NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Under Secretary Zeya Travels to Ukraine, Poland, and the United Kingdom

    Source: United States Department of State (3)

    Office of the Spokesperson

    Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya will travel to Ukraine, Poland, and the United Kingdom from October 18-22, 2024.

    In Ukraine, Under Secretary Zeya will reaffirm steadfast U.S. commitment to robust civilian security and humanitarian support, and strengthening Ukraine’s democratic resilience in the face of Russia’s continued brutal aggression.  In her engagements with government, humanitarian, and civil society leaders, she will emphasize continued partnership on anti-corruption and rule of law reforms, a strong civil society and independent media, and advancing victim- and survivor-centered justice and accountability for Ukrainians.

    In Poland, the Under Secretary will meet with vulnerable Ukrainian refugees forced to flee Russia’s war against Ukraine and with valued humanitarian partners who provide direct support to them.  She will also visit a coordination center for Ukraine-bound support.

    In the United Kingdom, Under Secretary Zeya will further U.S.-U.K. cooperation on pressing global challenges.  She will meet with senior government officials, civil society, and members of Parliament to strengthen partnerships on humanitarian cooperation and human rights, including protections for survivors of trafficking in persons and LGBTQI+ individuals.

    For further information, please follow @UnderSecStateJ on X and @UnderSecStateJ on LinkedIn.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Casey, Wyden Slam McDonald’s for Squeezing Customers with Excessive Price Increases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 22, 2024

    “Corporate profits must not come at the expense of people’s ability to put food on the table.”

    Text of Letter (PDF) 

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), wrote to President and Chief Executive Officer of McDonald’s, Chris Kempczinski, pushing for more information on McDonald’s pricing decisions as fast food prices continue to increase, outpacing inflation and squeezing customers. 

    “While McDonald’s is not the only fast food restaurant that has increased prices significantly in recent years, its dominant market position as the largest fast food chain in the United States has an outsize impact on American consumers. While working families are trying to make ends meet, McDonald’s and its corporate counterparts have continued to grow their profits,” wrote the senators.

    Earlier this year, McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger attempted to blame the company’s menu price increases on inflationary pressures and input costs, but the data tells another story. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, fast food prices have consistently outpaced inflation, and since 2020, overall inflation has increased by 20 percent, while McDonald’s has increased its menu prices for several items substantially more. McDonalds net annual income rose by over 79 percent – nearly $8.5 billion, from 2020 to 2023.

    While McDonald’s was raising prices, the company also spent nearly $4 billion on stock buybacks in 2022 and $3 billion in 2023. The company also benefits from a tax loophole that favors buybacks. This prioritizes Wall Street shareholders over investments in McDonald’s own business and workers. 

    As American consumers have begun taking their business elsewhere, the company has promised to take a “forensic approach” to evaluating high prices.

    “Corporate profits must not come at the expense of people’s ability to put food on the table,” concluded the senators. “As we seek to investigate and understand the increased consumer costs in the economy, we hope McDonald’s will help us to understand why its prices have risen so high.”

    As a champion for American consumers and a secure and healthy economy, Senator Warren has engaged in oversight of corporations that unfairly exploit consumers. She has also been calling for more competition and stronger enforcement of antitrust laws to bring down prices for families: 

    • In October 2024, United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Darren Soto (D-Fla.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), and Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.) wrote to Chair of the Federal Trade Commission, Lina Khan, on reports of widespread price gouging in states impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton and on the need for a federal price gouging ban to complement state-level efforts.
    • In October 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) wrote to the CEOs of Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and General Mills, pressing their executives on the companies’ pattern of profiteering off consumers, both through “shrinkflation” and dodging taxes on the profits they made from that price gouging.
    • In September 2024, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) demanded answers from 13 corporate landlords operating in Massachusetts as to whether they are using RealPage’s algorithm to raise rents for families.
    • In August 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) sent a letter to Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO of Kroger, raising concerns about Kroger’s use of Electronic Shelving Labels (ESLs) to potentially surge grocery prices and exploit consumers.
    • In May 2024, while chairing a Senate Banking Subcommittee on Economic Policy hearing, Senator Warren (D-Mass.) called out giant corporations for hiking up food prices while raking in record profits, and urged action to promote competition and bring down costs.
    • In May 2024, Senator Warren and Rep. Jim McGovern led a group of lawmakers in a letter to President Joe Biden, urging the Biden administration to use its executive authority to take action to lower food prices. 
    • In May 2024, during a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs, Senator Warren called out food industry price gouging and urged action to combat unfair pricing practices.
    • In April 2024, Senator Warren (D-Mass.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) wrote to DoorDash and UberEats, the two largest delivery platforms, calling out their use of hidden junk fees.
    • In March 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Penn.) led a group of 14 lawmakers in a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan urging the agency to revive enforcement of the Robinson-Patman Act (RPA), a critical tool to promote fair competition in the food industry. 
    • In February 2024, Senator Warren joined Senator Bob Casey (D-Pa.) in introducing the Shrinkflation Prevention Act to crack down on corporations that deceive consumers by selling smaller sizes of their products without lowering prices.
    • In February 2024, Senators Warren, Baldwin, Casey, and U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) reintroduced the Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2024, which would protect consumers and prohibit corporate price gouging by authorizing the FTC and state attorneys general to enforce a federal ban against grossly excessive price increases.
    • In February 2022, at a hearing, Senator Warren called out corporations for abusing their market power to raise consumer prices and boost profits.
    • At a January 2022 hearing, Senator Warren pressed Fed Chair Jerome Powell on the role of corporate concentration in driving up prices for consumers during his renomination hearing to be Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
    • In a New York Times op-ed published in April 2020, Senator Warren urged Congress to focus on cracking down on price gouging in its ongoing effort to address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Wyden, Blumenthal, Porter Call on DOJ to Prosecute Tax Prep Companies for Illegally Sharing Sensitive Personal and Financial Taxpayer Data

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 22, 2024

    Treasury, IRS assessment confirm 2023 Congressional investigation finding that companies broke the law by sharing sensitive data with Big Tech firms. 

    Tax prep companies potentially face billions of dollars in criminal liability. 

    “DOJ has the sole authority to enforce the criminal statute on behalf of the millions of taxpayers harmed by this unauthorized disclosure of their sensitive personal and financial data.”

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), along with Representative Katie Porter (D-Calif.) wrote to the Department of Justice (DOJ) urging the investigation and prosecution of major tax preparation companies for illegally sharing protected and sensitive taxpayer information with Big Tech firms. 

    Last month, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) released an audit report confirming that four online tax preparation companies broke the law by sharing legally protected and sensitive taxpayer information with Big Tech firms without taxpayer consent.  Specifically, the report found that consent statements being used by the tax prep companies did not clearly identify the intended use of taxpayer data, a violation of Treasury regulations. The IRS agreed with TIGTA’s assessment. The report confirms November 2022 investigative reporting by the Markup and the results of a July 2023 Congressional investigation, led by Senator Warren, which found that the improper sharing of sensitive taxpayer personal and financial information by TaxSlayer, H&R Block, TaxAct, and Ramsey Solutions with Meta and Google appeared to be illegal. 

    Tax prep companies used pixels, computer code that tracks a user’s website activity, to obtain sensitive personal and financial information, including approximate income and refund amounts, for millions of taxpayers who filed their taxes online with these companies. Meta then used that information for advertising and to train its AI algorithm. 

    TIGTA conducted a detailed review of four tax preparation companies, and found that the companies did not obtain proper taxpayer consent for the release of their information. 

    “We write to urge you to investigate and prosecute the criminal behavior of major tax preparation companies identified in our investigation and confirmed by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the Internal Revenue Service,” wrote the lawmakers. The penalties for these violations can include $1,000 per violation and up to 1 year in prison. TIGTA itself notes that it “reports potential criminal violations directly to the Department of Justice when TIGTA deems that it is appropriate to do so.” 

    The IRS recently announced the expansion of the highly successful Direct File program to 24 total states, making 30 million taxpayers eligible to file for free, securely, and directly with the IRS. However, many taxpayers still rely on private tax prep companies. 

    “Accountability for these tax preparation companies – who disclosed millions of taxpayers’ tax return data…is essential for protecting the rule of law and the privacy of taxpayers,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    Senator Warren has been at the forefront of holding tax prep firms and Big Tech accountable for their behavior, and pushed for an easy and free IRS Drect File program:

    • In May 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tom Carper (D-Del.), along with Representatives Don Beyer (D-Va.), Katie Porter (D-Calif.), and Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) led over 130 lawmakers in sending a letter to the Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen and IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel, applauding the successful pilot of the Direct File program, and urging them to make it permanent and expand its functionality and scope.
    • In June 2023, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tom Carper (D-Del.), along with Representatives Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Katie Porter (D-Calif.), and Don Beyer (D-Va.) led a coalition of 99 Democratic lawmakers in sending a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel and Deputy Treasury Secretary Adewale Adeyemo, applauding the IRS’ announcement of a pilot  of a free tax filing tool next year. 
    • In April 2023, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tom Carper (D-Del.) led their colleagues in sending a letter to IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel urging the agency to simplify the tax process and broaden access to free e-filing options.
    • In April 2023, at a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren questioned IRS Commissioner Daniel Werfel about the IRS’s failed Free-File partnership with private tax preparation software companies and called on the agency to implement a direct E-File program that will be truly free and easy for millions of Americans. 
      • Commission Werfel agreed with Senator Warren that the gap between the 70% of taxpayers that Free File is supposed to serve and the 2% it actually does is “massive.”  When Senator Warren pointed out that tax prep companies are instead pushing alternative services that should be free, are marketed as free, but are not, Commissioner Werfel also agreed that “the whole process needs to be improved,” that taxpayer rights have been violated, and the IRS has an obligation to make “the tax system easier for taxpayers to navigate.”
    • In March 2023, Senators Warren and Angus King (I-Maine) wrote a letter with 19 other senators to the Internal Revenue Service and Secretary Yellen expressing strong support for Secretary Yellen’s directive for the IRS not to raise audit rates for small businesses or households making under $400,000 annually. 
    • In December 2022, Senators Warren and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), along with Representatives Katie Porter (D-Calif.) and Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) sent letters to tax preparation companies H&R Block, TaxAct, and TaxSlayer, plus big tech firms Meta, and Google, amid reports that the tax preparation companies have been secretly transmitting individual taxpayers’ sensitive financial information to Meta and Google.
    • In July 2022, Senator Elizabeth Warren led 22 of her colleagues in introducing the Tax Filing Simplification Act of 2022 to simplify the tax filing process for millions of Americans by lowering costs, eliminating red tape for all taxpayers, and saving them hours and hundreds of dollars. 
    • During an exchange of the United States Senate Finance Committee in June 2022, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen agreed with Senator Elizabeth Warren on the need to create a free tax filing system that actually works for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Helps Secure Over $500,000 in Federal Funding for Workforce Development Facility in Western Kentucky

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) will award $509,000 to the Murray-Calloway Industrial Development Authority (MCIDA) through the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program. Today’s funding will support the development of a skills training and workforce development facility for underemployed and unemployed workers in the community, which will help boost the earning potential of program participants and address worker shortages in the region.

    This federal funding is made possible through a DRA assistance program, which is funded by the FY2023 government funding bill and the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

    Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, advocated for DRA funding in both the annual appropriations process and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Senator also wrote a letter to Dr. Corey Wiggins, Federal Co-Chair of the Delta Regional Authority, in support of this project.

    “Last year’s government funding bill, as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provide big investments for Western Kentucky’s communities, including assistance for Murray and Calloway counties’ first workforce development facility. This project will help hardworking Kentuckians get back to work in their communities while addressing the growing needs of job creators in the Commonwealth. I was proud to support funding for this project and I’ll continue to do what I can to ensure federal resources go toward Kentucky’s communities that need them most,” said Senator McConnell.

    “MCIDA is thrilled to receive today’s award, which will allow our team to continue expanding this impactful workforce program through the construction of a permanent facility. Our community is thankful for Senator McConnell’s help in bringing home today’s federal grant, and we’re grateful for all he has done to support Western Kentucky over the years,” said Executive Director of the Murray-Calloway Industrial Development Authority Mark Manning.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Announces $44 Million to Develop Carbon Storage Hub for West Virginia, Surrounding States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin

    October 22, 2024

    Charleston, WV– Yesterday, Senator Joe Manchin III (I-WV), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, announced an award of more than $44 million from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management for the development of a carbon storage hub in Marshall County that will serve West Virginia and surrounding states. This funding was made possible by Chairman Manchin’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    “West Virginia has always been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge energy technologies,” said Chairman Manchin. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Mountain State will continue to lead the way by advancing innovative carbon storage infrastructure to help reduce emissions. This new technology will support critical industries in our state and create good paying jobs in the region.” 

    This location was chosen due to its proximity to projects planned as part of the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub that Chairman Manchin led a ribbon cutting for in August.

    To learn more about the project, click here.

    To learn more about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar and Colleagues Release Report on Vote Counting Process for the November Election

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    Democratic Senators Warn Americans To Be On Alert Against Efforts To Undermine Public Confidence In Election Results
    READ THE REPORT HERE
    WASHINGTON – Today, Senate Rules Committee Chair Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released a report summarizing for the American people what to expect on Election Day and encouraging voters to cast their ballot.
    With the general election well underway in every state across the country, Senate Democrats have a clear message for the American people, which is to vote and cast their ballot as early as possible. As significant numbers of Americans choose to vote by mail, the report explains why it’s still possible that, in some states, the outcome might not be known on November 5th, in part because states differ in whether they allow mail-in ballots to be processed ahead of Election Day and whether ballots must be received by Election Day or postmarked by Election Day. The report also makes clear that voter intimidation is illegal and federal law prohibits coercing or threatening anyone in order to interfere with their right to vote.
    A copy of the report can be found HERE.
    “The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and we must do everything we can to protect it and uphold the integrity of the election process. That means pushing back on efforts to sow chaos during election season. As this report explains, it also means making sure that Americans know that it is possible that the outcome in some states will not be known on November 5th. While some states have expedited their counting requirements since 2020, we should be prepared to be patient about results in places where counting ballots may take longer. Americans should keep making their voices heard at the ballot box,” said Klobuchar.
    “Just like 2020, Donald Trump and his allies continue to refuse to commit to accepting the results of the election if he loses while pushing dangerous and divisive rhetoric to sow discord and undermine confidence in our election process. Americans losing faith in the results of our elections doesn’t just risk another January 6th but puts our very democracy at risk,” said Leader Schumer. “Senate Democrats remain committed to ensuring all Americans can vote without fear or intimidation.”
    “As Donald Trump bets on chaos, division, and lies to fuel his campaign and get back into the White House, it’s on us to see through his fearmongering and stand up for our democracy. So vote early, vote by mail, vote in person—but vote. The future of our country depends on us rejecting fear and misinformation and making our voices heard,” said Murphy.
    “Former President Trump’s dangerous rhetoric threatens to further divide our country and sow real potential for violence like we saw up close on January 6, 2021. Our elections are the foundation of American democracy. Protecting them should be the top priority for everyone who cares about the future of our country. Election officials, courts, and elected leaders must be accountable for upholding that principle,” said Heinrich.
    “There is no greater responsibility, or honor, as an American than exercising your right to vote. Our free, fair voting systems and our peaceful transitions of powers are two of the hallmarks that have separated America from authoritarianism for centuries now—and that will carry on far beyond this November, despite Donald Trump’s desperate, sad attempts to sow seeds of chaos and distrust in our electoral processes. The most powerful defense against creeping autocracy in America is to make our voices heard at the ballot box—because carrying out our most sacred duty as citizens is the best way we can ensure remain a government of, by and for the people,” said Duckworth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene

    NCDHHS Provides Free Well Disinfection, Well Water Collection Kits to Communities Impacted by Hurricane Helene
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced free well disinfection and well water collection kits are available for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Local health departments in western North Carolina will distribute kits for households with private wells that were flooded or damaged by the storm.

    Excessive rain and flooding can cause water in private wells to become contaminated, meaning the water can make people sick if it is consumed. After a flood, private wells must be assessed for damage, repaired, disinfected and tested before use to ensure the water is safe. It is critical people do not drink or use water from a private well that has been damaged or flooded until it has been properly disinfected and tested after the storm.

    The NCDHHS Division of Public Health has assembled well disinfection and well water collection kits for distribution through select local health departments. Private well owners living in the communities served by the following local health departments who have flooded or damaged wells can pick up free kits beginning Tuesday, Oct. 22. Participating local health departments include:

    • AppHealthCare – Alleghany location: 157 Health Services Road, Sparta, NC 28675
    • AppHealthCare – Ashe Environmental Health Building: 626 Ashe Central School Road, Jefferson, NC 28640
    • AppHealthCare – Watauga location: 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC 28607
    • Burke County Health Department: 700 E. Parker Road, Morganton, NC 28655
    • Buncombe County Health Department – Environmental Health Building: 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801
    • Caldwell County Health Department: 2345 Morganton Blvd., Lenoir, NC, 28645
    • Cherokee County Health Department: 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906
    • Haywood County Environmental Health: 157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 200, Clyde, NC 28721
    • Henderson County Health Department: 1200 Spartanburg Highway, Suite 100, Hendersonville NC 28792
    • Madison – Environmental Health Building: 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753
    • Toe River Health District – Mitchell location: 130 Forest Service Drive, Bakersville, NC 28705
    • Toe River Health District – Avery location: 545 Schultz Circle, Newland, NC 28657
    • Yancey County Health Department: 202 Medical Campus Drive, Burnsville, NC 28714

    Each well kit includes the necessary supplies to disinfect and collect a well water sample for testing, including step-by-step instructions. Flooded or damaged wells must be disinfected first before collecting a sample for testing. Private well owners should return the sample back to their local health department for testing. The local health department or testing lab will provide results back as quickly as possible. Private well owners who live in an impacted area not listed above should contact their local health department for well disinfection and testing assistance.

    For help understanding test results, use the online Be Well Informed tool (select North Carolina) or contact the NCDHHS-DPH Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch at 919-707-5900 or oeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

    Well disinfection and well water collection kits can be picked up at the following dates and times:

    • Oct. 22-24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
    • Oct. 28-31, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Additional dates and times will be provided by the local health departments.

    For information regarding Hurricane Helene including additional resources and flexibilities in place, please go to www.ncdps.gov/Helene and www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció hoy que hay kits gratuitos de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo disponibles para las comunidades afectadas por el huracán Helene. Los departamentos de salud locales en el oeste de Carolina del Norte distribuirán kits para hogares con pozos privados que fueron inundados o dañados por la tormenta.

    El exceso de lluvia y las inundaciones pueden contaminar el agua de los pozos privados, lo que significa que el agua puede enfermar a las personas si se consume. Después de una inundación, los pozos privados deben ser evaluados para detectar daños, reparados, desinfectados y analizados antes de su uso para garantizar que el agua sea segura. Es fundamental que las personas no beban ni usen agua de un pozo privado que haya sido dañado o inundado hasta que haya sido desinfectado y analizado adecuadamente después de la tormenta.

    La División de Salud Pública del NCDHHS ha reunido kits de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo para su distribución a través de departamentos de salud locales seleccionados. Los propietarios de pozos privados que viven en las comunidades atendidas por los siguientes departamentos de salud locales con pozos dañados o inundados pueden recoger kits gratuitos a partir del martes 22 de octubre. Los departamentos de salud locales participantes incluyen:

    • AppHealthCare – Ubicación en Alleghany: 157 Health Services Road, Sparta, NC 28675
    • AppHealthCare – Edificio de Salud Ambiental de Ashe: 626 Ashe Central School Road, Jefferson, NC 28640
    • AppHealthCare – Ubicación en Watauga: 126 Poplar Grove Connector, Boone, NC 28607
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Burke: 700 E. Parker Road, Morganton, NC 28655
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Buncombe – Edificio de Salud Ambiental: 30 Valley St., Asheville, NC 28801
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Caldwell: 2345 Morganton Blvd., Lenoir, NC, 28645
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Cherokee: 228 Hilton St., Murphy, NC 28906
    • Salud Ambiental del condado de Haywood: 157 Paragon Parkway, Suite 200, Clyde, NC 28721
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Henderson: 1200 Spartanburg Highway, Suite 100, Hendersonville NC 28792
    • Madison – Edificio de Salud Ambiental: 5707 US-25, Marshall, NC 28753
    • Distrito de Salud Toe River – Ubicación en Mitchell: 130 Forest Service Drive, Bakersville, NC 28705
    • Distrito de Salud Toe River– Ubicación en Avery: 545 Schultz Circle, Newland, NC 28657
    • Departamento de Salud del condado de Yancey: 202 Medical Campus Drive, Burnsville, NC 28714

    Cada kit de pozo incluye los suministros necesarios para desinfectar y recolectar una muestra de agua de pozo para su análisis, incluidas las instrucciones paso a paso. Los pozos inundados o dañados deben desinfectarse primero antes de recoger una muestra para su análisis. Los propietarios de pozos privados deben devolver la muestra a su departamento de salud local para su análisis. El departamento de salud local o el laboratorio de pruebas proporcionarán los resultados lo más rápido posible. Los propietarios de pozos privados que viven en una zona afectada no mencionada anteriormente deben ponerse en contacto con su departamento de salud local para obtener asistencia con la desinfección y las pruebas de los pozos.

    Para obtener ayuda para comprender los resultados de las pruebas, use la herramienta en línea Be Well Informed (seleccione Carolina del Norte) o comuníquese con la Sección de Epidemiología Ocupacional y Ambiental del NCDHHS-DPH al 919-707-5900 o oeeb@dhhs.nc.gov.

    Los kits de desinfección y recolección de agua de pozo se pueden recoger en las siguientes fechas y horas:

    • Octubre 22-24, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m.
    • Octubre 28-31, 9 a.m. a 3 p.m.

    Los departamentos de salud locales proporcionarán fechas y horas adicionales.

    Para obtener información sobre el huracán Helene, incluidos los recursos adicionales y las flexibilidades vigentes, visite http://www.ncdps.gov/Helene  y http://www.ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    Oct 22, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sols 4338-4340: Decisions, Decisions

    Source: NASA

    3 min read

    Earth planning date: Friday, Oct. 18, 2024

    On sol 4338, we have a science block planned as well as some arm activities. Our science activities include a ChemCam observation of “Donkey Lake.” This is a bedrock target with exposed laminations. In geology, lamination is a sequence of small-scale, embedded fine layers of sedimentary rock. Next, we will do an RMI mosaic as well as Mastcam imaging on “Fascination Turret” to document the boulder configuration for study of both debris flow and rock deposition processes. We’ll also do a Navcam dust devil survey to study the Martian atmosphere, before moving into our arm backbones. We’ll perform a DRT and APXS on several bedrock targets with exposed layering. An exciting sol for geology!

    Sol 4339 presented some interesting decisions for our planning team to make. We started out with a science block. This included a ChemCam LIBS analysis on a soil target with interesting color differences. We also performed an RMI mosaic and Mastcam imaging of “Whitebark Pass” to study possible surface erosion. After this science block, we planned to do a long traverse, which is where planning got a bit tricky. 

    The drive was a bit complicated to plan. The terrain had lots of rocks which ultimately prevented us from planning a guarded drive (i.e., a drive using auto navigation), which would have extended the drive length. There are occlusion considerations — we always want to end the drive in a good orientation for a communications link. When evaluating our end of drive, there are potential configurations where the line of sight for communications would be blocked, either due to terrain or due to objects on the rover deck. Here, because of the many and large size of rocks in our terrain, we were not confident that auto-navigation would not fault and position us in a bad orientation for our next communications window. With this risk, we decided to take a shorter drive with a sure unoccluded end-of-drive orientation. As planned, our drive will reach about 27 meters (almost 89 feet), whereas a guarded drive if the terrain was better might have yielded around 50 meters (about 164 feet). After the drive, we’ll take some imaging and do a Mastcam survey to observe soils along the traverse path.

    On sol 4340, we planned for two science blocks. The first included a ChemCam AEGIS activity — this will allow the rover to examine its surroundings and pick out some interesting targets for analysis. We will also perform a Navcam dust devil movie to capture any interesting dust activities in the atmosphere. Next, we’ll move into our second science block, which is focused on environmental science. We’ll first take Mastcam tau observations, which will allow us to study and measure the optical depth of the atmosphere, which is often used as a proxy to understand the dust in the atmosphere. We’ll also do some early morning remote science, including Navcam cloud movies at zenith and at suprahorizon.

    Written by Remington Free, Operations Systems Engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Reveals Prototype Telescope for Gravitational Wave Observatory

    Source: NASA

    2 min read

    NASA has revealed the first look at a full-scale prototype for six telescopes that will enable, in the next decade, the space-based detection of gravitational waves — ripples in space-time caused by merging black holes and other cosmic sources.

    On May 20, the full-scale Engineering Development Unit Telescope for the LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) mission, still in its shipping frame, was moved within a clean room at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.
    NASA/Dennis Henry

    The LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) mission is led by ESA (European Space Agency) in partnership with NASA to detect gravitational waves by using lasers to measure precise distances — down to picometers, or trillionths of a meter — between a trio of spacecraft distributed in a vast configuration larger than the Sun. Each side of the triangular array will measure nearly 1.6 million miles, or 2.5 million kilometers.

    “Twin telescopes aboard each spacecraft will both transmit and receive infrared laser beams to track their companions, and NASA is supplying all six of them to the LISA mission,” said Ryan DeRosa, a researcher at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “The prototype, called the Engineering Development Unit Telescope, will guide us as we work toward building the flight hardware.”

    The prototype LISA telescope undergoes post-delivery inspection in a darkened NASA Goddard clean room on May 20. The entire telescope is made from an amber-colored glass-ceramic that resists changes in shape over a wide temperature range, and the mirror’s surface is coated in gold.
    NASA/Dennis Henry

    The Engineering Development Unit Telescope, which was manufactured and assembled by L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York, arrived at Goddard in May. The primary mirror is coated in gold to better reflect the infrared lasers and to reduce heat loss from a surface exposed to cold space since the telescope will operate best when close to room temperature.

    The prototype is made entirely from an amber-colored glass-ceramic called Zerodur, manufactured by Schott in Mainz, Germany. The material is widely used for telescope mirrors and other applications requiring high precision because its shape changes very little over a wide range of temperatures.

    The LISA mission is slated to launch in the mid-2030s.
    Download additional images from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio

    By Francis ReddyNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.Media Contact:Claire Andreoli301-286-1940claire.andreoli@nasa.govNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. LIEU, SEN. PADILLA, SEN. BUTLER AND REP. SCHIFF URGE FEMA TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO RESIDENTS IMPACTED BY PALOS VERDES PENINSULA LAND MOVEMENT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

    LOS ANGELES – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) led a letter with Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA), Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA) and Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA) urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency to identify any assistance and funding that can be made available to residents impacted by land movement on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. In the letter, the Members called on Administrator Deanne Criswell to consider ways in which FEMA can help impacted communities in conjunction with other local, state and federal efforts to mitigate the dangerous ground movements and provide relief for impacted homeowners. 

    In the letter, the Members write:

    Dear Administrator Criswell,  

    Thank you for your commitment to protecting all communities before, during, and after disaster strikes. We write to you regarding the urgent landslide on the Palos Verdes Peninsula and its devastating consequences for the residents of the communities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, and Rolling Hills Estates. 

    The Greater Portuguese Bend Landslide complex is located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in western Los Angeles County. As a result of the 2022 and 2023 winter storms, all three cities have experienced land movement at an unprecedented pace. In the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, the amount of land movement that the city was previously experiencing over the course of an entire year is now occurring on a weekly basis. 

    With this accelerated movement, utility infrastructure has been significantly impacted, and many residents are now without access to basic utilities. The de-energization of the region also poses a significant threat to critical public infrastructure such as sewage service and the dewatering wells that are needed to mitigate the landslide.  

    Your leadership has been key in addressing this land movement. Through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes will be able to mitigate this crisis by eliminating excess moisture and reducing future ground movement. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes has also been working closely with FEMA and the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) in updating their scope of work for this project. This close partnership has allowed the City to maintain eligibility for the BRIC grant while conducting immediate work that is critical in addressing the ongoing movement. 

    We are thankful that federal resources are being utilized in the area. After a recent visit from Regional Administrator Bob Fenton, FEMA has requested the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Geological Survey to provide technical assistance to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes as they work to stabilize the land. We urge any assistance be extended to the City of Rolling Hills and City of Rolling Hills Estates, so they too can work to mitigate the land movement and restore a sense of safety for their residents.

    It is our understanding that the region faces challenges in accessing both state and federal aid because the land movement has persisted over time. We ask that FEMA work to identify any assistance and funding, that can be made available, to the residents impacted by land movement on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.   

    We know you share our deep concern about the impact that this land movement is having on the residents and businesses in these communities. Like you, several of us have visited the landslide area and witnessed firsthand the devastating impact this issue has had on the community. Following the increased land movement, we have held several meetings with experts from FEMA and our state and county representatives to better understand the impacts of this movement and what resources could be deployed in response. Additionally, we are continuing to advocate for projects submitted by the Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts through the federal appropriations process. 

    We urge you to consider all pathways to provide support to residents impacted by land movement on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. We will continue to work with federal, state, and local officials to support these communities and their residents to ensure that any resources that can be offered to support them are available. We ask that you continue to keep our offices apprised of your work in the region and maintain communication as we work together to support impacted residents.

    Thank you again for your attention to this emergency. We look forward to your response and cooperation in tackling this challenge.

    Sincerely, 

    FIND A PDF OF THE LETTER HERE

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney’s Office Holds District-Wide Constituent Services Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Oswego, New York — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced that her office will be hosting a district-wide day of constituent services, offering personalized federal casework assistance across six of the 12 counties in New York’s 24th District.

    Staff from Tenney’s office will be available to help constituents with a variety of issues related to federal agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue Service, and Passport Agency.

    For those interested in attending these mobile office hours or seeking more information, please contact one of Tenney’s district offices. The offices in Lockport (716-514-5130), Victor (585-869-2060), and Oswego (315-236-7088) are open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

    Mobile office hours will be available at the following times and locations on October 24, 2024:

    Orleans County
    10 AM – 12 PM
    Clarendon Town Hall
    16385 Church Street, Clarendon, New York 14429

    Livingston County
    1 PM – 3 PM
    Conesus Town Hall – 2nd Floor
    6210 South Livonia Road, Conesus, New York 14435

    Jefferson County
    9 AM – 11 AM
    Adams Town Hall
    3 S. Main Street, Adams, New York, 13605

    Wayne County
    12:30 PM – 2PM
    Town of Wolcott Town Hall
    6070 Lake Avenue, Wolcott, New York 14590

    Cayuga County
    3 PM – 4:30 PM
    Town of Cato Town Hall
    11320 Short Cut Road, Cato, New York 13033

    Seneca County
    2 PM – 4:30 PM
    Waterloo Town Hall
    66 Virginia Street, Waterloo, New York 13165

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. – USAP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. (Nasdaq: USAP), relating to its proposed merger with Aperam US Absolute LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, all USAP shares will be automatically converted into the right to receive $45.00 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/universal-stainless-alloy-products-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (http://www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Upward adjustment of expectations for 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    To Nasdaq OMX Copenhagen

    22 October 2024

    Announcement no. 13/2024

    Upward adjustment of expectations for 2024

    As a consequence of the bank’s good performance in the first nine months of 2024, the expected profit before tax is adjusted upwards to an interval of DKK 225-250 million.

    Most recently, in company announcement no. 07/2024 of 24 July 2024, the bank announced expectations for 2024 to a profit before tax in the range of DKK 200-240 million. 

    The Report for the first nine months of 2024 will be published on 6 November 2024.

    Please direct any questions to:

    Kind regards,
    The BANK of Greenland

    Martin Kviesgaard
    Managing Director

    Tel. no.: +299 34 78 00/e-mail: mbk@banken.gl

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SHAREHOLDER INVESTIGATION: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. – USAP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating Universal Stainless & Alloy Products Inc. (Nasdaq: USAP), relating to its proposed merger with Aperam US Absolute LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, all USAP shares will be automatically converted into the right to receive $45.00 per share.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/universal-stainless-alloy-products-inc/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (http://www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER INTRODUCES THE EXPANDING CLEAN FUEL PRODUCTION ACT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    LINCOLNSHIRE, IL — Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), with Reps. Dan Kildee (MI-08) and Julia Brownley (CA-26), introduced today the Expanding Clean Fuel Production Act which would extend for ten years the Section 45Z clean fuel production credit. 

    The Inflation Reduction Act created the clean fuel production credit (CFPC) for transportation fuel with zero or low greenhouse gas emissions, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This credit currently expires at the end of 2027 and this bill would extend it for ten additional years, making the credit available through 2037. 

    “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Reps. Kildee and Brownley to extend the SAF credit, boost production of clean fuels and position the U.S. as a global leader in production and use of sustainable fuels,” said Rep. Schneider. “A ten-year extension would allow for sustained investment in production to accelerate the transition to cleaner fuels and to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation industry, in particular. We are already seeing the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act’s investments on U.S. production of sustainable fuels.” 

    Schneider authored the tax credit for the production of SAF which was included in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022 and aims to halve carbon emissions in the aviation sector.  

    The credit was inspired by a SAF credit included in the Sustainable Skies Act, which Rep. Schneider authored with Reps. Kildee and Brownley in 2021. The credit was ultimately enacted in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, will transition into the CFPC in 2025, and will expire in 2027. SAF producers are eligible for a tax credit of $1.25 to $1.75 per gallon. 

    “The 45z tax credit has been critical in helping to ramp up U.S. production of sustainable aviation fuel,” said Rep. Brownley. “However, we needed to extend the credit long-term to provide market certainty and to ensure a safe and reliable supply of SAF to meet the needs of the aviation industry. I appreciate Congressman Schneider and Congressman Kildee’s partnership on this bill, and I look forward to working with stakeholders in the environmental, energy, and aviation community to extend the 45z credit and promote U.S. investment in this critical domestic fuel source.” 

    “In my home state of Michigan, we have already seen the harmful effects of climate change on our Great Lakes,” said Rep. Kildee. “This legislation will help us continue producing clean energy and fuels here in the United States, to help create good paying jobs, provide new markets to Michigan farmers, and reduce carbon emissions from airplanes and other vehicles,”  

    “As the leading U.S. airline in SAF use and advocacy, we know that extending incentives for U.S. SAF producers by a full ten years is a necessary first step to grow the industry,” said Lauren Riley, Chief Sustainability Officer for United Airlines. “The continued leadership of Representatives Schneider, Kildee and Brownley is helping to assure U.S. competitiveness in SAF and clean fuels, while boosting U.S. agricultural producers and rural communities. We look forward to working with Representatives Schneider, Kildee and Brownley and their colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that this tax credit is both extended and enhanced in a way that will maximize investment in SAF and other clean, low-carbon fuels.” 

     “Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is the single most important method to decarbonize aviation in the coming decades, and LanzaJet applauds the leadership of Representatives Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley in advancing SAF tax incentives that will catalyze domestic investment in this critical sector,” said Jimmy Samartzis, LanzaJet CEO. “As the original sponsors of the IRA’s SAF Blender’s Tax Credit via the Sustainable Skies Act, Reps Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley continue to lay the foundation for a vibrant U.S. SAF industry by providing for ten years of policy certainty for domestic SAF producers via this important bill.  We look forward to continuing to work with Representatives Schneider, Kildee, and Brownley to develop policy proposals that will both extend and enhance the IRA’s short term SAF tax credits and enable achievement of the goals of the SAF Grand Challenge.”   

     “We applaud Representative Schneider and his colleagues Representatives Kildee and Brownley for their efforts to extend incentives for SAF,” said Alison Graab, Executive Director of the SAF Coalition. “We look forward to working with them on both an extension as well as enhancing and strengthening the incentive. Advancing sustainable aviation fuel demonstrates a clear commitment to the environmental and economic promises SAF holds, and incentives that are durable and attract investment are essential to unlocking that potential and driving the progress needed to sustain and grow the SAF industry.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Launches Voter Assistance Resources for People Impacted by Recent Hurricanes and Severe Weather Damage

    Source: US State of Vermont

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division launched a webpage today compiling information to help voters in states impacted by recent hurricanes Helene and Milton to have access to the ballot. The hurricanes have displaced several thousands of people from their residences; disrupted vital services; closed schools, businesses and other places; slowed postal delivery; and destroyed important personal possessions, including photos and identification documents.

    In these online resources, the department focuses on the six states that were directly affected by recent hurricanes: Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. The site identifies and provides links to various state changes made to accommodate voters who have been displaced, lost their identification documents, have had polling sites moved or who are unsure where or how they can vote. It also provides contact information so that voters can reach local voting officials who can provide the most specific and up-to-date guidance.

    The Justice Department is also committed to ensuring every eligible voter can cast their ballot free from discrimination and intimidation. Federal laws protect against voter intimidation, coercion and interference at every stage of the voting process. For additional information about voting and elections, including filing federal voting rights violations or threats against election workers, visit http://www.justice.gov/voting. Contact the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section through the internet reporting portal at http://www.civilrights.justice.gov or by calling 1-800-253-3931.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman Holds Town Hall in North Brunswick

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman

    October 22, 2024

    Yesterday, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman held a town hall to hear from neighbors and share updates about her work in Congress and the District on behalf of New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District constituents.

    Congresswoman Watson Coleman began the town hall by discussing her work on gun violence prevention, healthcare access, and defending reproductive rights and democracy. 

    The Congresswoman also discussed her efforts in the Appropriations Committee to bring back over $31.7 million to the 12th District for important infrastructure projects like the North Brunswick Safety Access Road, upgrades to Route 522, and enhancements to the Veterans Memorial Bridge connecting South River and Sayreville.

    She also answered questions from constituents about background checks for gun purchases, assistance to veterans, bringing back the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, and how we can bring the country together and unite around our common values.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal government launches programs to help small and medium-sized enterprises adopt and adapt artificial intelligence solutions

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    October 22, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Canada is a world leader in artificial intelligence (AI). Our vast AI ecosystem includes researchers, academics, entrepreneurs and more than 1,500 innovative companies, many of which are small or medium-sized enterprises (SME), serving a wide variety of economic sectors that include health, financial services and agriculture.

    Today, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the launch of two programs to grow Canada’s AI ecosystem by supporting the development of new generative AI applications and enabling AI adoption among SMEs to increase productivity. These programs are part of a $2.4 billion package of AI-focused initiatives announced in Budget 2024 to accelerate job growth, boost productivity and ensure AI is used responsibly.

    First, the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) will invest $200 million to help bring new AI technologies to market and help accelerate AI adoption by SMEs and sectors across the country.

    Second, the AI Assist Program is investing $100 million to help innovative Canadian SMEs that are building or actively incorporating generative AI and deep learning solutions into their core products and services.

    On behalf of Minister Champagne, Deputy Prime Minister Freeland also thanked all the businesses, researchers and AI innovators who responded to the public consultation on artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, which closed in September. The consultations engaged more than 1,000 Canadians and Canadian businesses both online and in person through surveys, roundtables and meetings. This feedback is informing the design and implementation of two initiatives: the new AI Compute Access Fund and the Canadian AI Sovereign Compute Strategy.

    Quotes

    “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of Canada’s AI ecosystem. The investments announced today are designed to serve as a catalyst for quicker AI adoption by this vital section of the economy, be a source of significant Canadian innovation, and enhance productivity and exports. The government will build on this with Canada’s first sovereign compute strategy that will reflect the voices of Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
    – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    “AI is not science fiction; it helps businesses get more done—like software that scans a piece of lumber to help a mill increase its yield. It will empower businesses across our region and help grow our economy.”
    – The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

    “Artificial intelligence is changing our world, and Quebec is on the cutting edge. With over 750 businesses specializing in AI, our province is among the top ten places in the world for AI investment and innovation. Today’s announcement builds on this success, helping small businesses across Quebec seize the opportunities presented by AI while creating good jobs in our communities.”
    – The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

    “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the prairie and northern economies. With the launch of the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, delivered by PrairiesCan and CanNor, we’re helping businesses achieve their innovative goals and create well-paying jobs Canadians can rely on.”
    – The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency

    “Supporting innovation in Northern Ontario is critical to the long-term prosperity and growth of the region. The Regional AI Initiative, which will be delivered by FedNor in Northern Ontario, will support the development of this important sector; create good, stable jobs for years to come; and help grow an economy that works for everyone.”
    – The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister Responsible for the Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario

    “Southern Ontario is home to future leaders in the AI sector. Our government is supporting them as they grow their businesses and develop new technologies that will lead to advancements in many industries. Together, we are keeping our place at the forefront of the world’s advanced economies, taking the necessary steps to enhance our digital solutions and creating skilled jobs for Canadians.”
    – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

    “Cutting-edge companies across Canada are developing and adopting AI technologies to increase productivity, drive innovation and attract investment. AI has the potential to transform industries in all regions and sectors of our country. The Government of Canada is committed to leadership in AI to ensure Canadian businesses have the resources they need to integrate this transformative technology and harness its benefits right now and for the future.”
    – The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2024’s $2.4 billion investments in artificial intelligence (AI) include funding for sovereign compute (data centres) capacity, the creation of an AI safety institute, skills training and programs to encourage AI adoption across the Canadian economy.

    • Canada’s seven regional development agencies (RDA) will be delivering the $200 million Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) over the next five years. This funding will help bring new AI technologies to market and drive AI adoption by small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) and sectors across the country. For more information, including on how to apply, visit the RDAs’ websites.

    • Delivered by the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program, the AI Assist Program is designed to help innovative Canadian SMEs navigate the challenges of developing and adapting generative AI and deep learning solutions and assist SMEs with awareness, planning and execution to develop these technologies safely and ethically.

    • It will do this by supporting scientific research, product development, testing and validation, building the next generation of AI technologies and applications for Canada and beyond.

    • The compute initiatives will enable Canada to secure its globally competitive position by ensuring that industry and researchers have access to affordable and cutting-edge infrastructure to support the growing AI ecosystem. 

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Audrey Milette
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
    audrey.milette@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    National Research Council of Canada
    Toll free: 1-855-282-1637
    media@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Find more services and information on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.

    Follow Canadian Science on social media.
    X (Twitter): @CDNScience | Facebook: Canadian Science | Instagram: @cdnscience

    Follow the department on social media.
    X (Twitter): @ISED_CA | LinkedIn: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Advocates for Nearly $2 Million in Funding for Readington Police

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    (October 19, 2024) READINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ – On Thursday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) toured the Readington Township Police Department ahead of the FY25 appropriations discussion to gain insight into local law enforcement needs and priorities. Congressman Kean is advocating for $1.9 million in the FY25 appropriation process to benefit Readington Township. This funding would be used to enhance the operational capacity, efficiency, and community engagement of the department through strategic upgrades and expansion efforts. 

    “As we continue with the FY25 appropriations process, I remain committed to advocating for the $1.9 million in funding that has already passed the House Appropriations Committee,” said Congressman Kean. “This critical investment will help modernize infrastructure, upgrade technology, and expand resources, ensuring that our officers have the tools they need to effectively serve and protect the residents of Readington Township.” 

    “As mayor of Readington Township, I am deeply grateful for Congressman Tom Kean’s partnership in securing millions of dollars through the House Appropriations Committee’s community project funding grant,” said Adam Mueller, Mayor of the Readington Township. “This crucial funding will be used for the expansion and modernization of our police department, ensuring they have the resources to serve our community effectively. Congressman Kean has been a devout supporter of our first responders, and his commitment to their safety and success is truly commendable.” 

    “The Readington Township Police Department is grateful for Congressman Kean’s continued support for law enforcement, and his commitment to secure funding that ensures our police officers have the tools they need to deliver the highest quality police service to the residents of Readington Township,” said Jim Curry, Director of Public Safety for the Readington Township Police Department.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Joins Democratic Efforts to Put a Spotlight on Project 2025 with New Documentary Style Video Series

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    New Documentary Video Series Details Project 2025’s Threat to Reproductive Freedom, Workers’ Rights, Environmental Protections, Public Education, and American Democracy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) for a five-part video documentary series detailing Project 2025’s threat to democracy, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, environmental regulation, and public education. The series will feature interviews with Representatives Kamlager-Dove, Goldman, and 11 of their House Democratic colleagues from across the country, as well as American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove will highlight the devastating impacts Project 2025 would have on the environment.

    Watch the Trailer for the Series Here

    “Project 2025 poses a grave threat, not just to our democracy but to our planet, too,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This hostile takeover of the federal government would depose dedicated public servants and install Trump loyalists and climate denialists at the EPA, enabling Republicans to slash environmental protections at the behest of Big Oil. But Project 2025 doesn’t stop at encouraging the world’s worst polluters—this agenda also seeks to discontinue air quality, clean energy, and decarbonization programs by overturning the Inflation Reduction Act, harming the health of our communities and the environment, eliminating clean energy jobs, and exacerbating the climate crisis. With Project 2025, Republicans have shown that they will continue to put polluters over people—this plan must be stopped.”

    As an increasing share of Americans consume their news from non-traditional sources on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media sites, Congressman Goldman’s series marks an effort by Democrats to reach audiences where they are in a diversified media landscape. Across various social media platforms, the first two videos of the series have received over 400,000 views, signaling the potential of this new format to reach large numbers of Americans.

    “Project 2025’s shocking plan to gut checks and balances, restrict abortion access, decimate public education, pollute our air and water, and endanger American workers for the sole benefit of Republican authoritarian extremists is utterly reprehensible and incredibly dangerous,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This document is a detailed guide for how a second Trump administration will dismantle our democracy, and it is critical that the American people understand exactly how Trump intends to do it. I am proud to be joined by so many of my colleagues and policy leaders to expose this radical plan to reshape American society as we know it.”

    Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint said, “Project 2025 is a far-right plan by Trump allies to impose Christian nationalist values onto every American. It goes completely against our American values to promote a strong, resilient democracy; in fact this plan aims to erode our democratic institutions by gutting checks and balances and seizing power for the presidency. Project 2025 is nothing short of an anti-freedom and anti-equality agenda: it further attacks reproductive rights and disproportionately harms communities of color and our LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 would increase gun violence rather than protect our communities. And its plan to abolish the Department of Education would hurt millions of families whose kids go to public schools, teachers who are already underpaid, and students. It’s dangerous and we must take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to be a part of this series to help Americans understand the threat it poses to our values and democratic norms.”

    Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici said, “Project 2025 is a blueprint for MAGA extremists to undermine government and destroy programs and policies that support working families. It’s the product of people who held top positions in the previous administration and special interest groups that hold significant influence over the GOP’s agenda. I’m working with my colleagues to counter this extremist plan and to educate Americans about its potentially devastating effects.”

    Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu said, “Trump and his allies’ Project 2025 is a 900 page comprehensive plan for MAGA Republicans to grab power for themselves, enrich their allies, and shatter our already fragile democracy. Project 2025 touches on every agency in the federal government and is January 6th extremism crafted into a governing ideology: fire tens of thousands of civil servants to replace them with partisan loyalists, abolish checks and balances, chip away at church-state separation, and impose a far-right agenda that rips away our freedoms and takes money out of pockets. It’s so critical for House Democrats to work together to shine a light on as many details of this plan as possible so we can equip ourselves and the American people with the information we need to fight back and make certain we put systems into place to protect us from these extreme policies.”

    Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett said, “Let me make it plain: Project 2025 is the GOP’s attack plan against the American constitution. It doesn’t just undermine the progress made in this country for women, people of color, and LGBTQIA folks over the past century; it undermines the very principles of self-government that our country was founded on. If our Founding Fathers were to read Project 2025, they would have thought it was sent over by King George himself. It’s a blueprint for authoritarianism, a blueprint for monarchy, and a blueprint for a right-wing dictatorship in America that will end our democratic experiment for good. If the majority of Americans were to read and understand this plan – a plan authored by hundreds of members of former President Trump’s administration – they would reject it as un-American and dangerous. Thank you to Congressman Goldman for bringing us together to break down Project 2025 from every angle – no matter how engaged you are, you can still learn something from this series.”

    Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner said, “Donald Trump’s Project 2025 will hand a future Trump administration nearly unlimited power to ban abortion, take away healthcare for people with preexisting conditions, and rip away the freedoms that Americans have fought hard for. Trump’s Project 2025 is dangerous, cruel, and out-of-touch with the needs of the American people. We will not let Trump and Congressional Republicans take us back.”

    House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning said, “Project 2025 is simply a more detailed blueprint of Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda that promises to roll back Americans’ basic rights and freedoms. Because of Donald Trump and the three extreme MAGA Justices he appointed to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. v. Wade, one in three women of reproductive age lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban. Now, his extreme Project 2025 plans will attack reproductive freedoms even further by targeting abortion pills and contraception coverage, and threatening IVF treatments. Project 2025 would also ban the mailing of abortion medications, equipment, or materials, effectively creating a nationwide, backdoor abortion ban — without the approval of Congress.”

    Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross said, “Project 2025 is a 920-page manifesto designed to tell every American how to live their life. If enacted into law, Project 2025 would destroy the 250-year-old system of checks and balances that make up our democracy and completely dismantle almost every labor standard that protects workers. As a union electrician and co-chair of the Labor Caucus, it pains me to see a document that would strip away worker protections and fair labor practices that working families have been fighting for decades. I’m proud to join Rep. Goldman in this video series to help explain the threat Project 2025 poses to American values, ideals, and freedoms.”

    Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett said, “Project 2025 is the playbook for Donald Trump’s second term, which will ensure that the few have power over the many and that the rule of law as we know it, is gone. It is a plan to ensure that the federal government no longer acts as a check on the greed and desire for absolute power that Trump and his cohort of friends share. In every way, Project 2025 will make Americans less safe and less free. Republicans know that these ideas are not popular with the people of America and that’s why they hide from the facts, obfuscate the truth and distract the public’s attention with wild claims to vilify minorities and keep us divided. It is imperative that we all do our part to ensure that Donald Trump is not allowed to enforce the clear and present danger that the Project 2025 master plan represents to American democracy.”

    American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, Project 2025 is about institutionalizing Trumpism. It’s about going after educational opportunity, economic opportunity and equal opportunity. It’s about going after the legitimacy of elections. This is the stuff of demagogues and dictators, not democracies. This is not the promise of America. We can and must do better than this—for the sake of our families and the future of our republic.”

    Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone said, “Project 2025 isn’t about serving the people; it’s about ensuring that political loyalty becomes the guiding rule. They want to replace our government’s independent watchdogs with partisan loyalists, dismantling checks and balances to consolidate power in the executive branch. With a captured Supreme Court and a weaponized Department of Justice, the next conservative administration would have all the tools they needed to drive America closer and closer to their idealized far-right dystopia, at the cost of our personal freedoms.”

    A third of all U.S adults say they regularly get their news from Facebook or YouTube, and nearly 20% report preferring to receive their news from social media. As more Americans turn to non-traditional platforms such as social media, YouTube, and online searches to stay informed Congressman Goldman is focused on ensuring that important information reaches all Americans in this rapidly transforming media landscape.

    In addition to Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Goldman, the following members of Congress are featured in the series: Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Lois Frankel (FL-22), Dads Caucus Founder and Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner (RI-02), House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning (NC-06), Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), and Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Co-Chair Paul Tonko (NY-20).

    Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan for the next conservative president to swiftly enact the most anti-democratic and archconservative agenda in the history of this country. It lays the groundwork for Donald Trump to seize power, gut checks and balances, and enact a radical agenda. It touches on every department and agency within the federal government.

    The Heritage Foundation, a right-wing think tank funded by shady dark money interests, has been plotting Project 2025, an unprecedented scheme to help the next conservative president quickly enact the most radical agenda in the history of the country. The plan is laying the groundwork for a new president to seize power and enact broad changes that are deeply unpopular with the American people. This includes vastly expanding the ability of the president to purge civil servants who are not sufficiently loyal to this extreme right-wing agenda.

    • Within the first 180 days of taking office, the plan calls for attacks on reproductive rights, the rule of law, and the expansion of the cruel and inhumane immigration policies from the Trump administration. Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan that would touch every department of the federal government and fundamentally reshape the lives of the American people. The Project’s four-pronged strategy that includes:
      • A laundry list of extreme policies to be enacted across the federal government;
      • A blueprint for how to use existing authority—or expand the power of the presidency—to implement right-wing policy proposals;
      • A database of right-wing ideologues who wholeheartedly endorse this power grab and far-right policies;
      • Training for staff so they can more efficiently enact this extreme agenda.

    While Project 2025 is being run out of the Heritage Foundation, its advisors include former Trump White House aides like Stephen Miller, and more than half the groups supporting the effort have received $21.5 million in funding from Leonard Leo’s dark money network.

    Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove is a member of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Kim, Coons, and Tillis to Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Promote Protection of International Digital Freedom

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Young Kim (CA-40), alongside Senators Chris Coons (DE) and Thom Tillis (NC), announced plans to introduce the bicameral Advancing Digital Freedom Act of 2024, which would equip the U.S. State Department with the authorities to elevate digital freedom as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and support its critical role in advancing democratic governance around the world.

    “Digital technology has both benefits and drawbacks when it comes to advancing democracy,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “It can enable citizens to access information, share ideas, and organize while simultaneously allowing for authoritarian regimes to spread propaganda, enhance surveillance, and stifle free speech. We must ensure that digital technologies are used to strengthen democracy, not dismantle it. It is crucial for the United States to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard digital freedom worldwide and work with partners to implement this plan. Promoting human rights and democracy at home and abroad must remain a bipartisan issue, and I am proud to advance these priorities with a bipartisan, bicameral group of congressional colleagues.”

    “The Unholy Alliance, including the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, relies on abusive surveillance technologies to restrict access to information and the outside world and to maintain their grip on power,” said Congresswoman Young Kim, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. “To remain a global human rights leader, the United States cannot stand idly by as these authoritarian regimes use digital technologies and platforms to suppress innocent civilians, religious minorities, and political dissenters. I am proud to join Representative Kamlager-Dove and Senators Coons and Tillis to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to protect the right to international digital freedom. I’ll keep fighting to ensure the United States promotes global human rights and protects freedom-loving people around the world.”

    “As a global leader of human rights, the United States must deter authoritarian and illiberal states that are using advanced technologies to threaten human rights alongside our own national security,” said Senator Coons. “Protecting digital freedom abroad is a cornerstone of American foreign policy for the modern age, and that is why we must cooperate with like-minded countries to develop and deploy emerging technology in a manner that respects democracy and rule of law. As Co-Chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I’m confident that this bill will help protect digital freedoms and counter global misinformation and disinformation in partnership with our allies.”

    “With increasing cyber threats and attacks on the horizon than ever before, working with our allies to counter them is all the more important,” said Senator Tillis. “Protecting and promoting digital freedom across the globe must be a priority, which is why I look forward to introducing this bipartisan legislation to ensure the Department of State continues to prioritize this as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.”

    The right to freedom of expression has become a fault line between pro-democracy groups and authoritarian governments. Digital platforms, including social media, have been crucial tools for movements such as the Mahsa Amini protests in Iran or the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. However, autocratic governments have attempted to stifle these efforts by cracking down on digital freedom. Russia and China deploy digital tools to identify and silence dissidents, Iran routinely blocks access to thousands of websites conveying political content, and North Korea and Venezuela coordinate disinformation campaigns to undermine citizens’ access to credible information. To address such threats to digital freedom, the Advancing Digital Freedom Act would strengthen the United States’ role in leading efforts to ensure technology is used to uphold human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Elevate digital freedom as a foremost foreign policy priority of the United States;
    • Empower the Coordinator for Digital Freedom in the State Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to lead global efforts to protect digital freedom, counter disinformation and misinformation, and advance democratic governance in the digital space;
    • Encourage the State Department to engage with foreign governments, nongovernmental organizations, and other actors to coordinate efforts to defend digital freedom against digital authoritarianism; and
    • Require the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to submit an annual report to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the state of global digital freedom, including analysis of emerging and concerning trends impacting digital freedom.                                                                                                              

    The text of the bill is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Salazar Introduce Legislation to Simplify Visa Processing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) introduced H.R. 9545, the Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act alongside Representative María Elvira Salazar (FL-27).

    Currently, our visa application and processing systems are outdated, duplicative, and waste crucial resources. This legislation will save the State Department countless hours of labor and thousands of dollars in postage and paper by keeping federal communications about visa applications online. It will also reduce requirements on families to mail physical copies of documents that have already been submitted online.

    The Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act streamlines the visa processing system by eliminating the requirement to mail all signed communications from the applicant and from the Agency that are already sent electronically.

    “Excessive visa wait times have long plagued our broken immigration system, causing unnecessary heartache for many applicants,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “Digitizing more aspects of the visa application process will eliminate redundant paperwork, speeding up visa processing times and reducing burdens on applicants. Simple reforms like this legislation can have outsized impacts on the immigration process. I am proud to partner with Representative Salazar to advance commonsense solutions in our immigration system.”

    “We have an opportunity to both improve government efficiency and reduce the burden on individuals navigating our complex immigration system,” said Representative Salazar. “The Visa Processing Improvement and Paperwork Reduction Act will save the State Department tons of time and money so they can process visa applications quicker and easier.”

    Previously, Reps. Kamlager-Dove and Salazar collaborated on the GRATEFUL Act, which was signed into law in 2023. This policy provided visas for locally employed U.S. embassy staff to immigrate to the U.S. after a career of service to the United States. These staff are critical to our diplomacy abroad, and securing this reform allows us to continue retaining and rewarding the best and brightest that serve the United States and advance our interests abroad.

    To read the full text of the bill, click here. To read a short summary of the legislation, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: NNIT A/S: NNIT adjusts 2024 financial outlook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NNIT adjusts the 2024 financial outlook and now expects organic revenue growth to be around 6-7% (previously around 10%) and the Group operating profit margin to reach 6-7% before special items (previously 8-9%) on the back of unsatisfactory performance in Q3. An uplift in Q4 is expected based on improved transparency and a solid backlog for the remainder of the year following recent important contract wins.

    Based on preliminary and unaudited financial figures, NNIT generated Q3 2024 Group revenue of DKK 445 million (2023: DKK 453 million) and Group operating profit of DKK 17 million before special items (2023: DKK 26 million) corresponding to organic growth of -1.6% (2023: 11.1%) and a Group operating profit margin of 3.9% before special items (2023: 5.8%) in the quarter. For the first nine months of 2024, Group revenue was DKK 1,382 million (2023: DKK 1,290 million) with Group operating profit of DKK 73 million before special items (2023: DKK 72 million) for organic growth of 5.6% (2023: 11.3%) and a Group operating profit margin of 5.3% before special items (2023: 5.6%).

    The outlook adjustment follows an unexpected revenue decline in Region Europe and Region US in Q3, which was impacted by a moderate market slowdown resulting in projects being postponed or put on hold, combined with prolonged challenges in the data migration business. As one of several levers to accelerate profitability in the second half of 2024, NNIT recalibrated capacity in both Europe and the US in Q3, and additional adjustments are made to align internal capacity with market demand. NNIT is executing as planned on the remaining initiatives already taken to accelerate profitability, which include securing important wins in the US and Europe, leveraging the full effect of the turnaround in Asia, completing crucial internal projects and benefiting from a lower cost run-rate after relocation of offices. These key levers are contributing positively to profitability in 2024 and beyond.

    NNIT will publish the Q3 2024 trading statement on November 5, 2024 as planned.

    Contact for further information
    Carsten Ringius
    EVP & CFO
    Tel: +45 3077 8888
    carr@nnit.com

    Media relations
    Tina Joanne Hindsbo
    Media Relations Manager
    Tel: +45 3077 9578
    tnjh@nnit.com

    NNIT is a leading provider of IT solutions to life sciences internationally, and to the public and enterprise sectors in Denmark

    We focus on high complexity industries and thrive in environments where regulatory demands and complexity are high.

    We advise and build sustainable digital solutions that work for the patients, citizens, employees, end users or customers.

    We strive to build unmatched excellence in the industries we serve, and we use our domain expertise to represent a business first approach – strongly supported by a selection of partner technologies, but always driven by business needs rather than technology.

    NNIT consists of group company NNIT A/S and subsidiaries SCALES, Excellis Health Solutions and SL Controls. Together, these companies employ more than 1,700 people in Europe, Asia and USA.

    Read more at http://www.nnit.com

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meloë Kacenelenbogen Eyes the Future of Air Quality, Climate Research

    Source: NASA

    A mentor of research scientist Meloë Kacenelenbogen once shared a sentiment from French author André Gide: “You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Kacenelenbogen pushes beyond her comfort zone to explore the unknown.
    Name: Meloë S. KacenelenbogenFormal Job Classification: Research scientistOrganization: Climate and Radiation Laboratory, Science Directorate (Code 613)

    What do you do and what is most interesting about your role here at Goddard?
    I study the impact of aerosols — suspended particles from, for example, wildfire smoke, desert dust, urban pollution, and volcanic eruptions — on air quality and the Earth’s climate. I use space, air, and ground-based observations, as well as models.
    Why did you become a scientist? What is your educational background?
    I never made a deliberate choice to become a scientist. I started with very little confidence as a child and then built up my confidence by achieving things I thought I could not do. I chose the hardest fields to work on along the way. Science looked hard and so did fluid mechanics, remote sensing, and atmospheric physics. I have failed many times, but I always learn something and move on. I do get scared and maybe even paralyzed for a day or two, but I never let fear or failure immobilize me for long.
    I was born in Maryland, but my family moved to France when I was young, so I am fluent in French. I have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mechanical engineering, and physical methods in remote sensing from the Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI, Jussieu). In 2008, I got a Ph.D. in atmospheric physics for applying satellite remote sensing to air quality at the Université des Sciences et Technologies de Lille (USTL), France.
    What are some of your career highlights?
    After my Ph.D., I worked for the Atmospheric Lidar Group at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), on spaceborne and ground-based lidars. In 2009, I got a NASA Post-doctoral Program (NPP) fellowship at the agency’s Ames Research Center in California’s Silicon Valley, where I worked for 13 years on space-based, aircraft-based, and ground-based atmospheric aerosol vertical distribution and aerosol typing.
    In 2022, I came to work at the Climate and Radiation Lab at Goddard.
    What is most interesting about aerosols?
    Aerosols are very topical because they have a huge impact on the air we breathe and our Earth’s climate. The smaller the aerosol, the deeper it can get into our lungs. Among other sources, aerosols can come from cars, factories, or wildfires. We all know that wildfires are becoming bigger and more frequent. They are expected to happen even more frequently in the future due to climate change. Both when I was living in California and here in Maryland, I have experienced first-hand choking from the wildfire smoke. I will always remember how apocalyptic it felt back in the summer of 2020 in California when wildfire smoke was paired with COVID confinement, and the sky turned Mars-like orange.
    Please tell us about your involvement with the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS)?
    I am incredibly lucky to be able to contribute to the next generation of NASA’s satellites. I am working on AOS, which will observe aerosols, clouds, convention, and precipitation in the Earth’s atmosphere. I am part of the team that is helping design several instruments and algorithms.
    My role is to connect this spaceborne observing system to all our other space, ground, and air-based measurements at the time of launch. We are making a mesh of observations to address the science questions, run the algorithms, and validate the spaceborne measurements. I am constantly pushed to expand my horizon and my own knowledge.
    Why do you enjoy always challenging yourself intellectually?
    I started that way. I had no confidence, so I felt that the only way I could build my confidence was to try doing things that scared me. I may sometimes be a little scared, but I am never bored.
    What did you learn from your mentors?
    A few years ago, a mentor shared a quote from André Gide with me that encapsulates what we are talking about: “You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” In other words, it is OK, maybe preferable, to be out of my comfort zone to explore the unknown as scary as it may be.
    Along the way, it has been extremely important for me to deliberately choose mentors. To me, a good mentor has earned the respect of all who have worked with them, is uplifting, reassuring, and gives me the invaluable guidance and support that I need. I deliberately try to surround myself with the right people. I have been very, very fortunate to find incredible people to encourage me.
    As a mentor, what do you advise?
    I tell them to deliberately choose their mentors. I also tell them that it is OK to be uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable is the nature of our field. To do great things, we often need to be uncomfortable.
    Why do you enjoy working on a team?
    I love working on teams, I love to feed off the positive energy of a team whether I lead it or am part of it. In my field, teamwork with a positive energy is incredibly satisfying. Everybody feeds off everybody’s energy, we go further, are stronger, and achieve more. This may not happen often, but when it does it makes it all worth it.
    What are the happiest moments in your career?
    I am always happiest when the team publishes a paper and all our efforts, are encapsulated in that one well-wrapped and satisfying peer-reviewed paper that is then accessible to everyone online. Every paper we publish feels, to me, the same as a Ph.D. in terms of the work, pain, energy, and then, finally, satisfaction involved.
    What do you hope to achieve in your career?
    I want to have been a major contributor to the mission by the time the AOS satellites launch.
    What do you do for fun?
    I do mixed martial arts. I love the ocean, diving, and sailing. I also love going to art galleries, especially to see impressionist paintings to reconnect with my Parisian past.

    Who is your favorite author?
    I love Zweig, Kafka, Dostoyevsky, Saint-Exupéry, and Kessel. The latter two wrote a lot about aviators in the early 1900s back in the days when it was new and very dangerous. Those pilots, like Mermoz, were my heroes growing up.
    Who would you like to thank?
    I would like to thank my family for being my rock.
    What are your guiding principles?
    To paraphrase Dostoevsky, everyone is responsible to all men for all men and for everything. I have a strong sense of purpose, pride, justice, and honor. This is how I try to live my life for better or for worse.
    By Elizabeth M. JarrellNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    Conversations With Goddard is a collection of Q&A profiles highlighting the breadth and depth of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center’s talented and diverse workforce. The Conversations have been published twice a month on average since May 2011. Read past editions on Goddard’s “Our People” webpage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Announces Juana Mendoza as Winner of 2024 Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Leader Award in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    The Colorado Congressman launched the award in 2020 to honor committed service to Latino communities in the 2nd District.

    Lafayette, CO — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse and his staff announced Juana Mendoza is the recipient of the 2024 Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Leader Award while at Downtown Longmont’s Día de Muertos Family Celebration. Juana has served the people of Boulder County for more than 30 years, providing critical support to often underserved communities and to families of diverse backgrounds through her work at the Office of Housing and Human Services and the Case Management and Community Outreach Division. 
     
    “The Honorable Polly Baca devoted her life to serving others, and as we come together to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories that shape Colorado’s vibrant Latino community, I can think of no better recipient of this year’s award than Juana Mendoza. Her unwavering dedication to ensuring that people of all backgrounds have access to life-changing programs that pave the way for success, and her tireless work and passion, continue to inspire countless Coloradans,” said Congressman Neguse.
     
    Each year, the Polly Baca Raíces Fuertes Community Service Award honors individuals who represent the qualities of service to others and the uplifting of the Latino community that former State Senator Polly Baca embodies. Rep. Neguse established the award in 2020 to recognize an exemplary leader in the 2nd Congressional District who best exhibits commitment to the service of others. 
     
    About Juana Mendoza: 
     
    Juana Mendoza devoted more than three decades of service to the families and communities of Boulder County. She has an unwavering commitment to ensuring that people of all backgrounds, particularly those in the Latino community, have access to programs that help them achieve success. She played a critical role in shaping Boulder County’s Early Intervention Team, working as an Early Intervention Support Specialist for 17 years. In this role, she promoted child well-being and prevented abuse and neglect by serving the whole family.
     
    Throughout her career, Juana went above and beyond to provide life-changing support to underserved families. She often extended herself beyond traditional business hours, office settings, job descriptions, and the standard lifecycle of a case, nurturing and maintaining thriving intergenerational relationships with children and families.
     
    As a mentor to countless social workers, public servants, and leaders in Boulder County, Juana consistently led by example. Even in her retirement, she continues to serve the people and community she loves by volunteering to help victims of human trafficking and people living with addictions in Boulder County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bergman & Michigan Republican Colleagues Demand Accountability After Chinese Nationals Breach U.S. Military Bases

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    Last week, Representative Jack Bergman was joined by fellow Michigan Republican Members of Congress in sending a letter to Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Lloyd Austin, demanding answers and accountability after several breaches of military bases by Chinese nationals.

    This letter comes after federal prosecutors charged five Chinese nationals on October 2, 2024 with crimes in connection to trespassing on the Camp Grayling training facility during Northern Strike – one of DOD’s largest reserve component readiness exercises.

    As the Members explained, this security breach was not an isolated incident:

    “In recent years, Chinese nationals have been found trespassing at military installations and other sensitive sites across the U.S., including a Naval station in Florida, a shipyard in Virginia, a Marine Corps base in California, and an arctic warfare training base in Alaska. The alarming rise in such breaches suggests a coordinated effort by the Chinese Communist Party to gauge the security of sites critical to U.S. national security, potentially in anticipation for an attack from within the homeland.”

    “We know that weakness only invites aggression, which is why my colleagues and I are demanding swift action from our Defense Department to review and bolster the security of our sensitive sites. With a raging border crisis and a resulting increase in Chinese national encounters at our southern border, our Nation can’t afford inaction on this issue. We must ensure accountability from the DoD to avoid any further incidents that could embolden and inform our enemies,” Rep. Bergman stated.

    “After the disturbing arrests of five Chinese nationals outside of Camp Grayling, Michiganders deserve answers,” said Rep. Tim Walberg. “I’m proud to join my Michigan Republican colleagues in demanding these answers and accountability from the Department of Defense. Beyond this, we cannot allow our colleges and universities to be used by adversaries to undermine our national security.”

    “China is our greatest geopolitical threat, and the repeated attempts by Chinese nationals to gain access to American military installations across the country are incredibly alarming,” said Rep. Lisa McClain. “The incident at Camp Grayling was not a one-off event, and the Department of Defense needs to improve its security protocols to prevent further incursions and national security risks.  We need answers from the DoD on how they plan to ensure the integrity and protection of our installations.”

    “This incident demands answers from the Defense Department. It also demands answers from Governor Whitmer. She is the commander in chief of the Michigan National Guard, and she has yet to act or comment on this security threat against our men and women in uniform. Finally, U-M must end its joint research institute with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the program these individuals were a part of when they came to Michigan,” Rep. John Moolenaar stated.

    Rep. Bill Huizenga added, “The overt attempts by the CCP to weaponize its diaspora community to undermine US national security must be addressed. This is no longer a theoretical exercise. The University of Michigan has now been used on multiple occasions as a proxy for nefarious CCP activity. These actions demonstrate that Congress must re-examine the relationship between American colleges and universities and CCP entities.”

    “The Biden-Harris Administration has failed our national security, and the crisis at Camp Grayling is the most recent example. Our enemies no longer fear us, thanks to this administration. Their open borders and weak-on-China policies have emboldened our peer adversaries. The Department of Defense must provide us with an accurate and clear assessment of the incident to reassure our fellow Americans and Michiganders,” Rep. John James concluded.

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Updated vaccines for influenza, COVID-19 available throughout B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People who are already registered in the provincial Get Vaccinated system will automatically receive an invitation to book their influenza and COVID-19 immunization online when they become due.

    Those who are not registered yet are encouraged to do so by visiting:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register

    Although booking through the Get Vaccinated system is the most efficient way to access the vaccines, people can also phone the provincial call centre (toll-free) to book or ask questions about their influenza and or COVID-19 immunizations: 1 833 838-2323

    Seniors will continue to receive free enhanced influenza vaccines, which offer better protection against influenza than standard-dose vaccines. This is because they stimulate stronger immune responses to compensate for the natural weakening of the immune system that occurs with age. A stronger immune response can lead to better protection against influenza.

    The National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends people get the updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall, or six months since their most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose or infection, whichever is later.

    For influenza, public-health officials look to the influenza season in the Southern Hemisphere to help anticipate the influenza season in the Northern Hemisphere. Data from the Southern Hemisphere shows children were more significantly affected this past season. Research and data show the recent viral respiratory illness season varied in severity, timing and duration across regions.

    Immunization-related protection against influenza varies from season to season because the influenza viruses continue to change. As a result, circulating influenza viruses may or may not be well matched to the seasonal influenza vaccine produced for use in the Northern Hemisphere.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting Alberta’s growing communities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

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    Many of Alberta’s cities and towns are experiencing population growth that increases the demand on public infrastructure needs such as roads, bridges and water treatment systems. To help municipalities experiencing population growth-related pressures on public infrastructure, Alberta’s government has introduced the Local Growth and Sustainability Grant (LGSG), providing $60 million over three years to help meet this challenge.

    “We have heard clearly from our municipal partners that population growth and expanding industrial and commercial activity, though good for local economies, are also putting significant pressure on public infrastructure in some Alberta communities. The LGSG is designed to bring some relief to recent growth pressures while attracting new investment that provides jobs for Albertans and helps to keep our provincial economy thriving.”

    Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs

    As a complement to Alberta’s other existing infrastructure programs, such as the Local Government Fiscal Framework, the LGSG is an application-based program that will be open to municipalities experiencing significant growth and related infrastructure pressures. The program will also support municipalities seeking to capitalize on specific economic development opportunities.

    The LGSG has two components. The growth component (approximately $15 million in 2024-25) is meant to help mid-sized communities with populations between 10,000 and 200,000 meet growth-related infrastructure needs such as vital roadways. The sustainability component (approximately $5 million in 2024-25) is meant to help smaller communities with populations fewer than 10,000 address pressing health or safety issues, such as water treatment.

    “Our province is growing, and I am proud to see Alberta’s government make yet another investment to create jobs, improve our communities and grow our local economy. I’m excited to see the opportunities ahead for growing municipalities like our city.”

    Nathan Neudorf, MLA for Lethbridge-East

    “Like many Alberta municipalities, Lethbridge is experiencing growth pressures. The Local Growth and Sustainability Grant offers essential funding opportunities for our priority projects, such as expanding the Wastewater Treatment Plant and enhancing efforts to recruit more healthcare workers. We are grateful to the province for introducing this new funding stream, and we look forward to submitting competitive proposals that ensure a sustainable and healthy community for our residents.”

    Blaine Hyggen, mayor of Lethbridge

    Applications for the LGSG are now open and close on Nov. 29.

    Quick facts

    • Projects funded under the growth component will be cost-shared with the applicant municipal government.  Growth component funding will provide up to 50 per cent of project costs.
    • In the 2025-26 fiscal year, municipalities will receive more than $820 million, an increase of over 13 per cent from Budget 2024.

    Related information

    For more, visit http://www.Alberta.ca/local-growth-and-sustainability-grant

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Houlahan Receives Re-Opening Plan from IRS After Demanding Answers on Reading Office Closure

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA)

    Houlahan Receives Re-Opening Plan from IRS After Demanding Answers on Reading Office Closure

    Reading, October 22, 2024

    READING, PA – Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) announced that the Internal Revenue Service shared a re-opening plan for its Reading, PA Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) that has been closed since early July. The TAC is currently open for taxpayer services three days a week and, starting December 30th, the IRS expects it will resume full five-day service. 

    In July, Houlahan sent a letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel sharing her concern about the extended closure of the Taxpayer Assistance Center in Reading. This center, located just one floor below Houlahan’s own district office, provides vital services and accessibility to her constituents in Pennsylvania’s Sixth Congressional District. 

    In her letter, Houlahan emphasized the importance of the Reading TAC to the community and the need for in-person services for people who cannot access tax law assistance over the phone. “As you know, in-person services are critical for disadvantaged, older, or disabled individuals who may be unable to access these services online or over the phone. In-person assistance is especially necessary in the City of Reading, where the poverty rate is 29.4% and nearly 20% of residents live with a disability. I urge you to re-open the Reading TAC as soon as possible,” wrote Houlahan.  

    In September, Houlahan received a response from Commissioner Werfel, who stated that the closure occurred due to the attrition of two employees. Werfel also shared that the IRS was enlisting the help of employee volunteers to resume three-day service until the office is fully staffed and the agency’s commitment to opening the office as soon as feasibly possible. “I appreciate Commissioner Werfel’s response and transparency regarding the center’s re-opening. I am grateful that my letter brought eyes, attention, and prioritization to the importance of the in-person Taxpayer Assistance Center in Reading,” said Houlahan. 

    Additionally, members of Houlahan’s team have met with IRS staff on multiple occasions to discuss the center’s re-opening. The recent updates from the IRS are as follows:  

    A temporary employee is present at the Reading TAC to meet with taxpayers three days a week. Hours of operation are Tuesday: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

    Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, an engineer, a serial entrepreneur, an educator, and a nonprofit leader. She represents Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Chester County and southern Berks County. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She is the recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award which “recognizes members who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward” and the Congressional Management Foundation’s 2022 Democracy Award for best Constituent Services in Congress. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE TAKES ACTION TO ADDRESS CHILDCARE CRISIS, SUPPORT WORKING FAMILIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25)

    Outlines legislation to lower the cost of childcare and ensure it is accessible for all parents

    October 22, 2024 (Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle was joined by the YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County and the Children’s Agenda to announce legislation he supports to ensure quality, affordable childcare is accessible for all working families.

    “I hear every day from parents in our community who are struggling to find safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable childcare. This is a crisis, and we need decisive action to ease the burden on working families,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “That’s why I’m leading the charge to enact legislation that will reduce the exorbitant cost of childcare, get more children into high-quality programs, and ease the burden on families. I look forward to continuing my work alongside organizations like The Children’s Agenda and the YWCA to support families in our community.”

    “Our commitment to advocating for quality, affordable childcare is unwavering,” said Dr. Myra Henry, President and CEO of YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County. “Access to reliable childcare is crucial for the stability and success for many of the families we serve. The ability to secure quality childcare and early education opportunities for mothers of young children in our programs is often a real struggle.  By supporting efforts to make childcare and early education accessible and affordable, we aim to build a stronger, more inclusive community where parents can be proud of the nurturing support they are providing for their children to thrive.”

    “Every day, families in our community are forced to make impossible choices between their jobs and their children’s care. Quality, affordable childcare should be a right, not a privilege,” said Stevie Vargas, Director of Campaigns & Organizing with The Children’s Agenda. “The legislation Congressman Morelle supports is a critical step toward ensuring all working families have access to the childcare they need to thrive. At The Children’s Agenda, we are committed to advocating for policies that prioritize children’s well-being and give parents the support they deserve. Together, we can create a future where no family is left struggling to find safe and reliable care.”

    Last July, Congressman Morelle warned of an impending “childcare cliff” and outlined immediate actions he supported to restore federal support for parents and childcare centers. Unfortunately, over the last 15 months, Republicans in Congress have ignored the needs of working families and refused to allocate the resources required for these programs, and the impacts of their negligence are being felt across the country.

    Last month, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago reported American families living below the poverty line spent more than one-quarter of their annual income on childcare, and the cost is only continuing to rise. In New York State, another report from the Century Foundation found the cost of childcare has increased by almost 50 percent since 2019, with the average price for an infant at a childcare center now hovering around $19,500 per year or $1,625 per month.

    Congressman Morelle has fought to address this crisis and bring down the cost of childcare by supporting the following legislation:

    • The Child Care for Working Families Act—legislation to help ensure universal access to high-quality childcare by mandating federal investment to establish and support a network of locally-run Child Care and Early Learning Centers and Family Child Care Homes and ensuring no one pays more than 7% of their income on childcare;
    • The After Hours Child Care Act—legislation to establish a pilot program and explore increasing the capacity of childcare providers to provide services to families in which a parent is working nontraditional work hours (e.g., before 9:00 a.m., after 5:00 p.m., or on a Saturday or Sunday);
    • The Child Care Investment Act—legislation to increase the employer-provided child care tax credit, the amount excludable from gross income for dependent care flexible spending accounts, and makes the household and dependent care tax credit refundable.

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    MIL OSI USA News –