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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley and Hoyle Announce NOAA’s Support for Port Orford

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 09, 2024
    NOAA identifies Port Orford in its strategic plan
    Washington D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle, today announced the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries included specific support for Port Orford’s local economy and job growth in its National Seafood Strategic Implementation Plan. 
    “World-renowned seafood is synonymous with Oregon, and is a vital part of our coastal economy and a delicious part of our dinner tables,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified NOAA recognizes the important role Port Orford plays in sustaining the local and regional seafood industry. This plan will net local jobs for Curry County, while Oregonians will reel in enhanced availability of fresh, local seafood in the region.” 
    “Oregon seafood is the lifeblood of our coastal communities and economy, and when the industry thrives, all of Oregon thrives,” Merkley said. “This national strategy from NOAA—which supports the revitalization of the Port of Port Orford—will boost Oregon’s coastal fishermen and world-class seafood producers, creating jobs in Curry County and across the country.” 
    “Our fishermen are the heart of Oregon’s coastal communities,” said Rep. Hoyle. “NOAA is specifically focused on the resilience of the seafood sector in Port Orford, which will help create coastal jobs and support the health of our seafood industry. In Congress, I’ll continue working to bring back Oregonian taxpayer dollars to support economic growth and sustainability on the Coast.”
    “As both Mayor of Port Orford as well as Manager of the Port I am ecstatic to see that the hard work and planning by the Port of Port Orford and all of its stakeholders has gotten this National recognition. The revitalization of the Port of Port Orford will change the tides of possibility for our region,” said Pat Cox, Mayor of Port Orford and Port Manager at Port of Port Orford.
    The U.S. seafood industry is critical to enhancing public health and nutrition, creating jobs, and building a climate resilient food strategy. It is facing unprecedented challenges resulting in an urgent situation for many fisheries and connected communities and putting our supply of sustainable seafood at risk. Ensuring a supply of sustainable seafood for U.S. consumers is a key part of NOAA Fisheries’ mission. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Talks Healthcare at Protect Our Care Bus Tour Event

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    Rep. Adams Decries Republican Efforts to Repeal ACA, Institute Project 2025

    CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) spoke yesterday at Protect Our Care’s Annual “Lower Costs, Better Care” Nationwide Bus Tour event in Charlotte, about the state of healthcare in the United States.  

    “The Affordable Care Act and the Inflation Reduction Act have expanded affordable healthcare access, capped the costs of prescription drugs and Insulin, saved the average taxpayer thousands of dollars, and ended discrimination for the tens of millions of us with pre-existing conditions,” said Rep. Adams. “Given the success of this legislation, it’s no surprise that some would choose to play politics and repeal them. We have to get up and fight for the IRA and ACA to protect our care.” 

    Rep. Adams spoke to the successes of Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, the need to protect the Affordable Care Act from Republican repeal efforts, her support for abortion rights, and plans to expand access to affordable care. Other speakers included Stacy Staggs, President of North Carolina Chapter of Little Lobbyists, and healthcare advocates DonnaMarie Woodson, Laura Packard, and Meghan Bradshaw. Pictures of the event may be viewed here. 

    ### 

    Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Ann Wagner and a Bipartisan Coalition Introduce Legislation to Foster Alignment of Middle East Partners, Counter Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, joined her colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve security and military readiness between the United States and Abraham Accords nations.  The Learning Integrated National Knowledge (LINK) Act would connect strategic, operational, and tactical senior commanders through an exchange program to foster greater integration and alignment. 

    This legislation was introduced as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East due to the actions by Iran and Iranian-backed proxies and follows the fourth anniversary of the historic Abraham Accords.  Leading this legislation alongside Rep. Wagner are Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Zach Nunn (IA-03), Brad Schneider (IL-10), David Trone (MD-06), and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05).  Companion legislation has been introduced by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) in the Senate.

    Iran and its proxy forces, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, continue to conduct terrorist operations across the Middle East, from firing missiles within Lebanon, to attacks against commercial vessels in the Red Sea.  Through the establishment of a subject matter expert exchange program, American senior military officials will be able to bolster capabilities and deepen cooperationto enable the U.S. and its allies to respond to continuing and unforeseen aggression more effectively.

    “Iran’s unprecedented missile attack on Israel on October 1 shows the Ayatollah is bent on Israel’s destruction and is willing to drag the region into war to accomplish its violent agenda,” said Rep. Wagner.  “As Iran continues to attack Israel directly and through its proxies, regional security cooperation remains vital to stability in the Middle East—and the defense of American allies against aggression.  My work with colleagues in the Abraham Accords Caucus has shown me how important it is to have our experts work closely with our partners and allies in the region to develop sound strategies and tackle threats together.   The ongoing instability and fighting in the region demand a more effective path forward to address threats from dictatorial governments and terrorists and ensure the safety of our own citizens at home and abroad.  This bill will ensure our partners in the Middle East support one another as we work towards that goal.”

    “The increasingly aggressive actions by Iran and its terrorist proxies threaten the stability, security, and economy of the broader Middle East,” said Rep. Panetta.  “A military expert exchange program between Abraham Accords countries will ensure leaders are coordinating an integrated response to counter these malign activities in the region.  These partnerships are vital to our efforts to further strengthen the diplomatic, defense, and economic relationships between the United States, Israel, and our Arab partners.”

    “The Iranian Regime and its proxies cannot be left unchecked,” said Rep. Nunn.  “As Israel continues to withstand attacks from Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah, now is the time to bring together the best and brightest military minds within the Abraham Accords.  This partnership will bring a more secure and peaceful Middle East.”

    “The combined efforts last week by Israel, the United States, and other allies to intercept nearly 200 Iranian ballistic missiles before they could cause unimaginable destruction demonstrates the importance of strengthening the coordination between CENTCOM and our allies,” said Rep. Schneider.  “As Iran and its proxies—including Hezbollah and the Houthis—continue to escalate threats to Israel, and the entire Middle East, it is critical that our partners have access to experienced military experts who can offer sound guidance during these escalations.  Through the LINK Act, we are strengthening our ties with Abraham Accords nations, ensuring both Israel and our Arab allies have the expert support needed to address these evolving threats and maintain regional security.”

    “Now more than ever, leaders in the Middle East and around the world must work together against growing threats, including Iran,” said Rep. Trone.  “With that goal in mind, it is imperative that we continue to share vital resources and encourage international cooperation to better equip our intelligence and military operations. With the LINK Act, we’re doing just that.”

    “Iran’s ballistic missile attack on Israel was an escalation that threatens to plunge the entire Middle East into chaos. Now more than ever, we need to strengthen military coordination and defense planning between Abraham Accords countries to safeguard against these increasingly aggressive attacks by Iran and its terrorist proxies,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers.  “The LINK Act is a critical bipartisan effort to ensure military experts are in place to protect the diplomatic and economic relationships we’ve worked so hard to promote, while showing the world that we unequivocally stand with Israel.”

    This legislation has been included in the House and Senate versions of the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act, building upon the work of the Armed Services Committee to integrate air and missile defense capabilities, maritime domain awareness, cyber and AI readiness, and space satellites to deter Iranian aggression.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: TC Energy announces pricing of cash tender offers for certain Canadian-dollar denominated debt securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES (SEE “OFFER AND DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS” BELOW).

    CALGARY, Alberta, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — News Release – TC Energy Corporation (TSX, NYSE: TRP) (“TC Energy”) today announced that TransCanada PipeLines Limited (the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of TC Energy, has released the pricing terms of its previously announced separate offers (the “Offers”) to purchase for cash up to C$575,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of its 4.180% Senior Notes due 2048 (the “2048 Notes”) and its 3.390% Senior Notes due 2028 (the “2028 Notes”, and together with the 2048 Notes, the “Notes”).

    The Offers

    The Offers were made upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase dated Oct. 1, 2024 relating to the Notes (the “Offer to Purchase”). Capitalized terms used but not defined in this news release have the meanings given to them in the Offer to Purchase.

    The table below sets out the aggregate principal amount of 2048 Notes accepted for purchase, the Offer Yield and the Total Consideration in respect of the 2048 Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer for such Notes. The Company has not accepted for purchase any of the 2028 Notes tendered into the Offer for such Notes.

    Title of Notes(1) Principal
    Amount 
    Outstanding    		 CUSIP / ISIN
    Nos.     (1)    		 Reference 
    Security    		 Bloomberg 
    Reference
    Page    		 Offer
    Yield    		 Fixed
    Spread
    (Basis
    Points)    		 Total
    Consideration    (2)    		 Principal
    Amount
    Accepted    (3)
    4.180% Senior Notes due 2048 C$1,100,000,000 89353ZCC0 / CA89353ZCC01 CAN 2 ¾ 12/01/55 FIT CAN0-50 4.970% 160 C$890.60 C$575,000,000
                     
    (1) No representation is made by TC Energy or the Company as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP number or ISIN listed in this news release or printed on the 2048 Notes. They are provided solely for convenience.
       
    (2) Per C$1,000 principal amount of 2048 Notes validly tendered, and not validly withdrawn, at or prior to the Expiration Date and accepted for purchase; excludes the Accrued Coupon Payment.
       
    (3) Rounded figure of aggregate principal amount. The actual aggregate principal amount of 2048 Notes accepted for purchase may be adjusted for rounding due to proration.
       

    Settlement

    Payment of Total Consideration for 2048 Notes accepted for purchase will be made by the Company on the Settlement Date, which is expected to occur on Oct. 15, 2024. In addition to the Total Consideration, Holders whose 2048 Notes are accepted for purchase will receive a cash payment equal to the Accrued Coupon Payment, representing accrued and unpaid interest on such 2048 Notes from and including the immediately preceding interest payment date for such 2048 Notes to, but excluding, the Settlement Date. Holders whose 2048 Notes are accepted for purchase will lose all rights as Holder of the tendered 2048 Notes and interest will cease to accrue on the Settlement Date for all 2048 Notes accepted in the Offers.

    Following consummation of the Offers, any 2048 Notes that are purchased in the Offers will be retired and cancelled and no longer remain outstanding. All Notes not accepted for purchase by the Company or not purchased due to proration will be returned without cost to the tendering Holders.

    Upon completion of the Offers, there will be approximately C$525,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the 2048 Notes outstanding.

    The Offers are subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions as described in the Offer to Purchase. The Company reserves the right, subject to applicable law, to waive any and all conditions to any Offer. If any of the conditions is not satisfied, the Company is not obligated to accept for payment, purchase or pay for, and may delay the acceptance for payment of, any tendered Notes, in each event subject to applicable laws, and may terminate or alter any or all of the Offers.

    Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. (“Deutsche Bank”), J.P. Morgan Securities Canada Inc. (“JPM”), Morgan Stanley Canada Limited (“MS”) and RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (“RBC”) are acting as the dealer managers (the “Dealer Managers”) for the Offers. Questions regarding the terms and conditions for the Offers or for copies of the Offer to Purchase should be directed to JPM at 1.403.532.2126, MS at 1.416.943.8400 or RBC at 1.877.381.2099 (toll-free) or 1.416.842.6311 (collect). Deutsche Bank is not registered as a dealer in any Canadian jurisdiction and, accordingly, neither it nor any of its affiliates will, directly or indirectly, advertise, solicit, facilitate, negotiate, effect or take any other act in furtherance of any purchase or tender of Notes in connection with the Offers and any such solicitation, advertisement or other act with respect to the Offers will be conducted by JPM, MS and RBC. You may also contact your broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee for assistance concerning the Offers.

    TSX Trust Company is acting as the Tender Agent for the Offers.

    If the Company terminates any Offer with respect to one or more series of Notes, it will give prompt notice to the Tender Agent, and all Notes tendered pursuant to such terminated Offer will be returned promptly to the tendering Holders thereof. With effect from such termination, any Notes blocked in CDS will be released.

    Offer and Distribution Restrictions

    The Offers were made solely pursuant to the Offer to Purchase. This news release does not constitute a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. No Offer constitutes an offer or an invitation by, or on behalf of, TC Energy, the Company or the Dealer Managers (i) to participate in the Offers in the United States; (ii) to, or for the account or benefit of, any “U.S. person” (as such term is defined in Regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended); or (iii) to participate in the Offers in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction, and such persons are not eligible to participate in or tender any securities pursuant to the Offers. No action has been or will be taken in the United States or any other jurisdiction that would permit the possession, circulation or distribution of this news release, the Offer to Purchase or any other offering material or advertisements in connection with the Offers to (i) any person in the United States; (ii) any U.S. person; (iii) anyone in any other jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is not authorized; or (iv) any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation. Accordingly, neither this news release, the Offer to Purchase nor any other offering material or advertisements in connection with the Offers may be distributed or published, in or from the United States or any such other jurisdiction (except in compliance with any applicable rules or regulations of such other jurisdiction). Tenders will not be accepted from any holder located or resident in the United States.

    In any jurisdiction in which the securities laws require the Offers to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Offers will be deemed to have been made on behalf of the Company by the Dealer Managers or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.

    This news release is for informational purposes only. This news release is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell any Notes or any other securities of TC Energy, the Company or any of their subsidiaries.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to as “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements include: statements regarding the terms and timing for completion of the Offers, including the acceptance for purchase of any Notes validly tendered and the expected Settlement Date thereof; and the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions of the Offers.

    Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of TC Energy to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to vary include, but are not limited to, conditions in financial markets, investor response to the Offers, and other risk factors as detailed from time to time in TC Energy’s reports filed with Canadian securities administrators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Readers are cautioned against unduly relying on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of the relevant document and, except as required by law, TC Energy undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise.

    About TC Energy

    We’re a team of 7,000+ energy problem solvers working to safely move, generate and store the energy North America relies on. Today, we’re delivering solutions to the world’s toughest energy challenges – from innovating to deliver the natural gas that feeds LNG to global markets, to working to reduce emissions from our assets, to partnering with our neighbours, customers and governments to build the energy system of the future. It’s all part of how we continue to deliver sustainable returns for our investors and create value for communities.

    TC Energy’s common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. To learn more, visit us at TCEnergy.com.

    -30-

    Media Inquiries:
    Media Relations
    media@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7859 or 800-608-7859

    Investor & Analyst Inquiries:
    Gavin Wylie / Hunter Mau
    investor_relations@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7911 or 800-361-6522

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/d4cb9afa-ed66-422d-ae22-57edf08c84fa

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Announces $52 Million Multistate Settlement with Marriott over Data Breach

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a $52 million multistate settlement with Marriott International, Inc. (Marriott) over a multi-year data breach of one of its guest reservation databases. A multistate investigation found that one of Marriott’s subsidiaries, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide (Starwood), had intruders in its system for four years without getting detected, leading to a data breach that affected 131.5 million customers nationwide, including millions of New Yorkers. Today’s settlement with 50 attorneys general requires Marriott to significantly overhaul and strengthen its data security to protect customers’ private information and pay $52 million in penalties, of which New York will receive $2.29 million.

    “When people book a hotel stay for travel or work, they shouldn’t have to worry that their personal data and credit card information will be stolen,” said Attorney General James. “Marriott let cybercriminals live in its database for years and millions of people had their information stolen as a result. Protecting customers’ private information should be a top priority, not a last resort, for all companies. I am proud to stand with my fellow attorneys general to hold Marriott accountable and to protect customers.”

    Starwood operates hundreds of hotels nationwide, including hotels in New York. Marriott acquired Starwood in 2016 and took control of its computer network and databases. A multistate investigation discovered that from July 2014 until September 2018 intruders accessed and stayed on Starwood’s databases undetected for years. This intrusion led to the breach of 131.5 million customers’ personal information. The theft impacted people nationwide and exposed personal information, including contact information, gender, dates of birth, legacy Starwood Preferred Guest information, reservation information, and hotel stay preferences, as well as a limited number of unencrypted passport numbers and unexpired payment card information. 

    Today’s settlement requires Marriott to significantly strengthen and continually improve its cybersecurity practices. Some of the specific measures include:

    • An independent third-party assessment of Marriott’s information security program every two years for a period of 20.
    • Data minimization and disposal requirements, which will lead to less customer data being collected and retained.
    • Implementation of a comprehensive Information Security Program, including regular security reporting to the highest levels within the company, including the Chief Executive Officer, and enhanced employee training on data handling and security.
    • Increased vendor and franchisee oversight, with a special emphasis on risk assessments for “Critical IT Vendors,” and clearly outlined contracts with cloud providers.
    • In the future, if Marriott acquires another entity, it must promptly assess the acquired entity’s information security program and develop plans to address deficiencies as part of the integration into Marriott’s network.

    As part of the settlement, Marriott will allow customers to delete their data that is stored with the hotel if they wish to do so. Marriott must also offer multi-factor authentication to customers for their loyalty rewards accounts, such as Marriott Bonvoy, and conduct reviews of those accounts to ensure there is no suspicious activity. 

    Joining Attorney General James in signing today’s settlement are the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

    Attorney General James has taken major actions to hold companies accountable for having poor cybersecurity and to improve data security practices. In August 2024, Attorney General James and a multistate coalition secured $4.5 million from a biotech company for failing to protect patient data. In July 2024, Attorney General James launched two privacy guides, a Business Guide to Website Privacy Controls and a Consumer Guide to Tracking on the Web, to help businesses and customers protect themselves. In July 2024, Attorney General James issued a consumer alert to raise awareness about free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services available for millions of customers impacted by the Change Healthcare data breach. In March 2024, Attorney General James led a bipartisan coalition of 41 attorneys general in sending a letter to Meta Platforms, Inc. (Meta) addressing the recent rise of Facebook and Instagram account takeovers by scammers and frauds. In January 2024, Attorney General James reached an agreement with a Hudson Valley health care provider to invest $1.2 million to protect patient data.

    For New York, this matter was handled by Deputy Bureau Chief Clark Russell of the Bureau of Internet and Technology, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Kim Berger. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department, Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Warn Consumers About Potential Scams and Price Gouging in the Wake of Hurricanes and other Natural Disasters

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Justice Department, Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Warn Consumers About Potential Scams and Price Gouging in the Wake of Hurricanes and other Natural Disasters

    As the nation braces for another major hurricane, the Justice Department, along with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), is warning consumers about those looking to take advantage of natural disasters by engaging in potential fraud, price gouging and collusive schemes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Kelly, DelBene, Bucshon, Bera applaud milestone for life-saving Medicare Advantage prior authorization bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08), and Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) released the following statement after securing the support of a bipartisan majority for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8702) with over 218 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation would improve care for seniors by streamlining and standardizing the way Medicare Advantage (MA) plans use prior authorization and increasing oversight and transparency.

    “With over 33 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage, modernization of the prior authorization process is long overdue. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, hundreds of health care organizations, Americans from all corners of the country agree – streamlining this process will allow our Nation’s seniors to receive the care they are entitled to more efficiently. As champions of this legislation, we are grateful to our bipartisan majority of House colleagues for their support, and look forward to working with them to get this critical bill signed into law.”

    BACKGROUND

    Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce unnecessary care by requiring health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. However, the current system often results in unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians which takes precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the #1 administrative burden identified by health care providers, and three out of four Medicare Advantage enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays due to prior authorization. In recent years, the Office of the Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns after an audit revealed that Medicare Advantage plans ultimately approved 75% of requests that were originally denied. More recently, HHS OIG released a report finding that MA plans incorrectly denied beneficiaries’ access to services even though they met Medicare coverage rules.

    Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. In fact, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans including a standardization for transactions and clinical attachments.
    • Increase transparency around MA prior authorization requirements and its use.
      Clarify CMS’ authority to establish timeframes for e-PA requests including expedited determinations, real-time decisions for routinely approved items and services, and other PA requests.
    • Expand beneficiary protections to improve enrollee experiences and outcomes.
    • Require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts and other ways to further improve the e-PA process.

    The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act unanimously passed the House in the 117th Congress and was cosponsored by a majority of members in the Senate and House of Representatives. 

    Bill text is available here.

    A section-by-section summary can be found here.

    This bill is supported by over 440 national and state organizations representing patients, physicians, MA plans, hospitals, and other key stakeholders in the health care industry. To see the list as of today, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Introduces Bill to Improve and Expand AI Education for U.S. Servicemembers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) introduced the Next Generation Military Education Act to improve and expand artificial intelligence (AI) education for U.S. servicemembers.

    “Artificial intelligence is no longer the future – it is the here and now,” said Larsen, who previously served on the Armed Services Committee for 22 years. “The Next Generation Military Education Act ensures servicemembers get the critical tools they need to meet today’s global challenges while developing in-demand skills and knowledge to master AI.”

    Larsen a Champion of AI Education for Servicemembers

    The Next Generation Military Education Act builds on Larsen’s work to develop an AI education strategy for servicemembers. In 2019, Larsen successfully included a provision in the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act that required the Department of Defense (DoD) to develop an AI education strategy. Larsen’s provision also required the underlying curriculum to include ethical issues, bias, and potential strengths and weaknesses of AI.

    What Does the Next Generation Military Education Act Do?

    Specifically, the Next Generation Military Education Act requires:

    ·       The DoD’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer to provide an online AI education course;

    ·       All military branches to participate in “Digital On-Demand,” the DoD’s initiative to accelerate AI knowledge; and

    ·       The DoD to add an AI risks and threats section to its annual mandatory cybersecurity training.

    To read the Next Generation Military Education Act, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mullin Joins Bicameral Amicus Brief to Overturn FHWA’s Unlawful Emissions Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)

    Mullin Joins Bicameral Amicus Brief to Overturn FHWA’s Unlawful Emissions Rule

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined 30 of his colleagues in filing a bicameral amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. The focus of the brief is a final rule from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that requires state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations to measure greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on the highway system and set declining targets for those GHG emissions. The brief requests that the Court uphold the April 2024, U.S. District Court decision finding that Congress did not grant the FHWA the authority to issue the rule.
    The brief argues that Congress explicitly debated providing the FHWA the necessary authority to issue this rule, but decided against doing so in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The FHWA then intentionally misconstrued congressional intent and used unrelated statutory authorities to attempt to justify issuing its GHG performance measure rule. The brief also argues the rulemaking is not consistent with recent Supreme Court decisions paring back Executive Branch overreach, and that FHWA is ignoring principles of federalism at the expense of state governments to further its own policy agenda.
    “Congress considered, and ultimately rejected, providing [FHWA] with the authority to issue a GHG performance measure regulation, but [FHWA] contorted ancillary existing authorities to impose one anyway,” the members argued. “In doing so, [FHWA] impermissibly usurped the Legislative Branch’s authority and promulgated the GHG performance measure without statutory authority delegated by Congress.”
    “Put simply, when [FHWA] established a GHG performance measure regulation, it exceeded the powers Congress authorized. And it did so both at the expense of separation of powers and in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act,” the members continued. 
    Sen Mullin is joined by EPW Committee Ranking Member Shelley Moore-Capito (R-WV), Ranking Member of the EPW Committee’s Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Boozman (R-AK), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IO), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and U.S. Representatives Sam Graves (MO-6), Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Rick Crawford (AR-1), Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee.
    Full text of the amicus brief is available here.
    BACKGROUND:
    In April of this year, the U.S. Senate approved a Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval overturning the rule by a vote of 53-47. The measure was co-sponsored by Ranking Member Capito and sponsored by Senator Cramer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Ruben Ramos

    Source: US State of California

    Wednesday, October 9, 2024

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), today released a report on Ruben Ramos’ death from an officer-involved shooting in Burbank, California, on May 27, 2023. The incident involved officers from the Burbank Police Department (BPD). The report is part of the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) ongoing efforts to provide transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. The report provides a detailed analysis of the incident and outlines DOJ’s findings. After a thorough investigation, DOJ concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case.

    “The loss of life in this situation is a tragedy that resonates deeply throughout California,” said Attorney General Bonta. “It serves as a stark reminder of the profound consequences that such events can have on individuals and families, as well as the ripple effects felt throughout the community. We acknowledge that this incident has caused significant challenges and hardships for all those impacted, including Mr. Ramos’ family, the law enforcement agencies involved, and the wider community. The California Department of Justice is firmly committed to working in partnership with all law enforcement agencies to ensure that we uphold a legal system that is not only fair and transparent but also accountable to every resident of California. We believe that it is our duty to foster trust and integrity within our justice system, and we will strive to ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals are respected and protected.”

    On May 27, 2023, in Burbank, California, several Burbank police officers responded to a report of an individual with a gun in the parking lot of Home Depot located at 1200 South Flower Street. After Mr. Ramos was identified as the person reported to have a gun, law enforcement contacted him and attempted to take him into custody. Mr. Ramos pulled an unknown object, later identified as a black knife, out of his right pocket and pointed it at the officers while maintaining a shooting stance, at which point he was fatally shot.

    Under AB 1506, which requires DOJ to investigate all incidents of officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian in the state, DOJ conducted a thorough investigation into this incident and concluded that the evidence does not show, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the officers involved acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from what each of them reasonably believed to be imminent death or serious bodily injury. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of the officers. As such, no further action will be taken in this case.

    As part of its investigation, DOJ has identified several policy recommendations that it believes will help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The first recommendation is regarding negligent discharge and round count. It is recommended that BPD amend its policy to require officers to check all weapons used during a critical incident to identify and preserve any potential evidence. This will ensure that information or evidence regarding the discharge of firearms and less lethal weapons is not missed in the event of a negligent or unknown discharge. 

    The second set of recommendations is regarding BPD’s crisis intervention response. It is recommended that BPD continue its efforts to add additional staff to its Mental Health Evaluation Team and that BPD consider extending the hours of the Mental Health Evaluation Team’s availability. It is also recommended that BPD consider implementing a POST certified course to further train personnel on recognizing the most common mental illnesses encountered by law enforcement, and the use of effective de-escalation techniques to resolve an incident involving a person suffering from a mental health crisis.

    A copy of the report can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Rose Requests Answers from Freddie Mac on Remote Employee Scandal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rose (TN-06)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) sent a letter to the CEO of Freddie Mac, Diana Reid, expressing concerns about the effectiveness of Freddie Mac’s oversight and management of teleworking employees following a recent incident involving a former remote employee accused of holding a separate six-figure job at the same time. The since-terminated employee was simultaneously serving as D.C. Department of Buildings (DOB) Deputy Director while working at Freddie Mac, a violation that resulted in a $25,000 fine. The employee also served as a member of the Falls Church City Council who regularly attended meetings during the work day.

    While the employee has since been terminated from their position, Rep. Rose is seeking answers to a list of questions which can be found in the full letter here or read in full below.

    Rep. Rose released the following statement:

    “The American people deserve to know if this is an isolated incident or if corruption is running rampant through lax enforcement of teleworking policies throughout government,” said Rep. Rose. “I hope Freddie Mac takes this as a learning lesson and looks within its organization to seriously improve its remote employee policies. Those continuing to abuse the system or found responsible for enabling this to happen must be immediately fired or face the proper disciplinary measures. Correcting these egregious mistakes will go a long way in restoring Americans’ trust in Freddie Mac.”

    Full letter:

    “Dear Ms. Reid,

    “I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent incident involving Caroline Lian, a former Freddie Mac employee who secretly held a six-figure job with the D.C. Department of Buildings while working full-time at Freddie Mac. Concurrently, Ms. Lian was also serving on the Falls Church (Virginia) City Council for which she received a salary of $9,200.

    “What is most concerning about the conduct of Ms. Lian is how she split her time between these three different positions. The D.C. Board of Ethics and Government Accountability (BEGA) found that she never acknowledged on the required financial disclosures that she was also working at Freddie Mac along with the Department of Buildings. As a result, Ms. Lian was able to leverage a remote working schedule at Freddie Mac so that she only had to come into the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays while working the reverse schedule at the Department of Buildings. BEGA also found that she performed essential work functions on behalf of Freddie Mac from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday when she should have been working for the Department of Buildings. While it is good to hear that Ms. Lian is no longer employed by Freddie Mac after her egregious violation of employee expectations, this incident raises significant questions about the effectiveness of Freddie Mac’s oversight and management of teleworking employees.

    “I request that you provide detailed answers to the following questions:

    1. What steps is Freddie Mac taking to ensure that employees are not engaging in outside employment without proper disclosure and approval?
    2. Will Freddie Mac require employees to sign an annual statement, under penalty of perjury, disclosing all their outside jobs?
    3. Will Freddie Mac consider instituting “all hands on deck” weeks, requiring all employees to work from the office for full weeks at a time?
    4. How much did Ms. Lian earn each year she was employed at Freddie Mac?
    5. Did Ms. Lian earn any overtime benefits during her employment, and if so, how much?
    6. Did Ms. Lian earn any bonuses during her employment, and if so, how much?
    7. Would Freddie Mac be willing to publicly release any performance evaluations that Ms. Lian received?
    8. On average, how many hours per week does Freddie Mac suspect Ms. Lian was actually working?
    9. Has Freddie Mac referred this case to federal prosecutors for criminal prosecution?
    10. Has Freddie Mac recovered all funds paid to Ms. Lian for time she did not actually work?
    11. Who was Ms. Lian’s direct supervisor, and will that individual face disciplinary measures for failing to supervise her adequately?
    12. Has all of Ms. Lian’s work been investigated to ensure it was adequately carried out?

    “Additionally, I request information on the following:

    • Will Freddie Mac consider cutting back on tele-work as a result of this incident?
    • In the last five years, has Freddie Mac uncovered any other instances of employees improperly working outside jobs? If so, please provide details.

    “I request a response to these questions by November 15th, 2024. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to reviewing your response and working together to ensure that incidents like this do not happen in the future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: How Do Astronauts Get in Shape? – New “Ask SME” from NASA eClips

    Source: NASA

    2 min read

    The NASA Science Activation program’s NASA eClips project, led by the National Institute of Aerospace (NIA), aims to increase Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM) literacy and inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists by providing effective web-based, standards-aligned, in-school and out-of-school learning and teaching resources through the lens of NASA.

    As a part of this work, NASA eClips professionally produces the Ask SME: Close-up With a NASA Subject Matter Expert video series to capture a glimpse of NASA SME’s personal interests and career journeys. Each video can be used to spark student interest and broaden their ideas of who the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce might include (everyone!) and the kinds of work they do.

    On September 19, 2024, NASA eClips released the most recent video in the Ask SME series, featuring Corey Twine from NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Twine is an Astronaut Strength and Conditioning Specialist who works with astronauts to keep them physically fit for work on Earth and while they are in space. He shares insights about how he helps the astronauts and what inspired him to pursue this career.

    Watch the Video

    NASA eClips is supported by NASA under cooperative agreement award number NNX16AB91A and is part of NASA’s Science Activation Portfolio. Learn more about how Science Activation connects NASA science experts, real content, and experiences with community leaders to do science in ways that activate minds and promote deeper understanding of our world and beyond: https://science.nasa.gov/learn

    SME Corey Twine, Astronaut Strength & Conditioning Specialist

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New UK money to combat human trafficking

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK announces £4m to address irregular migration at source and support vulnerable communities

    • £4 million fund for international programmes to address irregular migration at source, including by tackling people smuggling and human trafficking, while supporting vulnerable communities   
    • Funding marks continued progress on the Prime Minister’s commitment to work with international partners to grip the migration crisis   
    • Announcement to coincide with international conference in Ethiopia to review progress in implementing the Global Compact for Migration in Africa  

    Support for efforts to tackle irregular migration at source will be boosted today [9 October] as funding is announced to support programmes across the globe, including those which aim to reduce migration flows upstream as well as protecting migrants from being exploited by criminal smuggling gangs.

    In the biggest contribution made by any donor to date, £4 million from the existing aid budget will be allocated to the UN’s Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MMPTF), which was launched in 2019 to help implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.   

    The MMPTF has to date funded 24 programmes around the world in collaboration with 16 UN organisations, including initiatives which tackle organised immigration crime, such as by training border authorities and security officials in efforts in Guinea and Liberia. 

    Others are aimed at supporting migrant communities globally, and in doing so support our work to tackle criminal smuggling gangs. This includes providing health and housing support to migrant street children in Ethiopia and supporting migrants in Ecuador to build skills and find employment opportunities.

    By providing more opportunities at home, the funding aims to reduce the need for dangerous journeys to other countries, including the UK.   

    Today’s announcement marks the latest step in delivering on the government’s manifesto commitments to smash criminal gangs, secure UK borders, and protect the vulnerable. It complements wider work the government is undertaking to reduce irregular migration and smash the criminal gangs responsible, including by creating a new Border Security Command, which will coordinate the work of law enforcement and intelligence agencies to tackle organised immigration crime.  

    Development Minister, Anneliese Dodds, said:      > Earlier this year, the new UK government made a commitment to tackle irregular migration at source. In our largest contribution to the UN’s Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund to date, today’s announcement will do just that.   > > Working with our international partners, including the UN and those in the Global South, we will grip the migration crisis that is putting millions of lives at risk. It will complement work already underway to secure the UK border against criminal smuggling gangs.

    The £4 million in funding will be formally announced later today during a conference organised by the UN Network on Migration, which is coordinated by the International Organisation for Migration, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A panel event, which the UK will speak on, will explore how countries can work together to deliver on the Global Compact for Migration – the first-ever UN global agreement on international migration.   

    The announcement comes as Kenya reaffirms its commitment to the Fund, highlighting the ongoing international cooperation taking place to help make global migration safer and more orderly.  

    Today’s announcement follows a commitment made by the Prime Minister during this year’s European Political Conference (EPC) to work with international partners, including countries across the Global South, to tackle the migration crisis. The Prime Minister announced an up to £84 million funding package for projects across Africa and the Middle East to address the factors that drive people into small boats.   

    The UK has confirmed that £14 million of the package will support the UNHCR and World Food Programme to help refugees in Jordan, and £4 million will go towards the Rome Process, the Italian government’s project to tackle the root causes of irregular migration.   

    Background

    • Further information on the MMPTF is available here: United Nations Network on Migration
    • The £4m announced today has been allocated to the UN from the existing aid budget as part of a wider package of funding announced by the Prime Minister in July: UK steps up work to reduce illegal migration – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 9 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: UPDATE: Hurricane Milton Emergency Resources And Declarations – As of 11:30 AM

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    UPDATE: Hurricane Milton Emergency Resources And Declarations – As of 11:30 AM

    Naples, Fla., October 9, 2024

    NAPLES, Fla. – Tonight, Hurricane Milton is projected to make landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida as a major hurricane.

    The office of Congressman Byron Donalds is closely monitoring Hurricane Milton and is actively coordinating storm preparations alongside federal, state, and local partners. The Congressman and his team stand ready to support our Southwest Florida community and ensure all necessary resources are available. Please see below for the latest emergency resources and declarations:

    Southwest Florida Formal Evacuation Declarations:

     

    Southwest Florida Shelters Open To Public:

    • Collier County General Population Shelters (OPEN NOW):
    • Collier County Special Needs Shelter (OPEN NOW):
      • Palmetto Ridge High School (Pet-Friendly) – 1655 Victory Lane
        • NOTE: For Registered Special Needs Clients and Caregivers.
    • Lee County General Population Shelters (OPEN NOW): 
    • Lee County Special Needs Shelter (OPEN NOW):

     

    Emergency Hotlines:

     

    Local Government Operations:

     

    School Closures:

     

    Live Cameras:

     

    Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) Operations:

     

    State of Florida – Uber Partnership:

    • The Florida Division of Emergency Management has partnered with Uber to provide Floridians free rides to shelters in counties under a state of emergency for Helene.
    • How to get a ride:

     

    Life-Saving Satellite Tech Available On Your Phone:

     

    Attention Residents of Fort Myers Beach:

    • LeeTran bus routes to Fort Myers Beach are currently SUSPENDED.
    • Lee County Utilities have SUSPENDED water service to Fort Myers Beach.
    • 24 Hour General Curfew will go into effect at 10:00 PM TONIGHT.
    • Your Hurricane Re-entry Pass must be TEAL – Old passes will not work.
    • Once the storm passes, if you need assistance with re-entry, beginning at 7:00am on Thursday morning staff will be at two locations to hand out passes:
    • Town Staff will be located at re-entry points to check for re-entry passes – If you do not have one, you will not be allowed on Island. 

     

    Weather Updates:

     

    Other Emergency Resources:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Meeting With Defense Senior Leaders on Hurricane Response Efforts

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has been receiving daily updates on the response efforts to Hurricane Helene as well as preparations for Hurricane Milton. This morning, in advance of Hurricane Milton making landfall in Florida, Secretary Austin convened a meeting with Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady, U.S. NORTHCOM Command commander Gregory Guillot, National Guard Bureau Acting Vice Chief LTG Jon Stubbs and other senior DoD leaders to discuss the latest Department efforts to support the federal, state, and local response to Hurricane Helene, plus DoD actions underway in advance of Hurricane Milton to be prepared and enable a rapid disaster response as part of whole-of-government efforts. The Department continues to be engaged with interagency partners in support of FEMA, the White House, state, and local governments, and the Secretary and his team are also focused on DoD personnel and their families who may be impacted by the hurricanes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kelly Appoints Kathy Wolfe Moore to Kansas Board of Regents – Governor of the State of Kansas

    Source: US State of Kansas

    TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that she has appointed Kathy Wolfe Moore to the Kansas Board of Regents.

    “Kathy Wolfe Moore has wide-ranging experience from local and state government to higher education that will make her an exceptional member of the Kansas Board of Regents,” Governor Kelly said. “I look forward to working with her and the entire board to support our higher education system and Kansas students.”

    Wolfe Moore is currently an external liaison for the University of Kansas Health System and serves on the Wyandotte Economic Development Council. She was previously a Kansas State Representative for House District 36 from 2011 to 2023 and prior to this, was chief of staff to Unified Government of Kansas City, KS and Wyandotte County Mayor Carol Marinovich. Wolfe Moore earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Welfare and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Kansas.

    “I am honored that Governor Kelly has entrusted me to help move Kansas’ higher education system forward,” Kathy Wolfe Moore said. “I am eager to begin working with the Regents and our excellent institutions to ensure Kansas remains a top-tier state to pursue a postsecondary education.”

    The Kansas Board of Regents is a bipartisan, nine-member board composed of members who serve for a staggered period of four years. Each member is appointed by the governor, and subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate.

    Please find a headshot for Kathy Wolfe Moore here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moore, Dingell Re-Introduce Resolution Recognizing Intersection Between Misogyny, Gun Violence and Violence Against Women

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04)

    Moore, Dingell Re-Introduce Resolution Recognizing Intersection Between Misogyny, Gun Violence and Violence Against Women

    On Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Domestic Violence Taskforce Co-Chairs Rep. Gwen Moore (WI-04) and Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06) are re-introducing a resolution recognizing the intersection of gun violence, misogyny, and violence against women.

    “Intimate partner violence and domestic violence homicides are at alarming levels in Milwaukee, and this scourge is taking away loved ones and hurting our community. Nationwide, every 12 hours, someone is fatally shot by an intimate partner. That’s unacceptable when stronger gun safety laws can help prevent these tragedies. This resolution draws needed attention to the issue of gender-based violence and the forces driving it,” said Rep. Moore.

    “People with a history of domestic violence shouldn’t have access to guns – period. The evidence is clear and convincing that the presence of a firearm in an abusive situation makes homicide five times more likely,” said Rep. Dingell. “Congress must act to close loopholes in the law that allow abusers to access guns and put women and families in danger. We must also confront the root causes of domestic violence, understanding the way individuals who exhibit misogynistic tendencies toward women often go on to commit violence against them.”

    According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, more than 1 in 3 women have experienced some form of intimate partner violence, including sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking. Intimate partner violence is the leading cause of fatalities among women. Nearly half of all female homicide victims between 2003 and 2014 were killed by intimate partners, according to a 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.  This resolution calls for further legislation to prevent abusers from having access to guns and encourages further research into the intersection of gun violence, misogyny, and violence against women.

    Read the full text of the resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada Invests in Critical Minerals Sector at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Conference on Mining in Sudbury

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $5.1 million in funding for 16 projects in the critical minerals sector, as part of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy (CCMS), to position Canada as the reliable supplier of choice the world is looking for.

    October 9, 2024         Sudbury, Ontario                     Natural Resources Canada

    Critical minerals are not just the building blocks of clean technology like solar panels and electric vehicle batteries — they are a key ingredient for creating middle-class jobs and growing a strong, globally competitive Canadian economy. As demand for critical minerals around the world continues to surge with the increased adoption of clean technologies, Canadian workers and businesses have a generational opportunity to be global leaders and suppliers of critical minerals.

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $5.1 million in funding for 16 projects in the critical minerals sector, as part of the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy (CCMS), to position Canada as the reliable supplier of choice the world is looking for. This funding is provided through two key programs to increase the supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals and support the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy. This investment includes:

    ·        Critical Minerals Geoscience Data Initiative (CMGD): over $4.1 million is provided to support 10 projects to enhance access to important data and generate new insights on the geological potential of critical mineral sources.

    ·        Global Partnerships Initiative (GPI): close to $1 million is provided to support six projects that will reinforce Canada’s growing number of bilateral commitments and engagements in the critical minerals space. 

    Across Canada, clean energy solutions are providing enormous economic opportunity. The critical minerals sector is already highly valuable to the Canadian economy. In 2022, the minerals and metals sector directly employed 420,000 people and contributed $109 billion to Canada’s total gross domestic product (GDP). Since 2020, automotive and battery manufacturers have announced investments of over $40 billion in electric vehicle production and the battery supply chain. With government support and demand for critical minerals expected to double by 2024, these sectors will only grow. Today’s investments will help deliver jobs and economic opportunities for communities and businesses across the country. 

    • Budget 2022 provided $3.8 billion over eight years to implement the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. The funding covers a range of industrial activities, from geoscience and exploration to mineral processing, manufacturing and recycling applications.

    • The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy is part of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy, which advances Canada’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

    • Funding for these projects comes from the $79.2 million in Budget 2021 allocated to the CMGD initiative to enhance the quality and availability of data and digital technologies to accelerate the responsible development of Canadian critical minerals resources and the $70 million allocated for the GPI in Budget 2022 to advance Canada’s global leadership on critical minerals under Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy. 

    • The CMGD initiative includes $10 million in contribution funding for the provinces and territories to enhance access to important data and generate new insights on the geological potential of critical mineral sources. By harnessing the power of geoscience and data, we will pave the way for the responsible growth of industries that rely on these minerals, from technology and energy to defence and infrastructure. 

    • Through multilateral engagements, Canada is pursuing collective action on critical minerals to support the global transition to green energy and more-resilient supply chains. Canada currently produces 60 minerals and metals at 200 mines and 6,500 sand, gravel and stone quarries across the country.

    • Canada is home to almost half of the world’s publicly listed mining and mineral exploration companies, with a presence in more than 100 countries and a combined market capitalization of $520 billion.

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    613-795-5638
    cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Machine learning cracked the protein-folding problem and won the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Marc Zimmer, Professor of Chemistry, Connecticut College

    Protein molecules can have complicated structures that dictate their functions. Christoph Burgstedt/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

    The 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry recognized Demis Hassabis, John Jumper and David Baker for using machine learning to tackle one of biology’s biggest challenges: predicting the 3D shape of proteins and designing them from scratch.

    This year’s award stood out because it honored research that originated at a tech company: DeepMind, an AI research startup that was acquired by Google in 2014. Most previous chemistry Nobel Prizes have gone to researchers in academia. Many laureates went on to form startup companies to further expand and commercialize their groundbreaking work – for instance, CRISPR gene-editing technology and quantum dots – but the research, from start to end, wasn’t done in the commercial sphere.

    Although the Nobel Prizes in physics and chemistry are awarded separately, there is a fascinating connection between the winning research in those fields in 2024. The physics award went to two computer scientists who laid the foundations for machine learning, while the chemistry laureates were rewarded for their use of machine learning to tackle one of biology’s biggest mysteries: how proteins fold.

    The 2024 Nobel Prizes underscore both the importance of this kind of artificial intelligence and how science today often crosses traditional boundaries, blending different fields to achieve groundbreaking results.

    The challenge of protein folding

    Proteins are the molecular machines of life. They make up a significant portion of our bodies, including muscles, enzymes, hormones, blood, hair and cartilage.

    Proteins are chains of amino acid molecules that form a 3D shape based on their atoms’ interactions.
    ©Johan Jarnestad/The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

    Understanding proteins’ structures is essential because their shapes determine their functions. Back in 1972, Christian Anfinsen won the Nobel Prize in chemistry for showing that the sequence of a protein’s amino acid building blocks dictates the protein’s shape, which, in turn, influences its function. If a protein folds incorrectly, it may not work properly and could lead to diseases such as Alzheimer’s, cystic fibrosis or diabetes.

    A protein’s overall shape depends on the tiny interactions, the attractions and repulsions, between all the atoms in the amino acids its made of. Some want to be together, some don’t. The protein twists and folds itself into a final shape based on many thousands of these chemical interactions.

    For decades, one of biology’s greatest challenges was predicting a protein’s shape based solely on its amino acid sequence. Although researchers can now predict the shape, we still don’t understand how the proteins maneuver into their specific shapes and minimize the repulsions of all the interatomic interactions in a few microseconds.

    To understand how proteins work and to prevent misfolding, scientists needed a way to predict the way proteins fold, but solving this puzzle was no easy task.

    In 2003, University of Washington biochemist David Baker wrote Rosetta, a computer program for designing proteins. With it he showed it was possible to reverse the protein-folding problem by designing a protein shape and then predicting the amino acid sequence needed to create it.

    It was a phenomenal jump forward, but the shape chosen for the calculation was simple, and the calculations were complex. A major paradigm shift was required to routinely design novel proteins with desired structures.

    A new era of machine learning

    Machine learning is a type of AI where computers learn to solve problems by analyzing vast amounts of data. It’s been used in various fields, from game-playing and speech recognition to autonomous vehicles and scientific research. The idea behind machine learning is to use hidden patterns in data to answer complex questions.

    This approach made a huge leap in 2010 when Demis Hassabis co-founded DeepMind, a company aiming to combine neuroscience with AI to solve real-world problems.

    Hassabis, a chess prodigy at age 4, quickly made headlines with AlphaZero, an AI that taught itself to play chess at a superhuman level. In 2017, AlphaZero thoroughly beat the world’s top computer chess program, Stockfish-8. The AI’s ability to learn from its own gameplay, rather than relying on preprogrammed strategies, marked a turning point in the AI world.

    Soon after, DeepMind applied similar techniques to Go, an ancient board game known for its immense complexity. In 2016, its AI program AlphaGo defeated one of the world’s top players, Lee Sedol, in a widely watched match that stunned millions.

    Demis Hassabis and John Jumper at Google DeepMind on Oct. 9, 2024, after being awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry.
    AP Photo/Alastair Grant

    In 2016, Hassabis shifted DeepMind’s focus to a new challenge: the protein-folding problem. Under the leadership of John Jumper, a chemist with a background in protein science, the AlphaFold project began. The team used a large database of experimentally determined protein structures to train the AI, which allowed it to learn the principles of protein folding. The result was AlphaFold2, an AI that could predict the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequences with remarkable accuracy.

    This was a significant scientific breakthrough. AlphaFold has since predicted the structures of over 200 million proteins – essentially all the proteins that scientists have sequenced to date. This massive database of protein structures is now freely available, accelerating research in biology, medicine and drug development.

    Designer proteins to fight disease

    Understanding how proteins fold and function is crucial for designing new drugs. Enzymes, a type of protein, act as catalysts in biochemical reactions and can speed up or regulate these processes. To treat diseases such as cancer or diabetes, researchers often target specific enzymes involved in disease pathways. By predicting the shape of a protein, scientists can figure out where small molecules – potential drug candidates – might bind to it, which is the first step in designing new medicines.

    In 2024, DeepMind launched AlphaFold3, an upgraded version of the AlphaFold program that not only predicts protein shapes but also identifies potential binding sites for small molecules. This advance makes it easier for researchers to design drugs that precisely target the right proteins.

    Google bought Deepmind for reportedly around half a billion dollars in 2014. Google DeepMind has now started a new venture, Isomorphic Labs, to collaborate with pharmaceutical companies on real-world drug development using these AlphaFold3 predictions.

    David Baker speaks on the phone with Demis Hassabis and John Jumper just after they got the Nobel Prize news on Oct. 9, 2024.
    Ian C. Haydon/UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design

    For his part, David Baker has continued to make significant contributions to protein science. His team at the University of Washington developed an AI-based method called “family-wide hallucination,” which they used to design entirely new proteins from scratch. Hallucinations are new patterns – in this case, proteins – that are plausible, meaning they are a good fit with patterns in the AI’s training data. These new proteins included a light-emitting enzyme, demonstrating that machine learning can help create novel synthetic proteins. These AI tools offer new ways to design functional enzymes and other proteins that never could have evolved naturally.

    AI will enable research’s next chapter

    The Nobel-worthy achievements of Hassabis, Jumper and Baker show that machine learning isn’t just a tool for computer scientists – it’s now an essential part of the future of biology and medicine.

    By tackling one of the toughest problems in biology, the winners of the 2024 prize have opened up new possibilities in drug discovery, personalized medicine and even our understanding of the chemistry of life itself.

    Marc Zimmer does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Machine learning cracked the protein-folding problem and won the 2024 Nobel Prize in chemistry – https://theconversation.com/machine-learning-cracked-the-protein-folding-problem-and-won-the-2024-nobel-prize-in-chemistry-240937

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee, September 17-18, 2024

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    .

    October 09, 2024
    Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee, September 17-18, 2024
    For release at 2:00 p.m. EDT

    The Federal Reserve on Wednesday released the minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee meeting that was held on September 17–18, 2024.
    The minutes for each regularly scheduled meeting of the Committee are generally published three weeks after the day of the policy decision. The descriptions of economic and financial conditions contained in these minutes are based solely on the information that was available to the Committee at the time of the meeting.
    The minutes can be viewed on the Board’s website.
    For media inquiries, e-mail [email protected] or call 202-452-2955.
    Minutes of the Federal Open Market CommitteeSeptember 17-18, 2024: HTML | PDF

    Last Update: October 09, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Condemns Biden-Harris Admin for Ignoring Alarms about Afghan Evacuee Vetting, Resettlement Procedures

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today issued the below statement on the FBI arresting an Afghan native who secured a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) to enter the U.S. following the Biden-Harris administration’s botched troop withdrawal from the region in 2021. The individual, now in federal custody, was plotting an ISIS-fueled terrorist attack on American soil in the coming weeks.
    “I was highly vocal about the need to thoroughly vet SIV applicants during – and in the weeks, months and years following – the Biden-Harris administration’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. But the White House, executive agencies and many of my Democratic colleagues in Congress were quick to dismiss those glaring alarms,” Grassley said. “The number one job of our government is to protect its citizens. By hiding behind clerical excuses, refusing to take accountability and neglecting to address known vulnerabilities in vetting and resettlement processes, the Biden-Harris administration failed to prioritize Americans’ safety and, once again, projected weakness on the global stage.”
    Grassley’s Related Oversight, Legislative Work
    July 1, 2024: Watchdog Report Corroborates Grassley Oversight of DHS, FBI Failures to Properly Vet Afghan Evacuees
    July 21, 2023: Grassley & Judiciary Committee Colleagues Introduce Bill To Protect Afghan Allies
    May 12, 2023: Grassley Joins Thune, Risch, Colleagues To Introduce Bill To Release Afghanistan Dissent Cable
    September 21, 2022: Grassley: Americans Deserve To Know How FBI Is Addressing Afghan Evacuee Vetting Failures
    September 7, 2022: Grassley Statement On DHS Inspector General Finding Deficiencies With Vetting Of Afghan Parolees
    August 22, 2022: Senators Seek Transparency On Flagged Afghan Evacuees Amid Ongoing Concerns Of Vetting, Security Failures
    August 4, 2022: Grassley Statement At FBI Oversight Hearing
    May 27, 2022: Grassley, Portman, Inhofe Demand Update From FBI On Afghan Evacuees Flagged For Security Concerns, Denounce DHS’ Continued Failure To Use All Vetting Tools
    February 17, 2022: Grassley Statement On Watchdog Warnings About Deficient Vetting Of Afghan Evacuees
    December 22, 2021: Portman, Grassley, Shelby, Risch, Inhofe & Capito Request Biden Administration Provide Overdue Report On Composition & Vetting Of Afghan Evacuees
    October 28, 2021: State Dept. AWOL As Americans, Allies Remain Stranded In Afghanistan
    September 27, 2021: Grassley On Afghanistan Collapse Through The Lens Of The Inspector General
    September 27, 2021: Grassley Presses Justice Dept., FBI On Terrorist Travel After Afghanistan Withdrawal
    September 15, 2021: Grassley On President Biden’s Afghanistan Failures
    August 31, 2021: Grassley To Biden Admin: Don’t Let Bad Actors Take Advantage Of Chaotic Afghanistan Withdrawal
    August 26, 2021: Grassley Statement on Afghanistan
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Patagonia’s Ethics Expert to Talk About Building Trust in Business

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The School of Business’ 2024-25 Equity Now Speaker Series will kickoff this month with a presentation by Lauren Cleary, an ethics and compliance professional at Patagonia, the popular outdoor equipment and apparel brand.

    Cleary’s presentation is titled “Building Trust in Business: The Power of Privacy in Organizations,’’ and it will be livestreamed beginning at 6 p.m. on Oct. 21. To register for the event, please visit our registration page.

    “I believe trust is the most valuable currency in business,’’ Cleary said. “If a company isn’t doing what it says it is or is hiding things, that trust will erode, and that’s really the beginning of the end.’’

    Cleary is particularly invested in safeguarding the personal data of Patagonia’s customers. She will share examples of how privacy challenges are handled in a large and highly regarded organization like Patagonia, which has staked its reputation on quality, sustainability, activism, and a staunch commitment to its values.

    “Understanding the importance of privacy is critical throughout an organization and in every industry,’’ Cleary said. “Whether your expertise is in marketing, legal, or another field, having a strong privacy policy to guide decisions is an invaluable and necessary asset.’’

    That privacy policy should be both intentional transparent and easy to understand, she said.

    “What I hope to impart to those in attendance is that they become inspired to serve as privacy advocates throughout their careers. Whether they are creating a new app or handling customer data, I hope they will always consider the impact of the decisions they make,’’ she said. “I hope they see customer privacy not as a constraint or a burden, but as an opportunity to build stronger trust with their communities.’’

    Cleary is the first of four speakers in Equity Now Speaker Series, which features expert insights on how law and policy can create diversity, equity and fairness in both organizations and society. The series is organized by UConn business law professor Robert Bird and is conducted in affiliation with the Academy of Legal Studies in Business, Virginia Tech, Indiana, Boston and Temple universities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Gate.io Announces $10 Million Investment in TON Blockchain to Boost Telegram-Based Projects

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, Panama, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gate.io has announced a $10 million strategic investment in The Open Network (TON) blockchain. This investment aims to enhance collaborations with the TON Foundation and accelerate the growth of Telegram-based projects.

    With this investment, Gate.io plans to deepen its involvement in the governance of the TON blockchain and contribute to its ongoing development. The company will also focus on launching new products, such as an official CeFi-driven Telegram mini-app and a Gate Wallet within Telegram, to further support and expand the TON ecosystem.

    Gate Group is also actively participating in the TON Society’s Hackers League hackathon, one of the largest hacker events of the year. Offering a total prize pool worth up to $2 million and featuring key bounty tracks from leading TON projects, this event promises to be a groundbreaking experience for participants. An offline bootcamp will be held across 19 cities worldwide, fostering global participation and innovation.

    TON-based projects present a compelling use case for mass adoption through the Telegram ecosystem, which has seen considerable growth as it expands its services to Web3 startups. Dr. Lin Han, Founder and CEO of Gate.io, noted, “The TON ecosystem holds strong potential due to its large Telegram user base and fast, low-cost blockchain technology. This makes it an ideal platform for attracting Web3 applications and developers, with promising prospects for large-scale user growth and network effects.”

    While Telegram and TON operate as separate entities, the messaging platform and blockchain protocol remain closely aligned, creating a unified environment for innovation.

    Contact
    Elaine Wang
    elaine.w@gate.io 

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by “Gate.io”. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82d491f2-e164-416c-863e-6772dde71d92

    The MIL Network –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Reveals NEW Whistleblower Allegations: Secret Service Hiding Truth about Trump Protection

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Wednesday, October 09, 2024

    U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent letters to both U.S. Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General Joseph Cuffari, outlining a new whistleblower claim that Secret Service leadership is denying government auditors access to certain events in an effort to hide the fact former President Trump is not getting the highest level of protection. 
    Senator Hawley wrote to Acting Director Rowe, saying “You of course have publicly stated that former President Trump is receiving ‘the highest level of Secret Service protection’ and that ‘he’s getting everything.’ This new whistleblower information troublingly contradicts your public statements.” The Senator also provided questions to Rowe and his agency, to which he requested prompt responses.
    Read the full letter to Acting Director Rowe here.
    “According to new whistleblower allegations to my office, Secret Service headquarters blocked several of your auditors from accessing recent Trump campaign events,” wrote Senator Hawley to IG Cuffari. “The Secret Service whistleblower alleges that the denial was in order to hide the fact that the former president is not receiving a consistent level of protective assets for all of his engagements. […] you should be aware of these allegations, which indicate that the Secret Service is not in fact cooperating with your auditors and is instead painting a false picture.”
    Read the full letter to DHS Inspector General Cuffari here.  
    Background 
    Senator Hawley has led the effort to unveil the truth about the Secret Service failures around the assassination attempts of former President Trump. As part of his ongoing investigation into the July 13 Butler, Pa., rally, Senator Hawley unveiled a comprehensive whistleblower report, chronicling the Biden-Harris Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Secret Service’s failures to protect former President Trump.
    The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) also unanimously passed Senator Hawley’s legislation in recent weeks to require DHS to submit to HSGAC any and all information pertaining to both the July 13 and September 15 assassination attempts against former President Trump.
    Whistleblowers with information are encouraged to contact Senator Hawley’s office by email at tips@hawley.senate.gov or by phone at (202) 224-6154. Whistleblower identities will be protected against disclosure. Tips from federal employees are protected by the Whistleblower Protection Act, 5 U.S.C. § 2302, which prohibits the federal government from taking any personnel action on the basis of a disclosure of evidence of gross mismanagement, gross waste of funds, abuse of authority, or illegal activity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS invests in geologic data collection across southeastern Wyoming

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The data collection will be conducted through the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI), a partnership between the USGS and state geological surveys that is revolutionizing our understanding of the nation’s geology and critical mineral resources which are vital to the U.S. economy, national security, and clean energy technology.  

    “The data generated through Earth MRI are crucial in identifying and providing a fuller picture of the nation’s mineral and other geologic resources,” said David Applegate, USGS director.

    The survey’s focus will include a geologic feature known as the Cheyenne Belt, the suture zone between the Wyoming Province to the north and Colorado Province to the south.

    “This area of interest straddles the boundary between the Archean and much younger rock formations, and so the data will be very telling as we work to understand the tectonic history of the region,” said Ben Drenth, the lead USGS geophysicist for this survey. 

    Drenth explained that such fundamental tectonic boundaries tend to preferentially house mineral deposits, but there are other important geologic insights that can be gathered from these surveys. The data provide information about potential groundwater and energy resources, as well as natural hazard and infrastructure remediation needs of the area. 

    The survey footprint was designed in close collaboration with the Wyoming State Geological Survey, with the aim of improving understanding of the local geology. 

    “The geology of the Laramie Mountains records multiple episodes of magmatism and deformation occurring over more than a billion years. Geologic understanding of the Cheyenne Belt corridor will be greatly improved by the data gathered through Earth MRI,” said Erin Campbell, State Geologist and Director of the Wyoming State Geological Survey. “These data will also be helpful for identifying resource potential and will guide future geochemical reconnaissance sampling projects as well as our regional mapping efforts.” 

    These airborne geophysical surveys will collect a combination of magnetic and radiometric data. These data can be used to map rocks from just beneath trees, grass, and shallow sediment cover down to several miles underground. Magnetic data can be used to identify ancient faults, different rock types, and other geologic features and potentially the signatures of mineral deposits. Radiometric data indicate the relative amounts of potassium, uranium and thorium in shallow rocks and soil. 

    Scientists use this information to help map rocks that may contain mineral deposits, faults that may rupture during an earthquake, areas that may be prone to increased radon, and areas likely to contain groundwater or energy resources.

    The initial airborne geophysical survey may be followed by additional investments, including new geologic maps, geochemical sampling, and other techniques to better understand the region’s geologic framework.

    Since 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has advanced scientific innovation through a $320 million investment for the USGS to better map the Nation’s mineral resources, both still in the ground and in mine wastes, and to preserve historical geologic data and samples. Through the end of fiscal year 2024, more than $160 million has been obligated for Earth MRI initiatives, propelling efforts to make “once-in-a-generation” advancements in the nation’s geologic and geophysical data collections and mapping. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Amendments to the Clean Energy Act introduced

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    On Monday, October 7, the Government of Yukon introduced revised draft amendments to the Clean Energy Act in the Yukon Legislative Assembly that will legislate an intensity-based greenhouse gas emissions reduction target – or mining intensity target – of 45 per cent by 2035 for placer and quartz mining and the post-production and abandoned mine sectors.

    • Read more about Amendments to the Clean Energy Act introduced
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Amendments to the Land Titles Act, 2015, have been introduced

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Today, the Government of Yukon introduced the Act of 2024 to Amend the Land Titles Act, 2015  in the Yukon Legislative Assembly.

    The proposed amendments to the Land Titles Act, 2015, will provide a legal framework for registration and enforcement of statutory covenants by the Government of Yukon to ensure that affordable housing developments remain affordable over the long term.

    • Read more about Amendments to the Land Titles Act, 2015, have been introduced
    • Add new comment

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada announces $15 million in additional assistance for Lebanon and matching of donations to Canadian Red Cross and Humanitarian Coalition

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    This funding will help trusted and experienced Canadian and international organizations provide food, water, emergency health care, protection services and other life-saving assistance…

    October 9, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, accompanied by members of parliament and humanitarian partners, announced that Canada will provide an additional $15 million in funding for humanitarian assistance to address urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.

    This funding will help trusted and experienced Canadian and international organizations provide food, water, emergency health care, protection services and other life-saving assistance.

    The Minister also announced that Canada will allocate up to $6 million in donations made to the Canadian Red Cross’ Lebanon Humanitarian Needs Appeal and the Humanitarian Coalition’s Lebanon Emergency Appeal. Every donation made by individuals to these organizations from September 24 to November 3, 2024, will be matched to a maximum of $3 million for each appeal.

    The funding Canada will provide to the Canadian Red Cross and the Humanitarian Coalition has been allocated from the $10 million in humanitarian assistance funding announced by Minister Hussen on September 28, 2024. The remaining $4 million will be allocated equally between the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Programme.

    Working with the Canadian Red Cross, Canada will also send relief items from its stockpiles to help the humanitarian response efforts in Lebanon, including 5,000 blankets and 1,000 hygiene kits.

    Canada remains steadfast in its call for a cessation of hostilities and the need for compliance with international humanitarian law. The safety and well-being of civilians, including humanitarian workers, must be a top priority.

    Quotes

    “The critical and immediate needs of people affected by the conflict becomes clearer with each day that goes by. This is why we are teaming up with Canadians, working together to support our partners on the ground as they provide urgent, life-saving assistance to those most impacted by this humanitarian crisis.”

    – Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

    “Canada is deeply alarmed by the rapid escalation of the crisis in Lebanon. We are mobilizing to ensure that Canada is there to bring much-needed assistance to the Lebanese people.”

    – Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

    “Canada continues to be a strong partner to people facing crises like what we’re seeing unfolding in Lebanon. We will continue to work with humanitarian partners to make sure this funding reaches those who are suffering.”

    – Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development

    “The conflict is taking a terrible toll on people in Lebanon, and it is critical that those who need life-saving assistance receive it as soon as possible. Canada is stepping up to provide urgent relief efforts and will continue to call for the protection of civilians.”

    – Fayçal El-Khoury, Member of Parliament for Laval-Les Îles, Quebec

    “In recent years, Lebanon has endured significant hardships, and throughout these challenging times, Canada has consistently offered its support. This time is no different, and the funding announced today will go toward those who need it the most.”

    – Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, Nova Scotia

    Quick facts

    • The funding announced today brings Canada’s total amount of humanitarian assistance funding announced for Lebanon in 2024 to more than $56 million.

    • The Canadian Red Cross will allocate its funding to support the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s response to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.

    • The Humanitarian Coalition will disburse its funding among its members—12 of Canada’s leading humanitarian organizations—based on criteria such as capacity and presence in the affected region.

    • Canada provides its funding for humanitarian assistance based on need and through experienced and trusted humanitarian organizations that have the necessary operational capacity on the ground to respond.

    Related products

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Olivia Batten
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of International Development
    Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca

    Media Relations Office
    Global Affairs Canada
    media@international.gc.ca
    Follow us on X (Twitter): @CanadaDev
    Like us on Facebook: Canada’s international development – Global Affairs Canada
    Follow us on Instagram: @canadadev

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker on improving Yukon’s aviation sector and boosting tourism

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker has issued the following statement:

    “The past several years have certainly brought unique challenges to our territory’s aviation industry, yet it has continued to rise to the occasion. Throughout it all, Yukon aviation has kept us connected with the rest of the country, enriching our way of life and supporting our economy through tourism, business and travel.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister of Tourism and Culture John Streicker on improving Yukon’s aviation sector and boosting tourism
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    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Joins Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act to Crack Down on State, Local Corruption

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Bill comes after the Supreme Court decision gutted anti-corruption laws
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) in introducing the Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act to strengthen federal corruption laws after the U.S. Supreme Court made it easier for state and local officials to accept “gratuities” for official actions. The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act makes it clear that gratuities and other gifts of value outside of official duties, intending to reward or to be a reward, are criminal acts under federal law. The bill strengthens public trust in state and local government officials by clearly banning corrupt payments, veiled gifts, or the exchange of any valuables intended to influence decision-makers. 
    “Let’s call a spade a spade: when money exchanges hands after an official action, that’s a bribe. Leaving corruption unchecked undermines the integrity of our democracy, which is why it needs to be addressed immediately. It’s disappointing that our activist majority on the Supreme Court, already mired in ethical scandals of its own, took a knife to the ethical standards meant to protect other institutions against unethical ‘gratuities,’ and bribes,” said Senator Welch. “This commonsense bill will help protect our democratic institutions from corruption and increase accountability.” 
     “Gratuities that change hands after the completion of an official action are bribes, plain and simple,” said Senator Merkley. “This crooked and corrupt practice is a clear threat to the integrity of our democratic institutions and should be banned. We must put the people ahead of the privileged and powerful—my Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act does just that by providing a simple fix to strengthen federal anti-bribery laws.” 
    “Bribery is bribery, and we need to fight back against Donald Trump’s extremist Supreme Court’s attempts to rig our government for the wealthy and well-connected,” said Senator Warren. “The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act will help make sure our state and local officials are working for the American people, not the highest bidder.” 
    Decided by the Supreme Court earlier this year, the Snyder v. United States case stems from the corrupt actions of the former mayor of Portage, Indiana, who awarded a $1.1 million contract to purchase garbage trucks and then accepted a $13,000 “gratuity” from the same truck company afterward. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled that state officials may accept “gratuities” from people who wish to reward them for their official actions, weakening federal anti-corruption statute. 
    The Stop Corrupt Gratuities Act is endorsed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Transparency International U.S., Project On Government Oversight (POGO), and Public Citizen. 
    Read the full text of the bill. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025
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