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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces LA Rises, a private-sector initiative led by Mark Walter, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Casey Wasserman, to support swift and unified rebuilding of Los Angeles

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 28, 2025

    Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, Mark Walter Family Foundation, and Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation will provide an initial commitment of up to $100 million
     

     LA Rises will support city and county efforts to help accelerate recovery

    LOS ANGELES — In the wake of one of the most devastating natural disasters in California history, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of LA Rises, a unified recovery initiative that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts led by the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County and the State of California. The Governor has enlisted Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, business leader and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Casey Wasserman, LA28 Chairperson and President to lead and recruit others to this private sector and philanthropic effort.

    To seed this new effort, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, the Mark Walter Family Foundation, and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation have provided an initial commitment of up to $100 million. With plans to raise additional funds through private donations, LA Rises will provide major resources aimed at helping Los Angeles communities most affected by these catastrophic fires recover and rebuild.

    LA Rises will marshal the full resources of the private sector, augmenting and amplifying local and state resources, to rebuild Altadena, Pasadena, the Pacific Palisades, and all impacted communities.

    As part of the unified effort, city and county leaders are crafting recovery plans for their communities. The state is mobilizing its resources and scale, coordinating with the federal government, and removing red tape. LA Rises will galvanize the private sector to unlock additional capital and find new and innovative tools to help communities build back faster and stronger.

    “Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever. Just as California came together to fight the fires, we’ll work together to rebuild. With Mark, Earvin and Casey’s proven leadership and deep commitment to Los Angeles, we’ll tap into the enormous creativity, experience, and resources of the private sector, alongside local, state, and federal efforts, to deliver a recovery that benefits all Angelenos.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “The LA fires have wreaked havoc on LA’s neighborhoods. It’s time for those with means to come forward and make a positive impact to build back better.”

    Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter

    “This is a time for bold action. We’re bringing together the best resources and biggest hearts across California to ensure that every Angeleno — no matter their race, socioeconomic status, or neighborhood — has a chance to rebuild and thrive. This isn’t just about recovery; it’s about restoring communities while also making them more resilient and better than before.”

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson

    “I’ve been a lifelong Angeleno, and what I admire most about this city is its resilience and unity. There’s nothing Los Angeles can’t achieve. LA Rises will channel the unmatched creativity, resources, and generosity of the private sector to rebuild our city and pave the way for a stronger future.”

    LA 28 President Casey Wasserman

    “Given the scale and scope of damage and destruction the Eaton wildfire has left in its wake, I wholeheartedly welcome all the support from the state as well as the private sector as part of this initiative. By corralling and coordinating the work of philanthropy and private industry, this can complement our local recovery and rebuilding efforts, especially for our marginalized populations in Altadena who have lost everything. When it comes to supporting initiatives — like this one — that look to arm us with the resources to rebuild with a bottom-up approach, I’m all in.”

    Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger

    “Efforts to rebuild are underway in the City of Los Angeles and this announcement will be a vital component of a comprehensive effort to bring Angelenos home. The number one question on the minds of Angelenos is about recovery and rebuilding. I am grateful that the Governor and the LA Rises initiative will be there to partner with us, developing solutions to support our work. In recent days, the strength and resilience of Los Angeles have been felt throughout the state, the nation and the world. I want to thank the Governor for his continued partnership and his collaboration during this difficult time for our city.”

    Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass

    How LA Rises will work

    LA Rises will contribute through collaboration, access to capital and financial tools, leveraging innovation and private-sector investment to drive a faster recovery. It will support the broader recovery efforts by:

    • Fundraising and expanding access to philanthropic and private capital
    • Formulating financing strategies to close the gap between available resources and the cost to rebuild
    • Collaborating with other philanthropic and community organizations to maximize the impact of ongoing rebuilding and recovery efforts
    • Supporting unified communication efforts to arm Angelenos with up-to-date, factual information, timelines for rebuilding, and available resources

    In addition to the financial commitment from the Mark Walter Family Foundation, and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, LA Rises will receive financial support from California Rises, a statewide recovery initiative founded by Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom after the 2018 Camp Fire. A partnership between the Governor’s Office and the California Fire Foundation, California Rises is dedicated to supporting communities impacted by the fires and firefighters and first responders who continue to serve on the frontlines.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    Jan 27, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES — Scientists, water managers, state leaders, and experts throughout the state are calling out the federal administration’s ongoing misinformation campaign on water management in California. Here is a snapshot of what water leaders and media are saying…

    Jan 25, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Bret Ladine, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director of the Financial Information System for California (FI$Cal). Ladine has been General Counsel at the California State…

    Jan 24, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom welcomed President Trump to Los Angeles and pledged to work together to support survivors and secure federal assistance.  LOS ANGELES – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom met with President Trump on the tarmac at Los Angeles…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Releases Statement on Trump Administration’s Abrupt Federal Funding Freeze

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Colorado Will Join Other States in a Lawsuit to Block the Freeze

    DENVER – Governor Polis released a statement announcing Colorado will sign on to a multi-state lawsuit challenge to the Administration’s freeze of federal funding: 

    “Governing is about delivering real results for the people we serve, not sowing chaos. This indefinite pause in Congressionally appropriated federal funding hurts children and hardworking families, jeopardizes American jobs and businesses, harms hospitals and safety net health providers, threatens road and bridge repairs, and impacts countless other programs. These federal investments help people and support good-paying jobs and our economy, and this sloppy action creates confusion that distracts from Americans’ real challenges. Since day one I’ve been focused on saving Coloradans money, expanding education access, reducing health care costs, and improving affordability for everyone in our state. I’m always open to ideas from anyone about how we can make government more efficient and better deliver for fellow Coloradans. Still, chaotic actions like this do not make our country better off. We hope that this senseless action is reversed urgently before too much damage is done to people and businesses.” 

    Colorado will join various other states in suing to challenge the funding freeze. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont and Comptroller Scanlon Applaud Approval of Legislation Providing Enhanced Survivor Benefits for Families of State Employees Killed in the Line of Duty

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont, Comptroller Sean Scanlon, and the leadership of the Connecticut State Police and the Connecticut Department of Transportation are applauding the Connecticut General Assembly for voting today to ratify an agreement reached between the Office of the Governor, the Office of the State Comptroller, and the State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition (SEBAC) that makes the surviving families of state employees who are killed in the line of duty eligible to receive enhanced survivor benefits, regardless of whether that state employee was eligible to receive a pension at the time of their death.

    The legislation was inspired by the tragic line-of-duty deaths last year of two Connecticut state employees, including a trooper from the Connecticut State Police and an employee from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Because of their ages and years of service, neither of those state employees were eligible to receive pensions at the time of their deaths. The change ratified by the legislature today means that both surviving families in those instances will begin receiving survivor benefits, based on their individual eligibility circumstances. Additionally, this change will apply to all future situations in which a state employee who was not eligible to receive a pension is killed in the line of duty.

    Governor Lamont, Comptroller Scanlon, Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins, Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman, and Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto worked with legislative leaders to advocate for a solution that would make surviving families in these situations eligible for these benefits.

    “Many state employees have job responsibilities that often put their lives at risk, and the state must be there for their families whenever we may be faced with an unfortunate tragedy,” Governor Lamont said. “With the change approved today, these families can now begin receiving survivor benefits. I appreciate lawmakers from both sides of the aisle for working with our administration on this solution to the state’s pension rules.”

    “Every day, thousands of state employees go to work and, in some cases, put themselves in harm’s way on behalf of all of us,” Comptroller Scanlon said. “As a state, we have a profound responsibility to support our employees and their families – especially in the tragic event of a line-of-duty death. I’m honored to have worked with Governor Lamont and labor leaders to close this loophole and ensure that the families of employees who pay the ultimate sacrifice while serving our state receive the benefits they deserve and are entitled to.”

    “State employees do the jobs that make Connecticut a safer place to live and work. They patrol the highways, work along dangerous roadways, and perform numerous hazardous duties to ensure our well being,” Commissioner Higgins said. “At DESPP, we are deeply appreciative of this agreement and the message that it sends to Connecticut and all state employees. Thank you, Governor Lamont and everyone who worked hard to make this a reality.”

    “This agreement serves as a symbol of our deep gratitude and respect for the employees of the State of Connecticut,” Colonel Loughman said. “In recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by a Connecticut State Trooper, this commitment to providing financial security for his family is a top priority. I would like to thank Governor Lamont and his team for their swift action that has made this a reality.”

    “Our workers are often in harm’s way maintaining and improving our state’s transportation infrastructure, with 39 CTDOT employees killed in the line of duty since our agency’s founding,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “While nothing we do can bring our colleagues back, this legislation is an important step forward that recognizes the dangers our roadside workers face. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the General Assembly for supporting and approving this important legislation.”

    “We would like to recognize and thank Governor Lamont, Comptroller Sean Scanlon, the legislature, Undersecretary David Krayeski, and Attorney Dan Livingston for their leadership and commitment to ensuring that the surviving children, spouses, and families are cared for in the absences of those who gave their lives protecting the State of Connecticut,” Connecticut State Police Union President Todd Fedigan said. “Our troopers appreciate that we are valued by the state’s leadership and can rest assured that if they are killed in the line of duty, their families will be supported and able to focus on making sure the trauma of such loss is minimized for those left behind.”

    The Senate approved the agreement by a vote of 34 to 0 (Senate Resolution 10), and the House of Representatives approved it by a vote of 143 to 0 (House Resolution 12).

    In addition to this reform, the state recently established the Fallen Officer Fund, which provides financial assistance to the families of local and state police officers who are killed in the line of duty or who sustained injuries that are the cause of an officer’s death.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon Connect debuts new technology solutions for fleet safety and compliance

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon Connect debuts new technology solutions for fleet safety and compliance

    What you need to know:

    • Verizon Connect’s Extended View Cameras offer an advanced, integrated video solution to enhance fleet safety, visibility, and driver accountability, now available in the U.S.
    • The Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) simplifies inspections and compliance, safety, and reduced maintenance costs in the U.S. and Canada.
    • These solutions provide fleet managers with enhanced insights, streamlined operations, and regulatory support, while helping to improve safety and reduce liability.

    NEW YORK – Verizon Connect announced the launch of two advanced solutions designed to enhance fleet safety, driver performance, and operational efficiency. The new Extended View Cameras deliver near-360-degree visibility with rear, side, and cargo cameras; while the customizable Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) simplifies compliance and maintenance through Verizon Connect’s Reveal platform. Together, these innovations offer comprehensive tools for fleet managers to safeguard their assets, drivers, and the communities they serve.

    Extended View Cameras: Enhancing Visibility and Driver Performance

    Verizon Connect’s Extended View Cameras expand its Integrated Video solutions, featuring four additional cameras and an in-cab monitor. This setup provides fleet managers with near-complete visibility around vehicles, enabling enhanced visibility and driver performance while helping to reduce liability and costs.

    Key features include:

    • Improved safety: With near-360-degree coverage, drivers are more aware of their surroundings, helping to reduce the risk of collisions and enabling safer navigation in tight or busy spaces.
    • Enhanced visibility: Multi-channel camera views, including rear, side, and cargo angles, provide fleet managers with full situational awareness, improving safety during high-risk events.
    • Reduced liability: Side and rear cameras offer reliable video evidence, helping to protect drivers and businesses from false claims and exonerate drivers, and reduce legal expenses.
    • Reduced costs: The cargo camera can capture instances of damaged cargo due to risky driving behaviors, allowing fleet managers to mitigate future risks and lower operational expenses.
    • Driver performance: Drivers become more conscious of their behaviors, leading to safer driving practices allowing them to better adhere to safety protocols.

    “Our customers already reap huge benefits from our award-winning dashcam and driver-facing camera, but why stop there? Now we are extending the benefits by giving them near 360-degree visibility around the vehicle,” said Peter Mitchell, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Verizon Connect. “By reducing blind spots and promoting safer driving practices, our Extended View Cameras empower drivers and fleet managers to operate with even greater confidence and security.”

    Driver Vehicle Inspection Report: Streamlining Compliance and Maintenance

    Verizon Connect is also introducing its customizable DVIR, which is fully integrated into the Verizon Connect Reveal fleet management software. This solution consolidates compliance and inspection tracking into a single platform, helping fleets operate safely and efficiently.

    Key features include:

    • Customizable inspection reports: DVIR forms can be tailored to meet specific company requirements, ensuring thorough coverage of all vehicle safety standards.
    • Visual evidence: Drivers can upload photos to document vehicle damage or issues, improving the accuracy of reports.
    • Real-time alerts: Fleet managers receive instant notifications for incomplete inspections or detected vehicle defects, enabling proactive action to help prevent costly repairs or fines.
    • Seamless API integration: Integration with third-party maintenance providers allows quick resolution of identified defects, reducing vehicle downtime.

    “DVIRs are essential for maintaining vehicle safety, prolonging vehicle life and, of course, meeting regulatory compliance,” added Mitchell. “Our DVIR solution makes it easier for fleet managers to track inspections, address issues early, and keep their fleets safe and on the road.”

    Supporting Fleet Safety and Compliance

    The solutions are now available to new and existing Verizon Connect Reveal customers. The Extended View Cameras are available in the U.S., while the DVIR is available in the U.S. and Canada. These innovations reinforce Verizon Connect’s commitment to helping fleets operate more safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations, while also reducing costs and liability.

    For more information about Verizon Connect, visit: https://www.verizonconnect.com/.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Discovering the deepest secrets of Venus planet with EnVision mission

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Discovering the deepest secrets of Venus planet with EnVision mission

    Thales Alenia Space has signed a contract with the European Space Agency to build the EnVision spacecraft that will unveil Venus’ deepest mysteries

    •           As prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space will be responsible for the entire satellite, which will host five scientific instruments as well as a radio science experiment.

    •           The EnVision mission will provide a holistic view of the planet, from its inner core to the upper atmosphere, in order to determine how and why Venus and Earth evolved so differently.

    •           The EnVision mission will benefit not only from the long-standing cooperation between ESA, its member states and NASA, but also from the combined technical and scientific expertise of Europe and the USA in Venusian exploration.

    Brussels, January 28th, 2025 – Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) worth a total of 367 million Euros, for the supply of a satellite for ESA’s EnVision mission to Venus. EnVision will embark five scientific instruments and a radio science experiment, to be carried out by the respective space agencies taking part in this exciting mission: the Italian Space Agency(ASI), the American space agency (NASA), the French space agency (CNES), the German aerospace research and technology centre (DLR) and the Belgian Science Policy Centre (BELSPO).

    EnVision ©Thales Alenia Space_E.Briot 

    Venus and Earth: two “twin planets” that are so different

    Some 20 years after the first European mission to Venus (Venus Express), EnVision’s goal is to explore this planet accurately and systematically from its inner core to the upper layers of the atmosphere, analysing its interaction with the surface. The intention is to provide an integrated view of Venus, studying its history, activity and climate in an attempt to better understand why Earth’s ‘twin’ planet, so similar in size and distance from the sun, is so different and uninhabitable today. EnVision is scheduled for launch in November 2031.

    As the prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space will be responsible for the entire satellite, hosting five scientific instruments and an ultra-stable oscillator to perform radio science experiments.

    “I wanted to sincerely thank the European Space Agency for putting its trust in our company,” Thales Alenia Space CEO Hervé Derrey said. “Thales Alenia Space took part to iconic space exploration and science interplanetary missions across the solar system, including Mars with ExoMars, Mercury with BepiColombo, the Sun with Solar Orbiter, asteroids and comets with Rosetta-Philae, Saturn with Cassini-Huygens, and tomorrow the Moon with Artemis, not to mention Euclid that will explore dark energy and dark matter to better understand the origin of the Universe’s accelerating expansion. This stunning mission will be a new step toward better understanding the deepest secrets of Venus, emphasizing in particular the many similarities and differences that exist between the Earth and the planet Venus, which is 41 million kilometers away from ours.”

    “We are extremely proud to announce our contribution to ESA’s EnVision mission in partnership with NASA, 20 years after the historic Venus Express mission. This new initiative, which follows on from the extraordinary BepiColombo and ExoMars 2016 missions, represents a significant milestone for the industry as well as for space research,” said Giampiero Di Paolo, Deputy CEO and Senior Vice President, Observation, Exploration and Navigation at Thales Alenia Space. “The EnVision mission, involving major international partners, is an ambitious program that will help us unravel the mysteries of the evolution of Venus, a planet so similar to Earth in many respects, but at the same time so different. With our experience and commitment, we are determined to support this crucial planetary mission, which promises to further our knowledge of our solar system.”

    “We are thrilled to partner with Thales Alenia Space on this ground-breaking new mission to Venus – said ESA Science Director, Prof. Carole Mundell – No other mission has ever attempted such a comprehensive investigation of our remarkably inhospitable neighbour. EnVision will answer fundamental questions about how a planet becomes habitable – or the opposite.”

    About the aerobraking phase:

    The entry into orbit around Venus will include an aerobraking phase lasting several months, during which the orbit will be progressively circularised thanks to the friction of the satellite’s surfaces with the planet’s atmosphere. This will be a particularly delicate phase for the stability and temperature of the satellite. This will be followed by the actual scientific observation phase, which is expected to last about 6 Venusian years, corresponding to 4 Earth years.

    Thanks to its consolidated experience as prime contractor on complex scientific missions, the last of which was Euclid, Thales Alenia Space will draw in particular on the aerobraking experience gained with ExoMars’ Trace Gas Orbiter in 2016.

    ESA has authorised the next phases up to the spacecraft in-orbit commissioning around Venus. An important upcoming milestone will be the spacecraft system requirements review in 2025. In parallel, the selection of the industrial team will be completed and full authorisation to proceed with Phase C/D is expected in June 2026.

    Thales Alenia Space leading the industrial consortium:

    As prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space will be responsible for the entire satellite, featuring 5 scientific instruments and an ultra-stable oscillator to perform radio science experiments, provided by ESA Member States and NASA, in further detail:

    •           VenSAR (Venus Synthetic Aperture Radar)

    •           VenSpec suite (spectrometer suite) consisting of:

                   – VenSpec-H (High-Resolution Infrared Spectrometer)

                   – VenSpec-U (Ultraviolet Spectral Imager)

                   – VenSpec-M (Near-Infrared Mapping Spectrometer) and Central Control Unit (CCU)

    •           Subsurface Radar Sounder (SRS)

    •           Radio Science Experiment (RSE)

    For the spacecraft Thales Alenia Space in Italy selected an Industrial Core Team composed of OHB, responsible for the mechanical, thermal, and propulsion subsystem, and Thales Alenia Space in France in charge of the Attitude and Orbit Control Subsystem (AOCS) and aerobraking analysis.

    About the EnVision mission 

    The EnVision mission is dedicated to the study of Venus and was adopted in 2024 by ESA’s Science Programme Committee as the 5th medium-class mission within the Agency’s Cosmic Vision plan. 

    EnVision is an ESA-led mission in partnership with NASA that provides Synthetic Aperture Radar (VenSAR) and Deep Space Network support for mission-critical phases.

    EnVision will reach Venus after a 15-month cruise. After its arrival, the orbiter will spend about a year aerobraking through Venus’ atmosphere to gradually reach its scientific orbit, a near low-polar orbit of Venus, at an altitude of 220 to 540 km and with an orbital period of approximately 94 minutes.

    ABOUT THALES ALENIA SPACE

    Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources, and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth. A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of approximately €2.2 billion in 2023 and has around 8,600 employees in 8, countries with 16 sites in Europe.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Proud to Confirm Duffy as Secretary of Transportation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today regarding the confirmation of Sean Duffy as the U.S. Secretary of Transportation:
    “Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is another wise addition to the President’s cabinet. His focus on safety and efficiency in our transportation system is a welcome contrast to the last four years of woke initiatives and climate mandates. Sean has a proven record of bipartisan leadership on several successful transportation projects during his near decade of public service in the U.S. House of Representatives. I look forward to working with the Secretary to invest in our nation’s transportation infrastructure and make travel safer and more affordable for American families.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Commerce oversees everything from weather and salmon to trade and census − here are 3 challenges awaiting new secretary

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Linda J. Bilmes, Daniel Patrick Moynihan Senior Lecturer in Public Policy and Public Finance, Harvard Kennedy School

    Howard Lutnick, left, is President Donald Trump’s nominee to run the Commerce Department. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

    The U.S. secretary of commerce oversees the smallest but arguably most complex of all Cabinet-level departments.

    Established as a distinct entity in 1913, it has evolved into a sprawling organization with 13 bureaus spanning a wide variety of critical areas that include weather forecasting, conducting the census, estimating gross domestic product, managing fisheries, promoting U.S. exports, setting standards for new technology and allocating radio frequency spectrum. It is even home to one of America’s eight uniformed military services, the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps with its own fleet of ships, aircraft and 321 commissioned officers. Its main mission is to monitor oceans, waterways and the atmosphere in support of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration.

    As a result, there is no other Cabinet position that has to engage with lawmakers in Congress across so many disparate technical issues, committees and stakeholders. This medley reflects both the historical evolution of the U.S. economy and a degree of political happenstance.

    I served at the Commerce Department in several roles, including as chief financial officer and assistant secretary for administration, management and budget, and have watched several administrations attempt to craft an overarching strategic narrative around this diverse set of missions.

    Besides the difficult job of formulating a unifying strategy for the department’s many activities, I believe there are three specific challenges in particular that await the next secretary, a position that requires Senate confirmation.

    The Commerce Department manages salmon as part of its National Marine Fisheries Service.
    AP Photo/Manuel Valdes

    Commerce: A sprawling bureauocracy

    From its earliest days, the Commerce Department has collected trade statistics, overseen lighthouses and issued patents and trademarks. But since then, its portfolio has expanded significantly.

    In 1970, NOAA was placed inside Commerce, partly as a result of a feud between President Richard Nixon and his interior secretary, Wally Hickel, over the Vietnam War. NOAA now accounts for more than half the department’s US$11 billion budget and has created some peculiar departmental overlaps.

    As President Barack Obama joked in his 2011 State of the Union speech, “The Interior Department is in charge of salmon while they’re in freshwater, but the Commerce Department handles them when they’re in saltwater.”

    While the joke wasn’t quite accurate – a division of Commerce manages salmon in both fresh and saltwater, though Interior does restore their habitat – it does reflect some odd situations. For example, when it comes to sea turtles, Interior oversees their nests on shore, whereas Commerce protects them in the open sea.

    Due to the department’s broad interests, the commerce secretary has a role in nearly every important issue facing the country.

    He or she needs to be a quick study who is able to multitask, respond to congressional inquiries on a myriad of topics, as well as manage a 50,000-strong workforce including economists, scientists, statisticians, meteorologists and other experts.

    One example of the caliber of experts Commerce oversees is the National Institute for Standards and Technology, which does cutting-edge research in bioscience, artificial intelligence, materials science and industrial measurement standards. The institute currently has five Nobel laureates in physics and chemistry on its staff and is on the front lines on cybersecurity and national defense.

    While it’s unclear how Trump nominee Howard Lutnick plans to unify Commerce’s work, the previous secretary, Gina Raimondo, outlined five strategic goals for her department, including driving U.S. global competitiveness, using data to find new opportunities and modernizing its services and capabilities.

    The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation is holding a hearing on Jan. 29, 2025, to consider Lutnick’s nomination.

    Challenge No. 1: Another census is just around the corner

    The incoming secretary’s biggest challenge will be the decennial census due on April 1, 2030.

    The census counts every person living in the U.S. and five U.S. territories. Census data is used to apportion the number of seats each state has in the House of Representatives and to adjust or redraw electoral districts, as well as to apportion federal funding allotted to each district. Consequently, the census receives huge attention in Congress. It will be an especially hot topic because the data collected in the 2020 census had errors due to the pandemic.

    Conducting the census is highly labor intensive and takes many years of planning and preparation, which ramp up now.

    The Commerce Department must hire 500,000 temporary workers, open local offices and run large-scale field tests, award billions of dollars in contracts, and work with every state, local, county and tribal government in the country to map where people live. This includes dorms, homeless shelters, nursing homes, prisons, oil rigs, boats, tents, hospitals and mobile homes as well as houses and apartments.

    The Census Bureau says it began planning for 2030 as far back as 2019 and is preparing to do a test census in 2026.

    Trump administration policies, such as ongoing efforts to round up and deport undocumented migrants, will make it even more challenging to count immigrants and other historically hard-to-reach groups. During his first term, President Donald Trump sought to prevent unauthorized immigrants from being counted at all – but ran out of time.

    A NOAA crew on a reconnaissance flight into the eye of Hurricane Milton in October 2024.
    Sim Aberson/NOAA via AP

    Challenge No. 2: NOAA on the front lines of climate change fight

    Second, NOAA is likely to be in the political crosshairs, due to its role as a global leader in studying oceans, climate and coastal ecosystems.

    It tracks rising sea levels, ocean acidification and extreme weather events, and forecasts their impact on fisheries, shipping, marine protected areas and habitats. It also runs the National Weather Service and issues severe storm warnings. These and many other NOAA activities are vital to monitoring the pace of climate change and helping Americans adapt.

    NOAA’s mission and its budget are sure to be scrutinized by the Trump administration, which has already reversed a variety of policies meant to slow the pace of climate change. Trump himself has called climate change a “hoax.” That and policy proposals that seek to break up or privatize NOAA suggest many of NOAA’s climate-related activities could be under threat.

    Challenge No. 3: The patent problem

    A third challenge the incoming secretary will face is an ongoing crisis at the Patent and Trademark Office.

    Unlike most federal agencies, the Patent and Trademark Office is funded by user fees collected from applicants rather than from tax revenue. This is supposed to make it more efficient and easier to hire staff quickly, but the model is under stress due to a shortage of patent examiners with skills in assessing science, technology, engineering and math applications. The agency currently has a backlog of over 800,000 unexamined patent applications – near an all-time high.

    The backlog is likely to continue to grow as artificial intelligence and other state-of-the-art technologies accelerate the discovery cycle, but the slow process of patent approval – two years on average – can throw a wrench in it.

    Patents and trademarks are critical to U.S. competitiveness because they reward innovation and discovery and help inventors attract investors.

    The Trump administration’s broad federal hiring freeze is likely to worsen the Patent and Trademark Office’s staffing issues, while the back-to-office mandate may make it harder to recruit patent examiners, who often work remotely.

    On top of this, Elon Musk, whose companies hold large numbers of patents and who already holds tremendous sway in the Trump administration, says “patents are for the weak” and compared them with landmines in warfare. “They don’t actually help advance things,” he said. “They just stop others from following you.”

    In addition to these three areas, Commerce’s roles in international trade, telecommunications, industrial security and other matters could also become epicenters of any global crisis.

    This all adds up to an uncomfortable mix of political and operational challenges for the next secretary.

    This story is part of a series of profiles explaining Cabinet and high-level administration positions.

    Linda J. Bilmes is affiliated with the Harvard Kennedy School. She served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Department of Commerce from 1997-1998 and as CFO and Assistant Secretary for Management, Budget and Administration from 1999-2001.

    – ref. Commerce oversees everything from weather and salmon to trade and census − here are 3 challenges awaiting new secretary – https://theconversation.com/commerce-oversees-everything-from-weather-and-salmon-to-trade-and-census-here-are-3-challenges-awaiting-new-secretary-248087

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Joins “Mornings with Maria” to Discuss Delivering for Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) joined Maria Bartiromo on FOX Business today to discuss how Republicans will deliver for the American people. Senator Fischer condemned the Democrats for stalling President Trump’s Cabinet nominees, risking America’s national security, and playing political games instead of serving their constituents.

    Senator Fischer also highlighted her plans to continue working for the American people during reconciliation by making her Paid Family Medical Leave tax credit permanent.

    Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s remarks

    Click here to download audio

    Click here to download video

     


    Republicans Are Here To Work:

    Maria Bartiromo: You will be part of Howard Lutnick’s confirmation hearing. Tell us about your expectations for Howard Lutnick and the rest of these nominees. Do you think they’ll all get past the finish line?

    Senator Fischer:     It is so very important that we do get these nominees confirmed, and that we do it quickly. Of course, as you’re well aware, Maria, the Democrats are slow walking everything. Republicans have shown that we will stay late. We will stay over the weekends in order to get this done. 

    On Democrats Stalling President Trump’s Cabinet Nominees:

    Maria Bartiromo:     The President needs his team on the ground. Do you feel like your colleagues on the left have been stalling these hearings?

    Senator Fischer:     Oh, most definitely. You know, you especially saw it on Armed Services Committee where the Democrat members wanted to have another round of questions. They wanted to postpone the vote. They just wanted to drag it out.

    Let’s remember that, I think it was in the first 12 days of President Obama’s administration. He had 12 or 15 nominees already confirmed. We need to do that for national security reasons, for reasons that the American people are tired of waiting. You know, we want to see things happen, we need to move ahead. But we’ve got to do our job, we have to be thorough in it, and I can guarantee that we are.

    On Democrats Playing Political Games:

    Maria Bartiromo:     Yeah, I mean, more than that, people are sick and tired of the political tricks. We’ve been watching political games since President Trump walked down that escalator 10 years ago. From the Russia collusion lie, to hiding things about the Biden family, to now this obstruction of justice… 

    Senator Fischer: It’s just nonsense. We heard J.D. Vance answer a question this weekend, “You know, I don’t really care Margaret.” That is a calling that I hear all across Nebraska and all across America. You know, I don’t really care anymore. We have work to do. We need to get it done. Stop with the tricks, stop with all this stalling, and let’s get to work for the American people, on energy, on inflation, on reconciliation. There is so much to do.

    On Working for the American People During Reconciliation:

    Maria Bartiromo:     House Republicans are set to meet with VP Vance today at the Trump Doral Resort in Florida, as part of their annual conference. Committee chairs will also hold reconciliation meetings on how to pass President Trump’s agenda. Trump joined lawmakers for dinner last night with a speech on his priorities. Here’s what he said. Watch:

    President Trump:     In the coming weeks, I’m looking forward to working with Congress on a reconciliation bill that financially takes care of our plans to totally and permanently restore the sovereign borders of the United States once and for all. I’m also eager to get to work with Congress on the largest package of tax cuts and reforms in American history. We got to get that done, and we don’t want to get hung up on the budget process. We just want whether it’s one bill, two bills, I don’t care.

    Maria Bartiromo: Senator, how do you see this playing out?

    Senator Fischer:     Well, I agree with the President on his goals here, and I agree with him when he says whether it’s one bill or two bills, you know, I don’t care. We need to make sure that we’re going to deliver for the American people. What I’m worried about are American families. You know, they have to choose right now between making ends meet and taking care of their families.

    My top priority in reconciliation is my Paid Family Medical Leave tax credit. That was included in the 2017 Tax Reform, and I want to make that permanent in this reconciliation package. So we are working hard on that with a number of my colleagues. In the Senate, we are working together, as you know, in reconciliation, we just need to keep our guys together. And we’re trying to do that through a number of committees to make sure that we protect this country, that we protect our borders. That we can provide for families and meet their needs, so that they can have a better life for themselves and their children. These are promises made, and they’re going to be promises kept.

    On Putting America First:

    Maria Bartiromo:     I’m glad that you’re focused on families, whether it be their economic progress or their security. President Trump declared a national energy emergency in an effort to increase U.S. oil production. Gas executives told the New York Times they don’t plan on doing so unless prices rise significantly. This is another potentially economic yet also national security issue. And I spoke with your colleague, the Leader of the U.S. Senate, John Thune, on Sunday, and we talked about military spending being lifted. Here’s what he said. Watch: “What are you looking for in terms of specifics in bulking up America’s defense?

    Senate Majority Leader Thune:     Well, obviously our Navy, and if you look at the number of ships we have relative to our adversaries, particularly China, that’s something the President is interested in, an American Iron Dome concept. But, frankly, the thing we’ve got to do Maria is we’ve got to increase the top line. We have not, we have underfunded and in the Biden budget, there wasn’t a single Biden budget that kept up with the rate of inflation when it comes to the military, and so we’ve got some making up to do. I think there’s a very compelling argument on Panama, very compelling argument on Greenland and optimism in America that we haven’t seen in a long time. I think there’s been a real this has been a sluggish country, a country that’s been bogged down under the weight of government, regulation and red tape and taxation.

    Maria Bartiromo: Senator, I’ve got the Iron Dome for America Executive Order in front of me, and this is one of the ways that President Trump says he will be protecting America from a national security standpoint. What are you considering in terms of defense spending? And tell us where the priorities are in this plan.

    Senator Fischer:     Right. You know, on Armed Services Committee the last three years that President Biden sent us his top line for his budget, we increased that in the Senate Armed Services Committee, because we are well aware of the threats that face this nation. I happen to chair the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. So not only do we have jurisdiction over STRATCOM and Space Command, but we also have jurisdiction over our nuclear triad to make sure that we have that strong deterrence policy.

    You’ve heard President Trump and the Vice President talk about deterrence that is so important to keep this country safe. We also have jurisdiction on strategic forces over missile defense, and we have been putting funding into missile defense in this country since I have been here and on that committee for now into my third term. So I am very, very pleased to hear that President Trump is prioritizing that with a focus on Iron Dome. We need to continue to look at our missile defense, the capabilities that we have, the capabilities that we need in order to defend and protect our homeland. 

    On Curbing Government Spending:

    Maria Bartiromo:     Yeah, I’m so glad to hear you talk this way. I could not agree more. Unfortunately, something has got to give. Senator, can you name one or two important offsets that you think will be significant? Interest is the single largest item in the budget behind Social Security. More than spending on defense, Medicare, and on children? Senator, what’s your most important offset to pay for all this?

    Senator Fischer:     You know, there’s a number of things, as you know, Maria, that all of us are looking at and being able to go through a budget. On Appropriations Committee, we’re going to be really having a strong oversight with our agencies that we have jurisdiction over and hold them accountable for programs. I think we can look, for example, on job training programs. I know a few years ago, across agencies, there were like 37 different job training programs. I am all for job training, but I think we need to figure out what the balance is. And I think that’s a private enterprise. A private business does training in conjunction with our community colleges, in conjunction with our state universities.

    I mean, just simple things like that. You’re going to see a lot of things like that. And I know we’ve heard some in the past. What I want to see, though, is a return to energy dominance. That is going to bring in, it’s going to help lower prices for families in this country. I want to be able to see inflation addressed, which we will. 

    Maria Bartiromo:     Of course. 

    Senator Fischer:     I know, I know many are saying, well, we’ve seen the price of eggs go up. Why hasn’t it dropped yet? I’m going, it’s been a week, folks, it’s been a week. You know, we are, we are focused, and we’re getting it done.

    Maria Bartiromo:     Senator, we’ll be watching your work. It’s a great point, the oversight alone may actually save a lot, given the reckless spending in the past. We’ll be watching. Thank you so much. Senator Deb Fisher, joining us this morning.

    Senator Fischer:     Thank you. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Slams Defense Nominee for Improperly Withholding Aid to Ukraine, Violating U.S. Constitution, Disregarding Congressional Authority

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    January 28, 2025

    Michael Duffey is responsible for holding up aid to Ukraine, leading to President Trump’s first impeachment

    “[I]f you are confirmed…the Senate would be supporting the confirmation of an individual who has shown disregard for the Constitution, Congressional authority, and our nation’s laws.”

    Text of Letter (PDF) 

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote to Mr. Michael Duffey, nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (USD(A&S)) of the Department of Defense (DoD), ahead of his confirmation hearing, with serious concerns about his record, which include violating the law, disregarding Congressional authority, and his involvement in Project 2025. Mr. Duffey also played a direct role in Trump’s withholding of funding to Ukraine, an action that resulted in the impeachment of Donald Trump. It is especially alarming given he would oversee a DoD requested acquisition budget of $311 billion and procurement programs already at high-risk for fraud, waste, and abuse. 

    Mr. Duffey’s Role in the Unlawful Freezing of Aid to Ukraine

    In December 2019, President Trump was impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors for illegally seeking assistance from Ukraine to help him win the 2020 election against President Joe Biden. In his role at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Mr. Duffey helped President Trump block aid to Ukraine in an effort to pressure them to open an investigation into President Biden. He did so despite under-oath testimony and emails showing that career officials raised concerns with him that this could violate the law and disrupt DoD’s ability to train and equip Ukraine to strengthen their security forces. The Government Accountability Office (GAO), a non-partisan independent government watchdog, concluded that freezing this aid violated the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. 

    “Your actions in the course of these events give the strong appearance that you knowingly violated the law and the Constitution – and that you were an important participant in events that ultimately resulted in the President’s impeachment,” said Senator Warren.

    Duffey’s Disregard for Congressional Authority and Oversight

    Mr. Duffey also refused to comply with a deposition request as part of the impeachment inquiry and ignored a subpoena from the three House committees that led the impeachment inquiry. His refusal to comply with the subpoena – at the direction of President Trump – was so significant that it was one of the reasons that President Trump was charged with the second article of impeachment for Obstruction of Congress and that Mr. Duffey was listed by name in the impeachment resolution.

    Duffey’s Direct Involvement in Project 2025

    Mr. Duffey also had direct involvement in Project 2025, developing several policies for the report. One of the chapters Mr. Duffey contributed to calls for “using government contracts to push back against woke policies in corporate America.” The senator raised concerns about whether Mr. Duffey would use his position to police the personnel and Human Resources decisions of defense contractors, rather than prioritizing government contracts that advance U.S. national security and support our servicemembers. Project 2025 also calls for “reducing the number of procurement competitions” and a new system that allows decision makers of federal contracts to “bypass unnecessary departmental regulations.”  

    “I am concerned by whether these policy plans will reduce necessary competition and favor the biggest – or most politically connected – defense contractors,” wrote Senator Warren. 

    Duffey’s Plan to Address Risks of Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in DoD Acquisition

    Given Mr. Duffey’s past behavior, especially that which led to President Trump’s first impeachment, the senator raised concerns about whether he will ensure DoD contracts are awarded fairly and based on the best interests of taxpayers and national security. 

    Already, DoD’s acquisition program has been a target of “contracting-related fraud schemes” and DoD’s contracting processes have been found to be “vulnerable to waste, fraud, and abuse.” This concern is heightened as major DoD contractors, including Lockheed Martin and Boeing, made donations to President Trump’s second inauguration in order to ingratiate themselves with the new administration in an effort to avoid regulation and win government contracts.

    “[I]f you are confirmed…the Senate would be supporting the confirmation of an individual who has shown disregard for the Constitution, Congressional authority, and our nation’s laws,” concluded Senator Warren. She requested his written answers to questions by February 3, 2025. 

    Senator Warren has led efforts, including bipartisan action, to hold DoD accountable and transparent to ensure taxpayers are not being price gouged and the defense industrial base remains resilient:  

    • In January 2025, Senator Warren sent Elon Musk, Chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a letter detailing over 30 proposals that would cut at least $2 trillion of wasteful government spending over the next decade.
    • In September 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, along with Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), reintroduced the Streamline Pentagon Spending Act, bipartisan legislation to repeal statutory requirements to provide unfunded priorities lists, reduce wasteful reporting burdens, and enhance civilian oversight over the budgetary process.
    • In May 2024, Senators Warren, then-Chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), then-Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on the Budget, led a letter with Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.) demanding the Department of Defense (DoD) provide answers about military contractors’ price gouging tactics that cost the Pentagon billions of dollars every year in overpayments. 
    • In May 2024, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), raised concerns about DoD contractor, SpaceX, which is owned by Elon Musk, undermining U.S. allies and national security goals. Senator Warren questioned Mr. John D. Hill, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space and Missile Defense, about SpaceX’s work to stop its Starlink technology from being illegally acquired by Russia. These illegal terminals may have provided Russia a major advantage in their invasion of Ukraine.  
    • In March 2024, at a hearing of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), Senator Warren questioned General Anthony J. Cotton, USAF, Commander of United States Strategic Command about significant cost overruns and mismanagement of the Sentinel program. 
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren and Representative Garamendi (D-Calif.), sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, expressing concerns with the Department of Defense’s (DoD) insufficient review process for consolidation in the defense industrial base and the resulting impact on supply chains, innovation, and national security.
    • In November 2023, after reports that defense contractor TransDigm refused to provide cost and pricing information needed to prevent price gouging of taxpayers and the DoD, Senator Warren and Representative Garamendi sent letters to the DoD and TransDigm, pressing them to provide transparency on cost and pricing data to ensure that taxpayers aren’t being overcharged for expensive DoD contracts. 
    • In August 2023, Senator Warren, then-Chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and top officials during a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine on August 23rd. The congressional delegation’s trip coincided with Ukraine’s Independence Day celebration on August 24th and demonstrated strong bipartisan support from the U.S. Senate for the Ukrainian people in the face of Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion. 
    • In July 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, Senator Warren called out the Department of Defense for wasting billions in taxpayers dollars due to price gouging by defense contractors for services and in health care, and identified opportunities for cost savings when DoD buys personnel-related goods and services. 
    • In July 2023, Senator Warren sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Director of the Defense Health Agency, Lieutenant General Telita Crosland, regarding a series of DoD Inspector General reports finding that the DoD is failing to prevent price gouging and overpayments to contractors in the TRICARE health program.
    • In June 2023, Senator Warren, Senator Mike Braun, and Representative Garamendi reintroduced the bipartisan Stop Price Gouging the Military Act which would close loopholes in current acquisition laws, tie financial incentives for contractors to performance, and provide the Department of Defense the information necessary to prevent future rip-offs.
    • In May 2023, Senator Warren and Representative Garamendi sent letters to Boeing, TransDigm, and the Department of Defense, calling out the defense contractors for their refusal to provide cost and pricing data to the Department of Defense (DoD), as required by law. The lawmakers also called on DoD to take action to address these contractors’ refusals to provide cost and pricing data. 
    • In October 2022, Senator Warren obtained a commitment from DoD not to increase contract prices due to inflation.
    • In October 2022 Senator Warren sent a letter to DoD urging them to insist on receiving certified cost or pricing data to justify any contract adjustments.
    • In June 2022, Senator Warren and Representative Garamendi introduced the bicameral Stop Price Gouging the Military Act, which would enhance DoD’s ability to access certified cost and pricing data. Part of Senator Warren’s legislation was incorporated into the FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act reported to the Senate.
    • In March 2022, at a SASC hearing, Senator Warren criticized DoD for failing to consider alternatives to the Sentinel program in order to justify unsustainable nuclear weapons spending.
    • In September 2020, Senator Warren and Representative Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) formally requested that the Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General (IG) investigate reports that the Pentagon redirected hundreds of millions of dollars of funds meant for COVID-19 response via the Defense Production Act (DPA) to defense contractors for “jet engine parts, body armor and dress uniforms.”
    • In May 2020, Senator Warren wrote to the Department requesting clarification on how the Department would prevent profiteering following a recent change to increase payments to contractors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • In August 2017, Senator Warren traveled to Eastern Europe and Germany to learn more about plans to counteract Russian efforts to damage European democracies.
    • In May 2017, Senator Warren wrote to the DoD Inspector General, requesting an investigation into TransDigm for potential waste, fraud, and abuse in the military spares market.
    • In October 2015, Senator Warren visited Ukraine and other European countries for a visit focused on economic issues and the Syrian refugee crisis. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Cuba Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    Rodolfo Benítez Verson, the new Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented his credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    Prior to his appointment to Geneva, Mr. Benítez Verson had been serving as Director-General for Multilateral Affairs and International Law at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba since 2021.  He served as Cuba’s Ambassador to South Africa from 2017 to 2021.  He was also Deputy Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations in New York from 2009 to 2012, where he was also posted from 2006 to 2009 and from 1997 to 2003.

    Mr. Benítez Verson has also held various positions within Cuba’s Foreign Ministry, including as Head of the Department of Multilateral Political Affairs (2012-2017), and Advisor to the Cuban Minister for Foreign Affairs (2004-2006).  In 2017, he was awarded the Order of San Carlos, degree of the Grand Cross, by the President and Government of Colombia for his contribution as Chief Cuban Guarantor to the successful mediation of the Colombian peace process.

    Mr. Benítez Verson carried out Master studies in international relations at the Higher Institute of International Relations Raúl Roa García (2006), and has a degree in international political relations from the same Institute (1991).  He also graduated from various higher studies programmes on disarmament and conflict resolution, including the United Nations Disarmament Fellowship Programme (1995).

    Born in Havana, Cuba, on 3 November 1968, he is married and has two daughters.

    __________

    CR.24.049E

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the information media; not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington State Ferries will answer questions, share information at February online community forums

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Decision-makers will address key topics with Washingtonians

    SEATTLE – It’s a double date! Washington State Ferries would ferry much like to have community members from throughout Puget Sound join its next pair of virtual meetings. WSF leaders will answer questions from the public and provide the latest information on service restoration, building new ferries, electrification of new boats and the legislative sessions.

    Participants will need to register before the online meetings scheduled for noon Wednesday, Feb. 12, and 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13.

    WSF systemwide public meetings information

    When:  Noon Wednesday, Feb. 12, and 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

    Where:  Online via Zoom

    Details:  Prior registration is required for these virtual meetings. Each public meeting will cover the same material and is designed to give participants the option to join the meeting that best fits their schedule. Meeting participants will be able to ask questions and provide comments ahead of time. After the meetings, video recordings will be available online on WSF’s community participation page.

    Free, temporary internet access is available to those who do not have broadband service in locations throughout the state. To find the nearest access, visit the state’s drive-in WiFi hotspot location finder.

    WSF, a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is the largest ferry system in the U.S. and safely and efficiently carries tens of millions of people a year through some of the most majestic scenery in the world. For the latest service updates, sign up for rider alerts and track each ferry using the real-time map online.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Does Bird Flu Affect My Food?

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Bird flu (avian influenza) has become an increased concern in the health community throughout the United States.

    Within the past year, the disease has spread to cattle, and 68 people in North America have become ill from the disease and one has died.

    The thought of the potential risk of contracting the disease from store-bought foods prepared and consumed at home is concerning to many consumers.

    Here, UConn Extension educators provide information on how to prevent risk from bird flu exposure and how to prepare food properly to ensure food safety.

    What is Bird Flu and How Does it Spread?

    “Bird flu” is the name that has been used to describe a disease caused by the avian influenza virus (H5N1). It can spread among wild birds, poultry, cattle, pigs, and other animals.

    Although uncommon, in a few cases the avian influenza virus has crossed over and caused illness in people. Human infection can occur through contact with bodily fluids or feces (poop) of infected birds or animals, and from touching surfaces that have been in contact with infected birds or animals.

    Farm workers, hunters, and people who handle birds and animals for pets or livestock can be a risk for bird flu.

    How Can I Protect Myself from Bird Flu?

    Those who attend agricultural fairs, or visit farms should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or petting birds and animals. Many areas have placed tighter restrictions on events such as petting zoos to minimize risk.

    Proper food safety practices including hand washing and kitchen hygiene reduce the risk and spread of foodborne illnesses, including bird flu.

    Thoroughly cooking poultry and meats kills harmful bacteria and viruses. Safely prepared and cooked poultry are safe to eat.

    Proper food safety practices are important every day. In addition to proper processing, proper handling and cooking of poultry provides protection from viruses and bacteria, including bird flu.

    Consuming raw milk can be risky because raw milk may contain viruses and bacteria. Pasteurization, a heat treatment process, effectively kills these harmful viruses and bacteria.

    How to Prepare Foods Safely

    Remember, follow these four basic food safety steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

    • Cook poultry to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Ground beef should have a cooked temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Whole cuts of beef should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit after resting for three minutes.
    • Keep raw poultry and meats separated from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.
    • Thoroughly wash all surfaces, utensils, and hands after handling raw and cooked foods.

    For more information, visit the CDC website or the USDA website. For more UConn Extension publications, visit the UConn Extension website.

    This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Enhancing Health and Well-Being Locally, Nationally, and Globally.

    Follow UConn CAHNR on social media

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Message on Recent Executive Orders and Federal Actions

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Dear Colleagues and Students,

    Like every college and university, UConn is contending with directives and new information arriving from the federal government at a rapid pace, which we need time to evaluate and react to. We are best served by thoroughly and methodically determining the facts and then what steps we must take going forward so that we can give our faculty, staff, and students clear and accurate information, guidance, and support.

    To that end, the university is actively reviewing the various executive orders and other actions being taken by the new administration in Washington and assessing their potential impact on higher education and UConn specifically. Some of these actions are straightforward, while others are not and require more intensive analysis, at times aided by external guidance, before their potential meaning and impact can be fully understood.

    Leadership offices around the university are understandably receiving questions about this from members of our community, particularly around immigration and related issues. In response to the most frequent questions being asked on this subject, the university can share the following:

    The effort to end birthright citizenship (which is protected by the U.S. Constitution) has been stalled in the courts. However, even if it were enforced, it would not impact or in any way apply to individuals who currently have U.S. citizenship even if such citizenship was pursuant to birthright citizenship.

    The Department of Homeland Security revoked its “sensitive locations” protocol, which had meant that immigration authorities were not prioritizing college and university campuses or hospitals for immigration enforcement. Homeland Security has not yet issued new protocols. It is unknown how future protocols may impact higher education or healthcare institutions.

    Please refer to the guidance previously issued by the university and the protocols in effect at UConn around this issue, which note, in part:  

    • UConn Police will not ask individuals about immigration status.
    • UConn Police will not detain a person solely on the belief they are in the country illegally.
    • UConn Police will not detain or make arrests solely pursuant to an ICE detainer.
    • UConn, including the UConn PD, is legally required to adhere to arrest warrants or other orders authorized by a judge.

    The university has also received questions and requests for guidance with respect to potential immigration enforcement on our campuses, such as authorities coming to a classroom seeking a specific student. While this is not likely to happen, in part because pursuant to federal law UConn is prohibited from and would not provide information about a student’s class schedule or classroom location, in the event it does, we encourage faculty or staff to contact the UConn Police Department and/or the Office of the General Counsel.  

    UConn is a federal contractor and a recipient of Title IV funding. Therefore, while the executive orders around DEI/DEIA initiatives certainly will have some impact on us, the extent of this is not yet fully understood. For example, the executive order text directs an end to “discriminatory and illegal” preferences and policies or practices and to enforce federal civil rights laws, such as Title VII, Title IX, and Title VI – all of which prohibit discrimination. However, compliance with these civil rights laws is not a new obligation because the university has always been required to comply with these laws. The executive orders contain other language that require further analysis before any potential impact on UConn can be determined.  As we move forward, UConn will continue to support and value every member of our community.

    With respect to research, university leaders, including the Vice President for Research, are analyzing the executive orders and other federal directives that will or may impact research and expect more guidance from the federal government in the coming days.

    It is also important to remember that we are a public institution with a clear mission and values that are unchanging. We know what our priorities are and continue to be, including the success of our students, the impact of our research, providing exceptional patient care, and bringing value to our state and the world at large.

    We are a university with more than 140 years of history behind us and unlimited time ahead of us. We will address the challenges and changing circumstances of today with an eye on both the present and the future.

    The university will continually work to answer or address the frequently asked questions from our community regarding executive orders or other federal actions whenever possible.

    Please note there will almost always be a lag in between a directive or action being issued by the federal government and any communication from the university administration about it. This is because the university must take the time to ensure information is thoroughly analyzed and understood before any communications about it are shared with the community.

    As always, we appreciate your understanding and patience.

    President Radenka Maric

    Provost Anne D’Alleva

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Attacks on reproductive health will have devastating consequences worldwide story Jan 28, 2025

    Source: Doctors Without Borders –

    “There are deadly consequences anytime access to sexual and reproductive health care is restricted,” said MSF USA CEO Avril Benoît. “In the countries where MSF works, our staff see the lifesaving impact of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services—and we have seen patients who have died or suffered life-altering injuries because they were denied access to care. In emergency cases where urgent care is needed, delays in access to safe abortion care pose substantial risks to patients’ health and wellbeing. While MSF stands committed to ensuring people have access to essential medical services, we can’t do it alone. Across the world, we work closely with other health providers who are now essentially banned from doing their jobs and providing patients with essential information, referrals, and direct services.”

    An MSF nurse holds medication for an abortion with pills. A safe abortion with pills is over 95% effective and is extremely safe, with less than a 1% chance of severe complications. The risk of death from a safe abortion is lower than from an injection of penicillin or from carrying a pregnancy to term. | Mozambique 2023 © Miora Rajaonary

    Far-reaching and harmful consequences for any person who can become pregnant

    The Geneva Consensus Declaration is a non-binding political statement which asserts that country governments have no obligation to facilitate abortion care. The Geneva Consensus Declaration purposefully distorts the meaning of international agreements on health and human rights in support of this position to rationalize restrictions on patient-centered sexual and reproductive health services. The consequences of the Global Gag Rule and influence of the Geneva Consensus Declaration will be far-reaching and harmful for any person who can become pregnant, including people seeking health care in crisis- and conflict-affected settings, like those in which MSF operates.

    MSF does not accept US government funding and its programs are not directly affected by the Global Gag Rule. However, MSF health care providers have seen firsthand how policies impeding access to sexual and reproductive health services harm patients and communities globally.

    When safe abortion care is not accessible, it increases the likelihood that individuals will seek out unsafe abortion methods, one of the leading causes of maternal death and injury worldwide. The risk of unsafe abortion is elevated in humanitarian settings where it’s even harder for people to access medical services. In 2023, MSF provided more than 31,000 consultations for post-abortion care, most of which were due to complications related to unsafe abortion. With the reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule, MSF expects these already troubling numbers to increase.

    “The reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule will have devastating consequences for health,” said Rachel Milkovich, global health policy specialist at MSF USA. “It means that people around the world will have fewer points of service for their sexual and reproductive health needs, fewer safe places to talk about their medical options, and fewer providers to go to for help during medical emergencies. Health care providers should not be forced to navigate political considerations and complexities before providing patients with essential and lifesaving sexual and reproductive health services.”

    About the Global Gag Rule

    In 2017, President Trump expanded the Global Gag Rule to all US global health assistance, affecting an estimated $12 billion, including more than 1,300 global health grants in more than 70 countries. Previously, the policy only applied to US assistance for family planning and reproductive health. The expanded policy impacted projects related to HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, malaria, nutrition, sexual and gender-based violence, tuberculosis, and other health programs. The Global Gag Rule exacerbates the harm of the Helms Amendment, which prohibits all US-funded organizations from using US foreign assistance to fund abortion-related services.

    When the Global Gag Rule was last in place, from 2017 to 2021, health advocates reported widespread clinic closures, termination of mobile outreach programs, loss of integrated health programs, weakened health advocacy coalitions, and fractured referral networks. Even four years after the policy’s rescindment, organizations are still trying to rebuild programs lost due to the Global Gag Rule.

    The Global Gag Rule puts organizations in an impossible position. Either they must comply with the policy to receive US government funding—restricting the provision of sexual and reproductive health services and information to the communities they serve—or decide not to comply and lose access to significant financial support, which many organizations rely on to operate. Those unable to access alternative funding may be forced to cut staff or services. Some may be forced to close their programs altogether. In either scenario, patients lose access to vital health services.

    The Global Gag Rule has been repeatedly reinstated or rescinded for the last 40 years, according to the will of the administration in power. It is not feasible or sustainable for organizations to constantly adjust their services each time there is a change in the US government’s political priorities.

    To stop the pervasive harm caused by the Global Gag Rule, MSF USA is calling for a permanent end to the policy. MSF USA supports the Global Health, Empowerment, and Rights (Global HER) Act, which would permanently repeal the Global Gag Rule, and preserve access to safe abortion care.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Paris Agreement & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (28 January)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Briefings
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Paris Agreement
    Deputy Secretary-General/Travels
    UNRWA
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Syria
    Sudan
    Honour Roll

    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Turning to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This morning the Secretary-General spoke to the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, as well as with the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. During his conversation with the President of Rwanda, they discussed the situation in the DRC, with an emphasis on the protection of civilians.
    This afternoon, at 3pm, the Security Council will meet to discuss the situation in the country. Vivian van de Perre, the Deputy Special Representative for Protection and Operations for the UN peacekeeping operations – MONUSCO – is expected to brief from Goma.
    On the ground, in Goma, the security situation remains extremely volatile. M23 forces are inside the city and UN peacekeeping personnel and troops have largely been forced to take shelter in bunkers.
    Medical facilities in Goma are reportedly overwhelmed, and essential services are disrupted.
    Currently, M23 forces control the airport and there are real risks of breakdown of law and order in the city. The Mission has also seen credible reports of prisoners who have escaped from the Goma prison, as well as looting by civilians. Non-essential UN personnel have been temporarily relocated from Goma and the surrounding area.
    The movement of essential supplies and personnel is an urgent concern. Armed clashes continue in multiple regions, including Masisi, Rutshuru, and Nyiragongo, further displacing civilians and complicating humanitarian efforts.
    Peacekeepers also report that protests in Kinshasa over the ongoing situation in eastern DRC have turned violent, with demonstrators setting fires outside UN premises [MONUSCO and UN agencies] and targeting several embassies. Looting has also been reported in Kinshasa.
    For its part, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs tells us that the humanitarian situation in and around Goma remains worrying. Hospitals in Goma continue to be overwhelmed, struggling to manage the influx of wounded people.
    Two ambulances from a local NGO were targeted in the city of Goma today while attempting to evacuate wounded people.
    According to humanitarian partners, there are also reports of gender-based violence; the looting of property, including several humanitarian warehouses; and humanitarian and health facilities being struck in the fighting.
    Electricity and water supplies are still disrupted. The phone network is operational, but the Internet is not.
    OCHA reiterates that all parties must do all they can to spare civilians in military operations. Schools, hospitals and other civilian infrastructure must be protected.
    If the situation remains calm tomorrow, aid workers are planning to resume their efforts to respond to the enormous humanitarian needs.
    WFP tells us that access to food in Goma has been impacted. They remain focused on supporting the 7.1 million most vulnerable women, men, and children and also aim to resume delivering assistance as soon as circumstances allow.

    Paris Agreement
    The United States of America notified the Secretary-General, in his capacity as depositary, of its withdrawal, on 27 January 2025, from the Paris Agreement of 12 December 2015.
    The United States had signed the Paris Agreement on 22 April 2016 and expressed its consent to be bound by the Agreement by acceptance on 3 September 2016.
    It then withdrew from the Agreement effective on 4 November 2020, before accepting it again as of 19 February 2021.
    According to Article 28, paragraph 2, of the Paris Agreement, the withdrawal of the United States will take effect on 27 January 2026.
    The UN reaffirms its commitment to the Paris Agreement and to support all efforts to limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    Deputy Secretary-General/Travels
    The Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, attended the second and final day of the Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania today. In her opening remarks, she called on the African leaders present to advance energy access by 2030. To realize this vision, the Deputy Secretary-General stressed the need for strong institutions, effective multilateral cooperation and investments from the public and private sectors to scale up implementation of energy projects.
    The Deputy Secretary-General engaged with Heads of State and Government, ministers, and other high-level representatives to discuss cooperation with the United Nations towards achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Agreement.
    She will return to New York on Wednesday.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=28%20January%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxsVYtU2DEg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Your Ready for Takeoff Self

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s
    license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

    Check for the star.
    Generally, REAL ID compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. State-issued enhanced
    driver’s licenses are also acceptable, and marked with a flag. If you’re not sure if your card is REAL ID
    compliant, contact your state driver’s license agency.

    Find out how to get your REAL ID today at tsa.gov/real-id or visit your local DMV.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SXb0vF2dOA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Winners of Avinya’25 And Vasudha Startup Challenges Announced At “Energize India” Conclave

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 JAN 2025 8:10PM by PIB Delhi

    Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, today announced the winners of two prestigious startup challenges – Avinya’25 and Vasudha – at a special ceremony held at ONGC headquarters.

    The announcement came at the conclusion of “Energize India: Catalyzing Growth Through Startup Innovation”, a high-powered conclave that brought together energy sector veterans, investors, and innovators.

    The winners of Avinya’25, India’s premier energy startup competition, was UrjanovaC Pvt Ltd. The runners up were Breathe ESG Private Limited, AgriVijay, Apeiro Energy and UGreen Technology.

    For Vasudha, the global startup challenge in upstream oil and gas sector, the winner was Latin Energy Partners Inc., Paraguay and the runner up was Ultrasound Process Consulting LLC, USA

    These winning startups emerged from an intensely competitive field – Avinya’25 received 173 applications from across India, while Vasudha attracted global participation in crucial areas including seismic data interpretation, AI applications, and carbon capture technologies.

    The winners of the Hackathon were also announced with IIT (ISM) – Dhanbad emerging as the winner and IIT-Guwahati as the runner up.

    Addressing the occasion, Minister Shri Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the pivotal role of PSUs under the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas in fostering innovation through a Rs. 547.35 crore startup fund. Supporting 303 startups with Rs. 286.36 crore, these efforts propel India’s vibrant ecosystem of over 110 unicorns, creating transformative growth and jobs. 

    Speaking on the diversification of energy supply sources, Shri Puri noted that India had already embarked on this path. “Earlier, we used to import from 27 countries; now we are sourcing from 39, with discussions underway with a few more,” he said. He emphasized that diversification provides strategic advantages by ensuring a broader geographical spread. “Our imports are guided by fundamental, self-evident principles: we will source energy from wherever it is available at the right price,” he added. 

    Regarding the target of achieving 20% ethanol blending, Shri Puri highlighted that India has already reached at 19% blending. Expressing confidence in surpassing the target ahead of schedule, he revealed that discussions have begun on developing a roadmap beyond 20 percent blending.

    The day-long “Energize India” conclave featured thought-provoking panel discussions on identifying opportunities in the energy sector, leveraging emerging technologies, and accessing capital for energy startups. Industry leaders shared insights on how startups can contribute to India’s energy transition while maintaining the delicate balance between security, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.

    Speaking at a panel discussion, Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said, “Fossil fuel is not going anywhere in India for the next 25 years. We have several terrabytes of seismic data on our open waters earmarked for exploration. I urge our bright sparks to think about developing solutions to mine through the data and contribute to hydrocarbon exploration efforts.”

    Shri S.C.L. Das, Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, stated during the panel discussion alongside Shri Pankaj Jain, “We are trying to develop a system whereby we assess the maturity level of different startups so that the Ministry can cater to their needs in terms of regulatory compliance or access to capital, in collaboration with other central ministries, state governments and local governments.”

    The winning startups will receive prominent exposure at India Energy Week 2025, where they will showcase their innovations to over 70,000 energy professionals from 120 countries. The winners will join fourteen public sector undertaking (PSU) startups in a special startup pavilion at IEW 2025, demonstrating the breadth of innovation in India’s energy sector.

    These startup challenges are part of India Energy Week 2025, scheduled to be held in New Delhi from February 11-14, 2025. The event has grown significantly from its previous editions in Bangalore and Goa, and will feature over 700 exhibiting companies, 500 speakers, and more than 6,000 delegates.

    ****

    MN

    (Release ID: 2097144) Visitor Counter : 56

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Confined Electrons paves the way for improved optoelectronic materials, sensors & nano-catalysts

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 28 JAN 2025 4:17PM by PIB Delhi

    In a major stride forward for nanoscience, researchers have uncovered a groundbreaking phenomenon — electron confinement-induced plasmonic breakdown in metals.

    This study opens new avenues for understanding and manipulating the fundamental behaviour of electrons in nanoscale systems which can help design more efficient nanoelectronic devices and optoelectronic materials with enhanced precision, sensors that operate at atomic and molecular levels as well as efficient nano catalysts.

    Metals have long been celebrated for their plasmonic properties—collective oscillations of free electrons that enable unique optical responses. From catalysis to advanced photonic devices, plasmonic behaviour underpins a wide range of modern technologies. However, Prof. Saha’s research sheds light on an unexpected and transformative aspect of this field: how the confinement of electrons at the nanoscale disrupts and ultimately breaks down plasmonic behaviour.

    A new study by Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bengaluru, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), GoI, probe how the quantum confinement of electrons, driven by size reduction to the nanoscale, changes the electronic structure of metals. This shift, as shown by the team steered by Prof Bivas Saha leads to a suppression of the collective oscillations essential to plasmonic properties, fundamentally altering the material’s optical and electronic behaviour.

    At the nanoscale, materials behave in ways that often defy classical intuition. JNCASR’s work published in the prestigious Science Advances (2024, Vol. 10, Issue 47), bridges the gap between traditional plasmonics and the quantum effects that emerge at this scale.

    Prof. Saha’s team employed advanced spectroscopy techniques to observe plasmonic phenomena in metallic systems with varying degrees of confinement. Alongside, computational simulations provided a deep theoretical framework to explain the observed breakdown.

    They used cutting-edge tools such as electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and first-principles quantum mechanical calculations which helped them predict electron behaviour with unprecedented accuracy.

    Apart from JNCASR, Prof. Alexandra Boltasseva and Prof. Vladimir Shalaev from Purdue University and Prof. Igor Bondarev from North Carolina State University in USA, and Dr. Magnus Garbrecht and Dr. Asha Pillai from the University of Sydney participated in this study.

    This research challenges long-held assumptions in plasmonics, redefining the boundaries of what is possible with metal-based materials. The electron confinement-induced plasmonic breakdown represents not just a scientific revelation but also a call to rethink the design principles of nanoscale materials.

    Speaking about the breakthrough, Prof. Saha remarked, “Our findings highlight the transformative role of quantum confinement in redefining material properties. This is not just about understanding plasmonic breakdown—it’s about pushing the limits of how we can harness nanoscale phenomena for technological innovation.”

    With growing interest in quantum materials and nanotechnology, Prof. Saha’s work positions JNCASR as a leader in exploring the uncharted territory where classical and quantum physics converge.

    “The electron confinement-induced plasmonic breakdown in metals represents a landmark achievement in materials science and nanotechnology. By unravelling the intricate interplay between quantum confinement and plasmonic behaviour, this research sets the stage for revolutionary advancements across industries.”- commented Prasanna Das, lead author of the paper.

    The implications of the study are vast, spanning — electronics and photonics, sensing technologies and catalysts and energy conversion.

     

     

    ***

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2097003) Visitor Counter : 26

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Lawsuit, Seeks Immediate Court Order to Block Sweeping OMB Directive Freezing up to $3 Trillion in Vital Federal Funding

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    New OMB directive would pause funding for disaster recovery, as well as public health, education, and public safety programs 

    SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, along with New York Attorney General Letitia James, led a coalition of 23 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to block implementation of a memo by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) threatening to freeze up to $3 trillion in federal assistance funding effective at 2pm PT / 5pm ET today. The attorneys general are seeking a temporary restraining order to block the memo from taking effect, citing immediate harms to their states, which stand to lose billions in funding essential for the administration of vital programs that support the health and safety of their residents. Already, the order has thrown state programs into chaos and created uncertainty around their administration. Impacted programs include disaster-relief funding necessary for Los Angeles’ recovery from recent wildfires, as well as public health, education, public safety, and government programs.

    “The Trump Administration is recklessly disregarding the health, wellbeing, and public safety of the people it is supposed to serve,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This directive is unprecedented in scope and would be devastating if implemented. Already, it has created chaos and confusion among our residents. I will not stand by while the President attempts to disrupt vital programs that feed our kids, provide medical care to our families, and support housing and education in our communities. Instead of learning from the defeats of his first Administration, President Trump is once again plowing ahead with a damaging – and most importantly, unlawful – agenda. I’m proud to co-lead a coalition of attorneys general in taking him to court.” 

    The OMB directive freezing federal funding less than 24 hours after it was announced will cause immediate and irreparable harm to the states every day that it is in effect — in the form of millions of dollars in funds and mass regulatory chaos. Many states could face immediate cash shortfalls, making it difficult to administer basic programs like funding for healthcare and food for children and to address their most pressing emergency needs. This will result in devastating consequences for California in particular, given the uncertainty around continued disbursement of FEMA funding that is essential for recovery from the Los Angeles wildfires, which have caused an estimated $150 billion in economic losses.

    In the lawsuit, the attorneys general argue that the OMB directive violates the U.S. Constitution, violates the Administrative Procedure Act, and is arbitrary and capricious. Specifically, the attorneys general argue that Congress has not delegated any unilateral authority to OMB to indefinitely pause all federal financial assistance under any circumstance, irrespective of the federal statutes and contractual terms governing those grants, and without even considering them. The directive also violates the “separation of powers” between Congress and the Executive Branch because the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution gives the power of the purse exclusively to Congress. The attorneys general seek a temporary restraining order to block the directive from being implemented.   

    Attorney General Bonta is joined by the attorneys general of New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia in filing the lawsuit.  

    A copy of the lawsuit and TRO will become available here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Announces New Regional Human Trafficking Task Force in Sacramento

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, January 28, 2025

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

    SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta together with Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho, Sacramento Police Chief Kathy Lester and the Unites States Department of Homeland Security today announced the official launch of the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force (SR HTTF). This announcement signifies the formation of the third team within the California Department of Justice (DOJ) dedicated to combating human trafficking. These teams are situated in the greater San Diego and Fresno areas, and now in Sacramento. They have already made significant strides across the state, collaborating with law enforcement to disrupt human trafficking operations and protect children from criminal exploitation, resulting in 707 arrests and assistance extended to nearly 800 victims.
     
    “The objective of this task force is to use our shared intelligence to increase the total number of human trafficking investigations and prosecutions within the Sacramento area, to hold perpetrators of human trafficking accountable, and support survivors along the way,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “It is vital that we carry out our goal in a manner that is trauma-informed and culturally competent. That’s why our task force members receive specialized training and experience to appropriately handle these cases with the sensitivity, compassion, and the care they deserve. I am thankful for these strong partnerships in Sacramento and look forward to all that we can accomplish when we work together.”

    “As we recognize National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, I’m proud to announce the new Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force to protect children and young adults from human trafficking and sex exploitation in our community,” said Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho. “This collaborative effort with the California Attorney General’s Office, Sacramento Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations is based on our shared mission that no child or adult will live in fear of being a victim of sexual or labor exploitation.”
     
    “The Sacramento Police Department stands unwavering in the fight against human trafficking—a crime that strips victims of their freedom, dignity, and humanity,” said Sacramento Police Chief Kathy Lester. “This is why our partnership with the Sacramento Regional Human Trafficking Task Force is so critical. By working alongside our local, state, and federal partners, we are attacking this crisis from every angle—relentlessly pursuing traffickers, rescuing and empowering survivors, and making our communities safer.”

    “When law enforcement agencies unite and focus their collective strength to investigate human trafficking it sends a strong message – we will uncover hidden truths and will bring those responsible for these horrific acts to face justice,” said Tatum King, special agent in charge for HSI San Fransisco. “HSI San Fransisco is a proud member of this newly formed human trafficking taskforce and we look forward to working alongside our partners.”
     
    The DOJ is proud to be a partner with the Sacramento Police Department, Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations in this task force. The mission of SR HTTF is to effectively enforce state and federal laws against all forms of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children and adults. Human Trafficking is the exploitation by force, fraud, fear, or coercion of vulnerable people, for mandatory labor, domestic servitude, or commercial sex operations.
     
    The CA DOJ Victims’ Services Unit (VSU) works in conjunction with victim service providers and all across the state to provide victim-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally-sensitive support services to all crime victims, including underserved, at-risk, underrepresented, and vulnerable populations. More information about VSU is available at oag.ca.gov/victimservices or by calling (877) 433-9069 or visiting  oag.ca.gov/victimservices/contact.
     
    If you or someone you know is being forced to engage in any activity and cannot leave, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 to access help and services. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Additional information and resources to support survivors of human trafficking is available here.
     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on Trump Administration Efforts to Withhold Approved Federal Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Trump Effort Defies Federal Law, Constitution to Withhold Approved Federal Funding
    Impact on New Mexico Would Be Unprecedented
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s unlawful executive orders and new memoranda from the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) directing federal agencies to withhold federal funding that Congress has already appropriated: 
    “The Trump administration’s unlawful and unprecedented effort to withhold approved federal funding should cause concern to every American. Every county in New Mexico – our families, businesses, and communities – will be severely impacted and critical services and programs threatened. 
    “Billions of dollars for New Mexico and the nation are at stake. This will have a far-reaching impact across New Mexico, reducing health care access for working families, undercutting education programs for children, threatening research at the National Labs, rolling back our broadband efforts, holding funding for our specialty crop farmers, pausing VA transportation programs that help veterans get to medical appointments, and making it more difficult for law enforcement to keep our communities safe. This will create chaos and threaten local economies.
    “Let’s be clear: the Constitution holds that Congress holds the power of the purse. Congress is an equal branch of government. And now, Congress – Republicans and Democrats – must stand up to the president to ensure that the administration carries out the law.”
    A fact sheet detailing how presidents lack power to unilaterally override spending laws and deny enacted funding to communities through impoundment can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Blunt Rochester, Congresswoman McBride statement on Trump federal spending directive

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons and Lisa Blunt Rochester and Congresswoman Sarah McBride (all D-Del.) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s late-night directive unilaterally freezing federal funding appropriated by Congress:

    “This blatantly unconstitutional directive will cause massive harm to Delawareans. Police and fire departments up and down the state will go unfunded. Military families stationed at Dover Air Force Base will lose access to critical programs, construction projects will go unfinished as workers are laid off, community health centers will be unable to provide critical primary care, opioid overdoses will rise as prevention programs end, and children of working families will go hungry when free lunch programs stop.

    “These are not partisan programs. They are exactly what the vast majority of Americans want our government to be funding. With the stroke of a pen, President Trump defunded programs already signed into law and has made Delaware and every other state across the country less safe, less healthy, and less stable.

    “We are hearing throughout the day from leaders and constituents across Delaware in state and local government, education, and the non-profit sectors concerned about this directive and are working to address their concerns. We have spoken with Attorney General Jennings about her prompt legal action against this unconstitutional directive and are grateful for her partnership. President Trump must immediately repeal this disastrous policy and return federal funding to working order. We will not stand by while our state suffers.”

    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons statement on vote against Sean Duffy for Secretary of Transportation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate confirmed Sean Duffy to serve as the United States Secretary of Transportation: 

    “Yesterday, I voted to proceed with Mr. Duffy’s confirmation because of his commitment that he would faithfully implement the infrastructure investments that bipartisan majorities in Congress have already funded, including critical projects up and down Delaware. However, in light of President Trump’s disastrous and illegal order last night to freeze all federal aid, including millions for those very transportation investments, I could not support Mr. Duffy’s nomination or any of President Trump’s nominees for the duration this directive is in place.

    “President Trump has tried to defy Congress’s constitutional appropriations role. He cannot defy our advice and consent role.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Publication from Powell Center Headwaters Workshop

    Source: US Geological Survey

    New Publication from Powell Center Headwaters Workshop

    A new publication has been released from a Powell Center workshop focusing on headwater streamflow.

    The protection of headwater streams faces increasing challenges, exemplified by limited global recognition of headwater contributions to watershed resiliency and a recent US Supreme Court decision limiting federal safeguards. Despite accounting for ~77% of global river networks, the lack of adequate headwaters protections is caused, in part, by limited information on their extent and functions—in particular, their flow regimes, which form the foundation for decision-making regarding their protection. Yet, headwater streamflow is challenging to comprehensively measure and model; it is highly variable and sensitive to changes in land use, management and climate. Modelling headwater streamflow to quantify its cumulative contributions to downstream river networks requires an integrative understanding across local hillslope and channel (that is, watershed) processes. Here we begin to address this challenge by proposing a consistent definition for headwater systems and streams, evaluating how headwater streamflow is characterized and advocating for closing gaps in headwater streamflow data collection, modelling and synthesis.

    The full article is available here:

    Golden, H.E., Christensen, J.R., McMillan, H.K. et al. Advancing the science of headwater streamflow for global water protection. Nat Water 3, 16–26 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-024-00351-1.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RI Delegation Works to Ensure Trump’s Directive Doesn’t Cause Delay on Washington Bridge Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — A recent directive from President Donald Trump may delay hundreds of millions of dollars in federal grants intended for infrastructure upgrades across the state.  Trump’s order pauses billions of dollars in already awarded grant money for projects nationwide.

    In an effort to ensure the pause doesn’t negatively impact Rhode Island or hold up work, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo sent a letter to the Acting Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) urging him to confirm that the law will be upheld and the funds will be released to the state.

    Legal experts have noted that if the Trump Administration fails to adhere to the law, then lawsuits would ensue and courts would likely overturn the President’s attempt to undo the law, delaying work and costing U.S. taxpayers untold sums of wasted money.

    Text of the letter follows:

    January 25, 2025

    Mr. Matthew Vaeth

    Acting Director

    Office of Management and Budget

    725 17th St, NW

    Washington, DC 20500

    Dear Acting Director Vaeth:

    As you know, the Trump Administration has needlessly halted work to advance the release of funding appropriated by Congress and competitively awarded for projects in the State of Rhode Island and elsewhere. In particular, we are alarmed that the Administration is blocking the release of over $600 million in competitive grant funding for more than ten Rhode Island transportation projects. These grants include over $220 million for the Interstate-195 Washington Bridge, which has been partially closed since December 2023 due to a catastrophic failure, and more than $250 million to address 15 bridges along Rhode Island’s busy I-95 corridor, which span critical rail and roadway infrastructure.

    These are essential projects that have already been evaluated and selected in a competitive process for funding.

    Lingering uncertainty about the status of funding threatens to disrupt work on these essential infrastructure projects, which could have negative ramifications for state and local budgets, preventing projects from being completed on time, threatening good-paying jobs, and

    harming our economy. We ask that you promptly confirm that all of these funds, as well as others being held for review, will be released to the State.

    Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Condemns President Trump’s Midnight Purge of Federal Inspectors General

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S Senator Jack Reed, Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s firing of nearly every Cabinet-level agency Inspector General, including the U.S. Department of Defense:

    “Why would someone round up all the non-partisan watchdogs and terminate them at midnight unless they were trying to prevent them from sounding the alarm?  These mass-firings appear politically motivated to undermine accountability and transparency.  Every member of Congress, regardless of party, should be concerned.  Administrations change and if this becomes the new norm it’ll be detrimental to taxpayers.

    “Clearly, the Trump Administration is willing to flout the law, ignore legal requirements, and systematically circumvent checks and balances.  Instead of going after waste, fraud, corruption, and abuse, Trump is laying the groundwork to shield his administration from independent oversight. 

    “Trump already appears to have violated the law that requires him to provide 30-days notice and an explanation before removing any inspector general.

    “Congress must fulfill its role as a check against the excesses of the presidency. 

    “Trump’s opening directives make it clear he is not focused on strengthening the economy or addressing people’s basic needs.  Instead, he’s firing independent watchdogs and undermining the checks and balances built into the Constitution.”

    Under federal law, a president is supposed to give Congress a 30-day notice before firing inspector generals, who function as independent watchdogs charged with investigating waste and abuse in their departments.

    In fiscal 2023, inspectors general identified approximately $93.1 billion in potential governmental savings for U.S. taxpayers through audits, investigations, and recoveries.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Statement on Trump Administration’s Order to Pause All Federal Grants and Loans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the Trump administration’s far-reaching decision to freeze grants and loans disbursed by the federal government beginning at 5pm today: 

    “The administration’s staggering and unprecedented decision to stop programs and services that families and small businesses rely on is a direct affront to Granite Staters and Americans across the country. By taking this extreme action, programs to help families afford food and health care, ensure affordable and reliable energy, invest in critical infrastructure, grow our small businesses, keep our veterans housed, support law enforcement, bolster our national defense and so much more will immediately stop operations. 

    “The Trump administration has provided little guidance to the federal agencies tasked with carrying out this unlawful freeze, causing confusion and panic. My office has heard from countless Granite Staters who are concerned about what this action will mean for them, including counties and towns that are waiting on promised funding for work that has already been completed. Let’s be clear: Congress controls the purse strings, not the Executive Branch, and Congress must fight back against this unconstitutional action that jeopardizes the health and wellbeing of families and communities.” 

    The Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced a sweeping executive order pausing almost all forms of federal assistance to states, nonprofits, non-governmental organizations and more. The full list that agencies are directed to review encompasses over 2,600 assistance programs, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), Women, Infants and Children (WIC), community health centers, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), transportation and highway funding, energy assistance programs, water infrastructure funding, State Opioid Targeted Response grants, GI Bill, veteran compensation for service connected disabilities, Section 8 vouchers, school breakfast and lunch, Title I education grants, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Head Start. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Statement on Trump Shutdown

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s recent decision to freeze all federal grants.

    “This Trump shutdown is completely illegal, and we expect the courts will stop this. But what is clear is this: They are creating chaos. They are going after your health care. They are trying to take aid away from people recovering from hurricanes and fires. They’re defunding police departments and firefighters. They’re cutting off support for kids – whether it’s for schools, meals, or child care services. All of this is meant to cause pain and fear for regular people while they continue to work on the biggest tax cuts for billionaires in history.”

    For more information on potential impacts of President Trump’s shutdown, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Trump Administration Freeze Of Federal Aid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 28, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to freeze federal aid:

    “Freezing federal funding that has already been allocated by Congress is unconstitutional. Above all else, it’s inhumane. Every American relies on federal funding—from public safety, disaster relief, medical research funding, and small business loans to Head Start and child care programs, veterans care, nutrition assistance, food inspections, and so much more. Denying critical funding for our families will not make America great.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin: The Anti-Immigrant Executive Action Taken By President Trump Do Nothing To Make America Safer

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 28, 2025

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke out against executive actions taken by President Donald Trump during his first week in office, including cracking down on immigrant communities, that, among other things, suspend refugee resettlement and attempt to deprive U.S.-born children of citizenship.

    “We can all agree that the border of the United States should be secure. And, of course, we must deport any dangerous individuals who are here unlawfully. But the executive orders that President Trump signed this past week don’t target criminals. In fact, President Trump terminated a Biden administration policy that required immigration officials to prioritize for arrest and deportation individuals who threaten public safety or national security,” Durbin said. “Instead, President Trump has authorized Immigration and Customs Enforcement Officers, known as ICE officers, to make arrests in schools, churches, and courthouses across the country. The President has reportedly even directed ICE to set quotas for arrests, ramping up from a few hundred a day to more than 1,500 per day. These kinds of arbitrary quotas will ensure that essential workers, family members of U.S. citizens, and so many others who are no threat to this country and are not criminals, are caught up in the mass deportations.”

    Durbin went on to explain how President Trump’s actions—like many of the President’s decisions on immigration—have nothing to do with protecting public safety or national security. 

    Instead, he decided to suspend a life-saving legal immigration program—the refugee admissions program, which provides safe haven for those fleeing oppressive regimes around the world, including Afghan women, Uyghurs fleeing Chinese persecution, and the Rohingya fleeing Myanmar’s military dictatorship.

    “President Trump has also suspended the refugee admissions program. Why is that important? Well because when American soldiers go overseas to represent this country and to risk their lives for the country that they have sworn allegiance to, the United States, many times they rely on local citizens in those countries to help them. That’s what happened in Afghanistan,” Durbin said. “Men and women risked their lives to step forward and to help our troops… they included families of Afghans who are now facing persecution for that political decision to help the United States. We’ve offered to them, after going through extensive background checks, an opportunity to come to the United States.”

    Durbin continued, “But the President canceled flights for approximately 10,000 refugees who have been approved to travel to the United States after waiting for long periods of time and going through extensive background checks. This includes nearly 1,600 Afghans who had been cleared for resettlement, many of them risked their lives for the United States’ cause and we were giving them safety and security… Stopping these flights makes America less safe. It is needlessly cruel to American families waiting to be reunited with loved ones. It also sends a message to allies supporting our troops around the world that we will not protect them if they face retribution for helping the United States.”

    Durbin then criticized President Trump’s attempt to deny birthright citizenship to children born in the United States if their parents are not citizens or lawful permanent residents. Durbin noted that this move is a clear violation of the Constitution and our values as a nation, and it does nothing to make our country safer.

    “Additionally, President Trump is attempting to deny birthright citizenship to children born in the United States if their parents are not citizens or lawful permanent residents. This is a clear violation of the Constitution,” said Durbin. “The order by President Trump has been blocked by a judge who was appointed by President Ronald Reagan. Listen to what he said about the lawsuit challenging birthright citizenship and the 14th Amendment’s explicit language, ‘I’ve been on the bench for over four decades. I can’t remember another case where the question presented was as clear as this one is… This is a blatantly unconstitutional order.’”

    Finally, Durbin called out the Trump administration’s mass deportation raids in Chicago over the weekend.

    “I was disappointed to see the White House border czar, Tom Homan, come to Chicago recently with ICE agents arresting immigrants… I am concerned these sweeping executive actions will leave those arrested by ICE, including those with lawful status and U.S. citizenship, with little opportunity to even state their case and show that they belong in this country. Let’s be clear, 90 percent of undocumented immigrants have no criminal convictions—90 percent,” Durbin said. “Immigrants are a key part of America’s success story. I do not want a single dangerous person to remain in this country or to be allowed to seek permanent residence here, period. But there are many who have been here for periods of time, have paid their taxes, followed the law, and should be part of America’s future. Our nation needs immigrants in many important places.”

    Durbin concluded, “There is no room in this country for dangerous people, but there is plenty of room for those who aspire to make this a better nation. We should be fair in making a distinction and realizing the difference is significant.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

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