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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Evans, Scanlon, Parker Secure Nearly $9 Million to Install Electric Vehicle Chargers in Philadelphia

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

    Infrastructure law funding to support planning, community engagement, and installation of EV chargers in underserved Philadelphia neighborhoods, EV charging hub at Philadelphia Airport; EV charger installation project to create jobs

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA), U.S. Representatives Dwight Evans (D-PA 3), and Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5) and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced a total of $8,984,800 in funding to bring electric vehicle (EV) chargers to underserved neighborhoods in Philadelphia and to the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). The funding is from the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, made possible by the infrastructure law. Thanks to this funding, Philadelphia can expand access to EV charging to low-and middle-income communities and the Philadelphia International Airport can build an EV charging hub to serve passengers and employees.

    “As electric vehicles become more popular and lower fuel costs for families, it is critical that all Philadelphians can access reliable charging,” said Senator Casey. “Pennsylvania was among the first states in the Nation to begin building out a statewide network of charging stations with infrastructure law funds and now this grant will help more Philadelphians charge up. I will keep working to ensure the Commonwealth has the tools it needs to strengthen our burgeoning electric vehicle industry, providing more jobs and reducing our carbon footprint.”

    “Philadelphia is taking a bold step forward with this funding, bringing much-needed infrastructure to neighborhoods that have been left out of the clean energy transition. This project makes it possible for every Philadelphian, regardless of where they live, to benefit from the shift to green energy,” said Senator Fetterman. “We’re laying the groundwork for a future where clean, affordable energy is accessible to everyone, and I’m proud to back this crucial investment in our communities.”

    “I’m proud to have voted for federal funding that’s resulted in this nearly $9 million for Philadelphia, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act! Having this cleaner-energy option available in more Philadelphia neighborhoods and at our area’s largest airport will help to reduce air pollution and help with addressing climate change. I’ll keep working with Senator Casey and all of our delegation to deliver more federal funding for Philadelphia and the commonwealth,” said Congressman Evans.

    “One of the challenges in transitioning to electric vehicles is ensuring that a robust, accessible network of public charging stations is available to everyone,” said Representative Scanlon. “This new investment in that charging network will make it easier for EV drivers across our region to charge their cars, reduce our carbon footprint, and support the American workers building these charging stations. I’m proud to have voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which is funding this work, and look forward to seeing all of the infrastructure improvements that it will bring to Pennsylvania consumers”

    “We are pleased to announce that, once again, the City of Philadelphia finds itself the recipient of significant investment from the Biden-Harris administration. We are grateful for this opportunity to expand public infrastructure for electric vehicle (EV) charging in our city,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This funding will be used to build out our EV charging network by installing EV fast chargers, and ultimately moving us closer to a cleaner and greener Philadelphia.”

    The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This grant program supports the installation of public EV charging infrastructure and other alternative fueling infrastructure. Additionally, IIJA passed with provisions to make EV charging more accessible nationwide through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula program. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced 91 total EV charging projects, across 43 counties in the Commonwealth. Thanks to today’s funding, the City of Philadelphia can plan for and install EV chargers at the Philadelphia International Airport and at places across the city, particularly in neighborhoods with multifamily housing and in low-and-middle-income communities. These planned EV chargers are set to be accessible to the community, with some located at recreation centers near public transportation.

    To see more information about the Commonwealth’s EV charger implementation projects, click here.

    To see more federal investments Senator Casey has delivered to the Commonwealth, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casey, Fetterman, Evans Deliver More Than $8.7 Million for Safe Streets Program in Southeastern Pennsylvania

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

    Funding will improve pedestrian safety, support traffic injury studies, and develop programs to improve safety in underserved communities

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) announced a total of $8,711,688 in federal funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to increase traffic safety on Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania streets. The two awards will support projects to develop pedestrian safety plans, calm traffic in school crosswalks, create safety studies to reduce traffic injuries, and help underserved communities develop programs to make streets safer.

    “From improving pedestrian and sidewalk safety to reducing traffic in school zones, these awards will help protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers in Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania,” said Senator Casey. “I advocated for this funding from the infrastructure law to reduce fatal crashes, and I will always fight to keep Pennsylvania communities safe.”

    “Too often, our most vulnerable communities are left behind when it comes to street safety. With this award, we’re ensuring that every corner of Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley, no matter the zip code, gets the attention it deserves. By focusing on high injury corridors and giving forgotten communities the tools to plan and protect their own streets, we’re not just talking about change—we’re making it happen. This is how we build a safer Pennsylvania.” said Senator Fetterman.

    “I’m pleased that more than $7 million in federal funding I voted for will help to improve pedestrian safety around 40 schools in Philadelphia! Improving pedestrian and bicyclist safety will take involvement from the federal, state and local levels,” said Congressman Evans.

    The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The City of Philadelphia will receive $7,191,688 to develop a Pedestrian Safety and Sidewalk Improvement Plan, as well as conduct a demonstration project at 40 schools to test traffic calming interventions at crosswalks. The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission will receive $1,520,000 to conduct regional high injury network corridor safety studies, develop a municipal safety analysis and create a model and process for partners to implement the regional plan at the subregional level.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Kenyan President William Ruto

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Kenyan President William Ruto on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    The two leaders discussed the situation in Haiti. Prime Minister Trudeau commended Kenya’s leadership in the United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) and reiterated Canada’s commitment to working with Haiti, Kenya and other international partners to ensure the mission’s success. The leaders stressed the need for the international community to come together to provide much-needed support to the mission and agreed on the importance of restoring peace and security and ensuring free and fair elections in Haiti. The Prime Minister highlighted Canada’s ongoing efforts to support the MMAS, including the more than $86 million it has already provided in direct assistance.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and President Ruto agreed to remain in close contact and reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing their common interests.

    Related links

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA, Honduras and Japan join forces to strengthen Cancer Care Access through Rays of Hope

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Left to right: Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Honduras, Eduardo Enrique Reina García, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, and Director-General/Assistant Minister for the Latin American and Caribbean Affairs Bureau of Japan, Yasushi Noguchi. (Fredrik Dahl/IAEA)

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Government of Honduras and the Government of Japan have joined forces to expand radiotherapy services and improve cancer care in the Republic of Honduras under the IAEA’s flagship Rays of Hope initiative.

    This tripartite cooperation was formalized during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly which is taking place this week in New York, with the signature of a Letter of Intent by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Honduras, Eduardo Enrique Reina García.

    Under this tripartite cooperation, Japan will consider, when and where appropriate, offering contributions, including facilities, equipment and infrastructure, to expand radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy facilities in Honduras as well as capacity-building, while the IAEA will explore resources and offer technical expertise and guidance to expand radiotherapy and nuclear medicine services in the country. Honduras, as the recipient, will work towards increasing access to life-saving cancer diagnosis and treatment, helping to address the growing burden of cancer in the region.

    This Letter of Intent follows the IAEA Director General Grossi’s visit to Japan in March this year, in which he commended the Diplomatic Initiative toward Latin America and the Caribbean launched by Foreign Minister Kamikawa in February 2024, which underscores Japan’s unwavering support in the region. It builds on the long-standing cooperation between the IAEA and the Government of Japan to promote the peaceful uses of nuclear energy to support development around the world. This cooperation has seen a deeper commitment with Japan’s support for the IAEA initiative “Rays of Hope – Cancer Care for All”, launched by Director General Grossi in February 2022.

    Under the Letter of Intent, the following areas of cooperation are included: enhancing facilities, equipment and infrastructure to expand radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy facilities, as well as support in capacity-building through the engagement of multidisciplinary teams of professionals involved in the practices of radiology radiotherapy and nuclear medicine, as appropriate.

    “Today’s signing of the Letter of Intent will further help to bring life-saving cancer care to those who need it the most. From the beginning, Japan has been a very strong and generous supporter of Rays of Hope, helping to reduce global imbalances in the access to such care,” Director General Grossi said.

    The Rays of Hope initiative is helping low- and middle-income countries establish and expand access to radiation-based medical services, including diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiotherapy. Through this initiative, the IAEA, together with its donors and partners, are working to address inequities in cancer treatment and improve survival rates through early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. So far, 86 countries have reached out to the Agency for support under Rays of Hope and concrete actions have been initiated in more than 30 Member States.

    In Honduras, the most common cancers require radiotherapy, but many patients have limited or no access to these services in public healthcare institutions. The high cancer mortality rate has prompted President Xiomara Castro to make the availability of specialised radiation therapy equipment and the training of experts a top priority.

    Honduras is one of the first eight countries in the Latin America and Caribbean region to receive assistance through the Rays of Hope initiative. Honduras will soon receive mammography equipment and a linear accelerator to deliver life-saving radiotherapy treatment.

    This tripartite cooperation is expected to greatly improve the availability and quality of radiation therapy in Honduras and represents the strong commitment of the parties to help save lives and address the disproportionate burden of cancer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Casar, Williams, Adams, Carter, McClellan, & Raskin Introduce Resolution Declaring Abortion as a Human Right

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05), Alma Adams (NC-12), Troy Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) announced the introduction of a Congressional Resolution affirming reproductive freedom as a human right.

    “Texas is ground zero in the fight for abortion rights, with many of my constituents now traveling hundreds of miles to get the health care they need,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas). “Let me be clear: Reproductive rights are human rights. We won’t stop fighting until abortion rights are restored and protected across the U.S.”

    “We are seeing the deadly result of abortion bans in Georgia and around the country. Just last week, ProPublica reported on the deaths of two Georgia women, Candi Miller and Amber Thurman, who died because they could not receive the abortion care they desperately needed,” said Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05). “That is why this resolution is important: it affirms that reproductive freedom is a fundamental human right according to the United States’ own law and that state abortion bans are violating federal law and endangering the lives of women.”

    “Too many women have already died from Donald Trump’s abortion bans, and even one more is too many,” said Congresswoman Alma Adams (NC-12). “Abortions are healthcare, and reproductive justice is a human right. I will continue to stand up for women’s rights until they are restored nationwide.”

    “Access to safe, legal abortion is healthcare. It’s as fundamental as any other medical service,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02). “I’m proud to support this resolution because it sends a message that no matter where you live in this country, your rights to make decisions about your body and your health should not be up for debate. That’s a matter for you, your doctor, and your family. Not the government.”

    “After Trump-appointed Justices on the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, conservative legislatures and judges across the nation have unleashed extreme abortion bans and restrictions to comprehensive reproductive health care,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04). “Reproductive health care is a public health, social justice, economic, civil rights, and human rights issue. I thank Congresswoman Williams for her leadership on this resolution, as we affirm that reproductive rights are part of our obligations under international human rights treaties.”

    State and Local Actions

    • Alexandria, VA enacted a resolution to expand access to abortion on June 28th, 2022.
    • In Louisiana, House Bills 56, 63, 164, and 293 were introduced in February 2024 to counter the state’s restrictions on reproductive freedom and underscore the human rights concerns with those restrictions.
    • Mt. Rainier, MD issued a Mayoral Proclamation declaring June 24, 2024, as “Reproductive Rights are Human Rights Day.” 
    • Montgomery County, MD passed a resolution to address the Dobbs decision and introduced a new resolution with unanimous support in 2024 to increase abortion access in the county.
    • Austin, TX has invested over $400,000 in support for abortion access and introduced a resolution declaring abortion as a human right.

    This bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Colin Allred (TX-32), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nannette Barragán (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Bennie Thompson (MI-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Cori Bush (MO-01), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Tony Cardenas (CA-29), André Carson (IN-07), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Jim Himes (CT-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Ted Lieu CA-36), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Wiley Nickel (NC-13), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mary Peltola (AK-AL), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Katie Porter (CA-47), Delila C. Ramirez (IL-03), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Darren Soto (FL-09), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Norma Torres (CA-35), Lori Trahan (MA-03), David Trone (MD-06), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Susan Wild (PA-07), and FredericaS. Wilson (FL-24).

    The resolution text can be found here.

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    Congressman Greg Casar represents Texas’s 35th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which runs down I-35 from East Austin to Hays County to the West Side of San Antonio.  A labor organizer and son of Mexican immigrants, Casar serves as the Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Agriculture.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Introduces Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    “As a senior member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, protecting and supporting students when they are in the care of their schools is among my top priorities, and, with 25% of all first-time allergic reactions happening to children while at school, it’s clear we must do more to keep students safe,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “As we embark on a new school year, I’m proud to introduce this bill with Representatives Sherrill and Matsui to give schools the tools they need to prevent and treat allergic reactions so every child is safe eating in their school’s cafeteria.”

    “Children and teenagers with food allergies should be safe when eating school lunch. That’s why I am proud to co-lead legislation to ensure school food personnel have the education and training necessary to prevent, identify, and respond to food-related allergic reactions. Many New Jerseyans are impacted by food allergies, and this legislation would make much needed investments to ensure all of our kids are happy, healthy, and safe at school,” said Rep. Sherrill.

    “Better food allergy education and training empowers everyone,” said FARE CEO Sung Poblete, PhD, RN. “This legislation can help improve every child’s journey, whether an infant whose family embraces early introduction and food allergy prevention they learned about through WIC, or a food-allergic kid whose school cafeteria workers become more careful at lunchtime. Our community is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Mark DeSaulnier and Mikie Sherrill, as well as their staffs, for introducing the House version of the Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act.”

    “The Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act will improve the lives of individuals and children living with food allergies,” said Paul Williams, MD, FAAAAI, President of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. “With 6 million children among the 33 million Americans with food allergies in the United States, training and educating food personnel in schools on food allergies will help prevent adverse reactions, including life threatening anaphylaxis. Education and outreach on food allergies in nutritional support programs will help address healthcare disparities. The AAAAI applauds the leadership of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier and urges Congress to move this forward.”

    “It’s more important than ever that children with food allergies be protected while they are in school,” said allergist Gailen Marshall, MD, PhD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. “This bill is not just about preventing serious food allergy reactions by training food personnel about allergens. It also will help them to recognize when a child is having a serious reaction, and to respond immediately and appropriately. Because 25% of serious reactions occur in children who have not been previously diagnosed with a food allergy, school food personnel need better preparation. Passage of this bill will assist millions of children across the country who are vulnerable to food allergic reactions.”

    “On behalf of the 4 million children in the United States with food allergies, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) thanks Rep. DeSaulnier for introducing the Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act. This legislation focuses on protecting children in school environments. Specifically, the bill requires training for school food personnel to prevent, identify, and respond to food-related allergic reactions. School food personnel must understand how to protect children with food allergies. Children spend seven hours or more each day in school and more than 15 percent of school-aged children with food allergies experienced a reaction in school. The training required by this bill can help prevent these reactions and save lives,” said Kenneth Mendez, President and CEO, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.


    This legislation is supported by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE); American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI); American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP); American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI); Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA); and the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) and has been introduced in the United States Senate by Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

    Congressman DeSaulnier is a senior member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Announces over $166 Million for Contra Costa Transportation Authority to Modernize the Region’s Transportation Systems along the I-680 Corridor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) announced that the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) will receive over $166 million in funding he advocated for to the Department of Transportation (DOT) that will help to improve safety, reduce congestion, and reduce air pollution along the I-680 corridor through Contra Costa County. This funding was made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    “As a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and longtime champion for policies that would reduce commute times, cut harmful pollution, and improve our quality of life, I was proud to advocate for this funding and am delighted it has been granted and will begin making a difference in the lives of Bay Area and California residents,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. “I am thankful to CCTA and DOT for their partnership in working to improve transportation across our region.”

    “The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is grateful to Congressman DeSaulnier for his support in securing this monumental award. This federal grant speaks to the Congressman’s long-standing leadership in transportation and vision for our community. Interstate 680 (I-680) is critical to the region’s economy and prosperity. It provides for the movement of goods, services, and people throughout northern California and beyond. Thousands rely on this corridor and increased congestion has led to unacceptable delays. The Contra Costa Transportation Authority is excited to advance the I-680 corridor through focused modernizations that will maximize efficiency and promote shared transportation. We are grateful for Congressman DeSaulnier’s dedication to improving quality of life and embracing innovation at both the local and national levels,” said Tim Haile, Executive Director, CCTA.

    This funding will go to two projects in Contra Costa County to complete the northbound I-680 express lane gap from SR-24 to SR-242 and convert the existing northbound High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane from SR-242 to north of Arthur Road into an express lane, construct a braided ramp system between North Main Street and Treat Boulevard interchanges in Walnut Creek to address an existing bottleneck caused by weaving at this location, and implement Coordinated Adaptive Ramp Metering for a 19-mile segment of NB I-680.

    More information about this funding can be found in thelettersCongressman DeSaulnier sent to DOT in support of this grant.

    Congressman DeSaulnier has been a longtime champion of improving transportation in the Bay Area and along the I-680 corridor, including by consistently supporting CCTA in its work to advance projects that innovate our transportation systems, ease congestion, and make our roadways safer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden & Harris Must Do More To Protect Americans From CCP Auto Threats

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Biden & Harris Must Do More To Protect Americans From CCP Auto Threats

    Today, the Biden administration proposed a new rule which would ban US automakers from selling vehicles with components produced by the Chinese Communist Party. 

    “Today’s rule from the Biden-Harris team fails to do enough to protect Michigan workers and the American people from CCP threats to our auto industry. While the administration has concluded Chinese auto components and software are a national security threat, Biden and Harris must now stop their giveaway of taxpayer dollars to CCP-affiliated companies. They should support my NO GOTION Act, which will stop Chinese companies from collecting billions of dollars from American taxpayers. Finally, while Biden and Harris talk tough on China, their EV rules play into the hands of the CCP, and make our auto industry dependent on supply chains controlled by China. They must end those rules and let American autoworkers innovate,” said John Moolenaar, the chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

    Currently, CCP-affiliated companies qualify for green energy production tax credits created by the Inflation Reduction Act. Gotion has previously claimed it is “reviewing and assessing” how it can utilize these tax credits. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ruppersberger Secures Extension for SNAP Theft Reimbursement in Pending Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (2nd District of Maryland)

    Proposed Continuing Resolution would extend SNAP reimbursement for theft victims through December 20

    (Washington, DC) – Victims of food stamp theft will continue to be reimbursed under pending stop-gap funding legislation thanks to the tireless advocacy of Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, his office announced today. The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote on a Continuing Resolution later this week that will keep the government funded – and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits flowing – through December 20, 2024. Currently, reimbursement for SNAP theft victims would otherwise expire on September 30.

    Congressman Ruppersberger lead a bipartisan effort to extend critical protections to victims of food stamp theft, in which perpetrators use skimming devices to steal SNAP benefits distributed on electronic debit cards (EBT).

    “This vital extension will continue to protect a record level of victims of SNAP benefit theft—including veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly and the disabled— who have lost a critical lifeline through no fault of their own,” Congressman Ruppersberger said. “This ensures tax dollars are used for their intended purpose and that American families do not lose their primary source of healthy food. No family should ever have to worry about how to put their next meal on the table.”

    Currently, states are required to replace stolen SNAP benefits under a measure included in the 2023 omnibus funding bill passed by Congress at the end of 2022. The provision applied to benefits stolen from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2024. More than 125,000 households have been reimbursed since October 2022, not counting some of the hardest-hit states who have not reported the full impact.

    While imperfect, the 3-month Continuing Resolution will level-fund the government and avert a needless government shutdown. Congressman Ruppersberger continues to champion his bipartisan standalone legislation, H.R. 205, establishing permanent reimbursement authority and better security features for EBT cards.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Adams, Van Hollen Introduce Student Debt Relief Bill for Parent Borrowers

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (D-N.C.), and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) introduced the Parent PLUS Parity Act, bicameral legislation to ease the burden of student loan debt for parent borrowers who helped their children pay for their higher education.  

    Nationwide, approximately 3.9 million borrowers have outstanding Parent PLUS loan balances totaling $112 billion. While these loans allow parents of dependent undergraduate students to borrow money to pay costs not already covered by the student’s financial aid package, current law excludes borrowers from the Parent PLUS and Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) programs from most income-based repayment plans. Among other provisions, the Parent PLUS Parity Act makes parent borrowers eligible for repayment plans created by the U.S. Department of Education under the Biden-Harris Administration. This legislation comes after Senator Van Hollen led several of his colleagues in urging the Biden-Harris Administration – in 2022 and earlier this year – to provide financial relief to parent borrowers, while welcoming its efforts thus far to address the student debt crisis. 

    “This legislation is about fairness for families, so that more parents can help their children through college without worrying about how to make ends meet at their current salary level. If we can amend the law to allow income-based repayments then we should, especially for payees who are disabled or retired. It’s unconscionable that disabled and retired individuals on limited incomes are having their incomes garnished to cover student loan debt. This is a way for us to do better by the American people. I thank Mr. Van Hollen for introducing the companion bill in the Senate and working with me to get this bill passed,” said Rep. Adams.  

    “Millions of parents who struggled to help their kids pay for college are now trapped in unsustainable debt – and it’s not just hurting them, it’s holding back our entire economy. While the Biden-Harris Administration has taken important steps to expand income-based repayment options so students can pay off their loans, parent borrowers have been excluded from these programs, offering them little to no recourse. Our legislation will help those families chart a path to clear their debt and regain their financial footing,” said Senator Van Hollen.  

    “Parents taking out loans to help their kids pay for higher education deserve the same loan forgiveness and relief options as other borrowers,” said Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA). “More and more low-income families, especially Black and Latino parents, rely on the Parent PLUS program every year but have limited loan repayment options. By expanding parents’ access to the same repayment benefits their kids would receive, we can help close the racial wealth gap and expand debt relief for underserved families.” 

    In addition to Senator Van Hollen, the legislation is co-led by Senator Padilla and cosponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tina Smith (D-MN), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Peter Welch (D-VT). 

    In addition to Representative Adams, the bill is cosponsored in the House by Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and Maxine Waters (D-CA). 

    The Parent PLUS Parity Act is endorsed by NAACP, National Education Association, Student Borrower Protection Center, The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS), Student Debt Crisis Center, Project on Predatory Student Lending, Education Trust, Justice in Aging, and the Century Foundation Higher Education Team. 

    Established in 1980, Parent PLUS loans were initially intended to assist higher-asset families, but as tuition has skyrocketed and the purchasing power of the Pell Grant has fallen, families with limited resources, particularly families of color, have increasingly turned to Parent PLUS loans to make up the shortfall. The consequences of this have been enormous, trapping thousands of low-income American families under a crushing financial burden. Between 1996 and 2018, the number of Parent PLUS recipients under the federal poverty line rose by an astonishing 350 percent. In 2020, the average Parent PLUS loan debt held was $37,970, a 40 percent increase since 2000. In 2015, 40,000 disabled or retired Parent PLUS borrowers had their Social Security benefits garnished after defaulting on their loans. What’s more, Black parents are struggling disproportionately; the share of Black Parent PLUS borrowers with incomes below $30,000 nearly tripled from 2008 to 2018. In 2018, 44 percent of Black Parent PLUS borrowers had an annual income below $30,000 compared to only 10 percent of White Parent PLUS borrowers. 

    Currently, Parent PLUS borrowers are excluded from most income-based repayment plans, including the SAVE Plan, the PAYE Repayment Plan, and the IBR Plan. Parent PLUS borrowers are also not eligible to discharge their loans in cases where their child becomes disabled and face additional barriers to obtaining Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). 

    In his letters to Secretary Cardona, Senator Van Hollen has urged the Education Department to use the extent of its authorities to provide relief for Parent PLUS borrowers. As a result of these efforts, the Department included Parent PLUS borrowers in its new hardship discharge program in the proposed student loan relief regulations announced in April 2024. The Parent PLUS Parity Act makes necessary statutory changes to ensure Parent PLUS borrowers can pursue additional avenues for debt relief and to protect these borrowers against Republican attacks on the Department of Education’s student debt relief programs. 

    This legislation will help families tackle intergenerational debt, ensure equal access to programs available to other borrowers, and provide urgently-needed assistance to millions of forgotten Parent PLUS borrowers by: 

    • Expanding the income-driven repayment plan options for Parent PLUS and all FFEL borrowers to all income-driven repayment plans and any forthcoming plans issued by the Department of Education, including the new SAVE program, PAYE, and IBR.  

    • Directing the Secretary of Education to create a new hardship category program that will permit Parent PLUS borrowers to apply for loan discharge if they meet certain requirements based on income, borrower age, and other factors. 

    The full text of the bill is available here.  

    “If we fail to address intergenerational debt experienced by families with Parent PLUS loans, we will fall short of fixing our broken student loan system,” said Senator Booker. The Parent PLUS Parity Act will bring parents much needed relief by expanding access to income-based repayment plans. No one should have to choose between supporting their child’s future and their family’s financial security.” 

    “As a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, making sure that Virginia students have the freedom to make the decisions that are right for them is one of my top priorities. That includes looking for commonsense solutions to make higher education opportunities more affordable,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m glad to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to give Parent PLUS borrowers—many of whom are families of color—some breathing room by boosting access to existing income-based repayment plans and application-based relief programs. Supporting our students is critical to the health of our economy, and I will keep looking for opportunities to do so.” 

    “This bill to provide parity for Parent PLUS loan borrowers is a matter of fairness and equity. Doing so will give millions of working families important financial relief, help tackle intergenerational debt and ensure that everyone has access to all income-driven repayment plans,” said Senator Smith. “Passing this legislation would mean millions of parents would no longer be burdened by student loan debt.” 

    “Parent PLUS loans are an example of how our federal student loan program has failed families. Instead of helping families pay for their child’s education, Parent PLUS loans have left many with crippling repayment obligations and reduced debt relief options. These loans have been especially brutal to people of color and marginalized communities, causing them to default on their loans. It’s not sustainable,” said Senator Welch. “This bill is an important step in reforming our federal student loan program.” 

    “Black parents have long understood that higher education opens doors of opportunity for their children. However, the Parent PLUS loan program has often trapped lower-income families in debt, with repayment guidelines designed for wealthier households. The significant number of affected parents highlights a policy failure: skyrocketing education costs combined with a loan program that doesn’t work for low-income families. Senator Van Hollen’s and Representative Adams’s bill seeks to reform Parent PLUS by aligning repayment options with those available for other student loans. This would allow parents to receive relief when their child qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge. The bill also introduces new relief for parents facing financial hardship. These changes would help address a significant injustice: penalizing low-income parents for supporting their child’s pursuit of the American Dream,” said Wisdom Cole, Senior National Advocacy Director, NAACP. 

    “For too long, Parents PLUS borrowers have been left out of critical efforts to alleviate the crushing burden of student loan debt. As a result, Parent PLUS borrowers have been left struggling with unaffordable monthly payments that can force them to delay retirement, push them into poverty and even subject them to Social Security benefit offset and other catastrophic consequences if they fall behind. We applaud Senator Van Hollen and Representative Alma Adams for introducing the Parent PLUS Parity Act which will ensure that Parent PLUS borrowers have access to the full suite of affordable repayment options that all other federal borrowers do. The Act also importantly establishes critical pathways to relief to support Parent PLUS borrowers should they experience financial hardship,” said Aissa Canchola Bañez, Policy Director, Student Borrower Protection Center. 

    “The burden of Parent PLUS debt disproportionately falls on low-income parents and parents of color. The Parent PLUS program currently has limited pathways to enable families to successfully manage their debt, which results in financial harm that can ripple through generations. This bill provides important borrower protections for parents, including affordable income-based repayment options and a fair path to relief for loans taken out to pay for schools that engage in misconduct. We thank Senator Van Hollen and Congresswoman Adams for their leadership on this issue and their commitment to ensuring that families with Parent PLUS loans can benefit from the same borrower protections as other student loans,” said Ashley Harrington, Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy, Project on Predatory Student Lending. 

    “At the Student Debt Crisis Center, we are proud to endorse the Parent PLUS Parity Act which will expand access to Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans and IDR forgiveness to all borrowers, including parents with parent PLUS loans. This bill will help millions of parents who took out student loans to support their children in college and who now find themselves struggling to meet their monthly payments. This is one step towards a more fair and just student loan system, and brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of ending the student debt crisis,” said Natalia Abrams, President & Founder, Student Debt Crisis Center. 

    “EdTrust has repeatedly detailed how the student loan debt burden impedes the economic stability and well-being of Black borrowers,” said Education Trust’s Senior Vice President, Wil Del Pilar. “Policy solutions like increasing repayment options for Parent PLUS are a crucial step toward ensuring that parents, especially under-represented parents and parents from low-income backgrounds, are not burdened with unmanageable debt while investing in their children’s future. This bill adopts several of our recommendations on how to address this issue, and we are pleased to support it.” 

    “Parent PLUS borrowers face the same financial challenges as other borrowers do, yet they have fewer protections from spiraling debts. The Parent PLUS Parity Act would enable parent-borrowers to access many of the Biden-Harris Administration’s improvements to student loan repayment and enjoy retirement unburdened by excessive student loan bills,” said Peter Granville, Fellow, Century Foundation Higher Education Team. 

    ### 

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wagner, Bost Call on Department of Veterans Affairs to Advance St. Louis-Area Expansion and Modernization

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

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO), and Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO) sent a letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough calling on him to advance the Department of Veterans Affairs St. Louis bed tower replacement and clinical expansion project.

    Congresswoman Ann Wagner: “Missouri veterans have served our nation with honor, and they deserve world-class treatment from the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The VA has held up the John Cochran construction project for too long, a shameful failure that has blocked our veterans from vital modernized medical facilities.  I am calling on the VA to take immediate action, request funds for this project, and treat our veterans with the respect they have earned.”

    Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost:“For far too long, St. Louis and Metro East Illinois veterans served by the John A. Cochran VA Hospital have been waiting for improved medical facilities. The VA has recognized for well over a decade that the hospital’s bed tower needs to be replaced and its clinical services need to be modernized. This project must be funded as a top priority – and it needs to happen now. As chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I will continue working with Rep. Wagner and my colleagues in Missouri to see that the Biden administration gets this project over the finish line. Our veterans deserve it.”

    Letter excerpt: “St. Louis-area veterans, including those in Missouri as well as Southern Illinois, have been waiting too long for modernized medical facilities and it is past time to jumpstart this project.  As you know, VA originally requested this construction project in 2010 and Congress authorized its design and planning. VA subsequently restructured the project, has acquired the necessary land and completed some site preparation. However, construction has not begun because the Department’s budget request has not adequately prioritized this modernization project for two years in a row….Your Strategic Capital Investment Planning process continues to rank the (St. Louis John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital) construction project as the highest priority, but the linkage to VA’s budget requests has broken down. This is unfortunate and has delayed the completion of new facilities that St. Louis-area veterans deserve. We respectfully request that you work with the relevant committees to rectify this situation and pull the project over the finish line.”

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Adams, Grassley, Merkley, Booker, and Hinson Shine Light on Stillbirth Prevention

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

    WASHINGTON, DC. – Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (D-NC-12) and Ashley Hinson (R-IA-01) teamed up with U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to introduce a bipartisan, bicameral resolution recognizing September 19th as National Stillbirth Prevention Day.

    Earlier this year, the bipartisan Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act (H.Res.1474) —led by Hinson and Adams in the House and Merkley in the Senate — was signed into law by President Biden to help save the lives of mothers and babies across America. With at least 25 percent of stillbirths being potentially preventable, this resolution stresses the need for continued stillbirth prevention activities in the United States.

    “I was proud to co-lead the Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act and see it pass into law this year, which will increase awareness for families on how to prevent this painful, yet common experience,” said Rep. Adams. “Today we recommit to ending stillbirth and to giving more families a chance to be whole. This is just the beginning, and I am committed to doing my part on behalf of all of America’s families.”

    “A single family affected by stillbirth is one too many. Yet this tragedy impacts thousands across America, upending the lives of individuals and families from all walks of life,” said Senator Merkley. “Getting my Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act signed into law was an important first step, but we must do more to reduce the alarming rate of stillbirth, which disproportionately impacts Black, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, and American Indian or Alaska Native women. This National Stillbirth Prevention Day we recommit to doing everything we can to end this public health crisis, so no one again ever has to experience the trauma of stillbirth.”

    “Thousands of families grapple with the unimaginable pain of stillbirths, and, devastatingly, Black women and underserved communities are disproportionately impacted by these tragedies,” said Senator Booker. “By designating September 19 as National Stillbirth Prevention Day, we will help raise awareness, promote research and develop solutions so all mothers and babies, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the care and support they deserve.”

    “Iowa has made strides towards reducing stillbirths in our state. This bipartisan resolution recognizes researchers like we have in Iowa, as well as care providers and advocates. It also reaffirms our goal to improve maternal care resources, particularly in rural areas,” said Senator Grassley. “No mom should know the heartbreak of a stillbirth. I’m glad to be partnering on a number of federal legislative efforts to help target contributing factors and save babies’ lives.”

    “Over 21,000 babies are stillborn in the U.S. each year. This rate is unacceptably high, and we must do more to ensure more women experience healthy pregnancies and have healthy babies. I am proud to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to recognize September 19th as National Stillbirth Prevention Day to raise awareness about stillbirth prevention so we can help save more moms and babies,” said Rep. Hinson.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every 175 U.S. births tragically result in stillbirth—accounting for nearly 21,000 stillbirths a year—more stillbirths annually than the number of babies who pass away during their first year of life. In the last two decades, the stillbirth rate in the United States declined by a negligible 0.4 percent. In a report published by the World Health Organization comparing progress in improving stillbirth rates, the United States ranked 183 out of 195 countries.

    “For the third year in a row, and under Senator Merkley’s leadership, we pause to recognize the crisis of stillbirth in this country and celebrate progress on stillbirth prevention efforts. When Congress recognizes this important day, when buildings and bridges are lit up across the country, and moms and dads make their voices heard through OpEds and sharing their personal stories of loss — progress happens and lives are saved. We mourn the tens of thousands of babies who should be with their families right now and accelerate progress so no other family has to endure the tragedy of stillbirth,” said Emily Price, Healthy Birth Day Inc. CEO.

    In the Senate, the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). In the House, the resolution is cosponsored by Congressman Wiley Nickel (D-NC-13). Healthy Birth Day Inc., Charles Martin Corvi Fund, Birth and Breastfeeding in Color Inc, American College of Nurse-Midwives, Aaliyah in Action, Yale University Reproductive and Placental Research Unit, Yale University, The Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Foundation, Nitamising Gimashkikinaan Our First Medicine Indigenous Perinatal and Lactation Support Circle, Division of Indian Work, Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, 1st Breath, 2 Degrees, Dieudonne Foundation, Jace’s Journey, Start Healing Together, In the Arms Of Jesus Grief Support, Healing Our Hearts Foundation, Matties Memory, Society for Reproductive Investigation, March of Dimes, Measure the Placenta, Nurturing Babyhood N’ Beyond LLC, PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy, March for Moms, Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Gifts from Liam, Mera’s Mission, and Kansas Birth Justice Society also endorsed the resolution.

    The full text of the resolution can be found by clicking 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 –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN BOYLE & VETERANS HERALD $740K FUNDING AWARD FOR VETERAN SUICIDE PREVENTION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    PHILADELPHIA –Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA02) and Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC) Executive Director, Joe Brooks, today heralded the Department of Veterans Affairs recent awarding of $740,000 to VMC for tailored suicide prevention programs and services for Veterans and their families. Tuesday morning Congressman Boyle & Executive Director Brooks held a brief news conference at the VMC in Old City to share this great news.

    “This funding will save lives and will ensure that both veterans and their families receive the critical support they need”, said Congressman Boyle. “I have always made it clear that I believe our nation has a sacred obligation to care for our troops upon their return from service. I will continue to hold up my commitment by supporting actions and legislative measures that properly support our nations veterans.”

    “Federal funding is absolutely vital to the success of our suicide prevention efforts through SSG Fox programming. As a nonprofit, VMC is only able to save veteran lives with this crucial support”, said VMC Executive Director Brooks. “We are deeply grateful to the VA and Congressman Brendan Boyle for their continued commitment to this life-saving work.”

    Federal funding is vital to the success of VMC suicide prevention efforts through the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox (SSG Fox), a program under the VMC.  As a nonprofit, VMC is equipped to save veteran lives with this crucial support. Over the past year alone, SSG Fox has provided critical services to 219 veterans. 

    Among them:

    • 47 were at high risk, facing a mental health crisis
    • 180 were referred to treatment, navigating barriers of the opioid epidemic 
    • 10 of those veterans presented in crisis with a plan of suicide, all 10 veterans were admitted into treatment, preventing the suicide

    This funding will support the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP) which enables the VA to provide resources toward community-based suicide prevention efforts. Congress has authorized $174 million to be appropriated to carry out the SSG Fox SPGP, a three-year community-based grant program that provides resources to community organizations serving Veterans across the country. Grants are awarded to organizations that provide or coordinate suicide prevention services for eligible individuals at risk of suicide and their families that qualify.

    The VMC was founded in 1980 by local Vietnam Veterans, who built a memorial along the Philadelphia waterfront and discovered a sense of community unparalleled.  VMC programs now serve more than 6,500 Veterans and families annually throughout the tri-state area. Their mission is to “serve those who served” this great nation and to provide services, programs, opportunity and advancement to Veterans of the U.S. military and their families.  
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Hosts White House Cabinet Officials at HBCU Braintrust

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

    Secretary Miguel Cardona (Education), Secretary Xavier Becerra (Health & Human Services) and Administrator Michael Regan (EPA) to join ALC event

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) hosted three members of the White House Cabinet yesterday for her annual “HBCU Braintrust,” a panel event and conversation within the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference, at the Walter Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.  

    U.S. Secretary of Education (USED) Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra, and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan each joined Rep. Adams on Thursday for separate conversations about how to support and sustain the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 

    “I was honored to welcome Secretary Becerra, Secretary Cardona, and Administrator Regan to discuss how the federal government is helping build a better future for HBCUs, their students and graduates,” said Rep. Adams. “The Biden-Harris administration has helped deliver $17 billion to our schools and I look forward to making more progress in the years ahead to even out the playing field.” 

    “I want to applaud Chair Adams for her visionary leadership and collaboration, which has been absolutely instrumental to this administration’s efforts to Raise the Bar for Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “Our nation’s HBCUs have long punched above their weight and driven Black excellence in fields from law to medicine, arts to engineering.  I am very proud that the Biden-Harris Administration has invested over $16 billion in HBCU schools and students – a historic investment – and in close partnership with leaders like Chair Adams, we will continue to fight tooth and nail for HBCUs to get the support and resources they deserve.” 

    “Congresswoman Alma Adams has been a champion for HBCUs in Congress for her entire career,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “EPA is proud to be delivering on the Biden-Harris administration’s charge to uplift HBCUs, and along with my fellow HBCU-alum Vice President Harris, this work is deeply personal and significant. Through historic investments secured by President Biden, we are ensuring HBCUs have the resources to foster innovation and cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders.” 

    “HBCUs graduate more Black health professionals than any other institutions of higher education”, said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, “That is why at HHS, instead of waiting for folks to find us, we go out and find students and let them know what their future could look like when they join the healthcare workforce and how we can support them financially to give back to their community.” 

    The HBCU Braintrust on Thursday was a 90-minute session featuring three separate fireside chats with the three Cabinet officials. The conversations centered around the HBCU Braintrust’s theme: MORE for ‘24 and Striving for ‘25: What We Must do for and with HBCUs to Build on Our Progress.  

    Rep. Adams hosted three events over three days, beginning with her kick-off event on Wednesday, as part of the larger Annual Legislative Conference. 

    Today she hosted the Second Annual Bipartisan HBCU Luncheon, with a keynote address from Dallas Mavericks’ CEO and published author Cynt Marshall. The event continued with a panel discussion titled, When Women Lead, featuring three HBCU presidents:  

    The panel was moderated by Dr. Lisa Herring, President of the PROPEL Center. Dr. Harold L. Martin (North Carolina A&T State University), Dr. Charlotte P. Morris (Tuskegee University) and Dr. Larry Robinson (Florida A&M University) were also recognized at the luncheon for their contributions to their respective universities and the larger HBCU community. 

    ### 

    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. For more information contact the Office of Congresswoman Alma Adams: (202)225-1510. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ryan Wesley Routh Indicted for Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Note: View the indictment here.

    A federal grand jury in Miami late this afternoon returned an indictment charging Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, of Hawaii, with attempting to kill former President Donald J. Trump at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15.

    “Violence targeting public officials endangers everything our country stands for, and the Department of Justice will use every available tool to hold Ryan Routh accountable for the attempted assassination of former President Trump charged in the indictment,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will not tolerate violence that strikes at the heart of our democracy, and we will find and hold accountable those who perpetrate it. This must stop.”

    “This alleged attempted assassination of the former President at his golf course was a direct attack on our democracy. Political violence has no place in this country — not then, not now, not ever,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “The charges today reflect the Department’s continued resolve to deploy every available resource to ensure public officials remain safe and to hold accountable those who target public officials to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Routh is charged with attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, which strikes at the very heart of our democratic system,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI is continuing our investigation into this alleged plot and will use the full weight and resources of the FBI to uncover and provide as much information as possible about what led to the events in West Palm Beach. In our country, we have to hold accountable people who resort to violence.”

    According to allegations in a complaint affidavit and a factual proffer filed with the court, former President Trump was golfing at Trump International on Sept. 15, and a Secret Service agent conducting a perimeter security sweep saw the partially obscured face of a man — later identified as Routh — in the brush along the fence line near the sixth hole. The agent observed the barrel of a rifle aimed directly at him. As the agent began backing away, he saw the rifle barrel move, and the agent fired at Routh.

    A witness saw Routh running across the road from the golf course and getting into a black Nissan Xterra. Based on information provided by the witness, Routh was later apprehended heading northbound on I-95 by officers from the Martin County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

    Court documents allege that in the area where Routh had been hiding in the tree line, FBI agents located an SKS semiautomatic rifle with a scope attached and an extended magazine. The serial number on the rifle was obliterated and unreadable. Hanging from the fence was a backpack and a reusable shopping bag that each contained a plate capable of stopping small arms fire.

    According to the allegations filed with the court, FBI agents found documents that contained a handwritten list of dates in August, September, and October and venues where the former President had appeared or was expected to be present. Cell records for two of the cell phones found in the Nissan Xterra showed that on multiple days and times from Aug. 18 to Sept. 15, Routh’s cell phone accessed cell towers located near Trump International and the former President’s residence at Mar-a-Lago.

    According to the factual proffer filed with the court, a civilian witness contacted law enforcement stating that Routh had dropped off a box at his residence several months ago. Included in the box was a handwritten letter from Routh addressed “Dear World,” which stated, among other things, “This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I am so sorry I failed you.”

    Routh was charged with attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, assaulting a federal officer (a Secret Service Agent), felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. At a detention hearing on Sept. 23, Routh was ordered to remain in federal custody pending trial. If convicted, Routh faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    According to court records, Routh was convicted of felonies in North Carolina in December 2002 and March 2010.

    The FBI is investigating the case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and U.S. Secret Service.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Chief Adviser of Bangladesh Muhammad Yunus

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau commended Chief Adviser Yunus for his strong leadership during a critical period in Bangladesh’s history. The two discussed the outcomes of the Summit of the Future and the importance of accelerating progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

    The Prime Minister and the Chief Adviser discussed the political situation in Bangladesh, including ongoing progress toward implementing digital reforms, tackling corruption, and improving the transparency and accountability of democratic institutions. The leaders agreed on the importance of empowering youth to ensure a fairer future for every generation.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Chief Adviser Yunus highlighted the strong friendship between Canada and Bangladesh, which is rooted in deep people-to-people ties. The two agreed to expand co-operation and to remain in close and regular contact.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads NH Delegation in Welcoming $60 Million in Tax Credits for Community Development to Support Small Businesses and Spur Economic Growth

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Lebanon, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship and a senior member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that Mascoma Community Development, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mascoma Bank of Lebanon, was awarded $60 million in New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) to incentivize development in underserved communities.

    “Underserved communities and small businesses often struggle to get the capital they need to grow, which is why this investment is key to the overall economic success of our state. I’m glad to see this award going to Mascoma Community Development to help ensure small businesses and entrepreneurs working to develop these communities have the resources they need to succeed,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to continuing to support programs that provide development opportunities, create jobs and grow our economy in communities across New Hampshire.”

    “Investing in Granite State businesses and ensuring that they have access to the capital that they need is a key way to help our local economy thrive,” said Senator Hassan. “This federal funding will promote development and growth in the Upper Valley and throughout New Hampshire, and I will keep supporting programs that help create jobs and invest in our state.”

    “Small businesses and local entrepreneurs are the backbone of New Hampshire’s economy and way of life,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “These resources heading to Mascoma Community Development will go a long way toward uplifting our Main Street businesses and the communities they serve, and I look forward to seeing the benefit the New Market Tax Credit program continues to have on New Hampshire’s economic growth.”

    “Investments into our communities and small businesses are helping develop local economies, create more good-paying jobs, and strengthen our quality of life,” said Congressman Pappas. “These funds will incentivize economic development in New Hampshire’s underserved communities to ensure no city or town is left behind. I’ll continue to advocate for programs that help our state, small businesses, and communities grow and thrive.”

    This award is provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), which promotes development in low-income urban and rural communities by investing in mission-driven financial institutions. Senators Shaheen and Hassan have been strong supporters of the CDFI Fund and NMTC and have long advocated for sufficient funding and a permanent NMTC program to support economic growth.

    Tax credit allocations awarded to Community Development Entities (CDE), such as Mascoma Community Development, enable CDEs to raise additional capital to invest in low income and distressed communities in return for tax credits. The total tax credit provided to investors equals 39 percent of the original investment and is spread over a seven-year period.

    Historically, NMTC Program awards have generated $8 of private investment for every $1 invested by the federal government. Through the end of fiscal year 2023, NMTC Program award recipients deployed more than $66 billion in investments in low-income communities and businesses, supporting more than 894,000 jobs and the construction or rehabilitation of nearly 259.5 million square feet of commercial real estate.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by the Prime Minister on the passing of the Honourable Francis Fox

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the passing of the Honourable Francis Fox:

    “It is with sadness that I learned today of the passing of the Honourable Francis Fox, former senator and Member of Parliament for Blainville—Deux-Montagnes.

    “Francis dedicated his career to serving Canadians. A lawyer by profession, he was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 1972. Over the next 12 years, he tirelessly advocated for his constituents, his community, and for Canadians across the country.

    “When my father was Prime Minister, Francis served as Solicitor General of Canada, Minister of Communications, and Secretary of State for Canada. His contributions included introducing the landmark Access to Information Act and overseeing the creation of Telefilm Canada, which continues to promote and foster Canadian talent in film and media.

    “In recognition of his leadership, he was appointed to the Senate in 2005, where he worked on behalf of Canadians until his retirement.

    “Francis left an indelible mark on Canadian politics. Today, we remember him and the legacy he leaves behind. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my condolences to his family and friends.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can we find hidden graves of murder victims with soil imaging? New Australian study gives it a try

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Berezowski, Lecturer, Forensic Science, Deakin University

    Kyle Towns/Shutterstock

    To avoid being caught, murderers often attempt to hide bodies using various methods. This can include shallow or deep burials, submersion in water, encasing in concrete or even disposing of remains in rubbish bins and suitcases.

    Finding the body is a key part of any murder investigation, as it helps to identify, prosecute and charge the killer. Unfortunately, the task can be immensely difficult.

    To help tackle the problem of locating hidden graves, we have trialled two innovative techniques for searching underground: ground-penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography, or ERT. Our results are now published in the journal Remote Sensing.

    Borrowing tools from geology

    The tools we used are known as geophysical methods because they measure the physical properties of materials in the soil under the surface.

    The use of geophysical techniques for peering under Earth’s surface is not new – engineers, geologists and archaeologists have used the tools we tested for decades.

    But geophysical techniques are not typically used for forensic investigations because directly finding a body with these methods is very difficult.

    However, both of the tools we tested can help to locate a grave indirectly – by looking at the differences between the disturbed soil of the grave and the undisturbed soil around it. When the techniques encounter disturbed soil and/or the presence of body fluids, the resulting data will show as an anomaly – something different to the areas surrounding it.

    To figure out whether the identified anomaly is a grave, researchers can then consider the size, shape and depth of the anomaly to make sure it correlates with a human body.

    Tori Berezowski using a ground penetrating radar to survey the ‘hidden’ graves.
    Author provided

    Pigs at the ‘body farm’

    At the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER), Australia’s only “body farm” – a facility that uses donated bodies for forensic research – we buried five pigs in various configurations to mimic clandestine graves.

    This included two single graves (a “shallow” grave of just half a metre, and a “deep” grave of almost two metres) and a mass grave with three pigs at one metre deep. We used pigs as they are a good body analogue in terms of size and mass to humans.

    We surveyed the graves with ground-penetrating radar and ERT before and directly after burial, and then one, eight, 14, and 20 months later.

    In forensic research, pig cadavers are a suitable proxy for human bodies, as they have a similar size and mass.
    Author provided

    Our findings revealed that geophysical imaging of hidden graves can work, but with varying results. This depended on the size, depth and age of the burial, and the amount of rainfall before the survey.

    The grave containing the three pig cadavers was the easiest to observe due to its larger size and volume. This indicates geophysical techniques may be particularly useful in humanitarian investigations that involve searching for mass graves.

    A shallow single grave was the next most observable. This is also an encouraging finding because most graves of hidden victims are only around half a metre deep. For both techniques, the two-metre-deep single grave was the most difficult to image.

    Although both tools could detect some graves on some occasions, neither located all of the graves during the entire length of our survey. This was likely due to a combination of factors, including the soil type at the site and unprecedented weather conditions during the research period – La Niña flooded the research site multiple times.

    We did, however, confirm that pig cadaver graves are good proxies to human donor graves when investigating geophysical techniques for finding them.

    To do this, we compared the ground-penetrating radar and the ERT responses of the pig burials to those of human burials (all part of existing research projects at AFTER). We found no obvious differences between the two.

    This is a very important result, because it means we can further test these tools in Australia and worldwide without being constrained by highly limited access to human donors.



    Read more:
    Secrets wrapped in fabric: how our study of 100 decomposing piglet bodies will help solve criminal cases

    More work needed

    Similar studies have been done in the United Kingdom, the United States and South America. However, ours is the first systematic, multi-technique, geophysical survey of covert graves in an Australian environment. The only other similar Australian study was in 2004, however, it only used ground-penetrating radar and didn’t check back on the graves at multiple time points.

    Our results clearly demonstrate that geophysical methods can be effective for locating unmarked graves under some circumstances, but don’t always work. To try and work out why, we will continue our research using the latest geophysical instruments and monitoring the moisture conditions inside the graves.

    Ultimately, we believe using these tools can increase the chances of locating missing and murdered victims. Then, we can finally provide answers to their families and loved ones, and increase the chances of prosecuting their killers.

    The team would like to thank Justin Ellis, Gabriel C Rau, Dilan Seckiner, and Isabella Crebert for their contributions to this research. Additionally, we would like to thank AFTER for the space to conduct the research and to Soren Blau and Jon Sterenberg for allowing us to scan your graves.

    Victoria Berezowski receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. This work was also funded by a Vice Chancellor Higher Degree by Research PhD Training Scholarship from the University of Newcastle.

    Ian Moffat receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and Flinders University.

    Xanthe Mallett has received funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Can we find hidden graves of murder victims with soil imaging? New Australian study gives it a try – https://theconversation.com/can-we-find-hidden-graves-of-murder-victims-with-soil-imaging-new-australian-study-gives-it-a-try-224274

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama  Nation

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from June 22 to July 8, 2024.
    The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.
    Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
    Federal funding also is available to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires.
    Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.
    Ms. Tonia Pence of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 
    Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaMalfa Announces Grant Awards for Disaster Recovery and Preparedness in District 1

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    (Washington, DC)—Rep. LaMalfa released the following statement announcing that a total of $4,106,321 has been awarded to our district for critical disaster recovery and preparedness projects. These grants will support various initiatives aimed at enhancing resilience, improving emergency management, and ensuring effective fire prevention and protection.

    “I am pleased that these important projects received these awards. Strengthening our ability to respond to and recover from disasters is an issue greatly needed by our constituents here in the 1st district. By improving emergency planning, fire prevention, and connectivity, we will be better able to handle the next disaster that occurs. For instance, our overgrown forests or the inadequate infrastructure in our flood zones, with future concerns being the newly created zones on the Klamath River via dam destruction.”

    Below is a breakdown of the awarded grants:

    • Butte County Foothill Rebuild Barrier Removal Project: $1,014,383

    • Butte County Emergency Operations Planning Project: $490,000

      • Funding will be used to update the Emergency Operations Plan and essential annexes, enhancing disaster preparedness and response. This project will benefit all county residents by improving our local emergency management strategies.

    • Butte County Fire Prevention and Protection Community Education Expansion Project: $1,000,000

      • This grant will expand education on fire prevention through an extensive outreach campaign, increasing awareness and proactive measures. It will also improve availability for fire inspections in isolated areas, helping to reduce fire risks.

    • Butte County Broadband Mitigation Through Connectivity Project: $451,938

      • This project will develop a Connectivity Action Plan to improve communication in remote rugged areas. This plan will guide future investments in broadband infrastructure, enhancing disaster response and connectivity for rural constituencies.

    • City of Redding Risk Assessment and Strategic Planning Project: $150,000

    • City of Redding Storm Drain Master Plan Update: $1,000,000

      • This grant will be used to update the city’s storm drain plan to address current conditions and risks. This will enhance flood management and protect residential, commercial, and public facilities from flood hazards.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of Jordan on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and His Majesty King Abdullah II discussed the situation in the Middle East, including the urgent need for de-escalation between Israel and Hezbollah to avoid further loss of civilian life.

    The leaders discussed instability in the West Bank as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Prime Minister thanked the King for his continued leadership on improving access to humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza. He underscored Canada’s commitment to continue supporting these efforts. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s enduring support for a two-state solution and a path to lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and His Majesty King Abdullah II noted the strong partnership between Canada and Jordan and agreed to remain in close contact as the situation continues to evolve.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi Reintroduces Bill to Permanently Conserve Privately Owned Working Forestlands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA08) reintroduced the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) with Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA02), Ann M. Kuster (D-NH02), Jim Costa (D-CA21), and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR01).

    “As Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. The federal and state governments can and must do a better job of working with private landowners who want to choose conservation, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock billions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands to support jobs and sustainable forest management that reduces wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi. 

    “Forests provide crucial habitat for wildlife, protect clean watersheds, and absorb climate-warming carbon from the atmosphere. They are also an important part of Northwest Oregon’s rural economy. The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will result in the conservation of more private forestlands, creating a better future for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. 

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving our forests. This legislation will enable us to better engage private landowners and reduce wildfire risks, supporting both our rural economy and sustainable forest management,” said Congressman Costa.

    The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) would allow States to choose to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal grant funds under the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that only the federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help to conserve more land permanently by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. Conserving working forestlands also supports the rural economy, and sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk will support local jobs. 

    Garamendi’s bill also supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s “America the Beautiful” National Conservation Goal to protect and conserve at least 30 percent of the lands and waters in the United States by 2030 and Governor Newsom’s similar conservation goal for the State of California. 

    To date, the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.9602) is supported by: 

    • National Endorsements: Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association 
    • California Endorsements: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire), California Rangeland Trust, Pacific Forest Trust, Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council, Bear Yuba Land Trust, Feather River Land Trust, American River Conservancy, Placer Land Trust, Lassen Land and Trails Trust, Sierra Foothill Conservancy, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Truckee Donner Land Trust, Sierra County Land Trust, Shasta Land Trust, Hardy Conservation 
    • New England Endorsements: New England Forestry Foundation, Monadnock Conservancy, Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Squam Lakes Conservation Organization, Kestrel Land Trust, Forest Society of Maine, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Northeast Wilderness Trust 
    • Oregon Endorsements: Northwest Rangeland Trust; Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts (COLT); Greenbelt Land Trust; McKenzie Land Trust; North Coast Land Conservancy; Oregon Agricultural Trust

    Past Cosponsors: 

    • 114th Congress: Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) 
      • Now-Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) 
    • 113th Congress: Reps. John Garamendi (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Ann M. Kuster (D-NH), Jared Huffman (D-CA), James P. McGovern (D-MA), Steve Womack (R-AR), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA) 
      • Now-Senators Cynthia M. Lummis (R-WY), Todd Young (R-IN) 

    Garamendi previously served on the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources (2011-2012) and the Committee on Agricultural (2012-2014), which oversee both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest System. Garamendi served as the first Deputy Secretary of the Interior from 1995 to 1998 during the Clinton Administration. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Steward of Democracy: Rep. Jim Costa Honored by the Ukrainian Parliament and President Zelenskyy in Kyiv, Ukraine

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was awarded the Honorary Diploma of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, one of the highest distinguished awards by the Ukrainian Parliament. This prestigious accolade recognizes Costa’s unwavering support for Ukraine and his commitment to defending democracy.

    The Honorary Diploma was presented to Congressman Costa during a visit to Ukraine, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian leaders, and members of the Ukrainian Parliament.

    “I am honored to receive this accolade and will continue to work with Ukraine to help it defend itself and preserve its sovereignty. The United States and Ukraine share a commitment to democracy and security. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and standing with the resilient Ukrainian people,” said Costa.

    BACKGROUND
    Congressman Jim Costa’s visit to Ukraine was marked by productive dialogues on critical issues, including security cooperation, economic development, and humanitarian aid. Costa was joined by Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Don Bacon (NE-02).

    Costa’s meeting with President Zelenskyy highlighted the deepening partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine and underscored the importance of continued support for Ukraine’s democratic aspirations and territorial integrity. President Zelenskyy spoke in detail about the situation on the front and the priority needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Costa responded by indicating the importance of maintaining solidarity with the Ukrainian people, and our European allies to defend democracy.

    Members traveled through Konovaltsia and Kokorudza streets in Lviv, Ukraine, where a Russian missile killed seven people, including three children on September 4, 2024. One of the buildings damaged in the Russian attack was the Lviv Oblast Centre for Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation on Konovaltsia Street, a 130-year-old architectural monument.

    President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed to the members that he will present Ukraine’s victory plan to U.S. President Biden, Congress, and both U.S. presidential candidates soon. 

    A folder of photos and videos is available HERE.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Leading Effort to Increase Access to Rural Housing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Amidst budget negotiations, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) is calling on Congressional Budget leaders to increase funding and address application processing delays for a key federal program to build more affordable housing in the San Joaquin Valley and rural America.

    The letter, spearheaded by Costa, calls for a return to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 funding level of $1.258 billion for the Section 502 Direct Loan Program in the federal budget. The House Agriculture budget bill includes $950 million for FY25, while the Senate bill allocates $1 billion, falling far short of meeting nationwide demand.

    “Significant delays in processing loan applications are impacting thousands of families nationwide, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, jeopardizing their dreams of achieving homeownership, and impeding their ability to contribute to their local, rural economies,” wrote the lawmakers.

    “These backlogs and processing delays are largely due to chronic underfunding of the Section 502 Direct Loan Program, which has ripple effects throughout rural communities. The resulting uncertainty leaves local contractors and vendors involved in housing construction in limbo and their livelihoods impacted.” the lawmakers continued, “Addressing these operational inefficiencies is essential not only for meeting the housing needs of our constituents but also for supporting sustainable economic growth in rural America.”

    The letter was signed by Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Vicente Gonzalez (CA-34), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and Joyce Beatty (OH-03).

    “Unfortunately, this year has brought a crisis to both the families that we serve and the families that depend on our business. The approved funding for USDA Home Loans in California has been depleted, leaving families in limbo, unable to close on their new homes. These families, some of whom have been waiting for over a year and a half, continue to live in substandard conditions while brand-new homes sit completed and ready for occupancy,” said Leonel Alvarado, Century Builders.  

    “The USDA Section 502 loan program has made homeownership possible for rural families across America and in the San Joaquin Valley for many years. No Member of Congress has been a greater champion of this important program than Congressman Jim Costa. In the House, Congressman Costa has led the effort to ensure that Section 502 funds are available for families living in small towns and farming communities in California and across the country. We are deeply grateful for his unwavering support,” said Bob Rapoza, National Rural Housing Coalition.

    BACKGROUND
    The Section 502 Direct Loan Program has been instrumental in providing affordable housing, especially for low-income families, farmworkers, and communities like Orosi, Parlier, and Orange Cove, where affordable housing is scarce. However, significant delays in processing loan applications have impacted over 47 families in California’s 21st Congressional District and 354 families in California, amounting to a total of $102 million in loans.

    Delays in processing Section 502 Direct Loan applications are exacerbating existing housing challenges in rural America, where affordable housing options are already limited. These loans enable low- and moderate-income rural residents to acquire affordable housing rates for their use as a residence by purchasing a new or existing dwelling or a new manufactured home. 

    Local contractors, small business owners, and vendors involved in housing construction and renovation projects are also affected, as uncertainty in funding and project timelines impacts their livelihoods.

    Data from the US Census found that the average annual production of new single-family houses in non-metro areas was 221,000 between 1999 and 2008. However, from 2009 to 2017, this average dropped dramatically to 68,000 per year.

    A copy of the full letter is available HERE.

    Learn more about the Section 502 Direct Loan Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa leading Legislation to Permanently Conserve Privately Owned Working Forestlands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ann M. Kuster (NH-02), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced H.R.9602 – Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act, which would authorize states to allow certain entities to acquire, hold, and manage conservation easements under the forest legacy program.

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving our forests. This legislation will enable us to better engage private landowners and reduce wildfire risks, supporting both our rural economy and sustainable forest management,” said Congressman Costa.

    “As Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. The federal and state governments can and must do a better job of working with private landowners who want to choose conservation, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock billions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands to support jobs and sustainable forest management that reduces wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi. 

    “Forests provide crucial habitat for wildlife, protect clean watersheds, and absorb climate-warming carbon from the atmosphere. They are also an important part of Northwest Oregon’s rural economy. The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will result in the conservation of more private forestlands, creating a better future for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. 

    BACKGROUND
    The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act would allow States to choose to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal grant funds under the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that only the federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help to conserve more land permanently by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. Conserving working forestlands also supports the rural economy, and sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk will support local jobs. 

    This legislation supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s “America the Beautiful” National Conservation Goal to protect and conserve at least 30 percent of the lands and waters in the United States by 2030 and Governor Newsom’s similar conservation goal for the State of California. 

    This legislation is endorsed by the Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), California Rangeland Trust, Pacific Forest Trust, Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council, Bear Yuba Land Trust, Feather River Land Trust, American River Conservancy, Placer Land Trust, Lassen Land and Trails Trust, Sierra Foothill Conservancy, Eastern Sierra Land Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Truckee Donner Land Trust, Sierra County Land Trust, Shasta Land Trust, Hardy Conservation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa Leading Legislation to Support Students with Epilepsy Nationwide

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), Co-Chair of the Epilepsy Caucus, introduced the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act, which would create a grant program to support students who have epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL) introduced the legislation in the House, while Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the legislation in the Senate.

    “This legislation is vital to creating a safer school environment for kids with epilepsy and seizure disorders. By providing grants for response training, we are ensuring that school staff are prepared to step into action. It’s about making sure every child has the support they need to thrive in school,” said Congressman Costa.

    “We must equip our schools with the resources they need so school personnel can be trained and prepared in the event that someone has a seizure,” said Senator Booker. “Students with epilepsy deserve to go to school without fear, and I am proud to introduce legislation which builds on the progress of states like New Jersey so we can create safer environments for our children to thrive.” 

    “I’m proud to introduce the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act to build on the progress we’ve made in New Jersey with Paul’s Law and ensure school staff members across the nation are prepared if a student has a seizure in the classroom,” said Congressman Norcross. “We know that about 470,000 children and teenagers live with epilepsy in the United States, and all our schools must know how to respond and keep them safe.”

    “This vital legislation will equip our schools with the essential training and resources to ensure that our students with epilepsy, both in PA-1 and across the nation, are surrounded by knowledgeable and prepared individuals ready to act. Safeguarding our children is our foremost responsibility, and the Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act will create safer learning environments and offer families the reassurance they need,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    “A seizure is a life-or-death situation and requires individuals to act fast with very little margin of error,” said Congresswoman Norton. The Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act will ensure that school faculty members are trained to assist if a student has a seizure in the classroom, and potentially save a life.”

    BACKGROUND
    Seizures are spontaneous surges in uncoordinated electrical activity in the brain that affect body movement or function, sensation, behavior, or awareness. It is estimated that 1 in 10 Americans will have at least one seizure in their lifetime. Epilepsy is a common neurological condition characterized by recurring seizures and is believed to develop in 1 out of 26 people in their lifetime. There are approximately 470,000 children and teenagers living with active epilepsy in the United States.

    About half of the states in the country have passed similar legislation to mandate or encourage seizure recognition and first aid training of school personnel, as well as other provisions to help ensure students with epilepsy are safe and supported in the school environment.

    The Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act would continue this momentum by authorizing funding to help ensure all students nationwide are surrounded by trained and prepared individuals, including: 

    • Training of school personnel to administer or assist with the administration of seizure medications.
    • Training and education of students on seizure awareness and preparedness.
    • Recruiting, hiring, and retaining compliance staff who are responsible for ensuring that all training and program requirements related to seizure awareness, preparedness, and management are consistently met.

    To see the full list of endorsing organizations, click HERE. 

    To read the full text of the bill, click HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: Democrats’ Radical Agenda is Crushing American Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), and Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.) to discuss how the disastrous Biden-Harris agenda has created one crisis after another while making life unaffordable for hardworking American families and how Republicans intend to fix it. Leader Scalise reviewed Harris’ radical positions on defunding the police and decriminalizing illegal border crossings. Additionally, Leader Scalise outlined House Republicans’ plan to end the Christmas Eve omnibus game once and for all and force Senate Democrats to do their job. 

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 

    On Kamala Harris’ record of supporting defund the police movements: 

    “This week is our last week in session before the election, but it is a very busy week, as you can see from the schedule. A lot of different bills being brought to the floor. [Rep.] Scott [Fitzgerald] just talked about one of them that’s so important. We’ve seen crime grow in our communities. We’ve seen these funds like the Minnesota Freedom Fund that are designed to help get criminals out of jail. And of course, Kamala Harris was there front and center, raising millions of dollars for that fund. What did it do? It helped get people out of jail who were out there in the middle of what they called the ‘Summer of Love’, who were attacking police officers, burning down police stations, other violent crimes where she was leading the charge to get them out of jail, the criminals, not protect the police officers. In fact, she’s made public statements over the last few years criticizing the idea of adding more police to communities.

    “And yet when you look at some of the cities that have the worst crime, who initially went down the failed road of defunding the police and then saw the devastation it caused in their communities, they’re trying to hire more police officers now, and they’re struggling to do it because they at least finally recognize they made a mistake. But once you taint that office by showing a community that the leadership of a city doesn’t support the police, police will go elsewhere. Good existing police officers go to other departments. Young people who want a career in law enforcement are not going to go to a place where it’s so volatile that they know that the leadership of that community doesn’t have their back. So they go to other places where they know that the local community will have their back. And so that is the devastation of that kind of attitude of defunding police, demonizing police that people like Kamala Harris have supported over the years.”

    On Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing border crisis:

    “When we leave here to go across the country in October, and as much as we’re going to miss you in this venue, maybe we’ll come back every week, Mike, I don’t know. We’ll do that once a week and see who shows up. More than likely, that won’t happen, but we will see you out on the road if you’re there. But when you go to swing districts where a lot of us will be, you see the same thing playing out in every community, whether it’s a swing state like Pennsylvania, where I just was last week, or whether it’s a community in California where they’ve got swing districts. You’re hearing people express the same frustration with the Biden-Harris administration.

    “The open border is still the top issue they bring up, and they’re furious about it. And yet Kamala continues to do nothing while she’s over there in the White House. She could go walk in the White House today and ask the president to reverse his policies that opened up the border, but she won’t because she wants an open border. She’s wanted that open border all her life. Again, she’s on video talking about how she wants to legalize people who come here illegally. Then when she tries to express, well, maybe I’m now for a secure border, and she’s pressed on it, she says my values haven’t changed.”

    On Kamala Harris casting the tie-breaking vote that caused the inflation crisis:

    “Her values are far-left liberal. They’ve been that way her whole life. She wants to ban fracking. She hasn’t changed her views on that. She wants to have an open border. Her views haven’t changed on that either. You’ve seen her radical views.

    “She cast the tie-breaking vote, as Conference Chair Elise [Stefanik] just talked about, to create the inflation that I hear about in every community I go to. Higher costs at the grocery store, higher costs at the gas station. Those are a direct result of not just the Biden administration’s policies, but Kamala Harris’ vote. I’m not talking about in the Senate where she might have been with 60 other people. I’m talking about Kamala Harris’ vote when it was a 50/50 tie, and it could have gone down with her vote, and we could have had lower inflation with her vote, but instead, she used her vote to raise inflation. Her tie-breaking vote that jacked up the inflation that’s crushing low and middle-income families today. Her tie-breaking vote, Kamala Harris, was the vote that doubled the size of the IRS. Now, some of those new agents that they’ve hired are going after the waiters and waitresses, making them pay higher taxes on tips. Then she claims that she wants to get rid of the tax on tips, yet she’s sicked an army of new IRS agents after those very same waiters and waitresses.”

    On making America strong again:

    “So what she has done has consequences. We’re going to be talking about this contrast because Donald Trump wants lower tax rates. Donald Trump wants to secure our border, and he did it before. Donald Trump wants sound tax policy where lower and middle-income families can actually benefit from the growth that comes with a healthy economy.Unfortunately, we don’t have that today, but we had it when Donald Trump was President of the United States last time. And so when you look at all of those things, and not to mention, of course, he’s always supported our men and women in uniform, and he’ll continue to do that again. He’ll stand up to the bad guys around the world. Right now, America is letting the bad guys around the world run roughshod over our allies and doing harm to America as well with no consequence. All that will change if we get President Trump back in office. That contrast, I think, is going to be sharply shown through the month of October, leading into the election November 5th.”

    On House Republicans ending the Christmas Eve omnibus game and forcing the Senate to do their job:

    “We’re also going to vote tomorrow on the CR. This is always a tough negotiation. The Senate wanted to try to spend more money, and Speaker [Johnson] stood up to the Senate and said, no, we’re not going to do that. They wanted to play this Christmas Eve omni game that they used to play, having an omnibus dropped on Christmas Eve, and nobody’s read the bill, and it just gets voted on, and everybody leaves town. We said no to that last year. Mike Johnson, as speaker, is saying no to that again this year, which is so important to say, we’re going to change the way Washington works. We passed over 70% of the spending bills out of the House. The Senate has passed zero, not a single bill out of the Senate. How do you have a negotiation when one side refuses to do their job? We’re going to continue to at least do our job, and that starts tomorrow on the CR.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by the Prime Minister on the death of the Honourable Francis Fox

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of the Honourable Francis Fox:

    “It is with sadness that I learned today of the death of the Honourable Francis Fox, former senator and Member of Parliament for Blainville—Deux-Montagnes.

    “Francis has dedicated his career to serving Canadians. A lawyer by profession, he was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 1972. Over the next 12 years, he has been a tireless advocate for his constituents, his community and Canadians across the country.

    “When my father was Prime Minister, Francis served as Solicitor General of Canada, Minister of Communications and Secretary of State of Canada. Among other contributions, he introduced the historic Access to Information Act and led the creation of Telefilm Canada, which continues to promote and foster Canadian talent in film and media today.

    “His leadership earned him an appointment to the Senate in 2005, where he served Canadians until his retirement.

    “Francis left an indelible mark on Canadian politics. Today, we remember him and the legacy he leaves us. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my condolences to his family and friends.”

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Bangladesh’s senior advisor, Muhammad Yunus

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Bangladesh’s Senior Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated Senior Advisor Yunus for his strong leadership during a pivotal time in Bangladesh’s history. The two discussed the outcomes of the Future Summit and the importance of accelerating progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

    The Prime Minister and the Chief Advisor discussed the political situation in Bangladesh, including progress made in implementing digital reforms, combating corruption, and improving the transparency and accountability of democratic institutions. The leaders agreed on the need to empower young people to ensure a more just future for all generations.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Senior Advisor Yunus highlighted the strong friendship between Canada and Bangladesh, which is based on deep people-to-people ties. The leaders agreed to deepen their cooperation and remain in close and regular contact.

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    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI