NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Declaration Secured for Tropical Storm Debby Impacts

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that President Biden has approved her request for a Major Disaster Declaration to provide federal assistance to communities impacted by Tropical Storm Debby on August 8-10. This declaration allows for federal financial assistance to support public infrastructure reconstruction efforts in Allegany, Broome, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, Ontario, Steuben, St. Lawrence and Yates counties.

    “The effects of Tropical Storm Debby caused extreme damage across parts of New York last month, and I’m thankful President Biden has approved my request for a Major Disaster Declaration,” Governor Hochul said. “My administration will continue to work with FEMA to ensure those affected receive the critical funding they need to begin the recovery and rebuilding process.”

    A Major Disaster Declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government, primarily through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, and provides funding to local governments and eligible non-profits for debris removal, protective measures, and repairs to buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater treatment facilities, critical infrastructure sites, schools, parks and other facilities.

    As part of the declaration, New York was also granted access to FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs. Following a Presidential disaster declaration, FEMA provides funding for states to administer grant programs supporting local hazard mitigation planning and long-term hazard mitigation measures to reduce the loss of life and to improve property damaged by natural disasters. Local governments and certain non-profits that perform government-like functions are eligible to apply for these grants. All counties in the State will have the ability to apply for this funding. More information will become available in the coming months.

    In advance of the storm, Governor Hochul directed State agencies to ready emergency response assets and stay in real-time communication with local governments to monitor weather impacts and respond to requests for assistance. After the storms, Governor Kathy Hochul announced grants of up to $50,000 to be available to eligible homeowners in Allegany, Delaware, Franklin, Steuben and St. Lawrence Counties to address health and safety-related repairs not covered by insurance or other disaster relief programs.

    Representative Nick Langworthy said, “Seeing the damage up close in some of the hardest hit areas, it became clear how essential federal assistance was for these communities to recover, and I was proud to be a vocal advocate for the Southern Tier throughout this process. With homes, businesses, and key infrastructure severely impacted, this Major Disaster Declaration will allow people to rebuild their lives. Now that this assistance is in place, we can focus on helping our neighbors get back on their feet after such a devastating storm.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Prime Minister of Canada – in French

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    The leaders highlighted the close relationship between Canada and the European Union (EU) and the importance of continuing their collaboration on shared priorities, such as economic security, sustainable development and global stability.

    The Prime Minister and the President discussed the need for action on climate change, carbon pricing and industrial decarbonization. They emphasized the critical role the private sector can play in driving innovation and accelerating investment to support the clean energy transition.

    The leaders exchanged views on pressing geopolitical issues. They reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression and stressed the importance of promoting lasting peace and security in the Middle East.

    They also reaffirmed their support for Haiti, and highlighted the decisive steps taken to restore peace and stability there. Prime Minister Trudeau stressed the need for additional support to the United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support Mission to ensure its success.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and President von der Leyen looked forward to continuing to strengthen the strong partnership between Canada and the EU, including through Canada’s G7 Presidency next year. The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact.

    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 USA: Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman hosts fall Defense Senior Enlisted Leader Council

    Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

    Headline: Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman hosts fall Defense Senior Enlisted Leader Council

    Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman (SEAC) U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black hosted the Service Senior Enlisted Advisors, Combatant Command Command Senior Enlisted Leaders, fourth estate Senior Enlisted Leaders, and their spouses at the first day of the fall Defense Senior Enlisted Leader Council (DSELC) at the General Jacob E. Smart Conference Center, Joint Base Andrews, Md., Sept. 23, 2024. The primary objective of the DSELC is to solve problems and provide recommendations related to the development and management of the enlisted members of the Joint Force and advancing the Secretary of Defense’s Taking Care of Our People initiative.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Remarks by Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall at the President’s Summit of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats | New York,  NY

    Source: The White House

    Good afternoon.  I am Liz Sherwood-Randall, President Biden’s Homeland Security Advisor.  
     
    In closing, on behalf of the Biden-Harris Administration, I want to thank each of you for joining us here today. In particular, I want to express our gratitude to each of the Heads of State and Government and your cabinet members who accepted President Biden’s invitation to participate and make an enduring commitment to this vital endeavor.  
     
    This is the first ever gathering on this scale of leaders from every continent across the planet who are dedicated to the fight against fentanyl and synthetic drugs.  And that reflects how seriously we take the threat that it is creating in our respective homelands.
     
    As you may know, I have devoted much of my life to countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. I view fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction. The lessons from that enduring challenge are directly relevant to the fight against illicit fentanyl and synthetic drugs today.
     
    This is a global problem that requires a global solution.  None of us can meet it effectively alone. We need to weave a strong and resilient web of committed countries, and we need to work in close collaboration with partners in international organizations and the private sector.  That is the only way we can meet the moment.  And the moment is now. We are in a fight to save lives.
     
    So I especially want to thank each of the Coalition Members whose leaders have agreed to mobilize new initiatives to: 
     
    Disrupt the supply chain for fentanyl and other illicit goods 

    Detect emerging drug trends; and

    Prevent and treat those affected by this crisis, through increased public health interventions and distribution of life-saving medications.
     
    Because of the new initiatives, we will be doing even more than we have already done to map and disrupt transit routes, establish early warning systems to detect new drug trends before they reach crisis levels, and prevent deaths by expanding treatment, training more health care workers, and distributing life-saving medications.

    I urge each of you to participate in these accelerated efforts.  And I also encourage each of you to sign on to the Member Pledge that we shared with you. This pledge to take additional steps in each of our countries reinforces our collective commitment to turn words into concrete actions.  Together we can make a real difference in our communities by disrupting drug traffickers and protecting our people from harm.

    On behalf of President Biden, thank you again for joining us here in New York today, and I look forward to our ongoing work together. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 09/23/2024 Blackburn, Sullivan, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Hold VA Accountable for Financial Shortfall

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and 12 of their Senate colleagues in introducing the Protecting Regular Order (PRO) for Veterans Act to hold the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable for the Veterans Benefits Administration’s (VBA) nearly $3 billion budget shortfall and the $12 billion projected shortfall in Fiscal Year 2025 for VA medical care.

    Last week during a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Blackburn questioned the VA’s Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs and Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal on the VA’s gross mismanagement of federal funds.  

    “The VA’s budget shortfall that put millions of veterans’ benefits at risk is only the agency’s latest failure to responsibly manage federal funds under the Biden-Harris administration’s leadership, and it proves the VA needs to be subject to greater accountability and oversight,” said Senator Blackburn. “This legislation would require the VA to provide regular, in-person budget reports to Congress to ensure they are properly managing taxpayer dollars.”

    PROTECTING REGULAR ORDER FOR VETERANS ACT:
    • This legislation would institute a three-year requirement for the VA to submit quarterly in-person budget reports to Congress to give federal legislators the opportunity to ask questions and strengthen oversight and accountability of the VA. 
    • Earlier this year, a watchdog report found that the VA improperly awarded $10.8 million in bonuses to senior executives at its central office.
    • If there are VA budget shortfalls outside of regular order, this legislation would restrict bonuses for Senior Executive Service (SES) employees in the VA’s central office as well as employees at the Office of Management and Budget.

    CO-SPONSORS:
    • This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). 

    Click here for bill text. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republicans Block Senate Democrats’ Resolution Affirming Right to Lifesaving Emergency Care for Women

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Murray Leads Congressional Democrats in Amicus Brief Urging SCOTUS to Affirm that EMTALA Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Stabilizing Care Including Abortion Care, Preempts Idaho’s Draconian Abortion Ban
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Challenges Republicans to Join Democrats in Affirming the Right to Lifesaving Emergency Care for Women
    ICYMI – FROM PROPUBLICA: Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say This Mother’s Death Was Preventable.
    ***WATCH: SENATOR MURRAY’S FLOOR SPEECH HERE***
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (HELP), took to the Senate floor in an effort to pass her resolution, which simply expresses the sense of the Senate that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live.  Murray’s resolution was blocked by Republican Senator James Lankford (R-OK), who falsely claimed that no doctors are prevented from providing lifesaving care because of Republican abortion bans and tried to misleadingly place the blame for Amber Thurman’s death on the rare side effects she encountered rather than Thurman’s doctors not providing immediate treatment as a result of Georgia’s abortion ban. ProPublica’s reporting made plain that—according to the state’s own medical review board—Amber Thurman’s death was preventable and doctors and researchers continue to make clear that medication abortion is safe.
    Lankford also incorrectly claimed no women have been investigated or criminalized following a miscarriage—a new report found that from June 2022 to June 2023 there was a record 200 cases where pregnant women faced criminal charges for conduct associated with pregnancy, pregnancy loss or birth.
    “Let me be perfectly clear about what is happening,” said Senator Murray after Republicans blocked her resolution. “Here in America, in the 21st century, pregnant women are suffering and dying—not because doctors don’t know how to save them, but because doctors don’t know if Republicans will let them. There are skyrocketing maternal death rates in states like Texas. And as I spoke out on the floor last week—there are, at least, two women dead in Georgia today because of Republican abortion bans. Those kids are now growing up without a mother. That is the harsh reality. Republicans can’t ignore that. Donald Trump can’t shout over it. And the American people will not—ever—forget it.”
    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned, or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear that they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act’s (EMTALA) requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.
    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court dismissed the case and sent it back to the lower courts, effectively punting on making a decision on the case itself. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. 121 Congressional Republicans, including 26 Senators, filed an amicus brief arguing that EMTALA does not require hospitals to provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life.
    Senator Murray is a longtime leader in the fight to protect and expand access to reproductive health care and abortion rights, and she has led Congressional efforts to fight back after the Supreme Court’s disastrous decision overturning Roe v. Wade. Murray has introduced more than a dozen pieces of legislation to protect reproductive rights from further attacks, protect providers, and help ensure women get the care they need; Murray has led efforts to push for passage of these bills on the floor multiple times. Senator Murray also co-leads the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would restore the right to abortion nationwide. This January, Murray led her colleagues in hosting a “State of Abortion Rights” briefing with women who have suffered firsthand from Republican abortion bans. On June 4th of this year, Senator Murray chaired a HELP Committee hearing titled “The Assault on Women’s Freedoms: How Abortion Bans Have Created a Health Care Nightmare Across America.” Recently, Murray also helped lead efforts to force Republicans on the record on votes to protect access to contraception and access to IVF (twice). Murray has also led her colleagues in raising the alarm about how a second Trump administration intends to wage an all-out assault on reproductive rights and abortion access in every state, as outlined in Project 2025.
    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, before seeking unanimous consent are below:
    “I come to the floor to offer a simple resolution, one that reaffirms the basic principle that when you go to the ER, the emergency room, they should be allowed to treat you. When your life is in danger, doctors should be able to do their job. When you need emergency care—including an abortion—no politician should stop you from getting it.
    “Now this seems incredibly simple to me. It should not be controversial. Especially if everyone who talks about protecting the life of the mother seriously means it.
    “After all—that is what emergency care is for—saving the life of the mother.
    “And yet, when the Biden-Harris Administration tried to make clear that these women should get care, many Republicans actually opposed them. I really want to emphasize—we are talking about women whose water breaks dangerously early, or who are experiencing uncontrollable hemorrhaging, sepsis, or pre-eclampsia.
    “And still, Republicans actually filed a brief in court saying essentially, ‘No, we DON’T think doctors should be required to provide abortion care when a patient’s life is at stake.’
    “Their brief rejected the idea—that basic medical reality—of abortion as stabilizing care. That is really shocking to me. It should be shocking to everyone.
    “After a brief like that—I am not going to let any of my Republican colleagues off the hook just for saying they care about the life of the mother…
    “Not if they won’t lift a finger to actually protect women, and to actually make clear that emergency care can include abortion.
    “We need to send a clear message on that. The Senate needs to speak with one voice and tell the American people, ‘Yes, we want to make sure your doctor can save your life. Your doctor can save your life.’
    “And before my Republican colleagues get up to object, let me be clear: You will not get by pretending a resolution like this isn’t necessary—not when we are hearing firsthand from doctors wracked with guilt for decisions that Republican politicians made for them, not when we are hearing firsthand from women who have bled, suffered, and nearly died because their care was delayed, and certainly not when Texas saw maternal deaths skyrocket following its strict abortion ban.
    “The data in Texas paints a clear, brutal picture of the reality: these abortion bans are killing women. Republicans are also not going to get by trying to shift blame and argue ‘emergency care is already protected.’ Because, the whole point of this resolution is to say emergency care is protected!
    “So if you oppose the Senate actually SAYING that don’t you see how that could be part of the problem? Don’t you see how that could be very dangerous for women?
    “And again, and I can’t emphasize this enough—if you don’t see, if you don’t understand—all you have to do is listen.
    “Women are speaking out. Doctors are speaking out. They are terrified. They are heartbroken. They are angry. And they are watching right now, to see if we can pass this resolution and do the very bare minimum of saying, with one voice: ‘women have a right to get abortion care when their life is at stake.”
    Senator Murray’s full remarks as delivered following Senator Lankford’s objection are below:
    “I disagree with the Senator from Oklahoma. Let me be perfectly clear about what is happening.
    “Here in America, in the 21st century, pregnant women are suffering and dying—not because doctors don’t know how to save them, but because doctors don’t know if Republicans will let them.
    “There are skyrocketing maternal death rates in states like Texas. And as I spoke out on the floor last week—there are, at least, two women dead in Georgia today because of Republican abortion bans.
    “Those kids are now growing up without a mother. That is the harsh reality. Republicans can’t ignore that. Donald Trump can’t shout over it. And the American people will not—ever—forget it.
    “Every day we are going to continue to hold the people opposed to this accountable for the cruelty of these abortion bans. The fact is that the resolution that I offered simply says that doctors can provide emergency care for the life of the mother. I don’t understand where the disagreement is, M. President. And I hope that we can pass this and give doctors and women the confidence that when you are pregnant and having a severe emergency medical situation you’ll be treated. Thank you. I yield the floor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Marshall, Durbin Statement on DOJ Lawsuit Alleging Visa Debit Card Practices Violate Federal Antitrust Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), lead sponsors of the bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit against Visa alleging that the company illegally maintains a monopoly over debit network markets through anticompetitive practices that violate federal antitrust law:
    “According to the DOJ’s lawsuit, Visa made exclusive agreements to hinder the expansion of competing networks and blocked efforts by technology companies to enter the market.  At a time when hard-working Americans and small business owners are struggling with higher costs of everyday essentials, Visa should not be gaming the system to pad their own pockets.
    “Visa and its duopoly partner Mastercard similarly dominate the credit card market.  One way to bring competition to the market is to pass our bipartisan, bicameral legislation—the Credit Card Competition Act—which would enhance competition between credit card networks and ultimately lower costs for small businesses and consumers.  Our bill ensures that the Visa-Mastercard duopoly ends their price gouging tactics that disproportionately hurt American families and small businesses.”
    It is estimated that businesses paid more than $100 billion in swipe fees on Visa and Mastercard branded cards in 2023 alone. In fact, swipe fees can be small businesses’ second highest cost behind only the cost of labor.
    The Credit Card Competition Act of 2023 would enhance competition and choice in the credit card network market which is currently dominated by the Visa-Mastercard duopoly.  Building off of debit card competition reforms enacted by Congress in 2010, the bill would direct the Federal Reserve to ensure that largest credit card-issuing banks offer a choice of at least two networks over which an electronic credit transaction may be processed.  The bill is estimated to save merchants and consumers $15 billion each year.
    Visa and Mastercard wield enormous market power in credit cards; according to the Federal Reserve, they account for nearly 576 million cards, or about 83 percent of general-purpose credit cards. Visa’s and Mastercard’s market power and network structure have enabled them to impose fees on U.S. merchants that are among the world’s highest.  These fees include interchange fees which Visa and Mastercard require merchants to pay to issuing banks, as well as network fees that Visa and Mastercard require merchants to pay directly to them. Consumers ultimately pay for these fees in the price of the goods and services they buy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Slams PBM Price Gouging Tactics in Ozempic and Wegovy Drug Pricing Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Slams PBM Price Gouging Tactics in Ozempic and Wegovy Drug Pricing Hearing
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. questioned the CEO of Novo Nordisk, the company that created the blockbuster drugs Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide). As part of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing on drug pricing, Senator Marshall questioned the CEO about the role that Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) play in inflating the prices of essential drugs. His series of questions exposed how these middlemen are reaping enormous profits at the expense of patients and pharmaceutical companies.
    Senator Marshall has been a leading voice against abusive pricing practices by PBMs, who control which medications are covered by insurance, driving up costs for consumers. During the hearing, Marshall emphasized that Novo Nordisk receives only 26% of the revenue from drugs like Ozempic, while PBMs take 74%, highlighting the need for urgent reform of PBMs to lower prescription drug prices for patients.

    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full remarks and questioning.
    Highlights from Marshall’s questioning include:
    On PBMs:
    “Novo Nordisk is not the villain in this story – they’re a hero. We should be here celebrating this miracle innovation that’s responding to this diabetic epidemic we have in this country. It’s a miracle drug. 38 million Americans with diabetes that we’re helping out. This nation is spending $250, maybe $350, billion a year treating diabetes, not to mention the loss of work, and here’s a drug that’s going to help us treat the problem.”
    “We all agree on this committee across the Senate that the cost of health care is too much, and that prescription drugs are too high, especially the out-of-pocket expenses, but we need to figure out who the villain is…Whatever the cost is, whichever number we want to use, Novo Nordisk keeps 24% of it, and the PBMs extract 74% – 26% and 74% – so really, the PBMs are making the bank here.”
    “Let’s talk about PBMs for a second here, the real culprit in this room, in this story. So, these three big parent companies, the three big PBMs, control 80%-85% of the industry. Their gross revenue last year was $800 billion.”
    “This committee has worked so hard on PBM reform. We’ve not passed our delinking bill, and I would ask the chairman to consider bringing the delinking bill back to the committee and let us mark it up as well. In that delinking bill, PBMs would receive a flat fee for their efforts, as opposed to a percentage of the sale, so we go to a flat fee model.”
    “The other thing we can still work on is bringing competition. Promoting competition will bring this price down. We passed legislation, the President signed legislation that helps drive biosimilars and generics to market more efficiently.”
    “I’ll just close one more time, just emphasizing that this committee needs to demand that the leader bring our PBM reform to the floor, but we need to include that delinking bill. There’s other opportunities to drive this price down. Again, Novo Nordisk is not the villain in the story.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 09/24/2024 Blackburn Probes Big Tech Platforms After Cox Media Group Admits It Listens to Users’ Phone Conversations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent three letters to the leadership of Cox Media Group and its clients, Google and Meta, following reporting that Cox Media Group admitted to investors that it listens to users’ smartphone microphones using “Active Listening” software.

    According to this reporting, Cox Media Group claimed the company targets advertisements based on phone conversations of potential customers and identified specific clients during a slide deck presentation to investors, including Google and Meta. Both Google and Meta have a troublesome history of ignoring consumer privacy.

    Cox Media Group Admitted It Uses Artificial Intelligence to Listen to Phone Conversations

    “I write today with concerns following recent reporting by the New York Post that Cox Media Group has admitted to investors that it deploys ‘active listening’ software, which uses artificial intelligence to ‘capture real-time intent data by listening to [users] phone conversations.’”

    Reporting Confirms Longstanding Concerns Held by Consumers about Online Privacy

    “Consumers have long expressed concerns about their privacy in the virtual space and how their data is misused. If this reporting is true, it confirms longstanding suspicions by many consumers that technology and media companies are violating their privacy for profit by marketing products that closely reflect key words or phrases from private conversations. It is imperative that consumers have the ability to clearly opt in and out of features that track their behavior and that they are alerted when these features are deployed. I request a copy of the slide deck presented to investors.”

    Blackburn Demands Google and Meta Reveal Extent “Active Listening” Tools Were Deployed on Users

    “I am seeking answers regarding Google’s [and Meta’s] relationship with Cox Media Group, the extent to which, if at all, ‘active listening’ tools were deployed on users, the steps Google [and Meta] [are] taking to investigate the products and services from Cox Media Group used by Google [and on Facebook] and the extent to which those products may have violated any applicable privacy policies or user agreements [and users’ privacy].”

    BACKGROUND:
    • Last year, Google settled a $5 billion lawsuit claiming it “secretly tracked the internet use of millions of people who thought they were doing their browsing privately.” This is not the first time Google has seen legal action for violating consumers’ privacy rights. A search engine with the reach of Google must prioritize the privacy of its users and use diligence when handling their data.
    • In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) imposed a $5 billion penalty on Facebook for violating consumers’ privacy. Then-FTC Chairman Joe Simons said of Facebook, “despite repeated promises to its billions of users worldwide that they could control how their personal information is shared, Facebook undermined consumers’ choices.” This long-demonstrated pattern of public reassurances by Meta directly contradicts the company’s record of flagrant disregard for user privacy.

    Click here to view the letter to Meta Platforms Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

    Click here to view the letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

    Click here to view the letter to Cox Media Group President and CEO Daniel York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sinema to Arizona Chamber: As We Look to the Future, Arizona Needs Strong Leaders Who Can Do the Hard Work & Get Things Done 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kyrsten Sinema (Arizona)

    The senator highlighted her ongoing work expanding opportunities to build a bright, prosperous, and thriving future for Arizona businesses and families.

    WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema spoke to the Arizona Chamber of Commerce as part of the Chamber’s semi-annual fly-in to Washington, D.C. about her work to deliver real, lasting solutions strengthening economic opportunities for the state.

    “My values are Arizona’s values, and I’ll continue working with anyone to get things done – no matter the challenge or the politics of the day – to build a bright, prosperous, and thriving future for our great state,” said Sinema. 

    In her speech, Sinema discussed her continued work bringing her colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fund Arizona priorities and ensure this year’s NDAA includes strong investments for Arizona’s military installations and aerospace defense community.

    Through the senator’s leadership on multiple key bipartisan accomplishments – like her landmark bipartisan infrastructure law, and the CHIPS and Science law – Sinema secured and delivered historic investments fueling a healthy, resilient Arizona economy for families and businesses alike. 

    Earlier this year, at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Update from Capitol Hill, Sinema called on business leaders to put Arizona first. She encouraged the business community to be active participants in the legislative process, speak out and act against extreme policies and rhetoric, and follow her example of delivering durable results for Arizona.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Walz Highlights $3.5 Billion in Federal Climate Grants During Climate Week

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    In recognition of Climate Week, Governor Tim Walz today highlighted nearly $3.5 billion in federal climate grants that Minnesota has received since 2022. Federal funding, combined with the state’s historic climate investments, is fueling the clean energy economy, creating new jobs, and generating billions in private sector investments statewide.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Commission on Judicial Selection Recommends Eighth Judicial District Candidates to Governor Walz

    Source: US State of Minnesota

    The Commission on Judicial Selection announced today that it is recommending three candidates for consideration to fill the vacancy in Minnesota’s Eighth Judicial District. The vacancy will occur upon the retirement of the Honorable Thomas W. Van Hon. This seat will be chambered in Montevideo in Chippewa County.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Wicker Statement on Amphibious Multi-Ship Buy Signing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement following the formal announcement that the Department of the Navy has contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., to build one America-class and three San Antonio-class amphibious warships through fiscal year 2029:

    “It is terrific that the Navy has made official what many of us have known for years: the future of American seapower flows through the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I am pleased that a new tranche of amphibious warships will be built by my home state’s skilled shipbuilders,” Senator Wicker said. “I am hopeful that the Department of Defense uses cost-saving multi-ship procurement model for other critical defense programs in the future.”

    See Senator Wicker’s August statement when Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro notified Congress of the multi-ship buy here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Baldwin Calls on Senate to Pass Her Bill to Create a Reproductive Health Travel Fund

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WATCH: Baldwin speaking on the Senate floor in support of the Reproductive Health Travel Fund Act
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) went to the U.S. Senate floor to advance her legislation to break down barriers to abortion care for women in states without access. The Reproductive Health Travel Fund Act would help offset the cost of travel-related expenses associated with traveling long distances to access reproductive health care, such as travel, lodging, meals, childcare, and more. Senator Baldwin’s call to unanimously advance the bill failed after a Senate Republican objected.
    “Across the country, women have been stripped of the freedom to make their own decisions about their family, their health, and their future. Judges and politicians have inserted themselves into exam rooms, telling doctors they cannot treat their patients, sometimes even if that treatment would save her life,” said Senator Baldwin. “The rights you have as an American should not depend on the state you live in. If we cannot restore Roe this Congress, we should at the very least extend a lifeline to the millions of women who are unable to access needed care in their own communities.”
    For 15 months from June 2022 until September 2023, women in Wisconsin lived under an 1849 abortion ban. Prior to the Dobbs decision, only 16%, or one in six, of Wisconsin abortion patients received out-of-state care. In 2023, that number was up to 88%, meaning that nine out of ten patients had to seek out-of-state care. Wisconsinites have traveled to Illinois for care from all 72 counties. In 2023, over 6,000 Wisconsinites fled to Minnesota and Illinois to get abortion care. The average cost of seeking care out of state exceeded $1,000, with patients spending an average of $330 on lodging alone. Even with limited access to abortion returning to Wisconsin in September 2023, the monthly number of traveling patients from Wisconsin to Illinois remains three times higher than it was pre-Dobbs.
    The Reproductive Health Travel Fund Act would set up a grant program to help ease the financial burden associated with traveling long distances to access safe and legal reproductive health care. Specifically, the bill would allow the Treasury Secretary to award grants to eligible entities to pay for travel-related expenses and logistical support for individuals accessing abortion services. Funds, made available through a competitive grant, could be used for round trip travel, lodging, meals, childcare, translation services, doula care, patient education and information services, and lost wages.
    Eligible entities include non-profits or community-based organizations that assist individuals seeking abortions. Grants would be prioritized for entities that serve people who live in a jurisdiction that has banned or severely restricted access to abortion, serve those who travel to a jurisdiction to access abortion care, or have a program in operation that helps patients access abortion services.
    Watch Senator Baldwin’s full remarks here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Cotton Applaud Senate Passage of Resolution to Establish National Warrior Call Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC)— U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, and U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) announced their resolution to designate November 17, 2024, as National Warrior Call Day passed the Senate unanimously. This bipartisan resolution emphasizes the need for all Americans to reach out and build meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans. These relationships can help fight mental illness and combat the epidemic of suicide among military members.   

    “We have a responsibility to support the brave men and women who have served this nation that extends well beyond their time in the line of duty,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our bipartisan resolution designates a National Warrior Call Day to help strengthen relationships between veterans and civilians and better keep lines of communication open in order to share resources and provide support.” 

    “Americans can never fully pay back those who serve in defense of America. We can, however, make sure that active military members and veterans have access to the support they need after serving to lead active and healthy lives. This bipartisan resolution will raise awareness on the importance of building relationships with those who defend our freedom,” said Senator Cotton.  

    Co-sponsoring the resolution are U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA),  John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joe Manchin (I-WV), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jim Risch (R-ID), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tim Scott (R-SC), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Thune (R-SD), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). 

    Resolution text is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BREAKING: Cortez Masto’s Bill to Reauthorize the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act Passed Into Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    The reauthorization of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act heads to President Biden’s desk for signature before the act was set to expire on October 1, 2024

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto’s (D-Nev.) bill to extend the authorization of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act for 10 years passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. Cortez Masto’s legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) in the Senate. The Senate passed this bill in July, and it now goes to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

    “I was thrilled to pass the reauthorization of the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act through the Senate this summer, and today’s vote means this critical legislation is officially on its way to becoming law,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud of our bipartisan work to deliver funding for vital programs that keep the lake clean, support local jobs, and support our tourism economy. It is an honor to help lead Team Tahoe and fight for the resources the basin needs to thrive.”

    “Lake Tahoe is a treasure, and we must do everything we can to protect it for future generations,” said Senator Padilla. “As the threats from climate change continue to escalate, I’m thrilled to see the House join the Senate to provide critical funding to preserve Lake Tahoe and protect it against pollution, invasive species, and wildfires.”

    “For the last two decades, lawmakers from both parties have come together and worked in a bipartisan way to protect Lake Tahoe and the surrounding communities,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to continue this legacy by working with Republicans and Democrats in Congress to pass the Lake Tahoe Restoration Reauthorization Act and reauthorize this much-needed funding to help preserve one of Nevada’s most unique natural wonders for generations to come.”

    “By reauthorizing the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act, we protect the iconic landscapes that make California beautiful and support local jobs that rely on a healthy Lake Tahoe,” said Senator Butler. “Although we have made significant progress in keeping Tahoe blue, we must remain steadfast to protect it from climate change, wildfires, and pollution.”

    “The Lake Tahoe Region is grateful to Congress for their leadership in passing this critical piece of legislation to continue the collaborative work to protect and restore Lake Tahoe,” said Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Executive Director Julie Regan. “Extending the federal investment in the EIP will leverage millions of dollars in state and local funding to implement the top priority projects for the lake and our communities.”

    The Lake Tahoe Restoration Act is bicameral, and is cosponsored in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02), John Garamendi (D-Calif.-03), Dina Titus (D-Nev.- 01), Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-04), John Duarte (R-Calif.-13) and Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-06). It will allow critical funding to support environmental protection and habitat restoration programs across the basin for the next ten years. This law has delivered millions in federal dollars to Lake Tahoe since the original law passed in 2000.

    Senator Cortez Masto has been a champion for Lake Tahoe, leading efforts in the Senate to conserve the region and protect the Lake. She recently secured $24 million to extend the popular East Shore Trail around Lake Tahoe, and almost $8 million to help the Tahoe Transportation District purchase new electric hybrid busses and improve transit safety. She secured nearly $17 million in funding for the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, in addition to critical resources to address microplastic pollution in the Lake and to improve transportation options to and from Reno. She has led calls for a comprehensive, collaborative, and science-based approach to protect Lake Tahoe from the threat of climate change. Cortez Masto helped pass the Great American Outdoors Act, which was signed into law to repair and maintain public lands nationwide.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch, Grassley Call Out Abuses in the Biden-Harris Unaccompanied Migrant Children Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) led 41 bicameral Republican colleagues in a letter urging President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to work with Congress to root out abuses in their administration’s unaccompanied migrant children program and stop the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)’s cover-up of the crisis.
    The lawmakers are urging Biden and Harris to “make changes to [their] policies and procedures” in order to “end this public safety crisis.”  They are specifically calling on the Biden-Harris administration to enhance information-sharing with law enforcement and Congress, fully cooperate with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) child exploitation investigation and thoroughly respond to all congressional oversight requests.
    “[The Biden-Harris HHS] must stop its cover-up and cooperate with law enforcement and Congress to end this crisis and protect unaccompanied children and the American people,” the lawmakers concluded.
    More than 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children have crossed the southwest border under the Biden-Harris administration, while cartel trafficking activity surged an estimated 2,500 percent.  Amid this crisis, the lawmakers note the Biden-Harris administration limited background checks for sponsors of unaccompanied children, cut back on familial DNA testing at the border and decreased information sharing with law enforcement.
    Joining Crapo, Risch and Grassley on the letter are U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina),  John Thune (R-South Dakota), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) and 15 members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Governments and Philanthropies Commit Approximately US$350 Million, Giving Urgent Boost to Family Planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health Supplies and Services Worldwide

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    During the UN General Assembly, countries and donors rally critical investments to save women and girls’ lives and drive sustainable development.

    As part of the global effort to secure sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for all, governments and philanthropies have committed approximately US$350 million in new investments to expand access to family planning and sexual and reproductive health services. 

    Healthy women are the foundation of healthy families, vibrant communities, and prosperous economies and demand for SRH services is growing globally. Between 2023 and 2035, the number of people in low- and middle-income countries using modern contraceptives is predicted to increase by 95.4 million and annual births will increase by 3.29 million. Yet, a significant financing gap for contraceptives and lifesaving maternal health medicines – reaching at least US$1.5 billion in the world’s poorest countries alone by 2030 – threatens to derail hard-earned progress. Today, only 57 per cent of women are able to make their own decisions about their SRHR—a lack of autonomy that can put women’s lives at risk, rob them of opportunities, and foster an intergenerational cycle of poverty. 

    Together, the landmark commitments announced today on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly — ranging from countries committing domestic resources for reproductive health supplies to donor governments pledging funds to the UNFPA Supplies Partnership and new commitments from private sector and foundation partners — will help transform the lives of women and girls in 54 countries.

    “Investing in reproductive health supplies is a ‘best buy’ for development, empowering women, improving maternal and newborn health outcomes, and uplifting economies,” said Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA, the UN sexual and reproductive health agency. “The significant new resources that governments and philanthropies are committing to are a lifeline for millions of women, who can now enjoy reproductive freedom and the power of choice. Together, we must close the funding gap for reproductive health commodities so that every woman, everywhere, can exercise her fundamental rights.” 

    The contributions to UNFPA alone have the potential to reach more than 28 million people with reproductive health care, prevent more than 8 million unintended pregnancies, avert more than 2 million unsafe abortions, and save the lives of up to 9,000 women and girls.

    Domestic financing commitments include:

    • The Kyrgyz Republic announced US$119,000 to domestic resources for family planning commodities. 
    • The Republic of Madagascar announced a US$15 million government contribution to procure quality-assured contraceptives and maternal health medicines through UNFPA.
    • Nepal announced a US$600,000 government contribution to purchase quality-assured contraceptives.

    Financing commitments from international donors include: 

    • The Government of Canada announced US$84 million commitment to SRHR projects.
    • The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) announced a US$100 million commitment to co-fund the WISH/Step-Up (Women’s Integrated Sexual Health) platform, strengthening donor coordination on funding access to SRH choices for communities in the Sahel and Democratic Republic of Congo.
    • The Kingdom of the Netherlands committed to a multi-annual partnership.
    • Norway announced a US$12.3 million commitment to the UNFPA Supplies Partnership over 2 years.
    • The Government of Spain announced a US$18 million commitment to UNFPA. 

    Other commitments include:

    • The European Union and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced a partnership to design new innovative financing mechanisms to expand contraceptive and SRH access for women in low- and middle-income countries.
    • As a catalytic in-kind investment, HELP Logistics (Kühne Foundation) committed to bringing their expertise to UNFPA’s supply chain strengthening activities to help ensure SRH services reach those who need them most.

    A Smart Investment for Health, Prosperity, and Sustainable Development

    “When we invest in healthy women, we invest in a healthy world,” said Dr. Anita Zaidi, President of the Gender Equality Division at the Gates Foundation. “Family planning is a proven, high-impact intervention that not only saves lives but also fuels economic growth, makes societies more resilient, and advances gender equality. Investing in family planning can help unlock a brighter, more sustainable future for us all.”

    Increasing sexual and reproductive health financing pays off.  Globally, every US$1 invested in family planning yields more than US$8 in benefits for families and societies. Addressing the women’s health gap – in which they currently spend 25 per cent more of their lives in poor health compared to men – will boost the global economy by US$1 trillion by 2040. That amounts to an increase in per capita GDP of nearly 2 per cent every year. 

    A World Made Possible by Family Planning 

    Furthering the impact of today’s domestic financing announcements, the governments of the Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, and Nepal have ongoing commitments under FP2030 to expand access to family planning. FP2030 – a global partnership dedicated to putting family planning at the centre of global health, development, and gender equality – premiered a new video at the UN General Assembly featuring Nigerian football star Asisat Oshoala and former US Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star and American business owner Renee Montgomery speaking to all that has been made possible by continued investments in family planning and SRH.

    “So much of our world has been made possible by family planning. By enabling more women to shape their lives and futures, family planning has helped women to finish their education, join the workforce, ascend to leadership positions, and achieve their dreams,” said Dr. Samukeliso Dube, Executive Director of FP2030. “The commitments made to family planning and sexual and reproductive health today will create limitless possibilities for women, for families, and for our collective future.”

    Investing in Family Planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health is Investing in the Future

    Today’s commitments represent a critical step towards ensuring universal access to SRH services. While the work is far from over, these commitments get us closer to closing the current and expanding financing gap.

    “There is no escaping the reality: even with the important pledges today, we still need to do more to ensure all women and girls have access to life-saving family planning when they want it,” said Sir Chris Hohn, Founder and Chair of the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation. “The shameful gap in funding for commodities and services must be met by strong domestic leadership – and sustained donor funding in service to country priorities. CIFF’s US$100 million investment in the WISH platform, on top of our US$100 million investment last year to end the commodity financing gap, is a demonstration of our commitment to prioritizing country-led solutions to ensure more women and girls can choose their futures.” 

    By unlocking sustainable financing and recharging political will for SRH, we can secure a healthier, more equitable world for future generations.

    Media contact:

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TOMORROW: In Los Angeles, Governor Newsom to take action on oil and gas legislation

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Sep 24, 2024

    LOS ANGELES COUNTY –  Tomorrow, Governor Gavin Newsom will sign legislation related to oversight of oil and gas wells, and community protections.

    WHEN: Press conference begins approx. 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25
    LIVESTREAM: The Governor’s Twitter page, Facebook page, and YouTube page.

    **NOTE: This in-person press conference will be open to credentialed media only. Media interested in attending must RSVP to govpressoffice@gov.ca.gov by no later than 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 25. Location information will be provided upon RSVP.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Work to Fix FAFSA Fiasco for Farm Families Gains Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – In light of a new report revealing that it will take the Department of Education well into 2027 to complete the implementation of the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), U.S. Senator Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) work to fix this fiasco for farm families is gaining momentum with the endorsement of 24 education and agriculture groups.
    After the new formula changed a farm family’s expected annual contribution to their child’s education from $7,626 to $41,056, Ernst’s bipartisan Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act would reverse these changes that could reduce or even eliminate access to need-based student aid for farm families.
    “As students across the country filled up their backpacks and picked up their pencils to head back to school this fall, too many families were left out of accessing financial aid. Chalk it up to poor leadership from the Biden-Harris administration and a Department of Education that is out of touch with rural America!” said Ernst. “There can be no more delay for fixing the Biden-Harris FAFSA fiasco for next year. My solution would support farm families trying to responsibly finance their child’s education, instead of forcing them to sell off the farm. Class is back in session, and the Department of Education must turn their homework in on time so students don’t miss out due to bureaucratic bungling.”
    The new Government Accountability Office (GAO) report revealed major errors made during the so-called “simplified” FAFSA rollout that led to a 9% decrease in 2024 FAFSA submissions for high school seniors, including that:
    74% of incoming calls for support went unanswered in the first five months of the new form,
    Graduate students were being incorrectly informed that they are eligible for Pell Grants,
    It took families an average of five days to complete a form that the Department claimed would take 15-20 minutes, and
    Students who submitted a paper FAFSA did not receive confirmation for more than seven months.
    To end the series of fumbles, here’s what others are saying about Ernst’s Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act:
    “On the heels of a year where FAFSA was neither ‘better’ nor ‘simpler,’ Iowa families are bracing for more delays, disruptions, and unintended consequences as a result of the 25-26 financial aid processing season. Federal Student Aid and Congress have failed to address key issues – such as how assets related to small business ownership and family farms are counted on the FAFSA – leaving many hard-working Iowans unsure if they’ll have the resources needed to pursue education and training after high school,” said Rob Miller, President of Iowa College Access Network. “And while much attention has been focused on the new December 2024 FAFSA release date, big concerns remain over FSA’s ability to quickly and correctly process the forms and share accurate data with colleges for packaging.” 
    “Students decided not to attend Iowa Central Community College this year due to the newly imposed family asset in the Student Aid Index used for financial aid. If they have to take out loans for their education, many of our students will go right into the workplace or start working on their family farm instead of pursuing a degree,” said Jim Kersten, Vice President of Government Affairs at Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge, Iowa. “We faced many challenges following these changes including FAFSA completion delays, students not having FAFSA results in time to make their college decision, schools unable to make financial aid offers, and FASFA corrections not made until August. In addition, some parents with multiple children reached out to ask why their aid was so different from what their older children had received in years past. Their income was basically the same, but they no longer qualified for need-based aid which includes work-study jobs and subsidized loan funds. I am so pleased Senator Ernst is working together in a bipartisan manner with Senator Tester and others to get this important legislation approved as soon as possible.”
    “The second straight year of declining farm income only highlights the problems with changes that were made to asset calculations in the FAFSA Simplification Act,” said Dustin Sherer, Director of Government Affairs at the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). “There are land rich, cash poor farmers who made no money this past year, yet their children won’t qualify for federal financial student aid. AFBF appreciates Senator Ernst’s focus on trying to correct this problem.”
    “Farm Credit commends Senators Ernst and Tester for their bipartisan work to rectify an unintended consequence of prior legislation impacting agricultural families,” said Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of Farm Credit Council. “It’s essential that we provide our farm and ranch families with the financial aid and resources they need to support the next generation of agricultural leaders.”
    Background:
    The FAFSA form is typically accessible to students on Oct. 1 of each year to allow ample time to submit financial information before state and school-specific deadlines for aid eligibility. However, due to incomplete planning measures, the Department of Education released last year’s version three months late, drastically condensing the timeline for families to submit for aid. To make matters worse, the late rollout came with additional challenges, including changes that could reduce or eliminate access to need-based student aid for farm families and small business owners.
    To ensure more Iowa families are not left out, Ernst has conducted critical oversight, demanded answers on behalf of agricultural communities, and worked to get input directly from impacted Iowans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – GlobalData outlines strategies adopted by businesses to minimize the impact of inflation

    Source: GlobalData

    Inflation remains a significant concern for economies globally, with some experiencing moderation while others facing persistently elevated levels. This disparity has led companies to reevaluate their strategies to mitigate inflation’s effects. Companies across industries are taking decisive steps to deal with the pressure emerging out of these challenges, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Company Filing Analytics Database reveals the various action plans of companies to tackle inflation or minimize its impact on margins in their respective filing documents.

    Misa Singh, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While some companies are seen to be keen on covering inflation with pricing actions, some are focused on cost management. Meanwhile, some companies are considering reducing the pressure on their lower-end customers as inflation begins to ease.”

    Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc believes that inflation is beginning to ease and interest rates are expected to be lowered in the coming months. The company hopes this will lessen some pressure on the lower-end customers. The Canada-based Convenience store company is also working to provide customers with value and ease inside stores and on forecourts.

    Darden Restaurants Inc revealed its attempt to minimize the annual effects of inflation through appropriate planning, operating practices, and menu price increases. The filing documents reveal that some of the impacts of the inflation have been offset by menu price increases and other adjustments made during the year.

    Bio-Techne Corp discussed its plan to fund all new investments with productivity initiatives and cover inflation with pricing actions. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co expects the pricing to remain competitive, which might impact the company’s financial results. The information technology company plans to mitigate the impact of these dynamics through disciplined cost management.

    Haier Smart Home Co Ltd revealed in its latest report that the company strengthened its supply chain and distribution network, enhanced its high-end product lineup, and increased price indices to achieve 9.9% revenues growth in South Asia, 12.4% in Southeast Asia and 26.8% in Middle East & Africa in the first half this year.

    Singh concludes: “As businesses navigate these pressures and try to maintain profitability it requires a careful balance between cost management, market development, and portfolio diversification. Companies will need to stay agile to adapt to the ongoing economic uncertainties and the evolving inflationary landscape.”

    About GlobalData

    4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology and professional services sectors.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Cramer Delivers Floor Speech on Unworkable Nursing Home Rules, Bureaucratic Intransigence at CMS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    ***Click here to download video. Click here for audio.***

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a final rule in April, imposing minimum staffing requirements for long-term care facilities (LTC), which provide care to nearly 1.2 million residents across the nation. This rule will exacerbate the existing workforce shortages and significantly harm access to care in rural communities. This new standard, which was first proposed in September 2023, will require nearly 80% of nursing facilities to hire more nurses to comply with the regulation. However, in states already facing staffing shortages, these requirements will be nearly impossible to meet and will likely force closure on many facilities across the country.

    U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) delivered remarks on the Senate floor today to highlight the dangers of the CMS minimum staffing rule. He also spoke on the dangers of administrative bureaucracy the punitive nature of survey fines experienced by LTC facilities.

    “In North Dakota, our facilities are really feeling the squeeze, and the issue is really twofold,” said Cramer. “In May, CMS issued this minimum staffing rule, which requires long-term care facilities to implement new staffing requirements. These are already institutions that are already woefully understaffed because of a lack of workforce. Most burdensome is the new requirement to have a Registered Nurse on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week, rather than the previous eight hours a day, seven days a week. Less than a quarter of North Dakota facilities meet this requirement, and among rural facilities, only 14 percent will meet that mandate.

    “To meet these elevated staffing levels, our facilities really have no good options, if they have any options at all,” continued Cramer. “At existing staffing levels, North Dakota facilities would need to reduce the average number of residents served per day by about 74 people to satisfy this mandate. […] In my state, we’ve had six facilities close since 2021, indicating the already challenging operating environment. I fear this misguided rule will supercharge this trend and deprive rural individuals the opportunity to receive care in their own communities, near the people they love and know the best: their families, and their friends, their loved ones.”

    [embedded content]

    “The minimum staffing rule is part of a broader pattern of CMS’s bureaucratic crackdowns on facilities for no reason other than it can, that’s what bothers me so much about bureaucratic bullies is they’re bullies because they can be, without materially improving the health and safety of long-term care residents,” added Cramer. “Civil Monetary Penalties, or in bureaucratic-speak, CMPs, are punitive, monetary actions CMS can take against long-term care facilities in situations where CMS determines they do not substantially comply with Medicare or Medicaid participation requirements, the requirements that the bullies create out of thin air. These penalties are heavily used to punish facilities beyond a simple correction.”

    “If these rules and penalties were really about better care for residents, CMS should yield to reason,” concluded Cramer. “However, the actions of the bureaucrats at CMS prove they are out of touch with operational challenges actually facing these facilities and the people they serve. If they in fact want to achieve the stated goal of improving quality, these decisions do just the opposite. […] I have little faith in their ability to do the right thing and reverse course, but I pray they will.”

    For nearly two years, Cramer has pushed back against the nursing home staffing standard, beginning with sending a letter to CMS in January 2023 urging the agency to avoid one-size-fits-all staffing mandates for nursing homes and to support provider flexibility in addressing recruitment and retention issues. Several months later, in June 2023, as a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, he questioned CMS officials at a hearing about the mandate’s impact on already stressed staffing challenges.

    In October 2023, Cramer led a bipartisan letter to the CMS Administrator requesting the agency refrain from finalizing the rule as written and instead work with Congress on flexible, commonsense solutions. Cramer and U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) joined forces to introduce the VA Report on Proposed CMS Staffing Ratios Act to require the Department of Veterans Affairs to submit a report regarding the proposed rule’s impact on the access of veterans to LTC. The senators later requested the VA study the potential harmful effects of the staffing rule on LTC facilities. Cramer also joined U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-OK) in cosponsoring a Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval to overturn the final rule issued by CMS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ASUS Announces its Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) Powered by the New Intel® Core™ Ultra Processor (Series 2) is Now Available in Canada

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KEY POINTS

    • A blend of art and tech: Functional aesthetics, using Ceraluminum™ and CNC milling to craft a 1.1 cm ultrathin chassis with a distinctive geometric grille design
    • Zenbook does more: Up to latest AI-powered Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor (Series 2); Copilot key; enlarged 16:10 seamless touchpad with smart gestures
    • Impressive audiovisuals: 14″ 3K 120Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display and advanced four-speaker audio system provide a genuine theater-like experience
    • Quiet and secure: Efficient, distraction-free performance with <25dB ambient cooling; Microsoft Pluton security, face login, and Windows passkeys

    TORONTO, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ASUS today announced that the all-new Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) is now available in-store and online in Canada on the ASUS Store, Best Buy, and later in December in selected retailers. Zenbook S 14 is one of the thinnest and most portable 14-inch ASUS Copilot+ PC on the market, blending performance with sophistication. The premium Zenbook S 14 showcases a new functional aesthetic and has been completely redesigned inside and out. The chassis features the new, innovative ASUS Ceraluminum™, a high-tech ceramic hybrid material available in a range of nature-inspired colors.

    A blend of art and tech

    Zenbook S 14, newly designed with a functional aesthetic, incorporates the innovative ASUS Ceraluminum material, providing both durability and a sleek design. After four years of refining the colors, texture, and hardness of this material, the results are outstanding. Utilizing cutting-edge CNC technology, Zenbook S 14 achieves a remarkable thinness of just 1.1cm while housing advanced components, including an advanced vapor-chamber cooling system. It’s the only laptop combining such sleekness and functionality and is our thinnest and most compact 14-inch laptop, emphasizing our commitment to top-notch performance and portability. CNC machining also creates the exclusive geometric grille design above the keyboard and the enlarged touchpad area. The laptop is available in two nature-inspired shades — Zumaia Gray and Scandinavian White.

    Zenbook does more

    Zenbook S 14 offers next-generation AI capabilities in an ultrathin form factor. It’s equipped with up to the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 2) with system-on-chip (SoC) design. The SoC design reduces motherboard size by 27%1 to increase overall cooling efficiency and integrates premium low-power LPDDR5X DRAM into a compact package. This second factor shortens the distance between the CPU and memory, enabling higher bandwidth and lower latency ― ensuring improved stability and higher performance. With up to 32GB of fast RAM, and a 1TB PCIe® 4.0 SSD, the processor features a TDP of up to 28 watts and a built-in NPU delivering up to 47 NPU TOPS for modern AI applications, ensuring the 72Wh battery provides all-day autonomy. The user experience is seamless and intuitive, with a dedicated Windows Copilot key on the ASUS ErgoSense keyboard for instant Windows AI assistance and an enlarged touchpad matching the screen’s 16:10 aspect ratio. This enhances comfort and ease of use, allowing quick adjustments of audio volume, screen brightness and more via smart gestures. The ultra-compact Zenbook S 14 features a full set of I/O ports, including two Thunderbolt™ 4, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, HDMI® 2.1, and an audio combo jack. WiFi 7 with ASUS WiFi Master Premium certification ensures the fastest, most reliable connections.

    Engaging audiovisuals

    The 3K 120Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display is Pantone® Validated and DisplayHDR™ True Black 500 certified. It delivers lifelike visuals with outstanding color and HDR performance, including a 100% DCI-P3 gamut to ensure vivid colors. Zenbook S 14 features a powerful four-speaker Harman Kardon-certified audio system, a remarkable engineering feat in such a thin device. It provides full-range multi-dimensional Dolby Atmos® sound, offering a truly immersive and lifelike audiovisual experience.

    Quiet and secure

    Zenbook S 14 prioritizes noise reduction with an advanced ultra-slim vapor-chamber cooling system featuring dual IceBlade fans, allowing an under-25dB ambient cooling mode while enabling up to 28W TDP performance, when needed. The geometric grille above the keyboard maximizes airflow and minimizes dust or dirt ingress. User privacy and security are paramount, supported by Windows passkeys and Microsoft Pluton, which integrates hardware, firmware, and software to defend against evolving threats. Windows Hello facial recognition ensures secure access without needing to remember passwords. The ASUS AiSense IR camera enables Adaptive Lock, which monitors user presence and locks the laptop when the user moves away, and Adaptive Dimming enhances privacy by dimming the screen when the user looks away.

    AVAILABILITY & PRICING

    The ASUS Zenbook S 14 is now available instore and online starting from September 24th in Canada.

    The Zenbook S 14 with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor 226V, 16 Gb LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and 1 TB of storage is available starting from CA$1,799 in exclusivity on the ASUS Store and Best Buy.

    The Zenbook S 14 with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 258V, 32 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and 1 TB of storage is available for CA$2,199 in exclusivity on the ASUS Store and Best Buy.

    Another configuration with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 256V, 16 GB LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and 1 TB storage will be available starting from December 2024, starting from CA$1,999 on the ASUS Store and selected retailers.

    Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    For more product photos: https://press.asus.com/media/photos/

    Zenbook S 14 Product Page: https://asus.com/ca-en/Laptops/For-Home/All-series/ASUS-Zenbook-S-14-UX5406

    Zenbook S 14 ASUS Store: https://shop.asus.com/ca-en/asus-zenbook-s-14-ux5406.html

    Zenbook S 14 Best Buy (Intel Core Ultra 5): https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/asus-zenbook-s-14-touchscreen-2-in-1-laptop-zumaia-grey-intel-core-ultra-5-16gb-ram-1tb-ssd-win-11/18389565

    ASUS Zenbook S 14 Best Buy (Intel Core Ultra 7): https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/asus-zenbook-s-14-14-touchscreen-2-in-1-laptop-zumaia-grey-intel-core-ultra-7-32gb-ram-1tb-ssd-win-11/18389564

    ASUS Pressroom: http://press.asus.com

    ASUS Canada Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asuscanada/

    ASUS Canada Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asus_ca

    ASUS Canada YouTube: https://ca.asus.click/youtube

    ASUS Global X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/asus

    SPECIFICATIONS2

    ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406)    
    Model  Zenbook S 14

    UX5406SA-BH71T-CB

    		 Zenbook S 14

    UX5406SA-DH71T-CB

    		 Zenbook S 14

    UX5406SA-BH51T-CB
    CPU  Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 258V Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 256V Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 processor 226V
    Display  14″, 3K (2880 x 1800) OLED Touch display, 16:10 aspect ratio, 120Hz refresh rate, 400 nits, up to 500 nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1, DisplayHDR™ True Black 500 certified, Pantone® Validated, 70% less harmful blue light, TÜV Rheinland-certified, 90% screen-to-body ratio, With stylus support
    Operating system  Windows 11 Home
    Graphics  Intel® Arc™ Graphics            
    Main memory  32 GB LPDDR5X on board 16 GB LPDDR5X on board 16 GB LPDDR5X on board
    Storage  1TB M.2 NVMe® PCIe® 4.0 SSD
    Connectivity  WiFi 7 (802.11be)

    Bluetooth® 5.4
    Camera  AiSense FHD IR camera w/ ACS
    I/O ports  1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A

    2 x Thunderbolt™ 4 supports display / power delivery

    1 x HDMI® 2.1 TMDS

    1 x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
    Touchpad  Enlarged touchpad (127 x 79mm) with Smart Gesture support
    Audio  4 built-in speakers

    2 built-in array microphones

    Harman Kardon certified
    Battery  72Wh
    AC adapter  65W AC Adapter

    Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W

    Input: 100-240V AC 50 / 60Hz universal
    Dimensions  31.03 x 21.47 x 1.19 ~ 1.29cm (12.22″ x 8.45″ x 0.47″ ~ 0.51″)
    Weight  1.2kg3
    Color  Zumaia Gray Zumaia Gray Zumaia Gray
    Price  CA$2,199 CA$1,999 CA$1,799
    Where to Buy  ASUS Store

    Best Buy

    		 Available in December ASUS Store

    Best Buy


    About ASUS

    ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, the company is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies. Consistently ranked as one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies, ASUS is also committed to sustaining an incredible future. The goal is to create a net zero enterprise that helps drive the shift towards a circular economy, with a responsible supply chain creating shared value for every one of us.

    FORTUNE and FORTUNE World’s Most Admired Companies are registered trademarks of FORTUNE Media IP Limited and are used under license

    1 Compared to a similar 14-inch laptop (UX3405).
    2 Specifications, content and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment and other factors. Full specifications are available at http://www.asus.com
    3 Weight may vary according to specifications.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ba8bbc3e-b00b-41b8-b62b-1ee333fe3fe7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Budd, Hagerty, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect American Assets From Unlawful Seizure by AMLO’s Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) helped introduce the Defending American Property Abroad Act alongside Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN).
    The bipartisan legislation would impose retaliatory prohibitions that deter and punish any Western Hemisphere nation that unlawfully seizes American assets. The bill responds to ongoing efforts by the Mexican government to seize a deep-water port owned by U.S.-based Vulcan Materials Company, which is a flagrant violation of the United Sates-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
    The bill is co-sponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “The United States and Mexico have an important trade and economic relationship. The illegal seizure of American property and infrastructure in Mexico is unacceptable and undermines that relationship. I am proud to partner with Senator Hagerty to stand up for American’s right to engage in international commerce without being extorted.”
    Senator Hagerty said:
    “I strongly condemn AMLO’s threats against Vulcan Materials Company and am pleased to see this bipartisan rebuke from the United States Senate. No nation or president, and especially one of our largest trade partners, should be allowed to bully an American firm without consequences. Our legislation will help to undermine any attempt by AMLO to profit from his illegal actions and, in the event of a seizure, would strengthen our nation’s position in trade negotiations with Mexico.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Democrats Support Michigan AG Nessel’s Efforts to Protect Students, Reject Unfair Accusations of Bias

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    Dana Nessel has distinguished herself as a just, discerning, and effective Attorney General. Michigan voters selected her to keep all communities safe, empowering her to faithfully exercise discretion and enforce the law. That’s exactly what she has done in the cases of anti-Israel campus protesters as well as counter-protestors accused of violent acts that go far beyond protected speech.

    Washington DC – Today, 21 U.S. House of Representative Members released the following statement in response to criticism of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s handling of antisemitic campus crimes:

    “Dana Nessel has distinguished herself as a just, discerning, and effective Attorney General. Michigan voters selected her to keep all communities safe, empowering her to faithfully exercise discretion and enforce the law.

    “That’s exactly what she has done in the cases of anti-Israel campus protesters as well as counter-protestors accused of violent acts that go far beyond protected speech. Those charged with criminal conduct will enjoy the same rights of due process as anyone else. Casting doubt on Attorney General Nessel’s impartiality or implying these cases are being handled unfairly due to her religious background is antisemitic, deeply disturbing, and unacceptable.

    “Elected officials are rightfully held to high standards, but we owe it to our constituents to model methods of disagreement that do not invoke hateful tropes or false charges of unfair bias.”

    Among the Members signing the statement that was co-led by U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-15) and Haley Stevens (MI-11), were Reps.: Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Ritchie Torres, (NY-15), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Tom Suozzi (NY-07), Susie Lee, (NV-03), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Steve Cohen (TN-09) and Donald Norcross (NJ-01).

    ####

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IOM Youth Changemakers Initiative: Supporting Youth Action on Migration Worldwide

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva, 24 September – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched the Youth Changemakers Initiative, empowering ten young leaders globally, who will collaborate closely with IOM offices to advocate on critical issues such as climate mobility, human trafficking, gender equality, health, and countering xenophobia. 

    Driven by a passion for migration and a commitment to creating meaningful change, IOM’s Youth Changemakers will dedicate the next 11 months to positively impacting their communities. This initiative will provide them with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills, as well as leverage the support of a global network of like-minded peers. 

    “The IOM’s Youth Changemakers Initiative is supporting young leaders worldwide to become effective migration advocates and agents of change in their communities,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope.  

    Of the world’s 281 million migrants, 87 million of them – or about 31 percent – are under the age of 30. In their host communities, young changemakers bring innovative solutions to migration challenges and opportunities, playing a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. 

    The selection process for the Youth Changemakers involved two stages. Initially, five young leaders were chosen through a competitive global application process. They were later joined by five African Union (AU)-IOM Migration Youth Ambassadors, selected in 2023 by the IOM Special Liaison Office in Addis Ababa in partnership with the AU Women, Gender and Youth Directorate and the Office of the AU Chairperson’s Youth Envoy. 

     

    The IOM Youth Changemakers are (in alphabetical order): 
     

    1. Asha Jhanay Richards, from the United States of America and Jamaica  
    2.  Damilola Adeniran, from Nigeria  
    3.  Jürgen Adam Sanchez, from Mexico  
    4.  Kornelius Sembiring, from Indonesia  
    5.  Rose Kobusinge, from Uganda  
    6.  Sarah Badr, from Egypt  
    7.  Sérgio Murilo Magalhaes Godinho, from Brazil  
    8.  Sheba George, from India  
    9.  Valery Bobuin Jr., from Cameroon  
    10.  Walter Kasempa, from Zambia 

     

    As a first step, each Youth Changemaker will create an individual action plan aimed at raising awareness about migration in ways that are both accessible and relevant to their communities. To support their efforts, IOM will facilitate their participation in key meetings and events, offer training sessions, and provide peer-learning opportunities.  

    Despite their significant contributions to sustainable development, young people remain underrepresented in public policymaking. The Youth Changemakers Initiative aims to enhance their participation in migration discussions and promote safe, orderly, dignified, and inclusive migration. 

     

    More information about this initiative is available on the official website.  

    For more information, please contact media@iom.int. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints supports WFP’s school meals programme in Haiti

    Source: World Food Programme

    NEW YORK CITY–Today, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a contribution of US$ 8 million from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints towards WFP’s home-grown school meals programme in Haiti. The announcement came at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2024 Annual Meeting taking place in New York City, where it was featured as a new CGI Commitment to Action.

    The grant from the Church to World Food Program USA will support WFP’s ongoing work with local governments and partners in Haiti’s Artibonite and Centre departments to scale up school meals that use food from local smallholder farmers. 

    “Building on more than a decade of work together, the Church continues to serve as an essential collaborator, supporting WFP’s global operations during emergencies, while simultaneously stepping up to build community resilience,” said Barron Segar, World Food Program USA President and CEO. “In addition to supporting work on the ground in Haiti, we are grateful for the Church’s generosity in helping us serve thousands of people in other countries around the world this year, as we combat the world’s global hunger crisis.” 

    In Haiti, half of the population is struggling to find enough to eat — one of the highest proportions of acute food insecurity worldwide. Home-grown school meals serve as an opportunity to provide much-needed nutrition to children and to support their education, while sourcing food locally supports local economies and ensures sustainability of the programme. In the upcoming 2024/25 school year, WFP is planning to provide school meals to nearly 500,000 students, 70 percent of which will be made entirely with Haitian-grown ingredients purchased from local farmers.

    “As followers of Jesus Christ, we strive to care for those in need as He would,” said Blaine R. Maxfield, Managing Director of the Church’s Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. “These efforts in Haiti will help ensure that children have access to the nutrition they need to focus on their education, while at the same time strengthening communities by sourcing meals locally.”

    As a longstanding collaborator of WFP, in 2024 alone, the Church has generously supported food assistance in multiple countries across the globe — from delivering emergency food in Ukraine and Nigeria, to feeding school children and ensuring mothers and their newborn children have access to the right nutrients in Chad, Ecuador, Cuba, Guinea, Honduras and Peru.

    #                   #                      #

     

    About WFP 

     

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change. Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media. 

     

    About World Food Program USA   

    World Food Program USA, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Washington, DC, proudly supports the mission of the United Nations World Food Programme by mobilizing American policymakers, businesses and individuals to advance the global movement to end hunger. Our leadership and support help to bolster an enduring American legacy of feeding families in need around the world. To learn more, please visit wfpusa.org.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Defense Approves Two Defense Community Infrastructure Programs for Colorado Springs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug Lamborn (5th District of Colorado)

    Washington D.C., -On Friday, the Department of Defense, through the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, awarded 14 Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) grants, amounting to approximately $100 million. Two of these grants were given to Colorado Springs.

    DCIP is a competitive program designed for states, territories, and communities to improve infrastructure that supports military operations, enhance cadet training at independent “covered educational institutions,” strengthen installation resiliency, and improve the quality of life for military families, all to benefit local military installations.     

    “I am pleased that Colorado Springs has been awarded these two important grants. Peterson Space Force Base is home to several units that perform “employed in place” operational missions, making base access critical to the combat readiness of those units.  Improved safety and enhanced North Gate Access to Peterson Space Force Base will ensure our guardians can get to their posts and mission centers expediently, so they arrive on station fully ready to maintain space dominance. The second project will enhance the reliability of electric power to the U.S. Air Force Academy by replacing several miles of existing overhead power lines between two substations with underground 34.5 kV lines. This reliability will reduce power-failure related disruptions to the education and training of the Corps of Cadets and will ensure the Academy accomplishes its mission of producing the next generation of Air and Space leaders to fight and win our nation’s wars,”said Congressman Lamborn.

    The Fiscal Year 2024 grant awarded to Colorado Springs are as follows: 

    1. City of Colorado Springs, Colorado, $10,710,000 to undertake a $15,300,000 project that provides safety improvements and North Gate access to Peterson Space Force Base. This project will address issues that impact operational readiness, the ability to accommodate future total force requirements, and operating costs.
    2. Colorado Springs Utilities, Colorado, $5,348,798 to undertake a $7,641,140 project to remove several miles of existing overhead power lines between two substations in the U.S. Air Force Academy grounds and replace them with underground 34.5 kV lines. This project will enhance the reliability of the primary electric power feed to the Academy, providing essential support to all aspects of the training and education mission.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Levin, Pappas, Jacobs Reintroduce Legislation to Address Harmful Impact of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, Guarantee VA Benefits for LGBTQ+ Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sander Levin (9th District of Michigan)

    September 20, 2024

    Today marks the 13th anniversary of the full repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. It’s estimated thousands of veterans were discharged from the Armed Forces solely due to their sexual orientation or gender identity during this policy. Levin’s SERVE Act would guarantee and protect VA benefits for LGBTQ+ veterans discharged from the Armed Forces due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

    On the 13th anniversary of the full repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT), Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49), member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Equality Caucus, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) reintroduced the Securing the Rights our Veterans Earned (SERVE) Act to guarantee and protect VA benefits for LGBTQ+ veterans discharged from the Armed Forces due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

    During DADT, many LGBTQ+ veterans who were discharged because of their sexual orientation or gender identity received Other Than Honorable (OTH) or Entry-Level Separation (ELS) discharges, preventing access to VA health care and benefits such as education, burial and memorial services, and home loans. Since its repeal in 2011, impacted veterans appealing for VA benefits have reported a prolonged and burdensome process, often requiring the use of a lawyer, to seek the respect and benefits they earned. Additionally, far too many veterans discharged under DADT are still unaware they can seek an upgrade or where to start the process.

    The SERVE Act would take critical steps to address this problem by:

    • Extending VA benefits eligibility to veterans who received an “Other Than Honorable” discharge or entry-level separation solely due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, including medical and disability benefits, pensions, veteran center readjustment counseling and mental health services, burial benefits, educational benefits, and housing loans.
    • Requiring VA to conduct outreach to veterans who may be eligible for VA benefits under the legislation and to conduct outreach to Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and military service organizations about the new eligibility criteria.
    • Requiring VA to report to Congress on the benefits provided under the legislation during the first year of enactment, including the number and demographic information of individuals who received such benefits.

    “The discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy wrongfully ended the military careers of thousands of service members and, although it is no longer in place, its consequences are still felt today. Veterans discharged under Don’t Ask Don’t Tell are being denied the benefits they rightfully earned, and we must correct this wrong. I’m proud to co-lead this important legislation that will unlock VA benefits for veterans who were wrongfully discharged under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Those who serve our country deserve the upmost respect and gratitude, regardless of their sexual orientation. We must grant them the benefits they deserve. I thank Rep. Pappas for his leadership and look forward to moving this bill through the legislative process,” said Congressman Levin.

    “Veterans and their families deserve our thanks and gratitude for their service and sacrifice. It’s deplorable that LGBTQ+ service members and veterans ever suffered from the discriminatory policies of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’, and that thirteen years since its repeal, countless veterans continue to be impacted by this injustice, affecting the benefits and care many rightfully deserve for serving our country,” said Congressman Pappas. “Today I’m re-introducing the SERVE Act which would take important steps to ensure LGBTQ+ service members who were unjustly discharged receive the benefits they earned.”

    “Anyone who has served and sacrificed so much for our country should have full access to their VA benefits,” said Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, Vice Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “But even 13 years since the repeal of the discriminatory ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy, many LGBTQ+ veterans are still denied their VA health care and benefits because of who they are and who they love. We owe our veterans so much more than this. I’m proud to co-lead the SERVE Act to right this wrong and provide the care and benefits our LGBTQ+ veterans have rightfully earned.”

    The legislation has been endorsed by Equality California, Human Rights Campaign, Minority Veterans of America (MVA), Modern Military Association of America (MMAA), and Silver State Equality.

    “For decades, the selfless service of our nation’s LGBTQ+ veterans has been diminished by unequal treatment, rooted in discriminatory regulations. Many LGBTQ-identifying veterans left service involuntarily, and often without the ability to access benefits and services that were largely available to cisgender and heterosexual veterans. Now that discriminatory policies are relics of the past, we must do the work necessary to ensure that our community receives those benefits and services. We applaud Congressman Pappas and the sponsors of this Bill for their dedication to righting historic wrongs and advocating for our most marginalized and underserved populations,” said Peter Perkowski, Legal & Policy Director, Minority Veterans of America.

    “We owe all of our veterans a debt of gratitude for their service in protecting our country, and that includes LGBTQ+ veterans. Unfortunately, too many LGBTQ+ veterans don’t have full access to VA benefits due to outdated and discriminatory rules and laws that were in place at the time they served. The passage of the SERVE Act will help to right some of these wrongs, and we thank Rep. Chris Pappas and the bill’s cosponsors for reintroducing this important legislation,” said Jennifer Pike Bailey, Human Rights Campaign Director of Government Affairs.

    “Modern Military Association of America applauds Representative Pappas for his enduring commitment to LGBTQ+ veterans and ensuring they are afforded the benefits they rightfully earned after serving their country. The reintroduced SERVE Act is a significant step toward restoring benefits to the more than 114,000 service members discharged under discriminatory service bans and policies. The SERVE Act provides an opportunity for the Department of Veterans Affairs to rebuild trust with LGBTQ+ veterans by ensuring effective implementation and accountability,” said Rachel Branaman, Executive Director, Modern Military Association of America.

    “For too long, LGBTQ+ servicemembers faced the ugly reality of discrimination — many were not only discharged because of their sexual orientation or gender identity but denied access to benefits and health care from the VA,” said Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang. “Anyone who signs up to defend our nation deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, which is why we are grateful to Congressman Pappas for his reintroduction of the SERVE Act. This important legislation will ensure that those LGBTQ+ veterans discharged because of who they are or who they love will now be able to access the benefits they are entitled to. It is incumbent upon us to keep our promise to look after all our military veterans, including those who are LGBTQ+.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Castor: Amtrak’s Floridian Route Brings Comfortable, Convenient, Sustainable Travel Option from Tampa Bay to Chicago

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    TAMPA, FL – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) celebrated Amtrak’s opening of a new route offering daily direct round-trip travel between Chicago and Miami with a stop in Tampa. The Floridian combines Amtrak’s Capitol Limited and Silver Star routes to offer travelers an enhanced travel experience for a limited time starting Sunday, November 10.

    “The launch of the Floridian is welcome news for Tampa Bay travelers who need options as our economy grows,” said Rep. Castor. “This exciting new route will help Amtrak modernize its infrastructure while continuing to provide exceptional service to passengers.”

    Castor led the effort to include Tampa’s Union Station as a stop along the route after it was bypassed in the original proposed route, writing to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose to encourage the Tampa Bay region’s inclusion in the final route.

    The Floridian (Trains 40 & 41) will operate on a similar schedule and make the current stops of the Capitol Limited (Trains 29 & 30) between Chicago and Washington, D.C., and the Silver Star (Trains 91 & 92) between Miami and Washington, D.C.

    MIL OSI USA News –