NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests Over $32 Million to Increase Efficiency of U.S. Critical Minerals Production Through the Co-Manufacture of Value-Added Products

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $32.75 million for 12 projects that will advance cost effective and environmentally responsible processes to produce and refine critical minerals and materials here in the United States. The funding, provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, focuses on projects that will develop value-added products, such as graphite or building materials, from feedstocks such as mining waste streams that also contain viable levels of critical minerals and materials. The manufacture of these co-products can improve the economic feasibility of domestically producing critical minerals and materials from these same feedstocks to reduce our dependence on offshore supplies. These projects will help safeguard our national security and build a clean energy and industrial economy, while creating good-paying jobs and supporting communities across the country that historically have depended on mining and energy production.

    “Building reliable and affordable critical mineral and material supply chains is essential to deploying the technologies needed for national defense and to support low-carbon U.S. energy production, manufacturing, and transport,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “Through DOE’s strategic investments in projects that help improve the economics of domestic materials production through the manufacture of valuable co-products, we are creating good-paying jobs, increasing U.S. competitiveness, reducing our import reliance, and strengthening our national security and energy independence.”

    According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 95% of the U.S. demand for rare earth elements is met by foreign sources. More than 50% of most critical minerals come from foreign sources, and at least 12 critical minerals come exclusively from foreign sources.

    Critical Material Innovation, Efficiency, and Alternatives

    The “Critical Material Innovation, Efficiency, and Alternatives” funding opportunity will provide up to $150 million over several rounds of project selections to help to build a secure, sustainable domestic supply of critical minerals from sources across the United States, including recycled materials, mine waste, industrial waste, and ore deposits. Specifically, the funding opportunity will support bench- and pilot-scale research, development, and demonstration projects to increase the robustness of domestic supply chains and reduce our reliance on foreign supply chains. The following 12 projects selected for negotiation fall under the “Value Added Products” area of interest, and are focused on developing products created from other materials that are also part of the waste streams from which critical minerals and materials are extracted:

    • Ohio University (Athens, Ohio) plans to develop and demonstrate the viability of a novel continuous engineered foaming process to produce value-added carbon building materials from coal and coal waste containing critical minerals and materials.
    • Loukus Technologies, Inc. (Calumet, Michigan) aims to establish a semi-continuous process for conversion of cerium oxide with low-value scrap aluminum machining chips to produce advanced aluminum-cerium alloys.
    • Trustees of the Colorado School of Mines (Golden, Colorado) plans to develop bench-scale continuous processes to produce building materials, specifically geopolymer bricks, lightweight aggregates, and ceramic tiles, from critical minerals and materials found in mine tailings. 
    • Still Bright, Inc. (Newark, New Jersey) seeks develop a novel electrochemical technology to extract metal co-products from copper concentrate. 
    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley, California) will develop a domestic supply of lithium while co-producing up to 10 other critical and valuable metals, graphite, and Portland cement.
    • University of Utah (Salt Lake City, Utah) will establish a process to demonstrate co-production of lithium salt, potassium salt, and magnesium salt from Great Salt Lakes brine. 
    • National Energy Technology Laboratory (Albany, Oregon) will define optimum parameters for chromite concentration and the extraction of platinum group elements needed to enable green hydrogen production.
    • Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Oak Ridge, Tennessee) will repurpose end-of-life graphite recycled from spent lithium-ion batteries into value-added graphitic materials using innovative purification and treatment methods.
    • National Energy Technology Laboratory (Albany, Oregon) will design the process of melting electrodes by electric resistance heating of slag—a by-product of the smelting process in metal extraction and refining—which contains rare earth elements in the form of oxides and/or fluorides.
    • Airtronics, LLC (Tucson, Arizona) will develop efficient recycling technologies to recover critical materials, precious metals, and base metals within electronic waste.
    • Mexichem Fluor Inc. (St. Gabriel, Louisiana) will demonstrate the feasibility of an efficient and sustainable process for graphite anode active material production from both graphite waste from battery recycling and mined graphite flake.
    • Melt Technologies LP (Briggs, Texas) will implement a pilot facility to produce tungsten carbide products—essential for many U.S. industries—from feedstock with greater efficiency and lower cost.

    A detailed list of the selected projects and funding amounts can be found here. DOE plans to make additional selections under the FOA’s remaining areas of interest at a later date. 

    DOE’s selections are subject to environmental review in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act review process. DOE reserves the right to terminate award negotiations at any time for any reason.

    DOE’s Broader Advancements in Critical Minerals and Materials

    With the selections announced today, FECM has committed an estimated $254 million since January 2021 for projects that support critical minerals and materials exploration, resource identification, production, and processing in traditional mining and fossil fuel-producing communities across the country. 

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests Nearly $14 Million to Advance Technologies that Transform Carbon Emissions into Valuable Products

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $13.7 million in federal funding for four projects that will advance large-scale conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into environmentally responsible and economically valuable products. With funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects will help develop conversion technologies that feasibly produce crucial fuels, building materials, and other carbon-based products from captured carbon emissions. 

    “Chemicals production and petroleum refining industries are vital for the U.S. economy and our nation’s energy security, but are also responsible for significant carbon emissions,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “DOE’s investments in carbon conversion technology will support new economic opportunities and job creation, while providing lower-emissions carbon product alternatives for these industries at the same time.” 

    The selected projects will support two areas of focus: (1) engineering-scale testing of electrochemical systems for converting carbon dioxide emissions into value-added products, such as engineering polymer/resin precursors, specialty chemicals, and commodity chemicals; and (2) feasibility studies that examine retrofitting refineries and petrochemical facilities for carbon conversion:

    • Dioxide Materials Inc. (Boca Raton, Florida) plans to scale technology for the production of low-greenhouse gas ethanol and mevalonic acid via a combination of electrolysis and bioprocessing. 
       
    • Terraforma Carbon LLC (State College, Pennsylvania) aims to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of carbon capture and conversion to methanol by modeling a retrofit of Shell’s Norco refinery in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana using molten salt-based capture technology.
       
    • Thiozen Inc. (Pasadena, California) plans to explore the use of a hydrogen sulfide reforming technology to produce low-cost and low-emissions methanol.
       
    • Twelve Benefit Corp. (Berkeley, California) seeks to accelerate the production of low-carbon chemicals and syngas through rapid research, development, and deployment of its CO2 electrolyzers.

    DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), under the purview of FECM, will manage the selected projects. A detailed list of the selected projects can be found here.

    These projects support the goals of DOE’s Clean Fuels and Products Energy Earthshot, which aims to meet projected 2050 net-zero emissions demands for 100% of aviation fuel; 50% of maritime, rail and off-road fuel; and 50% of carbon-based chemicals by using sustainable carbon resources.

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Multistate coalition blocks Trump Administration from freezing essential federal funding

    Source: Washington State News

    OLYMPIA — The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island today granted a request from 22 states, including Washington, for a temporary restraining order halting a White House policy that would block federal agency grants, loans and other financial assistance programs.

    This temporary restraining order extends beyond the administrative stay granted Tuesday by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in response to a lawsuit brought by nonprofit groups that receive federal funds.

    “This outcome reminds us that our country is still governed by the Constitution, even when we have a lawless president determined to sow disorder and eliminate vital programs,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “Now more than ever, states have a key role in upholding the rule of law.”

    The proposed policy, issued by the president’s Office of Management and Budget on Monday, would have put an indefinite pause on the majority of federal assistance, jeopardizing funds for health care, education, law enforcement, disaster relief, infrastructure and more. The next day, Attorney General Nick Brown and attorneys general from 22 other states sued to immediately stop the enforcement of the OMB policy and preserve trillions of dollars in essential funding.

    While the administration has attempted to rescind the policy, states and organizations that receive federal funding continue to experience major disruptions. Following OMB’s issuance of the policy, Medicaid funds in multiple states were frozen. Head Start programs across the country were cut off from funds, leading some childcare centers to close. Despite the District Court for the District of Columbia’s stay, disruptions to critical funds are continuing to be reported across the country.

    The White House signaled Wednesday they would be re-issuing the order in some form, but today’s temporary restraining order restrains and prohibits the administration from doing that for now as well.

    The lawsuit was led by the attorneys general of New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island. Joining the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, 22 State Attorneys General Secure Court Order Temporarily Blocking Federal Funding Freeze

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, January 31, 2025

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement on the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island’s decision granting a temporary restraining order to prevent a pause on critical federal assistance funding from going into effect:

    “Today’s court order ensures our communities are able to continue to access necessary federal funding for disaster recovery, including for California’s wildfire recovery efforts; education; public health and safety; and infrastructure projects. While the OMB directive was rescinded, the Administration has made clear that it intends to proceed with its plans to freeze federal funding – that’s why we went to court to get this emergency pause. 

    The Trump Administration is intentionally creating chaos through its public actions and statements, attempting to sow fear and confusion in our communities. We will not fall for this bait and switch. California has too much at stake. 

    I am grateful for the court’s decision, and I will continue fighting to ensure that the President’s disastrous federal funding freeze never sees the light of day.” 

    Attorney General Bonta co-led a multistate coalition in filing a lawsuit seeking to block the federal funding freeze on Tuesday.

    Today’s decision institutes a temporary restraining order while the states seek a preliminary injunction. While the order is in effect, the Trump Administration may not pause, freeze, impede, block, cancel, or terminate its awards or obligations to provide federal financial assistance unless specifically allowed under the law. The order also blocks the Trump Administration from reissuing, adopting, implementing, or otherwise giving effect to the OMB directive under any other name or title, such as the continued implementation identified by the White House Press Secretary’s statement on January 29, 2025. 

    The Trump Administration is required to give written notice of this order to all agencies and their employees, contractors, and grantees by Monday, February 3, 2025, at 9 a.m. ET. 

    This order extends beyond the administrative stay granted by the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in response to a lawsuit brought by nonprofit groups that receive federal funds. 

    A copy of the decision is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Releases Statement on Court Decision to Halt Federal Funding Freeze

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Governor Polis released the following statement on the multi-state lawsuit filed against President Trump’s funding freeze and the court’s decision to issue a temporary restraining order to halt the freeze. 

    “This is an important step in protecting critical federal funding that supports Colorado’s people, businesses and communities across the state. We are committed to delivering real results and improving affordability and quality of life for the people we serve, and this chaotic federal freeze would have devastating impacts. It’s disappointing to see the Trump administration interfere with Congressionally appropriated dollars that are already committed to projects and that support people across Colorado and the United States. We are glad that the freeze on these dollars is temporarily blocked so that we will be available to continue to support these important programs and projects while the lawsuit moves forward and continue providing essential services to Coloradans. We appreciate the court’s action and we look forward to continuing to pursue this in the hearing,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Click here to view the full order. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Investing in Developmental Disability Service Providers

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced nearly $850 million dollars in updated reimbursement rates for non-profit residential and day service providers licensed by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. The FY 2025 Enacted Budget, combined with additional federal funding, provided for more than $400 million in new resources to be allocated each year for OPWDD’s service providers. Governor Hochul’s FY 2026 Executive Budget continues this investment and will help to fill critical gaps in this workforce while creating new job opportunities. This investment will enable providers to raise wages for their dedicated staff, ultimately making New York a more affordable place to live and work. Our provider industry has faced challenges, and this bold initiative by Governor Hochul demonstrates a commitment to supporting this sector, its hardworking people and the communities they serve.

    “New York’s service providers are providing a critical service to people with developmental disabilities and their families, and they deserve to be paid a fair rate for the services they deliver,” Governor Hochul said. “This rate adjustment is expected to enable a majority of service providers to increase pay to their frontline staff, which would make living in New York more affordable for one of our hardest working, most dedicated and compassionate workforces.”

    Rate rebasing is a federally required process where provider reimbursement rates are updated to reflect changes in the actual cost of delivering services. These resources will enable provider agencies to offer higher wages for direct care staff, helping to address staffing vacancies and reduce turnover, which are critical to improving the quality of care for people with disabilities. Additionally, the funding will support other essential costs associated with delivering these vital services.

    Since 2022, the State has made more than $2.8 billion available to OPWDD providers to support investments in the workforce – about $1.4 billion in one-time federally-approved bonuses, nearly $1.1 billion through three consecutive Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs), including the 2.84 percent COLA included in last year’s budget, and over $340 million through various State-funded bonus initiatives. Cumulatively, more than $3.7 billion will have been made available to OPWDD’s network of non-profit providers, when including the new resources from this unprecedented investment in rates.

    Office of the Chief Disability Officer Kim Hill Ridley said, “This investment is a key part of strengthening the disabilities service system and prioritizing wage increases for our direct support workforce who assist New Yorkers with disabilities in their daily lives. Thank you to Governor Hochul for this resource that helps providers to remain competitive while providing the very best support and services.”

    Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Acting Commissioner Willow Baer said, “OPWDD is pleased to be able to release these significant rate adjustments that will help our service providers continue to maintain critical support and recruit and retain talented and qualified frontline staff. I am proud of this important investment and am excited to see this funding passed along to address long-standing concerns and strengthen this vital workforce.”

    State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “Investing in our caregivers and direct support workforce that provide critical services and care for New Yorkers living with disabilities is how we address vacancies, retention, and ensure continuation of that care. This funding will allow providers to offer more competitive wages and address staffing challenges, ultimately leading to improved care for New Yorkers living with disabilities and their families. I thank Governor Hochul and Commissioner Baer for recognizing the importance of investing in our frontline workforce, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to further invest in our direct support professional workforce.”

    Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, “Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of our care system, providing critical support that allows individuals with developmental disabilities to live with dignity and independence. This investment is a significant step in strengthening disability services, ensuring providers can offer more competitive wages to recruit and retain the dedicated professionals who make a real difference in people’s lives. It helps address workforce shortages and reinforces our commitment to a strong and sustainable care system. I appreciate Governor Hochul’s recognition of this need and commitment to supporting New York’s disability service providers. As the father of a son with a disability, this is an issue I am deeply passionate about, and I remain focused on advancing policies that strengthen these services, ensuring individuals with disabilities and their families have access to the care and support they deserve.”

    NY Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation President and CEO Michael Seereiter said, “The NY Alliance and its 135 not-for-profit provider members are extremely grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul and OPWDD Acting Commissioner Willow Baer for this unprecedented investment that will significantly enhance our ability to support the 130,000+ New Yorkers living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families who are supported by OPWDD. These resources will give our residential and day services providers the ability to attract and engage direct support, frontline supervisor, and other critical staff positions necessary for providing high quality supports, and address other essential costs associated with these services.”

    ARC NY CEO Erik Geizer said, “New York state has made a meaningful and much-needed investment in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Years of insufficient investment has driven a crisis in our system that has diminished the quality and availability of essential supports and services. We applaud Governor Hochul and OPWDD for collaborating with providers to better align investment with the current cost of delivering services. These additional resources will help providers better meet the needs of the people we support. We look forward to continuing to work with the state to ensure we honor our commitment to provide high quality, compassionate care for our citizens with special needs.”

    CP State CEO and President Mike Alvaro said, “We applaud New York State and the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) for updating provider rates, marking an important investment in services for people with disabilities. We also appreciate Governor Kathy Hochul and Acting Commissioner Willow Baer for their commitment and efforts to bolster the developmental disability system. This support helps providers strengthen their workforce, meet rising costs, and—most importantly—ensure a high-quality network of care is available statewide for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

    Winifred Schiff Inter Agency Council CEO said, “We applaud Governor Hochul and Acting Commissioner Willow Baer for their support of the developmental disabilities service sector, their recognition that the cost of providing services has steadily grown while rates lagged far behind, and their appreciation that our front-line staff provide essential, life supporting and affirming services that make life possible for so many New Yorkers. While our work is not done, the recent rate adjustment will go a long way towards compensating for years of stagnant rates and some of the losses experienced by providers during the COVID pandemic, and we trust that Governor Hochul will continue to stand with us so that together, we can achieve adequate wages for our front line work force, and our sector will continue to support New Yorkers with developmental disabilities and their families, far into the future.”

    DDAWNY President Mindy Cervoni said, “The Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York (DDAWNY) is deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to New York’s non-profit service providers supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. This transformative funding empowers providers to continue to deliver high-quality services while offering more competitive wages to direct support professionals – the compassionate and skilled individuals who deliver hands-on care and vital support to people with developmental disabilities. By recognizing the invaluable work of these professionals and ensuring they are compensated fairly, this investment strengthens workforce stability and significantly enhances the quality of life for the individuals and families who depend on their care.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Venezuelan Man Charged With Conspiracy To Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession Of A Firearm In Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jose Manuel Guerra-Caballero, 37, of Venezuela, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of a substance containing methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    According to the complaint, Guerra-Caballero, described by a co-conspirator as a member of the Tren de Aragua criminal organization, conspired with six other individuals to provide armed protection for a drug transaction involving ten pounds of methamphetamine. Guerra-Caballero arranged the protection remotely and confirmed over the phone that his co-conspirators were armed and ready to serve in the operation.

    The drug deal was a ruse created by undercover ATF agents after Guerra-Caballero and his associates had offered their services for various illegal and violent activities. The undercover operation came on the heels of multiple purchases of firearms by ATF undercover officers that Guerra-Caballero believed would be trafficked to Mexico.

    The defendant was arrested in Indiana and made his initial appearance in front of Judge Colin H. Lindsay in the Western District of Kentucky.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations are handling the investigation.  The prosecution is being handled by the Violent Crimes and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of Colorado.

    Case Number: 25-mj-17

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah and California Businessmen Indicted for Defrauding Millions of Dollars from Investors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. GEORGE, Utah – An indictment was unsealed today after a fraudster was arrested following a federal grand jury’s return of an indictment this week charging him and his business partner with multiple financial crimes.

    According to court documents, Thomas Paul Madden, 66, of Washington City, Utah; and Jeremy Tyler Grabow, 54, of Ladera Ranch, California, engaged in a scheme from September 2017 to the present, to defraud investors in Cascade IR, LLC and Savitar Systems LLC. Using his entity, Cascade, Madden lied to investors about his ability and intent to sell them penny stocks, repeatedly using investors’ money for Ponzi payments and personal expenses. This part of the scheme resulted in Madden taking in over $23 million from over 200 investors.

    Beginning in 2021, Madden and Madden and Grabow used their entity Savitar, to further defraud investors. They told investors that Savitar was working with various partners on a large casino and resort project in Mexico that would generate high returns on investments. But Savitar did not have the represented business partnership and lacked any legitimate business operations. Instead, Madden and Grabow diverted investors’ money to the Ponzi scheme. The Savitar scheme resulted in Madden and Grabow obtaining over $2 million from at least 10 investors.

    Madden is charged with four counts of wire fraud. Madden and Grabow are both charged with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. Madden’s initial appearance on the indictment is February 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in St. George. Grabow’s initial appearance is scheduled for February 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in St. George.

    United States Attorney Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by the Utah Division of Securities and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen P. Dent and Joseph M. Hood of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

    If you think you are a victim in this case, information can be found on the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Assistance page.

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Gold Announces Management Changes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) announces the formal departure, by mutual agreement, of Mr. Shaun J. Pollard from the Company effective January 31, 2025.

    Separately, Ms. Janice Davies has resigned as Corporate Secretary. Ms. Zara Boldt, CPA, CGA, who was appointed as interim CFO in September, will now serve in the combined role of CFO and Corporate Secretary.

    Mr. Pollard was one of Westhaven’s founders in 2010. He played a significant role in advancing Westhaven from a capital pool company to a premier, British Columbia based, gold-focused exploration company.

    The Board of Directors wishes to thank Mr. Pollard for his contributions to Westhaven’s success over the last 14 years and Ms. Davies for her service since 2019. 

    On behalf of the Board of Directors
    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Gareth Thomas”

    Gareth Thomas, President, CEO & Director is responsible for this announcement
    Telephone number: 604-681-5558 ext. 102

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration company advancing the high-grade discovery on the Shovelnose project in Canada’s newest gold district, the Spences Bridge Gold Belt. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) with four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose property is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which translates into low-cost exploration. Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Slams Trump Tariffs: “Donald Trump has just raised prices for every working American.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following statement after the White House confirmed President Trump is expected to put new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China on Saturday:  
    “Donald Trump has just raised prices for every working American. He has threatened jobs and set our nation up for retaliation and years of painful trade disputes. On Monday in St. Albans, Vermont—only 15 miles from the northern border—I brought together Vermont businesses and local leaders to hear directly from them about how another Trump Trade War would hurt our state. It was clear: Donald Trump’s policy of chaos is one that Vermont can’t afford.  
    “We need a ‘Do No Harm’ approach when it comes to tariffs and trade policy—especially when we’re talking about our biggest trading partner, Canada. Vermont’s and Canada’s economies are closely intertwined, and our families, farmers, and businesses will suffer because of these reckless 25% tariffs. These actions are reckless, counterproductive, and destructive. A trade war is not the answer.”  
    The White House has not provided the public with an exemption process ahead of the February 1st start date. The White House announced it plans to put a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% tariff on imports from China. 
    On Monday, Senator Welch convened Vermont businesses and state and local leaders for a roundtable discussion on President Trump’s threats to reignite a trade war with Canada and other U.S. trade allies by imposing dramatic tariffs on goods imported from Canada. Sen. Welch was joined by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce; the Vermont Association of General Contractors; Manufacturing Solutions, Inc.; H20 Innovation; A.N. Deringer, Inc.; Poulin Grain; Green Mountain Power; Vermont State Treasurer Mike Pieciak; Brett Long, Deputy Commissioner, Vermont Department of Economic Development; and Tim Smith, the Mayor of St. Albans. 
    Attendees at the roundtable spoke about the impact of the tariffs on their businesses and their concerns regarding President Trump’s rhetoric regarding trade since taking office last week.  
    Vermont sells more goods to Canada than the next six largest foreign markets combined. In 2023, Vermont exported $150 million just in food and agricultural products to Canada. In many cases, Vermont manufacturers buy imports from Canada to manufacture into products.  However, the ability of Vermont’s small manufacturing businesses to absorb a 25% increase in costs on parts or raw materials is limited. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico could result in layoffs or higher homebuilding costs, increased costs of grain for farmers, and more expensive equipment for maple producers.  
    Tariffs could also increase the cost of utilities for Vermonters. According to preliminary estimates, a 25% tariff on goods from Canada could increase customer rates for natural gas by 10% (based on firm customer rates). Electricity rates could increase by 2.5% in Vermont and by 5% for New England wholesale electricity prices.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Feb. 3-8 in Hamblen, Hawkins, Washington Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Feb. 3-8 in Hamblen, Hawkins, Washington Counties

    Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Feb. 3-8 in Hamblen, Hawkins, Washington Counties

    FEMA’s mitigation specialists have partnered with The Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Improvement to offer free advice and tips on rebuilding homes stronger and safer as Tennessee residents repair, rebuild and make improvements after Tropical Storm Helene.FEMA specialists will be available as detailed below: Monday, Feb. 3, to Saturday, Feb. 8, at these locations:Hamblen CountyLowe’s Home Improvement                           2744 West Andrew Johnson Hwy.Morristown, TN 37814Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET SaturdayHawkins CountyThe Home Depot2000 Harrell Rd. Kingsport, TN 37660Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET SaturdayWashington CountyLowe’s Home Improvement180 Marketplace Blvd.Johnson City, TN 37604Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET SaturdayThe mitigation specialists are available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help reduce damage from disasters. Most information is aimed at general contractors or those who do the work on their own.
    kwei.nwaogu
    Fri, 01/31/2025 – 21:21

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Army Corps Issues More than $10 Million Contract to Complete Southern Embankment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    01.31.25

    Corps Issues Last Major Contract to Finish Federal Portion of Fargo-Moorhead Region’s Flood Protection Project

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a more than $10 million contract to construct Reach SE-5, the last of 7 reaches required to complete the 21-mile long Southern Embankment.

    • This reach, which is located in Minnesota, will include reconstructing portions of 180th Avenue, its intersection with Highway 75 and the Wolverton Creek crossing.
    • The funding is made available under the $437 million Army Corps’ award that Hoeven secured in 2022.
    • This comes as the last major Corps contract being awarded for the Fargo-Moorhead region’s flood protection project, marking a major milestone as the federal portion of the project nears completion.

    “Awarding this final contract to complete the Southern Embankment is achieving a major milestone in protecting the entire Fargo-Moorhead region against the threat of flooding,” said Hoeven. “Numerous efforts have to be tied together in order to make this permanent flood protection a reality. That’s why it was critical that we not only secure full federal funding now to provide certainty over the long-term, but also advance this as the Corps’ first major P3 project. This approach, which is serving as model for Army Corps projects across the country, provided the flexibility needed to build the various aspects of the project concurrently.”

    Today’s milestone follows Hoeven’s efforts to:

    • Pass 16 acts of Congress, including:
      • 9 legislative provisions, such as the project authorization in 2014 and a new construction start authorization in 2016.
    • 7 separate appropriations to fund the project’s construction.
    • Fully fund the $750 million federal cost share.
      • Prior to this, Hoeven helped renegotiate the Project Partnership Agreement to increase the federal funding commitment from $450 million.
    • Advance this as the first major Army Corps project to utilize the public-private partnership (P3) split-delivery model and a Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan.
    • Coordinate efforts across four federal agencies.
    • Provide funding and flexibility to concurrently raise I-29 and begin excavating the Red River Control Structure to keep the project on schedule.
    • Resolve the easement issue on lands purchased with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding, allowing the project to use an alternative route.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Merritt: Kicking off the 2025 Legislative Session 

    Source: US State of Georgia

    The 2025 Legislative Session is officially underway! On Monday, January 13, the Georgia General Assembly reconvened under the Gold Dome, marking the start of this year’s legislative session and the beginning of a new biennium. Over the next 40 legislative days, I’m committed to fighting for policies that create a more equitable and inclusive Georgia for all its residents.

    I am honored to continue serving on the Senate Committees on Government Oversight, Health and Human Services, Insurance and Labor, Natural Resources and the Environments and Urban Affairs where we will address pressing issues such as healthcare reform, firearm violence, and increasing literacy.

    As we enter the heart of the legislative session this week, the work under the Gold Dome is moving full speed ahead. Even as ice and snow swept across South Georgia and Atlanta last week, our commitment to serving the people of Georgia never wavered.

    When we returned to the Capitol this past Monday, we hit the ground running. Some highlights included Chamber of Commerce Day. I want to thank the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce for joining Tuesday’s General Assembly at the Capitol. I appreciate all the Chamber does for Gwinnett County’s economy, small businesses, and emerging business leaders and entrepreneurs. These events are always exciting, and it’s refreshing to see so many Georgians getting involved in our state government.

    As budget hearings for the next fiscal year continue over the remainder of the legislative session in the form of committee meetings, we have a critical opportunity to shape investments that will directly impact our communities. Governor Brian Kemp’s proposed budget includes $50 million in security grants for individual schools—an essential step toward keeping students safe. However, proper school safety goes beyond physical security; it requires a commitment to addressing the broader issues affecting student well-being. I will continue advocating for a budget that supports working families, invests in underserved communities, and ensures every Georgian has the opportunity to succeed at every turn.

    My fellow Senators and I recognize that our constituents and families deserve to send their children to school without fear, and that is why we are introducing legislation to tackle school gun violence in Georgia. I am proud to co-sponsor SB 49, introduced by Sen. Elena Parent, which aims to address gun violence by making it a punishable offense in Georgia to allow children access to firearms. This legislation would require parents to take greater responsibility for securely storing their firearms, reducing children’s exposure to guns and helping keep our schools safe.

    On Tuesday, Senate Democrats announced several key legislative priorities for this session. We introduced SB 50, a bipartisan effort to close health insurance gaps, expand access to mental health and maternal care and ensure working families can afford quality healthcare. Too many Georgians rely on emergency rooms for primary care because they lack affordable insurance. We believe every Georgian deserves reliable, accessible healthcare, and we will continue pushing for solutions that lower costs and expand coverage. In the coming weeks, we will introduce bills to raise the state minimum wage, improve public schools, and expand access to affordable childcare. Our focus remains on legislation that puts people first, and I am proud to sponsor legislation that does just that.

    I encourage students between the ages of 12 and 18 to apply to spend a day as a Senate Page. This program allows students to participate actively in the legislative process at our State Capitol for a day during the legislative session. This program is an invaluable experience, and I encourage my younger constituents to participate. Interested students may apply for the program here.

    The weeks ahead will be eventful, with key debates and legislation shaping Georgia’s future. I’m committed to keeping you informed and ensuring your voice is heard. Thank you for your trust—I encourage you to stay engaged as we work toward a stronger, fairer Georgia.

    ####

    Sen. Nikki Merritt represents the 9th Senate District which includes portions of Gwinnett County. She may be reached at (404) 463-2260 or via email at nikki.merritt@senate.ga.gov

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: COLUMN: Walker: Weeks Two and Three Under the Gold Dome

    Source: US State of Georgia

    By: Sen. Larry Walker, III (R–Perry)

    The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing commonsense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.

    Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.

    One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds directly to taxpayers. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we’re in a position to give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting more money back in your pockets.

    Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the resources they need to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to making sure they get the support they need to recover and move forward.

    Back at the Capitol, we hit the ground running this week, advancing legislation that reflects our values and priorities. One of the bills I’m proud to sponsor, Senate Bill (SB) 35, would increase the number of days’ notice that a policyholder must be given before his or her homeowners’ insurance policy is not renewed. The previous 30 days’ notice of nonrenewal is not enough time for the homeowner to avoid any lapses in coverage or properly address concerns with their insurance company. With this in mind, SB 35’s proposed 60 days’ notice will give Georgians and their insurance agent sufficient time to find replacement coverage and make sure that their home is protected.

    I’m also proud to support Senate Bill (SB) 52. This legislation, also known as the Timberlands Recovery, Exemption and Earnings Stability (TREES) Act, would allow local governments to provide tax relief for the timber industry. Timber is one of Georgia’s most important industries, and communities like those in the 20th Senate District depend on timber as an agricultural investment and a source of tax revenue. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene has left that industry in desperate need of relief, and with the TREES Act, we will waive the timber harvest tax in hurricane ravaged counties to help these communities recover from the catastrophe of this unprecedented storm.

    As committee meetings pick up, we’re working hard on issues that matter most to our communities, from protecting our schools to strengthening local infrastructure. I chaired the first meeting of the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor this week, and I look forward to the committee’s regular meetings in the coming weeks.

    Finally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. If you know a student who might be interested, they can apply on the Senate website here.

    As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.

    # # # #

    Sen. Larry Walker serves as Secretary of the Majority Caucus and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor. He represents the 20th Senate District, which includes Bleckley, Dodge, Dooly, Laurens, Treutlen, Pulaski and Wilcox counties, as well as portions of Houston County.  He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0095 or by email at Larry.Walker@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas Man Admits to Making Violent Threats Against Sikh Nonprofit Organization

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A man from Dallas, Texas, admitted to a hate crime and making interstate threats against the employees of a Sikh nonprofit organization.

    Bushan Athale, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of interfering with federally protected activities through the threatened use of a dangerous weapon and one count of transmitting an interstate threat to injure another person.

    “Threats of violence have no place in our society,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna for the District of New Jersey. “Every individual in this country must be free to practice their religion without fear of violence or persecution. We will continue to ensure the safety of our communities by prosecuting those who threaten our basic American freedoms.”

    “Every citizen has the right to feel safe, secure, and free from fear of violence or hate,” said Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office. “We are deeply grateful to our law enforcement and community partners who stand with us daily. Together, we remain steadfast in pursuing those who threaten the safety and well-being of the people we are sworn to protect.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about Sept. 17, 2022, Athale called the main number of an organization that advocates for the civil rights of Sikh individuals within the United States. Over the course of the next hour, Athale left seven voicemails expressing hatred toward Sikh individuals working at this same organization and threatening to injure or kill these individuals with a razor.

    Athale’s voicemails, which were filled with violent imagery and obscenity, contained references to places, people, and tenets that are particularly significant within the Sikh religion. Among other things, Athale stated his intention to “catch” the Sikhs at Organization 1, forcibly shave their “top and bottom hair,” use a “razor” to “cut” their hair and “make” them bald, “make” them smoke and eat tobacco, and “show [them] the heaven.”

    On March 21, 2024, Athale again called the same Sikh organization and left two more voicemails. In these voicemails, Athale again used violent, sexual imagery to express his hatred toward Sikhs as well as Muslims and spouted antisemitic rhetoric.

    During his guilty plea, Athale also admitted to additional conduct reflecting his long history of making violent threats rooted in religious animus. For example, Athale admitted that on Nov. 6, 2021 and Nov. 7, 2021, he had sent electronic messages to a former co-worker, in which he stated that he “hate[d] Pakistan” and “hate[d] Muslims.” Athale wrote, “I hate you, I just don’t know how to kill your whole family including you? Tell me??? I will figure it out […] Probably I will hire a Jew, they will be most happy.”

    Athale also admitted that, from May 28, 2024 to May 31, 2024, he had sent threatening electronic messages to a recruiter who he believed to be a Muslim. Athale wrote statements such as “you will be dead, get out [expletive] Muslim” and “If you dont [sic] back off you are killed.”

    Athale is charged with interfering with federally protected activities which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and with transmitting an interstate threat which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Both charges also carry a maximum penalty of up to a $250,000 fine. The defendant also may be sentenced to a term of supervised release after any sentence served. Athale is scheduled to be sentenced June 3. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Wolfe of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the case.

    The FBI Philadelphia Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara A. Aliabadi and Jason M. Richardson for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Eric Peffley of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Mexican Nationals Charged in Conspiracy to Fraudulently Obtain Visas for Immigrant ‘Victims’ of Staged Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Mexican nationals in the Kansas City area have been charged in federal court for their roles in a conspiracy to stage numerous armed robberies so that the purported victims of these crimes, who were immigrants to the United States, could use their status as crime victims to apply for visas.

    Oscar Gutierrez, 35, of Independence, Mo., and Jose Luis Morales Salgado, 36, of Kansas City, Mo., both of whom are citizens of Mexico, were charged in a criminal complaint filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Thursday, Jan. 30. The federal criminal complaint, which was unsealed and made public following Salgado’s arrest and initial court appearance, charges both men with participating in a conspiracy to fraudulently obtain immigration visas. Gutierrez is already in custody on state charges in a separate case.

    The complaint alleges that immigrants contacted Salgado to arrange for themselves to become “victims” of staged robberies so they could submit applications for U-Visas, which are granted to crime victims. These immigrants, who were either illegally present in the United States or in the United States legally through work visas, paid Salgado thousands of dollars to participate. In exchange, Salgado directed them to the location of a planned staged robbery on a particular day and time.

    Salgado allegedly recruited individuals to pose as robbers during the staged robberies and provided directions to those individuals. One of the persons Salgado recruited to pose as a robber, says the complaint, was Gutierrez.

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, each incident involved immigrants who later told police they had car trouble and pulled over and got out of their vehicle to diagnose the car trouble. Soon after stopping, another vehicle would arrive and park next to, or in front of, the purported victim’s vehicle. The robber, wearing a medical mask over his face and brandishing a firearm, would strike the purported victims in the head or face, take their cash, and typically fire two rounds into the purported victim’s vehicle.

    Investigators with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department initially identified 11 incidents in which the reported robberies followed this pattern. These cases were linked to each other, based in part, on leads generated from the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN utilized ballistic imaging technology to compare cartridge case markings on the expended cartridges from each crime scene.  Detectives determined there was likely one firearm used in the commission of all of the robberies. Detectives gathered information from city cameras and license plate readers to identify the vehicles used in the robberies, the affidavit says, which led them to Gutierrez.

    Salgado allegedly instructed the immigrants to falsely report to law enforcement officials how the robberies occurred, and advised them how to make these false reports in an effort to bolster their applications for U-Visas.

    The Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act strengthens the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute certain crimes while also protecting victims of crimes who are willing to help law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. Foreign nationals are eligible for a U-Visa if they were the victim of qualifying criminal activity, suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of the criminal activity, possessed information about the criminal activity, and were likely to be helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

    According to the affidavit, a source told investigators the number of purported victims involved in the scheme was well over 100. The complaint specifically cites 11 robberies involving 33 purported victims that occurred as part of the conspiracy between Dec. 29, 2021, and July 13, 2024.  Of those 33 immigrants, 18 have submitted U-Visa applications claiming to be victims of violent crimes.

    An undercover federal agent and a law enforcement source met with Salgado on Jan. 22, 2025, according to the affidavit, and recorded their meeting. The undercover agent made arrangements to pay Salgado $4,000 for the robbery to be staged in order to fraudulently obtain a U-Visa. Salgado told the undercover agent he would “put on a grand show.” Once the plans were agreed upon, the undercover agent paid Salgado $500 with a promise to pay the balance later. The undercover agent met with Salgado again on Thursday, Jan. 30, and Salgado was arrested.

    The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott Touts School Choice Legislation at Invest in Education Coalition Event

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — At today’s Invest in Education Coalition event in support of National School Choice Week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus and member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, championed the rights of parents to choose the school that best fits their child’s individual talents and needs. Specifically, he pointed to the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), which he and HELP Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) introduced today. The ECCA would expand education freedom and opportunity for students by providing a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education.

    Watch Senator Scott’s full remarks here. 
    “Let us [now] do our part as citizens of this great nation, to make available to some of the brightest kids that grew up in neighborhoods like I did…Let’s not let those kids down. They can’t afford a lobbyist, but they have you. And that’s enough,” concluded Senator Scott.
    Click here to learn more about the ECCA. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Philadelphia arrests 7 in worksite enforcement operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    January 31, 2025Philadelphia , PA, United StatesEnforcement and Removal

    PHILADELPHIA — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement conducted a worksite enforcement operation Jan. 28 at Complete Autowash in Philadelphia based on allegations employees were being subjected to labor exploitation. ICE encountered, interviewed and arrested seven illegal aliens for immigration violations, who were subsequently detained pending removal. Of those, six were from Mexico and one was from the Dominican Republic.

    “The successful execution of this worksite enforcement operation underscores our determined commitment to national security and public safety,” said Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “We were able to apprehend individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States. These operations highlight the dedication and diligence of our officers and agents in protecting our communities from potential threats by enforcing immigration laws in accordance with U.S. laws and Department of Homeland Security policies.”

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

    Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X at @EROPhiladelphia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Slams Trump Policy That Would Gut Social Security Administration, Make It Harder For Seniors To Receive Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee, is leading 11 of her Senate colleagues in a letter warning that President Trump’s plan to “buy out” federal workers would make it harder for older Americans to get their Social Security benefits. Earlier this week, Trump offered federal workers the option to resign and continue to receive full pay and benefits until September 30th, 2025, even though many federal agencies – including the Social Security Administration, which processes Social Security applications – are facing staffing shortages. Further reducing staffing through the buyout programs could force seniors to wait longer to receive assistance and benefits.
    “Trump’s buyout offer would have devastating consequences for the tens of millions of Americans who rely on Social Security,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Since the first Trump administration, the Social Security Administration has struggled to retain staff, and the agency is in desperate need of more personnel to process applications and serve beneficiaries. This policy would only exacerbate staffing shortages and long service wait times. Forcing seniors to wait indefinitely to get their benefits is unacceptable, and I am demanding answers from the administration about its plan to keep SSA functioning.”
    Gillibrand’s letter to the United States Office of Personnel Management, which sent the email earlier this week offering the buyout, was cosigned by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Jack Reed (D-RI).
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter is available here or below:
    Dear Mr. Ezell,  
    We are writing today to express concern regarding the consequences of an email sent to federal employees from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on January 28, 2025.i As you are aware, the email offered two million federal employeesii a “deferred resignation program” allowing employees to resign and continue to receive pay and benefits until September 30, 2025. It is clear that the Administration is seeking to undermine federal programs by eliminating career public servants. We have grave concerns for how these personnel decisions will affect the programs that serve the American people, especially those served by the Social Security Administration (SSA).  
    Social Security is the nation’s most effective anti-poverty program, without which, four in 10 older adults would have incomes below the poverty line.iii In 2025, SSA will serve approximately 72.5 million beneficiaries, including retirees and their families, individuals with disabilities, and low-income older adults.iv As our Nation’s population continues to age, the number of beneficiaries served by Social Security, and the demand placed on SSA field offices, will increase.v While the agency should be prepared to meet this surge in beneficiaries, with limited resources and personnel, SSA has historically struggled to provide essential services in a timely manner. In 2024, the average wait time for service via phone was 45 minutes;vi in 2023 the average wait time for disability determinations was 230 days,vii and SSA staffing was at a 25-year low.viii  
    The origin of these challenges can be traced back to the previous Trump Administration; under the leadership of then-SSA Commissioner Andrew Saul, SSA imposed harsh union contracts and undermined employees’ workplace rights, failed to prioritize training and retention of SSA staff, and failed to deploy modernization efforts to improve delivery of benefits to eligible Americans, resulting in a notable decline in employee morale and an increase in staff departures. Surveys have shown that more than half of SSA employees considered leaving the agency due to burnout and poor compensation.ix Under the Biden Administration, SSA Commissioner Martin O’Malley worked to invest in the workforce, improve morale, and reverse failing policies imposed by President Trump— in six months, he successfully lowered the average phone wait time to under 13 minutesx and succeeded in reducing the number of pending disability determination hearings to the lowest number in 30 years.xi  
    But—years of decline cannot be fixed overnight, and challenges remain at SSA. Recent Executive Orders issued by President Trump, including the return-to-work mandate, the hiring freeze, and others, threaten to reverse improvements in SSA staff morale and staff retention. On top of these Executive Orders, your January 28th email could result in a staffing crisis at SSA. Workers who were already burned out and underpaid will likely be tempted by the resignation program, as will the one in four SSA employees who are eligible for retirement.xii This will have a tangible impact on beneficiaries, who will experience longer wait times and declining service quality. Given the significant impacts this proposal could have on one the Nation’s most valuable programs and the Nation’s most vulnerable individuals, we ask that you respond to the following questions: 
    Is the Administration planning to calculate the impact that these resignations could have on SSA’s ability to process applications and pay out benefits?  
    Further, P.L. 118-273, the Social Security Fairness Act, which would provide an estimated three million retired first responders, teachers, and other public servantsxiii with an average boost of $360xiv in their monthly benefits, was signed into law by President Biden at the end of last year. The law’s effective date was January 2024, and as a result, SSA will not only need to adjust current monthly benefits for these retirees, but also past benefits to ensure they are provided their entitled backpay. How does the Administration plan to ensure that resignations will not interfere with implementation of this law?   
    Should it become apparent that the number of “resignations” at SSA endanger the agency’s ability to serve Americans, does OPM plan to reject resignations from any employees?  
    Given that the Administration plans to afford benefits and pay through September 30, 2025 to employees who agree to resign, how does the Administration plan to attract, hire, and pay new SSA employees between now and September 30th to continue to meet service demands? Does the Administration plan to work with Congress to request supplemental funds for SSA’s operational budget?  
    The Administration has stated that it “insist[s] on excellence at every level.” How does the Administration plan to evaluate whether this rash deferred resignation policy is not resulting in the loss of well-qualified, federal employees who exhibit excellence in serving the American people and harm access to Social Security for the millions of Americans served by the program? 
    Will OPM instruct SSA to monitor changes in key metrics for customer satisfaction and benefit delivery after February 6th? If not, please explain why. If OPM does instruct SSA to monitor the impact of the deferred resignation program on customer satisfaction and benefit delivery processes, please describe the metrics that will be used.  For example, will SAA monitor for an increase in call times to SSA, an increase in wait time at SSA field offices, and an increase in wait time for processing Social Security applications? Please also describe how OPM will instruct SSA to publicize any changes in customer satisfaction and benefit delivery to the public and Congress. 
    Has the Administration worked with labor unions representing SSA employees, like the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), as well as organization representing beneficiaries, like AARP, in developing the deferred resignation policy? 
    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We ask that you reply no later than Friday, February 7, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fighting Recidivism and Holding Perpetrators Accountable

    Source: US State of New York

    January 31, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Governor Kathy Hochul today, joined by District Attorneys from across New York State, announced a series of improvements and essential changes to streamline New York’s Discovery Laws. Governor Hochul proposed these common sense reforms as part of her 2025 State of the State and are intended to end procedural delays and prevent automatic dismissals of cases. The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York or DAASNY overwhelmingly voted yesterday to endorse the Governor’s plan during their annual winter conference as it would give their offices the tools and resources needed to protect the rights of victims and hold perpetrators accountable, while safeguarding the right to a fair and speedy trial. This proposal aligns with the Governor’s record investments in recent years in proven crime prevention initiatives as efforts continue to see lowering crime rates across the State.

    “Keeping New Yorkers safe is my top priority, and working together with our District Attorneys from across the State we are taking steps to fight crime and hold perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Governor Hochul said. “My common sense proposal to streamline New York’s discovery laws will close fatal loopholes that have delayed trials and led to cases being thrown out on minor technicalities, which will ultimately help crack down on recidivism and provide justice for victims. I am honored to have the full support of the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York as we go about making these changes.”

    [embedded content]

    [embedded content]

    Taking effect in 2020, New York’s discovery reform introduced essential changes to enhance fairness in criminal cases, but led to unintended consequences. Currently, if a prosecutor’s discovery compliance is later challenged successfully, the time between certification and challenge is retroactively counted against the prosecution, often resulting in dismissals unrelated to the merits of the case or the legality of the investigation.

    This loophole inadvertently incentivizes delaying discovery challenges, in order to have cases easily thrown out on technicalities. To address this, Governor Hochul proposes changes to eliminate the incentive to delay discovery challenges and to ensure that a discovery error is addressed in a manner proportional to the discovery error itself rather than as a technical mechanism to have an entire case dismissed.

    These changes will promote timely review that will improve case processing times, reduce delays that keep individuals incarcerated pre-trial, and prevent dismissals based on technicalities that can prohibit justice to victims and the people of the State of New York.

    My common sense proposal to streamline New York’s discovery laws will close fatal loopholes that have delayed trials and led to cases being thrown out on minor technicalities, which will ultimately help crack down on recidivism and provide justice for victims.”

    Governor Kathy Hochul

    Staten Island District Attorney and President of DAASNY Michael E. McMahon said, “From Richmond County to Chautauqua County and everywhere in between, the unintended consequences of the 2020 Discovery Statute have led to the dismissal of thousands of felony and misdemeanor cases or the dramatic reduction of charges across our State. This reality robs the victims of crime from ever receiving justice and is the direct cause of the rampant recidivism we all know and loathe today as dangerous criminals escape accountability and consequence for their criminal action. If New Yorkers want to know why there is a perpetual and revolving door of recidivism plaguing our State then look no further — our current discovery statutes are to blame. Now is the time to amend New York’s broken Discovery laws and we thank Governor Hochul for recognizing this fact and for working with our fellow district attorneys and legislators to draft a proposal which restores common sense and accountability to our criminal justice system.”

    Rensselaer County District Attorney and President-Elect of DAASNY Mary Pat Donnelly said, “Governor Hochul has acknowledged that New York State’s discovery statute has unintentionally resulted in an increase in case processing times and case delays, and actually keeps people incarcerated for longer periods of time. The current system continues to result in cases being dismissed on technicalities. The discovery proposal in the Governor’s proposed Budget would improve the discovery process and streamline case processing time while also ensuring that defendants are provided with the information they need in order to defend themselves. I support Governor Hochul in her efforts to improve the discovery process.”

    Embedded Flickr Album

    Governor Hochul also proposed a series of improvements to streamline the State’s discovery process. First, the Governor proposes clarifying that information requiring subpoenas in order to obtain is not necessary for certifying discovery compliance and that prosecutors may certify once they have disclosed all relevant materials in their actual possession. Next, Governor Hochul proposes expanding the scope of automatic redaction to include sensitive details such as witnesses’ physical addresses and personal data unrelated to the case, eliminating the need to engage in lengthy litigation to redact such material.

    Governor Hochul also proposes reducing the requirement for providing 48-hour notice before a defendant’s statements can be presented to a grand jury to 24 hours. This will help relieve the burden of counties that lack five-day grand juries and which, during extended weekends, do not have 48 hours before a case needs to be presented to a grand jury. These changes will ensure procedural fairness, streamline case processing and safeguard sensitive information.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bernadette McIntyre Installed as the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 31, 2025

    Her Honour the Honourable Bernadette McIntyre was installed as the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan during a ceremony at the Legislative Building today.

    “Past Lieutenant Governors have exemplified volunteerism and service to Saskatchewan people, and I am confident with a highly distinguished career, spanning over areas such as tourism, sports, and business, that Her Honour is no different,” Premier Scott Moe said. “I offer my congratulations to Ms. McIntyre, and look forward to seeing the outstanding service she will provide to the province.”

    Following the installation ceremony, Lieutenant Governor McIntyre inspected an honour guard in the Legislative Assembly Rotunda.

    The Lieutenant Governor is the personal representative of the Sovereign in Saskatchewan and is responsible for granting Royal Assent to provincial laws, as well as summoning and dissolving the provincial legislature.

    Under the Canadian Constitution, Lieutenant Governors are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister for a minimum of five years; however, there is no fixed term of office.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Paraguay President: Any multilateralism crisis can only be solved with more multilateralism

    Source: World Trade Organization

    President Peña noted that Paraguay is one of the most open economies in the world, firmly anchored in the belief that “free commerce is a bedrock of civilized peoples.” In fact, Paraguay is the second most open economy in Latin America, with no significant restrictions on trade, a simple tax system and a markedly pro-business stance, he said. As a landlocked country and primarily an agricultural exporter, producing food for ten times its population, Paraguay has no other alternative, he added.

    “We understand both the opportunities and vulnerabilities of global trade. Our experience has shown us that the path to development requires not isolation but deeper integration into global markets – guided by clear, fair and enforceable rules. For middle-sized economies like Paraguay, the multilateral trading system is not just one option among many, it is simply essential for our development and prosperity. This is why I believe that any crisis of multilateralism can only be solved by one thing: more multilateralism,” he declared.

    President Peña stressed that Paraguay’s commitment to the WTO stems from its experience as a country which has constructed a stable democracy with consistent economic policies and its unique perspective as a bridge between countries with different levels of development. It also comes from the deep conviction that multilateralism remains the most effective path to sustainable development, he added.

    Referring to the historic decision to establish multilateral institutions after the Second World War, President Peña noted that it is precisely during difficult times that organizations like the WTO have the unique opportunity not only to show the world their crucial importance but to justify their existence. “The creation of an international organization which seeks to put order into chaos in the world of commerce was not only a sound decision but a brilliant and endurable insight. … The WTO has been, is and will be a great idea,” he added.

    In his address to WTO ambassadors, heads of intergovernmental organizations, representatives of non-governmental organizations, business and academia, President Peña also underscored that WTO members must be proactive in order to overcome the challenges faced by the system.

    He pointed to the need to make meaningful progress on agricultural reform to achieve less distorted markets and enhance food security, and to the importance of restoring a fully functioning dispute settlement system accessible to all members. He also called on members to ensure that environmental measures enhance, rather than hinder, international trade, and to secure justice, fairness and equality, the most fundamental principles of international commerce.

    The lecture – titled “Sustaining Multilateralism in Uncertain Times: The Role of Middle Powers” – was preceded by opening remarks by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who stressed that under President Peña Paraguay registered South America’s strongest rates of GDP growth in 2023 and 2024, according to IMF data, with a positive outlook for 2025 as well.

    DG Okonjo-Iweala noted that as a landlocked developing country, Paraguay faces challenges familiar to many WTO members. In the case of Paraguay, these challenges have to do with diversifying its exports beyond meat, soybeans and electricity, and the vulnerability to climate change of the Paraguay-Parana River waterway that connects the country to world markets for goods.

    DG Okonjo-Iweala referred to the fifth WTO Trade Policy Review (TPR) of Paraguay undertaken in November 2024 and the recognition by other members of Paraguay’s active and constructive engagement at the WTO, particularly in agriculture negotiations. She noted that at the TPR meeting, members praised Paraguay’s broadly open trade and investment environment and noted its reliance on regional and global trade to drive development and poverty reduction.

    DG Okonjo-Iweala also drew attention to the current challenging environment and the potential for the world to become more fragmented. “We have lived in that world before in the 1930s. It was poorer and more violent. So we owe it to our children and grandchildren,” she said, to preserving the benefits of multilateralism whilst fixing its shortcomings. “This would help us build them a better future,” she added.

    A recording of the event can be viewed here.

    About the WTO’s Presidential Lecture Series

    The WTO’s Presidential Lecture Series provides a platform for distinguished speakers from around the world to deliver lectures on various aspects of multilateral cooperation and global governance. Several events are held each year.

    More information on the lecture series is available here.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Extradition Hearing for Alleged Exxon Linked Hacker Underscores Big Oil’s War to Avoid Accountability

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    WASHINGTON, DC (January 31, 2025) — In response to ongoing legal developments regarding the Department of Justice’s effort to extradite an alleged hacker linked to cyberattacks against climate organizations including Greenpeace USA, Greenpeace USA Deputy Climate Program Director, John Noël said:

    “The latest bombshell revelations in the hack-for-hire case expose a brazen attack on democracy. Defense documents submitted to the court now allegedly link the DCI Group—a lobbying firm hired by Exxon—to a covert hacking operation aimed at undermining climate advocacy organizations, campaigners, journalists and derailing momentum for climate liability lawsuits by stealing private communications.

    “This apparent corporate espionage scandal is staggering—millions of dollars, international intelligence firms, shadowy hackers, and apparently Big Oil at its center. As one of the key suspects faces extradition to the U.S., even more revelations could still emerge. Those responsible must be fully pursued to expose the depths of this scheme and deliver justice.

    “Big Oil is escalating its playbook of manipulation and intimidation—deploying hacking schemes, SLAPP lawsuits, and a tidal wave of disinformation—to silence demands for accountability and climate justice. The fossil fuel industry’s relentless attempts to suppress the truth and crush legal efforts to hold them responsible must not be allowed to stall or derail the urgent fight for a livable future for working families everywhere.”

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Senators Rosen & Lankford Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Holocaust Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Following the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz and International Holocaust Remembrance Day, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating Antisemitism, introduced the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act to strengthen Holocaust education at public schools and increase awareness of Holocaust educational resources available to local communities. This bipartisan legislation would direct the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to conduct a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive study on Holocaust education. This study would help identify the resources and methods available to public schools to improve the ways in which educators teach students across the country about the Holocaust and antisemitism.
    “As our nation continues to face an alarming rise of antisemitism, and with Holocaust denial and distortion spiking worldwide, it’s critical that we identify and improve the resources available to our nation’s educators so they can accurately inform students about the horrors of the Holocaust and the dangers of anti-Jewish bigotry,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure the lessons of this dark chapter in history are never forgotten. I’ll keep working to combat antisemitism and make certain that Never Again means never again.”
    “Antisemitism and anti-Jewish crimes remain sadly on the rise in our nation and around the world,” said Senator Lankford. “Senator Rosen and I continue to work together to call out antisemitism no matter who or where it comes from. I will continue to do what I can to ensure future generations never forget the Holocaust and understand the fact that everyone should be able to freely live their faith without fear or persecution.”
    “Holocaust education is not just about preserving history—it fosters empathy, underscores the fragility of democracy, teaches about the role of antisemitism as Nazi ideology and the importance of bearing witness. ADL’s Center for Antisemitism Research (CAR) survey results reveal alarming gaps in Holocaust knowledge, with nearly 6 in 10 Americans under 30 unable to identify how many Jews were murdered, and 1 in 4 adults saying they ‘don’t know.’ ADL applauds Senators Rosen and Lankford, Co-Chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, for reintroducing the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act and urges swift passage of this important bill to ensure every student has access to comprehensive Holocaust education,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL.
    “American Jewish Committee (AJC) surveyed adults in the United States and found that only 53% of Americans over the age of 18 knew that approximately six million Jews were killed in the Holocaust. Knowing about the Holocaust contributes to understanding and confronting antisemitism in the United States. We applaud Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, for introducing the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act. We also appreciate their commitment to supporting educators throughout the country and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in its mission to ensure the Holocaust is taught accurately and comprehensively,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee.
    “With rising antisemitism around the world, the HEAL Act is more critical than ever. Jewish Federations across the United States have long worked to encourage requiring Holocaust education in schools. We are grateful that the Senate is reintroducing this bill, which will teach students about the Holocaust and its lessons to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.” said Karen Paikin Barall, Vice President of Government Relations at Jewish Federations of North America.
    “Hadassah is proud to support the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act. One of the most important ways to demonstrate our collective responsibility to fight antisemitism, hatred and bigotry is to ensure that future generations learn about the Holocaust. Yet, as antisemitism continues to alarmingly rise, schools are becoming hotbeds of hatred toward Jewish students. Passing the HEAL Act will help identify gaps in Holocaust education and review best practices from expert historic and Jewish studies perspectives to provide resources that help educators teach students about this horrific period in history and the evils to which intolerance can lead,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, Hadassah National President, and Ellen Finkelstein, Hadassah Chief Executive Officer.
    As co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, Senators Rosen and Lankford have been leading the fight against antisemitism. They pushed to create the first-ever national strategy to counter antisemitism. Last year, Senator Rosen’s bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Never Again Education Act became law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Joins Bipartisan Bill to Lower Child Care Costs and Address Shortage of Affordable Child Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is joining bipartisan legislation to lower child care costs and address the nationwide shortage of affordable child care. The Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would provide competitive grants for states to train child care workers and build or renovate child care facilities.

    Families across the country are struggling to access available child care, with rural communities increasingly becoming “child care deserts” due to the noticeable decline in the number of child care providers. According to the Governor’s office, Maine has seen a 39% drop in the number of family childcare providers since 2013, significantly affecting the most rural communities.

    “Affordable and accessible child care is one of the most pressing needs for working families in Maine and across the nation,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would provide important grant funding to states like Maine to train additional child care workers and build or renovate new child care facilities. When families have access to care, they are able to succeed both at home and in their professional careers. Child care is more than a household priority; child care means business!”

    The Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act would:

    • Address the shortage of affordable child care and qualified child care professionals, particularly in rural areas; 
    • Provide competitive grants to states to support the education, training, or retention of the child care workforce;
    • Provide competitive grants to states to build, renovate, and expand child care facilities in areas experiencing shortages; 
    • Require grant applicants to demonstrate how their projects would increase the availability and affordability of quality child care, and help child care workers continue advance their careers; and 
    • Enhance retention and compensation of quality child care professionals.

    The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Whitehouse (D-RI).

    Senator King has long worked to expand access to child care. He secured millions to improve child care services in the 2022 and 2023 omnibus appropriations bills, and worked to authorize the planning and development of a new child development center at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. He is also the cosponsor of the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act, which would permanently expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit that helps households offset their child care costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Underscores Urgent Need for Uninterrupted, Strategically Critical, Life-Saving Foreign Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON — At yesterday’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the “Malign Influence of the People’s Republic of China at Home and Abroad: Recommendations for Policy Makers,” U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) underscored the importance of U.S. leadership and global engagement in advancing American interests. Using the Philippines and Papua New Guinea as examples, Schatz asked witnesses to lay out the dire consequences of U.S. disengagement, as well as the opportunities it would create for the PRC.

    Prior to his questioning, Schatz, who also serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, addressed the chaos caused by the Trump Administration’s recent foreign aid funding freeze, stating, “We really just, on a nonpartisan basis, have to keep the pressure on the State Department to effectuate the Secretary’s policy because right now there’s a ton of confusion, and these are faraway places, and the original stop work orders are still being observed in some places and not in others. The furloughs are in some places being undone and not in others, and this is not some policy question anymore. It’s a question of executing what the Secretary has asked. So I just ask that we continue to put pressure on a bipartisan basis and just to understand the urgency of the moment. Four days ago, I asked now how bad is this, and they said ‘babies dying by the weekend’ and so this is not the kind of thing that we can get back to on Monday. We all have to exert pressure and make sure that the State Department gets this right, and I’m talking about in the next 24 hours.”

    Having recently discussed strengthening security and economic ties with the Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, Schatz asked, “I want to just start with the Philippines. As you know, they’re one of our closest allies. We have economic assistance arrangements, we have life-saving support that we provide, and of course we have a security partnership that’s lasted generations. If you were a senior CCP official, how would you view this freeze in foreign aid coming from the United States?”

    Peter Mattis, President of the Jamestown Foundation, replied, “I would be looking to exploit the opportunity that is there. And over the years the political fluctuations in the Philippines have offered those opportunities. They’ve disrupted the relationship. They’ve disrupted partnership, and anything from Beijing’s perspective, or if I were… a senior official in the United Front Work Department, I would be doing everything I can to exploit whatever chaos is there in the U.S.-Philippine relationship.”

    Schatz then pivoted to the subject of Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country rich in natural resources, saying, “It’s at risk of becoming a foothold for PRC military expansion. But right now it has the highest HIV incidence in the Pacific, and it’s rising. It also has a lot of unexploded ordinance, and last year the Department of Defense signed an $864 million defense bill deal with Port Morrisby, so it seems to me that the Philippines is one question: we have a bilateral relationship that spans generations and is sturdy, like under Duterte less sturdy, but still solid even when we have a president who is an unreliable partner, but in places like PNG where to use… the domestic equivalent they’re sort of swing states they’re open for business… to being aligned with China, to being aligned with the United States, to playing both sides against the middle. I’m particularly concerned about smaller countries for whom a withholding of economic or military or life-saving support is not something they can sort of weather, and so I’m wondering if you can talk about PNG in particular.”

    Dr. Melanie Hart, Senior Director of Global China Hub at Atlantic Council, answered, “Basically we’ve given Beijing a blank check and kneecapped the United States and the entire global pro-democracy movement. If you want to talk about PNG and their need for medicine, there is very clear pattern that, during the COVID crisis, Beijing forced nations around the world… to carry out its political edicts in exchange for COVID vaccines. I have no doubt that Beijing is already showing up in capitals where the United States is pulling back and saying here is your HIV medicine and guess what: here’s the three things you need to do for me today to get it.”

    Schatz was recently named the Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, which appropriates billions of dollars in funding for the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and other critical agencies and programs that provide humanitarian aid, global health support, and economic and security assistance, among other things to those in need around the world.

    Video of Senator Schatz’s full exchange at today’s hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Amid global uncertainty, minister meets with economic forecast council

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The impacts of potential U.S. tariffs are adding uncertainty to the global and domestic outlook, but private-sector forecasters indicate British Columbia is well positioned to take on whatever comes next.

    At their annual meeting with the finance minister on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, the 13 independent private sector forecasters from across Canada that make up B.C.’s Economic Forecast Council (EFC) noted that, like all provinces, B.C.’s economic outlook is affected by global and domestic forces, including federal immigration targets. Forecasters reaffirmed that in the absence of tariffs, they had expected steady economic growth for B.C.

    Members said a diverse export network and a resource-rich environment give B.C. an advantage over other provinces, while some were encouraged by B.C.’s work to date to address housing supply, skills training and affordability challenges.

    “We are in times of significant global uncertainty, and we can expect this instability to continue through the next four years,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Finance. “Our approach is to stand up for British Columbians by strengthening our economy, and continuing to diversify our trading network, while supporting the people that need it most. Our Economic Forecast Council has noted that while the uncertainty of threats from the south can make the planning and budgeting process more challenging than typical, with a diverse economy, B.C. remains well-positioned to attract new investment, skilled workers, and development opportunities. While there are challenges ahead, we have everything we need here to thrive.”

    The Economic Forecast Council estimates that real GDP in B.C. grew by 1.2% in 2024, higher than the Province’s projection in the Fall 2024 Economic and Fiscal Update. In early January, the council forecast B.C. real GDP growth of 1.9% in 2025, in line with the ministry’s outlook, and steady economic growth of 2.0% annually on average through 2029. These projections do not fully include the impact of potential U.S. tariffs.

    Economic Forecast Council members will have an opportunity to revise their forecasts before the budget.

    B.C.’s finance minister meets each year with the Economic Forecast Council, whose forecasts and feedback help inform the Province as it prepares the next provincial budget. The budget will be released on March 4, 2025.

    Learn More:

    To access the Fall 2024 Economic and Fiscal Update, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/finances/reports/quarterly-reports

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Issues Supplemental Letter Regarding No-Action Position on Reporting, Recordkeeping Requirements

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    CFTC Staff Issues Supplemental Letter Regarding No-Action Position on Reporting, Recordkeeping Requirements | CFTC

    /PressRoom/PressReleases/9042-25
    Skip to main content

    January 31, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Market Oversight and the Division of Clearing and Risk today announced they have taken a no-action position regarding swap data reporting and recordkeeping regulations. This position is in response to a request from KalshiEX LLC, a designated contract market, and Kalshi Klear LLC, a derivatives clearing organization, to modify CFTC Letter No. 24-15 to remove the condition prohibiting third-party clearing by participants and to cover fully-collateralized variable payout contracts. 
    The Divisions will not recommend the Commission initiate an enforcement action against KalshiEX LLC, Kalshi Klear LLC, or their participants for failure to comply with certain swap-related recordkeeping requirements and for failure to report to swap data repositories data associated with binary option transactions and variable payout contract transactions executed on or subject to the rules of KalshiEX LLC and cleared through Kalshi Klear LLC, subject to the terms of the no-action letter. The supplemental letter also removes the condition in CFTC Letter No. 24-15 that prohibits Kalshi participants from clearing contracts through a third-party clearing member.

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Blue Ridge Beef Issues a Recall of Blue Ridge Beef Natural Mix Due to Salmonella Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Animal & Veterinary
    Food & Beverages
    Pet Food
    Foodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    Salmonella contamination

    Company Name:
    Blue Ridge Beef
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    Blue Ridge Beef

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Natural Mix

    Company Announcement

    STATESVILLE, NC – January 31, 2025– Blue Ridge Beef is recalling 5,700 lbs. of their 2 lb log Natural Mix due to a contamination of Salmonella. Lot # N25/12/31 (Lot numbers are stamped in the clips on the end of the chubs/bags) UPC# 854298001054.

    Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

    Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

    Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

    Samples of the product was collected on 01/08/25 by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and tested by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture Food and Drug Protection Laboratory. The product tested positive for Salmonella.

    On 01/27/2025 the firm was notified by the FDA that the product tested positive for Salmonella.

    The products were distributed between January 3/2025 to January 24/2025. The product is packaged in clear plastic and sold primarily in retail stores located in the States of: [Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York State, Tennessee, Rhode Island. Image of product below:

    Products affected are:

    Product 

    Size 

    UPC 

    Lot Numbers 

    Natural Mix

    2 lb

    854298001054

    N26/12/31 (lot)

    Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to return to place of purchase or destroy the food in a way that children, pets, and wildlife cannot access. Do not sell or donate the recalled products. Do not feed the recalled product to pets or any other animals. Wash and sanitize pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers. Always ensure you wash and sanitize your hands after handling recalled food or any utensils that come in contact with recalled food. For more information contact blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com or 704-873-2072

    This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alvogen Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall for One Lot of Fentanyl Transdermal System 25 mcg/h Due to a Defective Delivery System

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    FDA Publish Date:
    Product Type:
    Drugs
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description

    There is potential that patches could be multi-stacked, adhered one on top of the other, in a single product pouch

    Company Name:
    Alvogen, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)

    Alvogen

    Product Description:

    Product Description

    Fentanyl Transdermal System 25 mcg/h transdermal patches

    Company Announcement

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 31, 2025 – Morristown, NJ

    Alvogen, Inc. is voluntarily recalling one lot of Fentanyl Transdermal System 25 mcg/h transdermal patches to the consumer level. The reason for the recall is that there is a potential that patches could be multi-stacked, adhered one on top of the other, in a single product pouch. This transdermal system is manufactured by Kindeva Drug Delivery L.P., Northridge, CA and is distributed by Alvogen, Inc. as a private label distributor.

    There is a possibility that the application of a multi-stacked 25 mcg/h patch could result in serious, life threatening, or fatal respiratory depression. Groups at potential increased risk could include first-time recipients of such patches, children, and the elderly. To date, Alvogen has received one serious adverse event related to this recall.

    The product is indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain in opioid-tolerant patients, that requires an extended treatment period with a daily opioid analgesic in opioid-tolerant patients, and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate, and is packaged in primary cartons of five individually wrapped and labeled pouches. The affected Fentanyl Transdermal System lot is:

    Lot 108319 of Fentanyl Transdermal System, 25 mcg/h, expiration date 04/2027.

    This lot of Fentanyl Transdermal System was distributed nationwide to the pharmacy and patient level. See image examples for lot 108319 and a multi-stacked patch.

    Alvogen, Inc. is notifying its distributors and direct customers by certified letter and is arranging for return and replacement of all recalled products. Pharmacies are requested not to dispense any product subject to this recall.

    Patients that have product subject to this recall should immediately remove any patch currently in use and contact their health care provider. Patients with unused product should return it to point of purchase for replacement. Consumers should contact their physician or health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.

    Questions regarding this recall should be directed to Alvogen Customer Complaints by calling 866-770-3024 or sending an e-mail to alvogensmb@continuumindia.com, Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm EST.

    Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

    This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –