an evaluation of Enphase Energy’s current operating performance and a comparison to its past operating performance:

    Stock-based compensation expense. Enphase Energy excludes stock-based compensation expense from its non-GAAP measures primarily because they are non-cash in nature. Moreover, the impact of this expense is significantly affected by Enphase Energy’s stock price at the time of an award over which management has limited to no control.

    Acquisition related expenses and amortization. This item represents expenses incurred related to Enphase Energy’s business acquisitions, which are non-recurring in nature, and amortization of acquired intangible assets, which is a non-cash expense. Acquisition related expenses and amortization of acquired intangible assets are not reflective of Enphase Energy’s ongoing financial performance.

    Restructuring and asset impairment charges. Enphase Energy excludes restructuring and asset impairment charges due to the nature of the expenses being unusual and arising outside the ordinary course of continuing operations. These costs primarily consist of fees paid for cash-based severance costs, accelerated stock-based compensation expense and asset write-downs of property and equipment and acquired intangible assets, and other contract termination costs resulting from restructuring initiatives.

    Non-cash interest expense. This item consists primarily of amortization of debt issuance costs and accretion of debt discount because these expenses do not represent a cash outflow for Enphase Energy except in the period the financing was secured and such amortization expense is not reflective of Enphase Energy’s ongoing financial performance.

    Non-GAAP income tax adjustment. This item represents the amount adjusted to Enphase Energy’s GAAP tax provision or benefit to exclude the income tax effects of GAAP adjustments such as stock-based compensation, amortization of purchased intangibles, and other non-recurring items that are not reflective of Enphase Energy ongoing financial performance.

    Non-GAAP net income per share, diluted. Enphase Energy excludes the dilutive effect of in-the-money portion of convertible senior notes as they are covered by convertible note hedge transactions that reduce potential dilution to our common stock upon conversion of the Notes due 2025, Notes due 2026, and Notes due 2028, and includes the dilutive effect of employee’s stock-based awards and the dilutive effect of warrants. Enphase Energy believes these adjustments provide useful supplemental information to the ongoing financial performance.

    Net IRA benefit. This item represents the advanced manufacturing production tax credit (AMPTC) from the IRA for manufacturing microinverters in the United States, partially offset by the incremental manufacturing cost incurred in the United States relative to manufacturing in Mexico, India, and China. The AMPTC is accounted for by Enphase Energy as an income-based government grants that reduces cost of revenues in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

    Free cash flow. This item represents net cash flows from operating activities less purchases of property and equipment.

    Conference Call Information

    Enphase Energy will host a conference call for analysts and investors to discuss its fourth quarter 2024 results and first quarter 2025 business outlook today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (1:30 p.m. Pacific Time). The call is open to the public by dialing (833) 634-5018. A live webcast of the conference call will also be accessible from the “Investor Relations” section of Enphase Energy’s website at https://investor.enphase.com. Following the webcast, an archived version will be available on the website for approximately one year. In addition, an audio replay of the conference call will be available by calling (877) 344-7529; replay access code 3831590, beginning approximately one hour after the call.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements related to Enphase Energy’s expectations as to its first quarter of 2025 financial outlook, including revenue, shipments of IQ Batteries by megawatt hours, gross margin with net IRA benefit and excluding net IRA benefit, estimated shipments of U.S. manufactured microinverters, operating expenses, and annualized effective tax rate with IRA benefit; its expectations regarding the expected net IRA benefit; its expectations on the timing and introduction of new products and updates to existing products, including the IQ Meter Collar, fourth-generation IQ Battery, and new IQ Combiner products; its expectations regarding higher domestic content product offerings; and the capabilities, advantages, features, and performance of its technology and products. These forward-looking statements are based on Enphase Energy’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Enphase Energy’s actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties including those risks described in more detail in its most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and other documents on file with the SEC from time to time and available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Enphase Energy undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations, except as required by law.

    A copy of this press release can be found on the investor relations page of Enphase Energy’s website at https://investor.enphase.com.

    About Enphase Energy, Inc.

    Enphase Energy, a global energy technology company based in Fremont, CA, is the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems that enable people to harness the sun to make, use, save, and sell their own power—and control it all with a smart mobile app. The company revolutionized the solar industry with its microinverter-based technology and builds all-in-one solar, battery, and software solutions. Enphase has shipped approximately 80.0 million microinverters, and approximately 4.7 million Enphase-based systems have been deployed in more than 160 countries. For more information, visit https://enphase.com/.

    ©2025 Enphase Energy, Inc. All rights reserved. Enphase Energy, Enphase, the “e” logo, IQ, IQ8, and certain other marks listed at https://enphase.com/trademark-usage-guidelines   are trademarks or service marks of Enphase Energy, Inc. Other names are for informational purposes and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Contact:

    Zach Freedman
    Enphase Energy, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    ir@enphaseenergy.com

    ENPHASE ENERGY, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (In thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended Year Ended
      December 31, 
    2024    		   September 30, 
    2024    		   December 31, 
    2023    		   December 31, 
    2024    		   December 31, 
    2023
    Net revenues $ 382,713     $ 380,873     $ 302,570     $ 1,330,383     $ 2,290,786  
    Cost of revenues   184,420       202,702       155,908       701,245       1,232,398  
    Gross profit   198,293       178,171       146,662       629,138       1,058,388  
    Operating expenses:                  
    Research and development   50,390       47,843       55,291       201,315       227,336  
    Sales and marketing   51,799       49,671       53,409       206,552       231,792  
    General and administrative   31,901       30,192       33,379       130,825       137,835  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   9,399       677       14,814       13,154       15,684  
    Total operating expenses   143,489       128,383       156,893       551,846       612,647  
    Income (loss) from operations   54,804       49,788       (10,231 )     77,292       445,741  
    Other income, net                  
    Interest income   18,417       19,977       20,493       77,306       69,728  
    Interest expense   (2,252 )     (2,237 )     (2,268 )     (8,905 )     (8,839 )
    Other income (expense), net   (1,270 )     (16,785 )     4,233       (25,534 )     6,509  
    Total other income, net   14,895       955       22,458       42,867       67,398  
    Income before income taxes   69,699       50,743       12,227       120,159       513,139  
    Income tax (provision) benefit   (7,539 )     (4,981 )     8,692       (17,501 )     (74,203 )
    Net income $ 62,160     $ 45,762     $ 20,919     $ 102,658     $ 438,936  
    Net income per share:                  
    Basic $ 0.46     $ 0.34     $ 0.15     $ 0.76     $ 3.22  
    Diluted $ 0.45     $ 0.33     $ 0.15     $ 0.75     $ 3.08  
    Shares used in per share calculation:                  
    Basic   133,815       135,329       136,092       135,167       136,376  
    Diluted   138,128       139,914       139,205       140,004       143,290  
                                           
    ENPHASE ENERGY, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
      December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
    ASSETS      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 369,110   $ 288,748
    Restricted cash   95,006     —
    Marketable securities   1,253,480     1,406,286
    Accounts receivable, net   223,749     445,959
    Inventory   165,004     213,595
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   220,735     88,930
    Total current assets   2,327,084     2,443,518
    Property and equipment, net   147,514     168,244
    Operating lease, right of use asset, net   24,617     19,887
    Intangible assets, net   42,398     68,536
    Goodwill   211,571     214,562
    Other assets   180,925     215,895
    Deferred tax assets, net   315,567     252,370
    Total assets $ 3,249,676   $ 3,383,012
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Current liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 90,032   $ 116,164
    Accrued liabilities   196,887     261,919
    Deferred revenues, current   237,225     118,300
    Warranty obligations, current   34,656     36,066
    Debt, current   101,291     —
    Total current liabilities   660,091     532,449
    Long-term liabilities:      
    Deferred revenues, non-current   341,982     369,172
    Warranty obligations, non-current   158,233     153,021
    Other liabilities   55,265     51,008
    Debt, non-current   1,201,089     1,293,738
    Total liabilities   2,416,660     2,399,388
    Total stockholders’ equity   833,016     983,624
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,249,676   $ 3,383,012
               
    ENPHASE ENERGY, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended   Year Ended
      December 31, 
    2024    		   September 30, 
    2024    		   December 31, 
    2023    		   December 31, 
    2024    		   December 31, 
    2023
    Cash flows from operating activities:                  
    Net income $ 62,160     $ 45,762     $ 20,919     $ 102,658     $ 438,936  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:                  
    Depreciation and amortization   20,665       20,103       20,841       81,389       74,708  
    Net accretion of discount on marketable securities   (7,490 )     (2,904 )     (2,950 )     (8,599 )     (15,561 )
    Provision for doubtful accounts   2,206       2,704       (129 )     6,677       1,153  
    Asset impairment   4,702       17,568       9,700       28,843       10,603  
    Non-cash interest expense   2,188       2,173       2,126       8,650       8,380  
    Net loss (gain) from change in fair value of debt securities   (3,697 )     741       (2,670 )     (1,967 )     (8,078 )
    Stock-based compensation   51,830       45,940       55,222       211,360       212,857  
    Deferred income taxes   (30,675 )     (5,276 )     (5,053 )     (58,319 )     (43,348 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                  
    Accounts receivable   2,684       49,414       105,771       211,640       (12,478 )
    Inventory   (6,167 )     17,231       (39,481 )     48,591       (63,887 )
    Prepaid expenses and other assets   (16,487 )     (64,149 )     (2,401 )     (134,343 )     (59,777 )
    Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities   (27,396 )     32,088       (139,277 )     (85,536 )     (22,149 )
    Warranty obligations   8,657       7,053       221       3,802       57,641  
    Deferred revenues   104,112       1,690       12,611       98,847       117,780  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   167,292       170,138       35,450       513,693       696,780  
    Cash flows from investing activities:                  
    Purchases of property and equipment   (8,064 )     (8,533 )     (20,075 )     (33,604 )     (110,401 )
    Purchases of marketable securities   (93,138 )     (319,190 )     (337,757 )     (1,184,649 )     (2,081,431 )
    Maturities and sale of marketable securities   351,843       215,241       433,869       1,346,520       1,840,477  
    Investments in private companies   —       —       —       —       (15,000 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   250,641       (112,482 )     76,037       128,267       (366,355 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:                  
    Partial settlement of convertible notes   —       (5 )     —       (7 )     —  
    Repurchase of common stock   (199,666 )     (49,794 )     (99,998 )     (391,364 )     (409,998 )
    Payment of excise tax on net stock repurchases   (2,773 )     —       —       (2,773 )     —  
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee equity plans   4,719       14       12,555       12,688       13,870  
    Payment of withholding taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards   (5,012 )     (6,286 )     (27,546 )     (78,813 )     (120,646 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (202,732 )     (56,071 )     (114,989 )     (460,269 )     (516,774 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash   (7,410 )     2,638       2,175       (6,323 )     1,853  
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash   207,791       4,223       (1,327 )     175,368       (184,496 )
    Cash and cash equivalents—Beginning of period   256,325       252,102       290,075       288,748       473,244  
    Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash—End of period $ 464,116     $ 256,325     $ 288,748     $ 464,116     $ 288,748  
                                           
    ENPHASE ENERGY, INC.
    RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    (In thousands, except per share data and percentages)
    (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended   Year Ended
      December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		   December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
    Gross profit (GAAP) $ 198,293     $ 178,171     $ 146,662     $ 629,138     $ 1,058,388  
    Stock-based compensation   3,678       2,948       3,582       14,538       13,357  
    Acquisition related amortization   1,784       1,904       1,894       7,469       7,580  
    Gross profit (Non-GAAP) $ 203,755     $ 183,023     $ 152,138     $ 651,145     $ 1,079,325  
                       
    Gross margin (GAAP)   51.8 %     46.8 %     48.5 %     47.3 %     46.2 %
    Stock-based compensation   0.9       0.8       1.2       1.0       0.6  
    Acquisition related amortization   0.5       0.5       0.6       0.6       0.3  
    Gross margin (Non-GAAP)   53.2 %     48.1 %     50.3 %     48.9 %     47.1 %
                       
    Operating expenses (GAAP) $ 143,489     $ 128,383     $ 156,893     $ 551,846     $ 612,647  
    Stock-based compensation (1)   (47,884 )     (42,992 )     (51,640 )     (196,554 )     (199,500 )
    Acquisition related expenses and amortization   (2,884 )     (3,102 )     (3,888 )     (12,911 )     (15,317 )
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges (1)   (9,399 )     (677 )     (14,814 )     (13,154 )     (15,715 )
    Operating expenses (Non-GAAP) $ 83,322     $ 81,612     $ 86,551     $ 329,227     $ 382,115  
                       
    (1) Includes stock-based compensation as follows:                  
    Research and development $ 20,951     $ 19,790     $ 23,839     $ 85,501     $ 88,367  
    Sales and marketing   15,893       14,237       16,472       65,092       65,703  
    General and administrative   11,041       8,965       11,329       45,962       45,430  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   267       —       —       267       —  
    Total $ 48,152     $ 42,992     $ 51,640     $ 196,822     $ 199,500  
                       
    Income (loss) from operations (GAAP) $ 54,804     $ 49,788     $ (10,231 )   $ 77,292     $ 445,741  
    Stock-based compensation   51,563       45,940       55,222       211,093       212,857  
    Acquisition related expenses and amortization   4,668       5,006       5,782       20,380       22,897  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   9,399       677       14,814       13,154       15,715  
    Income from operations (Non-GAAP) $ 120,434     $ 101,411     $ 65,587     $ 321,919     $ 697,210  
                       
    Net income (GAAP) $ 62,160     $ 45,762     $ 20,919     $ 102,658     $ 438,936  
    Stock-based compensation   51,563       45,940       55,222       211,093       212,857  
    Acquisition related expenses and amortization   4,668       5,006       5,782       20,380       22,897  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   9,399       677       14,814       13,154       15,715  
    Non-cash interest expense   2,188       2,173       2,126       8,650       8,380  
    Non-GAAP income tax adjustment   (4,116 )     (11,156 )     (25,389 )     (34,891 )     (85,544 )
    Net income (Non-GAAP) $ 125,862     $ 88,402     $ 73,474     $ 321,044     $ 613,241  
                       
    Net income per share, basic (GAAP) $ 0.46     $ 0.34     $ 0.15     $ 0.76     $ 3.22  
    Stock-based compensation   0.39       0.34       0.40       1.56       1.56  
    Acquisition related expenses and amortization   0.03       0.04       0.08       0.15       0.17  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   0.07       0.01       0.11       0.10       0.12  
    Non-cash interest expense   0.02       0.02       0.02       0.06       0.06  
    Non-GAAP income tax adjustment   (0.03 )     (0.10 )     (0.22 )     (0.26 )     (0.63 )
    Net income per share, basic (Non-GAAP) $ 0.94     $ 0.65     $ 0.54     $ 2.37     $ 4.50  
                       
    Shares used in basic per share calculation GAAP and Non-GAAP   133,815       135,329       136,092       135,167       136,376  
                       
    Net income per share, diluted (GAAP) $ 0.45     $ 0.33     $ 0.15     $ 0.75     $ 3.08  
    Stock-based compensation   0.39       0.33       0.39       1.56       1.57  
    Acquisition related expenses and amortization   0.04       0.04       0.08       0.15       0.16  
    Restructuring and asset impairment charges   0.07       0.01       0.10       0.10       0.11  
    Non-cash interest expense   0.02       0.02       0.01       0.06       0.06  
    Non-GAAP income tax adjustment   (0.03 )     (0.08 )     (0.19 )     (0.26 )     (0.57 )
    Net income per share, diluted (Non-GAAP) (2) $ 0.94     $ 0.65     $ 0.54     $ 2.37     $ 4.41  
                       
    Shares used in diluted per share calculation GAAP   138,128       139,914       139,205       140,004       143,290  
    Shares used in diluted per share calculation Non-GAAP   134,053       135,839       137,187       135,641       139,214  
                       
    Income-based government grants (GAAP) $ 68,040     $ 46,552     $ 32,887     $ 157,538     $ 53,470  
    Incremental cost for manufacturing in U.S.   (16,123 )     (11,396 )     (7,112 )     (38,351 )     (11,603 )
    Net IRA benefit (Non-GAAP) $ 51,917     $ 35,156     $ 25,775     $ 119,187     $ 41,867  
                       
    Net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP) $ 167,292     $ 170,138     $ 35,450     $ 513,693     $ 696,780  
    Purchases of property and equipment   (8,064 )     (8,533 )     (20,075 )     (33,604 )     (110,401 )
    Free cash flow (Non-GAAP) $ 159,228     $ 161,605     $ 15,375     $ 480,089     $ 586,379  
                                           
    (2)  Calculation of non-GAAP diluted net income per share for the year ended December 31, 2023 excludes convertible Notes due 2023 interest expense, net of tax of less than $0.1 million from non-GAAP net income.

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Key Tronic Corporation Announces Results For the Second Quarter of Fiscal Year 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Key Tronic Corporation (Nasdaq: KTCC), a provider of electronic manufacturing services (EMS), today announced its results for the quarter ended December 28, 2024. These results are in line with the updated guidance provided on January 24, 2025.

    For the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, Key Tronic reported total revenue of $113.9 million, compared to $147.8 million in the same period of fiscal year 2024. The lower than anticipated revenue and earnings for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 are primarily due to unexpected shortages for specific components managed by a large customer, lower-than-expected production during the holiday season, and reduced demand from certain customers which together lowered revenue by approximately $15 million from initial guidance for the quarter. For the first six months of fiscal year 2025, total revenue was $245.4 million, compared to $298.0 million in the same period of fiscal year 2024.

    Gross margins were 6.8% and operating margins were (1.0)% in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to 8.0% and 2.7%, respectively, in the same period of fiscal year 2024. The decline in margins for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 primarily reflects the reduction of revenue. As previously announced, interest expense also included approximately $1.0 million in write-offs of unamortized loan fees related to refinancing the Company’s debt with a new lender.

    The net loss was $(4.9) million or $(0.46) per share for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to net income of $1.1 million or $0.10 per share for the same period of fiscal year 2024. For the first six months of fiscal year 2025, the net loss was $(3.8) million or $(0.35) per share, compared to net income of $1.4 million or $0.13 per share for the same period of fiscal year 2024.

    The adjusted net loss was $(4.1) million or $(0.38) per share for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025, compared to adjusted net income of $1.1 million or $0.10 per share for the same period of fiscal year 2024. The adjusted net loss was $(2.9) million or $(0.27) per share for first six months of fiscal year 2025, compared to adjusted net income of $1.2 million or $0.11 per share for the same period of fiscal year 2024. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures,” below for additional information about adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share.

    “As we announced today, we’re planning to significantly increase production capacity in Arkansas and Vietnam in order to continue to benefit from the growing customer demand for rebalancing their contract manufacturing. We believe these initiatives should help mitigate the adverse impact and uncertainties surrounding the recently announced tariffs on goods manufactured in China and Mexico,” said Brett Larsen, President and CEO.

    “We are disappointed with the unexpected decline in revenue in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, however, we expect our revenue and earnings to improve in the third quarter of fiscal year 2025 as strategic initiatives undertaken in previous quarters come to fruition. We’re actively streamlining our international and domestic operations, with further headcount reductions to enhance efficiency, building on similar actions a year ago. We’re also pleased to see our inventory levels being more in line with current revenue levels and expect that these strategic changes will improve our overall profitability in the longer term.”  

    “At the same time, we continued to win new programs, such as aerospace systems and an energy resiliency technology program, which was recently announced. Once fully ramped, the latter program could generate annual revenue for us in excess of $60 million. We also closed on a long-term debt refinancing agreement during the quarter that expands available capital for growth. We believe Key Tronic remains well positioned for increased growth and profitability in coming periods.”

    The financial data presented for the second quarter of fiscal 2025 should be considered preliminary and could be subject to change, as the Company’s independent auditor has not completed their review procedures.

    Business Outlook

    Due to uncertainty in the economic and political environments related to the impact of recently announced potential tariffs, Key Tronic will not be issuing revenue or earnings guidance for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025.

    Conference Call

    Key Tronic will host a conference call to discuss its financial results at 2:00 PM Pacific (5:00 PM Eastern) today. A broadcast of the conference call will be available at www.keytronic.com under “Investor Relations” or by calling 888-394-8218 or +1-313-209-4906 (Access Code: 2254355). The Company will also reference accompanying slides that can be viewed with the webcast at www.keytronic.com under “Investor Relations”. A replay will be available at www.keytronic.com under “Investor Relations”.

    About Key Tronic

    Key Tronic is a leading contract manufacturer offering value-added design and manufacturing services from its facilities in the United States, Mexico, China and Vietnam. The Company provides its customers with full engineering services, materials management, worldwide manufacturing facilities, assembly services, in-house testing, and worldwide distribution. Its customers include some of the world’s leading original equipment manufacturers. For more information about Key Tronic visit: www.keytronic.com 

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Some of the statements in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to those including such words as aims, anticipates, believes, continues, estimates, expects, hopes, intends, plans, predicts, projects, targets, will, or would, similar verbs, or nouns corresponding to such verbs, which may be forward looking. Forward-looking statements also include other passages that are relevant to expected future events, performances, and actions or that can only be fully evaluated by events that will occur in the future. Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, the Company’s statements regarding its expectations with respect to financial conditions and results, including revenue and earnings, cost savings from headcount reduction and the Mexican Peso exchange rate, demand for certain products and the effectiveness of some of its programs, business from customers and programs, and impacts from operational streamlining and efficiencies, including reductions in inventories. There are many factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted or projected in forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: the future of the global economic environment and its impact on our customers and suppliers; the success and timing of our expansion plans; the availability of components from the supply chain; the availability of a healthy workforce; the accuracy of suppliers’ and customers’ forecasts; development and success of customers’ programs and products; timing and effectiveness of ramping of new programs; success of new-product introductions; the risk of legal proceedings or governmental investigations relating to the previously reported financial statement restatements and related material weaknesses, the May 2024 cybersecurity incident and the subject of the internal investigation by the Company’s Audit Committee and related or other unrelated matters; acquisitions or divestitures of operations or facilities; technology advances; changes in pricing policies by the Company, its competitors, customers or suppliers; impact of new governmental legislation and regulation, including tax reform, tariffs and related activities, such trade negotiations and other risks; and other factors, risks, and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    To supplement our consolidated financial statements, which are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), we use certain non-GAAP financial measures, adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share, diluted. We provide these non-GAAP financial measures because we believe they provide greater transparency related to our core operations and represent supplemental information used by management in its financial and operational decision making. We exclude (or include) certain items in our non-GAAP financial measures as we believe the net result is a measure of our core business. We believe this facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period by eliminating potential differences caused by the existence and timing of certain income and expense items that would not otherwise be apparent on a GAAP basis. Non-GAAP performance measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, results prepared in accordance with GAAP. We strongly encourage investors and shareholders to review our financial statements and publicly-filed reports in their entirety and not to rely on any single financial measure. Our non-GAAP financial measures may be different from those reported by other companies. See the table below entitled “Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures” for reconciliations of adjusted net income to the most directly comparable GAAP measure, which is GAAP net income, and the computation of adjusted net income per share, diluted.

             
    CONTACTS:   Tony Voorhees   Michael Newman
        Chief Financial Officer   Investor Relations
        Key Tronic Corporation   StreetConnect
        (509)-927-5345   (206) 729-3625
             

    KEY TRONIC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (In thousands, except per share amounts)
    (Unaudited)

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      December 28, 2024   December 30, 2023   December 28, 2024   December 30, 2023
    Net sales $ 113,853     $ 147,847     $ 245,411     $ 297,959  
    Cost of sales   106,147       136,084       224,402       275,334  
    Gross profit   7,706       11,763       21,009       22,625  
    Research, development and engineering expenses   2,320       1,758       4,609       3,999  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   6,507       6,057       13,077       11,841  
    Gain on insurance proceeds, net of losses   —       —       —       (431 )
    Total operating expenses   8,827       7,815       17,686       15,409  
    Operating income (loss)   (1,121 )     3,948       3,323       7,216  
    Interest expense, net   3,904       2,961       7,167       5,972  
    Income (loss) before income taxes   (5,025 )     987       (3,844 )     1,244  
    Income tax benefit   (111 )     (97 )     (54 )     (175 )
    Net income (loss) $ (4,914 )   $ 1,084     $ (3,790 )   $ 1,419  
    Net income (loss) per share — Basic $ (0.46 )   $ 0.10     $ (0.35 )   $ 0.13  
    Weighted average shares outstanding — Basic   10,762       10,762       10,762       10,762  
    Net income (loss) per share — Diluted $ (0.46 )   $ 0.10     $ (0.35 )   $ 0.13  
    Weighted average shares outstanding — Diluted   10,762       10,889       10,762       10,889  
                                   

    KEY TRONIC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
    (Unaudited)

        December 28, 2024   June 29, 2024
    ASSETS        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 4,244     $ 4,752  
    Trade receivables, net of credit losses of $2,931 and $2,918     113,132       132,559  
    Contract assets     18,892       21,250  
    Inventories, net     100,709       105,099  
    Other, net of credit losses of $1,496 and $1,679     24,159       24,739  
    Total current assets     261,136       288,399  
    Property, plant and equipment, net     27,123       28,806  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net     13,829       15,416  
    Other assets:        
    Deferred income tax asset     19,287       17,376  
    Other     6,454       5,346  
    Total other assets     25,741       22,722  
    Total assets   $ 327,829     $ 355,343  
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable   $ 63,585     $ 79,394  
    Accrued compensation and vacation     6,218       6,510  
    Current portion of long-term debt     5,063       3,123  
    Other     18,904       15,149  
    Total current liabilities     93,770       104,176  
    Long-term liabilities:        
    Long-term debt, net     106,020       116,383  
    Operating lease liabilities     8,429       10,312  
    Deferred income tax liability     9       263  
    Other long-term obligations     114       219  
    Total long-term liabilities     114,572       127,177  
    Total liabilities     208,342       231,353  
    Shareholders’ equity:        
    Common stock, no par value—shares authorized 25,000; issued and outstanding 10,762 and 10,762 shares, respectively     47,367       47,284  
    Retained earnings     73,131       76,921  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (1,011 )     (215 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     119,487       123,990  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 327,829     $ 355,343  
             

    KEY TRONIC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP measures
    (In thousands, except per share amounts)
    (Unaudited)

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      December 28, 2024   December 30, 2023   December 28, 2024   December 30, 2023
    GAAP net income (loss) $ (4,914 )   $ 1,084     $ (3,790 )   $ 1,419  
    Gain on insurance proceeds (net of losses)   —       —       —       (431 )
    Stock-based compensation expense   16       53       83       112  
    Write-off of unamortized loan fees   1,012       —       1,012       —  
    Income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments (1)   (206 )     (11 )     (219 )     64  
    Adjusted net income (loss): $ (4,092 )   $ 1,126     $ (2,914 )   $ 1,164  
                   
    Adjusted net income (loss) per share — non-GAAP Diluted $ (0.38 )   $ 0.10     $ (0.27 )   $ 0.11  
    Weighted average shares outstanding — Diluted   10,762       10,889       10,762       10,889  
                   
    (1) Income tax effects are calculated using an effective tax rate of 20%, which approximates the statutory GAAP tax rate for the presented periods.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Key Tronic Corporation Plans to Expand Operations in Arkansas and Vietnam

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Key Tronic Corporation (Nasdaq KTCC), a world class provider of manufacturing and design engineering services, today announced that it plans to significantly increase production capacity in Arkansas and Vietnam in order to continue to benefit from the growing customer demand for rebalancing their contract manufacturing. This expansion is also expected to help mitigate the adverse impact and uncertainties surrounding the recently announced tariffs on goods manufactured in China and Mexico.

    In Arkansas, the Company has signed a new lease to significantly increase the size of its current manufacturing footprint by June 2025. In Vietnam, Key Tronic has ample space in its current facility and plans to double its manufacturing capacity by September 2025 with a significant investment in capital equipment.

    “Our customers are very excited about our plans to increase our production capacity capabilities in the US and in Vietnam,” said Brett Larsen, President and CEO of Key Tronic Corporation. “These initiatives reflect the longstanding trend to nearshore production away from China, and may also help address the potential adverse impact of tariff increases. Our US-based production provides customers with outstanding flexibility, engineering support, and ease of communications, and our Vietnam-based production offers the high-quality, low-cost choice that was associated with China in the past. In the coming months, we’ll have more to say about these expansions.”

    About Key Tronic

    Key Tronic is a leading design engineering and contract manufacturer offering value-added design and manufacturing services from its facilities in the United States, Mexico, China and Vietnam. Key Tronic provides its customers full engineering services, materials management, worldwide manufacturing facilities, assembly services, in-house testing, and worldwide distribution. Its customers include some of the world’s leading original equipment manufacturers. For more information about Key Tronic visit: www.keytronic.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Some of the statements in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including Key Tronic’s opportunities and its partnership, the potential success of Key Tronic and the customer, and related revenues. Forward-looking statements include all passages containing verbs such as aims, anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, hopes, intends, plans, predicts, projects or targets or nouns corresponding to such verbs.  Forward-looking statements also include other passages that are primarily relevant to expected future events or revenue or that can only be fully evaluated by events that will occur in the future.  There are many factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted or projected in forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: the success and timing of our expansion plans; the success and timing of ramping; availability and timing and receipt of critical parts or components; demand from customers and sales channels; the future of the global economic environment and its impact on our customers and suppliers; the availability of a healthy workforce; the accuracy of suppliers’ and customers’ forecasts; development and success of customers’ programs and products; success of new-product introductions; the risk of legal proceedings or governmental investigations relating to the previously reported financial statement restatements and related material weaknesses, the May 2024 cybersecurity incident and the subject of the internal investigation by the Company’s Audit Committee and related or other unrelated matters; acquisitions or divestitures of operations or facilities; technology advances; changes in pricing policies by the Company, its competitors, customers or suppliers; impact of new governmental legislation and regulation, including tax reform, tariffs and related activities, such trade negotiations and other risks; and other factors, risks, and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings.

             
    CONTACTS:   Anthony G. Voorhees   Michael Newman
        Chief Financial Officer   Investor Relations
        Key Tronic Corporation   StreetConnect
        (509) 927-5345   (206) 729-3625
             

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Statement on Confirmation of Doug Collins to Lead Veterans Affairs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    02.04.25
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hoeven released the following statement after the Senate confirmed former Representative Doug Collins to serve as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs:
    “Congratulations to our newest Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins,” said Hoeven. “His experience as an Air Force Colonel and chaplain have prepared him to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. We appreciate his commitment to ensure that our veterans receive the recognition, benefits and high quality care they have earned. When we met, Secretary Collins also committed to help us advance upgrades for Fargo National Cemetery. He understands what it means to serve, and we look forward to working with him to ensure that our nation keeps its promises to our veterans.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Vote on HHS Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to vote on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

    As prepared for delivery:

    “We meet today to vote on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

    “Mr. Kennedy, if confirmed, will have the opportunity to deliver much needed change to our nation’s health care system.

    “He has spent his career fighting to end America’s chronic illness epidemic and has been a leading advocate for health care transparency, both for patients and for taxpayers.

    “Mr. Kennedy has also clearly responded to our questions during the rigorous due diligence process, his hearing, and in the course of answering over nine hundred questions for the record that were asked by Members of this Committee.

    “In response to Members of this Committee, Mr. Kennedy has even amended his ethics agreement, going beyond what is required by the Office of Government Ethics.

    “Mr. Kennedy has proven his commitment to the role of Secretary of HHS, and I will vote in favor of his nomination. 

    “I strongly encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to do the same.

    “With that, I recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo: Doug Collins Knows Firsthand the Issues Veterans Face

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 77-23, Doug Collins to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):

    “Idaho is home to veterans of many different backgrounds, from every branch of service and from various wars over the past few decades, including post-9/11 veterans.  It is imperative the next Secretary of the VA will fight tirelessly to appropriately honor their service and administer the benefits owed to them by their sacrifices.  His military service coupled with his political and professional work give him the tools necessary to solve complex problems, cut through red tape and get things done for those who have served our country.  Doug Collins knows firsthand the issues veterans face.  He will bring empathy and kindness to meeting their needs.  He has also committed to making the VA more user-friendly so veterans do not need to find outside help to navigate the Department’s bureaucracy.  I congratulate him on his confirmation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Confirms Doug Collins as Secretary of Veterans Affairs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States Senate confirmed Doug Collins as the next Secretary of Veterans Affairs today by a vote of 77 to 23.  
    U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), who served with Collins in the House of Representatives for six years, introduced him at his confirmation hearing and celebrated the bipartisan passage of his nomination from the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Additionally, Cramer penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner highlighting how Collins will restore America’s promise to veterans.
    “Doug puts our veterans first and fights for their access to timely and quality local healthcare,” said Cramer. “His commitment to the law and servant leadership is exactly what the Department of Veterans Affairs needs to stay on mission. I look forward to working with Doug in his new position.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Votes to Confirm Collins for VA Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) issued the following statement after voting to confirm former Congressman Doug Collins (R-Ga.) to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Collins was confirmed by a vote of 77 to 23.

    “Supporting and ensuring timely medical care for our veterans is one of the most important promises our government makes to those who serve,” Senator Capito said. “Congressman Doug Collins’ passion and deep understanding of the issues facing veterans comes from his experience as a veteran himself. His background as a military chaplain, former congressman, and attorney uniquely qualify him to serve in this role and will be critical in delivering results and reforms in the department. I look forward to working with him and the Trump administration as we continue to improve the VA system and advance other efforts to ensure veterans in West Virginia and across the country receive the care and support they deserve.”

    Senator Capito previously met with Collins in December of 2024 to discuss his nomination and learn more about his vision to lead the department.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton Reintroduces Legislation to Eliminate Federal Use of the Term “West Bank”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    February 4, 2025

    Cotton Reintroduces Legislation to Eliminate Federal Use of the Term “West Bank”

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Retiring the Egregious Confusion Over the Genuine Name of Israel’s Zone of Influence by Necessitating Government-use of Judea and Samaria (RECOGNIZING Judea and Samaria) Act, legislation to require all official U.S. documents and materials to use the historically accurate term “Judea and Samaria” instead of the “West Bank”. This bill would require the use of historically accurate terminology and align U.S. policy language with the geographical and cultural significance of the region. This legislation was introduced in the House by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-New York).

    “The Jewish people’s legal and historic rights to Judea and Samaria goes back thousands of years. The U.S. should stop using the politically charged term West Bank to refer to the biblical heartland of Israel,” said Senator Cotton. 

    “The Israeli people have an undeniable and indisputable historical and legal claim over Judea and Samaria,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “By introducing the RECOGNIZING Judea and Samaria Act and creating the Friends of Judea and Samaria Caucus, we are working to reaffirm Israel’s rightful claim to its territory. I am dedicated to working with President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and Ambassador Huckabee to support communities in the region while opposing the establishment of a hostile state that promotes terrorism in Judea and Samaria. I remain committed to defending the integrity of the Jewish state and fully supporting Israel’s sovereignty over Judea and Samaria.

    Text of the legislation may be found here. 

    Background:

    • In 1995, the Clinton administration changed longstanding U.S. policy and required “Made in West Bank” country-of-origin (COO) labels for Israeli goods produced in Judea and Samaria, even though the U.S. government treats these products as “articles of Israel” for trade purposes. 
    • In 2016, the Obama administration republished these labeling guidelines as part of a broader effort to oppose the Israeli government. 
    • The bill pushes back on attempts to undermine Israel’s sovereign territory. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remarks by Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada

    Source: Bank of Canada

    OTTAWA – On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, will speak to the BIS Chapultepec Conference.

    Topic

    Future challenges for monetary policy in the Americas

    Time

    17:00 (Eastern Time)

    Place

    The speech will be delivered by videoconference.

    Lock-Up

    There will be no media lock-up for this event.

    Distribution

    The Governor’s remarks will be published on the Bank’s website at 17:00 (Eastern Time).

    Media Availability

    There will be no media availability for this event.

    Audience Q&A

    There will be no audience Q&A period.

    Webcast

    A webcast of the event will be available on the BIS Website

    Note

    For more information, please contact Media Relations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Budget 2025: Coming soon

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Crapo, and Risch Push to Reauthorize Program Supporting Rural Counties in Oregon, Idaho and Nationwide

    US Senate News:

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

    February 04, 2025

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley (both D-Ore.) said today that they along with U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) and 17 other Senate colleagues have reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) administered for counties hosting both U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management forested lands through Fiscal Year 2026. 

    “This is urgent business for the Oregonians living and working in counties that have long depended on millions of dollars from these federal funds for local schools, roads, law enforcement and more,” said Wyden, who co-authored the bipartisan SRS legislation in 2000.  “I’m glad this bill is being reintroduced right at the start of this new Congress in this bipartisan spirit, and I strongly urge our House colleagues to act with the same urgency and bipartisan ethic to reconnect this proven lifeline ASAP for rural communities in Oregon and nationwide.”

    “Our bipartisan bill provides reliable funding that is crucial to keeping schools and libraries open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural?communities safe,”?said Merkley.  “Congress must swiftly pass this bill to extend the SRS program so Oregon communities can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources.” 

    “The SRS program is a vital lifeline for rural counties where federal lands generate insufficient revenue for important local services,” said Crapo.  “Failure to reauthorize the program puts most of Idaho’s counties in a precarious position with a lack of funding for schools, road maintenance, public safety, and search and rescue operations.  I urge both the Senate and House to take up this measure expeditiously, and remain committed to finding a viable long-term solution that provides more certainty to rural county governments in the future.”

    “Idaho’s counties rely on SRS funding for schools and road maintenance,” said Risch. “The federal government made a promise to rural communities, and until we can bring historic timber revenue back to these areas, Congress has an obligation to fulfill that promise. Congress must immediately reauthorize SRS.”

    “Reauthorizing Secure Rural Schools for three years will help counties with large tracts of federal forests meet the needs of residents and visitors,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase.  “Without SRS, counties would face, on average, an 80 percent drop in resources for infrastructure improvement, education programs and forest health projects.  Many rural counties and school districts are already making difficult decisions due to a lack of funds. Counties applaud the leadership of Senators Crapo and Wyden and look forward to prompt passage of this vital legislation.”

    Additional co-sponsors of the bill include Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), John Curtis (R-Utah), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada).

    Wyden, Merkley, Crapo, and Risch introduced the legislation in the 118th Congress and the Senate unanimously passed it in November 2024.  It did not receive a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives before the end of the Congress.  The program needs to be reauthorized as soon as possible to avoid a gap in funding for rural counties that rely on the program for much-needed services.

    Congress enacted SRS in 2000 to financially assist counties with public, tax-exempt forestlands.  The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management administer the funds.  The totals are based on a formula including economic activity, timber harvest levels and other considerations that vary from county to county.  SRS payments are critical to maintain education programs for many rural counties that contain federal lands exempt from property taxes.

    Text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Hoeven Introduce CRA to Repeal Methane Tax Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) in introducing a resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal a rule proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) included in Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act that creates a new tax on natural gas production. The tax would increase our dependence on foreign nations for energy and cause higher energy costs for consumers. Last month, Senator Tuberville also joined U.S. Senator Ted Cruz in reintroducing legislation to repeal the Natural Gas Tax.

    “For the last four years, Americans have felt the impacts of Bidenflation from the gas pump to the grocery store,” said Senator Tuberville. “Democrats have shut down our offshore drilling and made us reliant on foreign adversaries for our energy without considering the impact that it has on Americans’ daily lives. The last thing hardworking Americans need right now are more taxes and higher prices. I look forward to seeing this disastrous methane tax overturned and working with President Trump to make America energy independent once again.

    Full text of the resolution can be read here.

    Also joining Senators Tuberville and Hoeven in introducing the resolution are U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mike Lee (R-UT), James Lankford (R-OK), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), James Risch (R-ID), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rand Paul (R-KY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Barrasso (R-WY).

    BACKGROUND:

    For the last four years, Senator Tuberville has helped introduce numerous pieces of legislation pushing back against the Biden administration’s war on American energy, citing the impacts rising energy costs would have on hardworking Americans and Alabamians that work in the Gulf of America’s energy industry. Senator Tuberville has also been vocal about how increased energy costs cut into farmers’ bottom lines and the need to bring down energy costs so that we can preserve our small family farms.  

    MORE:

    Tuberville, Cruz Introduce Legislation Eliminating Natural Gas Tax, Bolstering American Energy Security 

    Tuberville, Cruz Introduce Legislation to Repeal Biden’s Natural Gas Tax for Unleashing American Energy

    ICYMI: Tuberville in Fox News: How Congress Can Reverse Biden’s Radical Energy Agenda

    Tuberville Blasts Biden Administration For Playing Politics With U.S. Energy

    Tuberville Applauds NOAA Decision Rejecting Biden Administration’s Rule Threatening Gulf’s Energy Sector

    Tuberville Continues to Fight Biden Administration’s Rule Threatening Gulf’s Energy Sector

    Tuberville Sponsors Legislation to Prevent Administration From Shutting Down Offshore Energy Development

    ICYMI: Tuberville and NOIA President Sound Alarm on Biden Rule Proposal Threatening Gulf’s Energy Sector

    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: February 4th, 2025 Heinrich Announces Appropriations Committee Assignments for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Heinrich named Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch

    WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced his assignments on the Senate Appropriations Committee for the 119th Congress. Heinrich’s positions on the Appropriations Committee allow him to directly advocate for and deliver investments that improve New Mexicans’ safety, well-being, and quality of life.

    “As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have delivered hundreds of millions of dollars in investments to New Mexico, helping to lower costs for working families, grow local economies, and create jobs New Mexicans can build their families around. Our appropriations bills are essential to New Mexico’s economy. They support our local law enforcement, fire departments, hospitals, schools, newborns, elders and veterans, and help keep communities safe across New Mexico.

    “I will stand up to anybody who tries to prevent investments I’ve secured from reaching New Mexicans. The Constitution is clear: the president cannot override, delay, or rescind Congress’s funding laws. Donald Trump’s attacks on federal funding for our state cannot stand.”

    Heinrich has been assigned to the following Senate Appropriations Subcommittees:

    • Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
    • Energy and Water Development Subcommittee
    • Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
    • Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee
    • Legislative Branch Subcommittee

    Heinrich will be Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, which oversees the funding of:

    • Joint Committee on Taxation
    • Joint Economic Committee
    • Congressional Budget Office
    • Government Accountability Office
    • Architect of the Capitol
    • Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (Library of Congress)
    • Botanic Garden (Architect of the Capitol)
    • Capitol Police
    • Congressional Research Service (Library of Congress)
    • Copyright Office (Library of Congress)
    • Government Publishing Office
    • House of Representatives
    • John C. Stennis Center for Public Service, Training, and Development
    • Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies
    • Library of Congress
    • Office of Compliance
    • Office of Congressional Accessibility Services
    • Office of the Attending Physician
    • Open World Leadership Center Trust Fund
    • Senate

    This will be Heinrich’s third Congress serving on the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations.

    Heinrich’s Committee assignments for the 119th Congress:

    In the 119th Congress, Heinrich is serving as Ranking Member for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee. The ENR Committee plays a critical role in setting national energy policies and managing our nation’s public lands within the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service. The Committee also oversees the U.S. Department of Energy and has jurisdiction over U.S. territories and nuclear waste policy.

    Heinrich will continue to serve on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, the U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee.

    Heinrich will also serve as Co-Chair of the Senate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Caucus, the Senate Fusion Energy Caucus, the Bicameral Electrification Caucus, the International Conservation Caucus, and the Senate Outdoor Recreation Caucus. Heinrich will serve as a member of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, Senate Democratic Hispanic Task Force, National Service Congressional Caucus, Congressional Dietary Supplement Caucus, and the Congressional Directed Energy Caucus.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: February 4th, 2025 Heinrich, Daines Resolution Designating National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week Passes U.S. Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) announced that their bipartisan legislation designating this week, beginning February 3, 2025, as “National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week” passed the U.S. Senate. This week is dedicated to the recognition and support for the achievements of students pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities in Tribal Colleges and Universities.

    “I’m pleased the Senate passed my resolution designating this week as National Tribal Colleges and Universities Week. This resolution recognizes the vital role of Tribal colleges and universities in creating opportunities for the next generation of Tribal leaders, upholding Tribal educational sovereignty, and preparing Native students for careers they can build their families around in their home communities,” said Heinrich.

    “Our tribal colleges and universities play a vital role in Montana’s communities and provide incredible opportunities for higher education on or near Montana’s reservations,” said Daines. “I’m proud to introduce legislation so the hard work and great achievements of our Montana students, teachers and educational institutions can be recognized nationally.”

    Read the full text of the resolution here.

    The resolution was led by Heinrich and Daines. U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Michael Bennett (D-Colo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Deb Fischer (Neb.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) cosponsored the  resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –