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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Announce Nearly A Million Dollars in Federal Funding for Nevada Law Enforcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    This Funding Will Be Used By Law Enforcement Agencies To Hire More Officers, Purchase Essential Equipment, And Invest In Officer Mental Health
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) announced nearly one million dollars in federal funding for law enforcement agencies across Nevada to help them hire more officers, purchase essential equipment, and invest in officer mental health. The funding for these awards is made through the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program, Tribal Resources Grant Program, and Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA), all of which offer various grant programs to support state, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies. Earlier this year, Rosen-backed bipartisan legislation to expand the COPS Hiring Program was signed into law.
    “Nevada law enforcement works around the clock to fight crime, respond to emergencies, and keep our communities safe. That’s why I’ve been working across the aisle in the Senate to support them with the federal resources they need to do their jobs effectively and maintain their well-being,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to announce this federal funding is coming to law enforcement agencies across our state to help hire more officers, purchase equipment, and improve officer mental health and wellness.”
    “From hiring more police officers and purchasing new equipment to funding mental health programs, I’ll always fight to support our law enforcement,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The COPS Office has a long history of helping keep our communities safe, and I’m proud of my work to bring as many of these resources as possible into the Silver State.”
    “I would like to thank Senator Rosen and our entire congressional delegation for their continued support in protecting the citizens and businesses of Sparks,” said Sparks Police Chief Chris Crawford. “This will allow the Sparks Police Department to build a team of officers to improve upon our crime reduction strategies.”
    “This grant will enhance the City’s ongoing commitment to providing vital mental health and wellness services to the men and women of the Henderson Police Department. We are grateful to Senator Rosen and the other members of Nevada’s congressional delegation for their support of our grant application and for this funding which will be used to assist officers and their families as they approach retirement and prepare to successfully transition from their law enforcement careers,” said Henderson Mayor Michelle Romero. “Studies have shown that police officers may be at a greater risk of experiencing challenges related to their mental well-being as they get ready to retire and this grant will help ensure we are offering those who serve and protect our community the full assistance they and their families need.”
    “The Lovelock Paiute Tribal Police Department is excited to announce that we have been selected and awarded the US DOJ COPS grant,” said Lovelock Colony Chief of Police Jeff G. Perry. “With the collaborative effort of our Tribal Police Department, Lovelock Paiute Tribal Council, Tribal Administrator, the grant award will be utilized to sufficiently staff 24-hour service to the Lovelock Indian Colony. This will increase safety efforts along with our proposed Lovelock Indian Colony Camera Program (LICCP). Our camera program will significantly reduce criminal activity and trespassing on the colony along with better staffing support towards future community policing services. These interactions will be positive and proactive in ways that build trust and cooperation among the residents and all who visit the Lovelock Indian Colony. Our proposal is to re-establish all components of the neighborhood watch program. Officers will again utilize teams, zones, area captains and area officers. In addition, this program will help to reduce the non-tribal criminal activity on the colony. Without this funding, we could not have achieved to operate at this capacity and continue our community-oriented policing efforts to greatly reduce criminal activity.”
    The awards are being distributed as follows:
    $500,000 from the COPS Hiring Program for the Sparks Police Department to hire more officers.
    $353,063 from the Tribal Resources Grant Program for the Lovelock Paiute Tribe to hire officers and invest in equipment.
    $43,308 from the LEMHWA Program for the City of Henderson’s mental health and wellness projects for law enforcement officers.
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have been advocating to ensure Nevada’s law enforcement community has the resources it needs. Last year, they announced more than $1 million in COPS funding for Nevada law enforcement and public safety. Last month, they also highlighted nearly $1 million in federal community project funding they secured to provide mental health training and support to thousands of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and first responders. Earlier this month, bipartisan legislation that Senator Rosen co-sponsored to fund family support and mental health services for law enforcement officers passed the Senate. Senator Cortez Masto’s bipartisan bills to combat the crisis of law enforcement suicide and provide mental health resources to police officers have been signed into law by presidents of both parties.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Helping More Women Get Screened for Breast Cancer

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    September 24, 2024

    Manitoba Government Helping More Women Get Screened for Breast Cancer

    The Manitoba government is helping more people get screened for breast cancer with a plan to progressively lower the age for self-referrals to 40 from 50, beginning with a commitment to get to age 45 by the end of next year, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.

    “Breast cancer has touched the lives of so many people in this province,” said Asagwara. “As we lower the screening age in Manitoba, it’s critical that the system has what it needs to meet a higher demand. This will ensure that vulnerable people – especially marginalized and low-income women – are able to access the care they need. The previous government’s disregard for women’s health and cuts to health care caused limited capacity for breast cancer screening. As we rebuild this capacity, we’re taking a comprehensive and thoughtful approach so both patients and health-care staff are supported.”

    CancerCare Manitoba has been working with health system partners to hire more mammography technologists and increase screening appointments for individuals aged 50 to 74. Additional breast screening clinics will be added as targets and staffing requirements are met, noted the minister. When fully expanded, the breast screening program will nearly double its capacity to over 80,000 screening mammograms per year.

    “With this change, CancerCare Manitoba’s breast screening program will be providing more mammograms closer to home and with care to providing culturally sensitive and appropriate services,” said Sri Navaratnam, president and CEO, CancerCare Manitoba. “Our priority will be increasing access for people who are typically underserved by the health-care system and we are grateful for the province’s support and commitment to equitable care for Manitobans.”

    “Screening for breast cancer is an important service that can be crucial to ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment for patients,” said Dr. Duncan Inglis, surgeon and medical director, Breast Health Centre. “Expanding breast screening to more Manitobans will save lives and we look forward to working with our partners at CancerCare Manitoba to deliver this service to the people who need them in a timely manner.”

    “I am glad to see that increasing access to breast cancer screening is a focus,” said Mayor Frances McIvor, Wabowden, a member of Peguis First Nation. “As a breast cancer survivor I feel it is important to be able to provide increased access to mammograms to people in their communities and I am looking forward to encouraging many of the women I know to attend.”

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Tecnológico de Monterrey university pioneers ambitious AI-powered learning ecosystem

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Tecnológico de Monterrey university pioneers ambitious AI-powered learning ecosystem

    Balleza, who participated in a pilot program for the AI assistant, says that he felt empowered and more confident in his studies after using the tool. Behind his experience was the dedicated work of the professors who produced the data for the tutor by integrating their educational material created for class with customized tutorial content specifically designed for it.

    Tecnológico de Monterrey, one of the oldest and most renowned colleges in Mexico and abroad, has often been at the forefront of innovation and technology in its 81-year-old history (it adopted computers as early as in the 1960s). The university’s headquarters are in the northern city of Monterrey, Mexico’s industrial powerhouse, just 100 miles south of Texas.

    “We knew from the beginning that AI was a phenomenon of such magnitude that the sooner we jumped on board and designed our own journey, the better,” says Carles Abarca, the university’s vice president for digital transformation.

    Users can access the AI systems through the university’s intranet on their computer or a phone app. The experience is customized depending on whether you are a professor, a student or a collaborator, the term that the university uses for its employees. It has been designed to be potentially available to the 35,000 employees of the institution, including 11,000 professors, and to all 90,000 students across more than two dozen campuses in Mexico.

    Carles Abarca, the Tecnológico de Monterrey’s vice president for digital transformation, says the institution had no doubt in embracing AI as an educational tool. Photo by Octavio Hoyos.

    Internal and external data

    The platform combines both internal and external data through its different features. Some tools are accessible to all employees and students, including a natural language chat that uses internal data to answer questions related to tuition, scholarships and campus shuttle schedules, among others, which students describe as a huge time saver. There is also a chat with access to external data and the ability to summarize texts and create images through prompts.

    A separate set of academic tools strictly focused on the learning process is used only by teachers, who produce all the data, and students. It is split into three interconnected components: Skill Studio, which enables professors to create teaching material, from exercises to mock tests to quizzes, and the Academic TECbot and Librarian TECbot, which work as personalized tutors for students.

    The library assistant can quickly find books and handbooks from more than 60 million sources of the university’s library and other licensed content.

    TECgpt launched a year ago and is already used by 3,000 users monthly. The academic tools have been in beta phase, but are expected to be accessible to all teachers and around 5,000 students between now and early 2025, Abarca says.

    Students who have participated in the pilot phase highlight how the platform helped them fill gaps in understanding quickly and efficiently. Professors say it helped them automate repetitive academic tasks and find more creative and innovative learning takeaways.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Foreign Press Center Briefing on “Reforming the UN Security Council

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Washington Foreign Press Center Briefing on Reforming the UN Security Council with Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, on September 18, 2024.

    The mission of the Foreign Press Centers is to assist foreign media in their coverage of the United States by providing firsthand access to both government and non-government experts to gain a deeper understanding of U.S. politics, history, values, and culture.  The views expressed by briefers not affiliated with the Department of State or U.S. government are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of State or the U.S. government. Participation in Foreign Press Center programming by briefers not affiliated with the Department of State or U.S. government does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation of their views. 

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ7WqiNfaL8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Economic growth during uncertain times

    Source: Bank of Canada

    Good afternoon. I want to thank the Institute of International Finance and the Canadian Bankers Association for inviting me to take part in your 2024 Forum.

    Your focus on growth during uncertainty is timely. Uncertainty feels like the new reality: The uncertainty caused by war in Europe and in the Middle East. The uncertainties arising from geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation. And the related uncertainties about supply chains, trading relationships and global investment risks.

    Rapid advances in new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and its new offspring, Generative-AI, are disrupting business models and creating new uncertainties for firms and workers.

    Uncertainty surrounds the impacts of climate change and the policy frameworks to adapt to and mitigate it.

    There is political uncertainty. And fiscal uncertainty.

    As your theme implies, uncertainty and economic growth do not sit well together: uncertainty impedes growth.

    But with inspired policy, good business decisions and sound risk management, we can manage uncertainty and reduce its impact on households, businesses and growth. We have recent historical evidence.

    Sixteen years ago this month, Lehman Brothers failed, and the financial system froze because nobody knew which banks were safe. Today, the global financial system is much safer thanks to the implementation of sweeping global reforms to increase capital and liquidity buffers, and reduce leverage.

    With the rapid development of new vaccines and with exceptional fiscal and monetary policies, uncertainty about our health and the health of our economies has decreased dramatically since the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Thanks to decisive monetary policy action and the unblocking of supply chains, uncertainty about costs and inflation are much lower today than two years ago, when inflation peaked above 8% in Canada and was even higher in many other countries.

    In the past few weeks, I have given speeches on the shifting global trade landscape and the economic implications and risks of rapid advances in artificial intelligence. These are two key areas where we can reduce uncertainty through good policy and far-sighted business leadership.

    At the same time, we need to recognize that new uncertainties are a new reality, and we must be ready for the inevitable shocks in a more turbulent world. That puts a priority on risk management and investments in resilience.

    A key function of financial institutions is to help households and businesses manage the risks they face. Financial institutions also have a responsibility to manage their own risks prudently so that they do not themselves become a source of uncertainty and instability.

    As Canada’s central bank, we have a role to play in mitigating and managing risks and uncertainty. Our primary mandate is price stability—in other words, low, stable and predictable inflation. We also have mandates to foster a stable financial system and ensure safe and efficient payments.

    Let me say a few words on financial stability and payments. And then I’ll finish with some thoughts on monetary policy.

    Our financial stability focus is on risks that could lead to system-wide stress. And we publish these findings in our annual Financial Stability Report (FSR).

    In our most recent FSR, published in May, we reported that Canadian mortgage holders had experienced a modest increase in levels of financial stress. Since then, we’ve observed that arrears on mortgages have continued to rise, although they remain below pre-pandemic levels. It also appears that these households have not leaned on revolving credit products such as lines of credit and credit cards to a greater degree than before the pandemic.

    But there is a notable increase in financial stress among borrowers without a mortgage, mainly renters. During the pandemic, for most credit products, the share of these borrowers missing payments reached historical lows. However, we’re now seeing a larger share of these borrowers lagging behind on credit card and auto loan payments. Over the past year the share of borrowers without a mortgage who carry a credit card balance of at least 90% of their credit limit has continued to climb. And this share is now above typical historical levels. This is concerning.

    Our responsibilities related to payments require us to adapt to increasing digitalization. Innovation in payments continues to accelerate.

    In 2021, the Bank assumed a new mandate for the supervision of retail payment service providers. Starting November 1st of this year, more than 3,000 service providers will need to register with the Bank and follow new rules aimed at safeguarding consumers and protecting the integrity of retail payments.  

    We are also looking at the bigger picture of payment innovation, both in Canada and around the world. As part of this work, in the past few years we’ve built an extensive body of knowledge about the framework and technology behind a possible central bank digital currency (CBDC), including the benefits and risks.

    But recognizing that there is not currently a compelling case to move forward with a CBDC in Canada, the Bank is scaling down its work on a retail central bank digital currency and shifting its focus to broader payments system research and policy development. The Bank will continue to monitor global retail CBDC developments. And the Bank will be ready to ensure Canadians always have a safe and secure supply of public money.

    Now, let me circle back to monetary policy.

    In June, we began lowering our policy interest rate. We cut the policy rate at our last three decisions, for a cumulative decline of 75 basis points to 4.25%.

    Our most recent decision on September 4th reflected two main considerations.

    First, we noted that headline and core inflation had continued to ease as expected. Second, we said that as inflation gets closer to target, we want to see economic growth pick up to absorb the slack in the economy.

    Since then, we’ve been pleased to see inflation come all the way back to the 2% target. It has been a long journey. Now we want to keep inflation close to the centre of the 1%–3% inflation-control band. We need to stick the landing.

    What does this mean for interest rates? With the continued progress we’ve seen on inflation, it is reasonable to expect further cuts in our policy rate. The timing and pace will be determined by incoming data and our assessment of what those data mean for future inflation.

    As always, we try to be as clear as we can about what we are watching as we chart the course for monetary policy.

    Economic growth picked up in the first half of this year, and we want to see it strengthen further so that inflation stays close to the 2% target. Some recent indicators suggest growth may not be as strong as we expected. We will be closely watching consumer spending, as well as business hiring and investment.

    We will also be looking for continued easing in core inflation, which is still a little above 2%. Shelter cost inflation remains elevated but has started to come down, and we are looking for it to moderate further.

    Our next decision is October 23rd. And we will have a revised economic outlook at that time.

    With those introductory thoughts, let’s get the discussion started.

    I would like to thank Russell Barnett, Claudia Godbout and Brian Peterson for their help in preparing these remarks.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Celebrates Fully Funded Grant for Catherine’s Health

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    WASHINGTON – Following strong support from Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Catherine’s Health was awarded the full grant amount from the Health Resources and Services Administration. The funding will expand the federally qualified health center’s behavioral health services. 
    “West Michigan’s behavioral health system is strained due to the rising number of incoming patients coupled with the closure of clinics. This grant funding will help Catherine’s Health become part of the solution to the mental health crisis facing our community,” said Rep. Scholten.  “I supported Catherine’s through this grant process because I know their primary care infrastructure, coupled with their family planning and dental services, make their practice the perfect fit for this expansion. With the ability to better treat substance abuse disorders and support individuals struggling with their mental health, Catherine’s will make a life-saving impact for West Michiganders, especially those experiencing homelessness. I am proud to have played a role in bringing these grant dollars home.”

    “This funding will expand access to essential behavioral health services in our community while also transforming Catherine’s ability to provide holistic care to the unhoused,” said Megan Erskine, Catherine’s Health CEO. “Catherine’s thanks Congresswoman Scholten for her continued support of Federally Qualified Health Centers and the role they play in America’s primary care safety net.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Laurel Lee Introduces Bill to Protect Child Victims from Online Predators

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Laurel Lee – Florida (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) and Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-4) introduced the Protection of Child Victims from Online Predators Act, a bipartisan bill that will amend title 18 of the U.S. Code to expressly clarify that a “notice” or “advertisement” seeking or offering child pornography can occur within a private, one-on-one communication.

    “We are seeing more and more children being exploited online across our nation,” said Congresswoman Laurel Lee. “Protecting our children from online exploitation is one of my top priorities in Congress. This bipartisan bill will help protect children by ensuring abusers who solicit or share child pornography via one-on-one communication will be held accountable.”

    “We must protect children from pedophiles,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey, (MD-04). “As a former prosecutor, Congresswoman Laurel Lee understands, like I do, that criminal cases against on-line sexual predators must have solid legal predicates. This bill would assure that anywhere across the federal legal landscape that any notice or advertisement from adults to children for explicit acts or images is consistent and clear. When it comes to one-to-one communications with minors from these purveyors of child pornography, this conduct harms kids. I fully support this legislation and commend Rep. Lee’s partnership on this matter and stand with her to protect our young people. We must deter these predators from acting on their worst impulses, this bill helps us do that,” Ivey continued (D-MD).

    Summary:

    • To avoid detection, dangerous child abusers send private, one-on-one messages to child victims or other child exploiters to solicit or share child pornography.
    • Under federal law, any person who “knowingly makes, prints, or publishes, or causes to be made, printed, or published, any notice or advertisement seeking or offering to receive, exchange, buy, produce, display, distribute, or reproduce, any visual depiction… of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct . . . or participation in any act of sexually explicit conduct by or with any minor” shall be punished. 18 U.S.C. § 2251(d)(1).
    • Federal courts, including the United States Courts of Appeals for the Third, Sixth, Ninth, and Tenth Circuits, have held that a private, one-on-one communication to solicit, share, invite, offer, distribute, or otherwise obtain child pornography, constitutes the Federal crime of making a “notice” or “advertisement” to seek or offer child pornography under section 2251(d) of title 18, United States Code. Unfortunately, not every circuit court has followed this construction of the law.
    • The bill amends the law to expressly clarify that a private, one-on-one communication can constitute “notice” or “advertisement,” and that no public display or public communication is necessary to constitute a notice or advertisement for purposes of such section 2251(d).

    Read the bill here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sherrill Applauds $2 Million Federal Grant Awarded to New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    LIVINGSTON, NJ – Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) applauded the $2 million in federal grant funding being awarded to New Jersey’s Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) to strengthen New Jersey’s defense supply chains, expand green energy innovation, bolster manufacturing, and bring good-paying jobs to the Garden State.

    “For generations, New Jersey has been at the forefront of our manufacturing and innovation economy – and I am focused on ensuring that businesses can thrive in our state, and that every New Jerseyan can play a role in our cutting-edge economy. That’s why I am so excited that our federal tax dollars are coming back to the Garden State to power NJMEP’s plan to lead a multi-state network of manufacturing companies that will strengthen our defense supply chains, invest in green energy infrastructure, and bolster North Jersey’s Picatinny Arsenal. I am grateful to NJMEP for their ongoing partnership in our shared mission to ensure New Jersey leads the supply chain research and development that will drive our country into the future,” said Rep. Sherrill.

    “The Green Energy and Defense Supply Chain Capacity Program is a crucial initiative that not only strengthens our supply chains but also bolsters our national defense and economic stability. By addressing supply chain vulnerabilities in Defense Manufacturing and Green Energy, we are ensuring that our nation is better equipped to meet future challenges. This initiative will generate job growth, supporting communities across New Jersey and the nation, while expanding opportunities for manufacturers. Strengthening the DoD supply chain ensures that we remain competitive on a global scale, positioning our nation for long-term success and security,” saidPeter Connolly, CEO of NJMEP.

    “This program represents a strategic leap forward in how we approach supply chain optimization in the Defense and Green Energy sectors. By focusing on research, outreach, and supplier engagement, we are creating pathways for new entrants while bolstering existing suppliers. The cross-state collaboration between MEP Centers ensures a coordinated approach to closing supply chain gaps and maximizing the impact of our collective efforts. This initiative sets the standard for how supply chain resilience can be achieved through proactive and collaborative efforts,” said Torsten Schimanski, Chief Strategy Officer of NJMEP.

    The grant, awarded to NJMEP by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, will help NJMEP develop a methodology to address supply chain and seize opportunities in the Defense Manufacturing and Green Energy sectors while positioning Manufacturing Extension Program Centers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island to better coordinate across the Northeast Region.

    Sherrill and NJMEP have long partnered to bolster New Jersey’s manufacturing sector, expand apprenticeship and job-training opportunities for service members transitioning to civilian life – including through the New Jersey Defense Manufacturing Community Consortium – and ensure that businesses can find the skilled workforce they need in the Garden State.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Chu, Sen. Wyden Introduce Bill to Boost Access to Capital for Businesses Owned by Women and People of Color

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Senate Finance Committee Chair Sen. Ron Wyden (OR) today introduced the bicameral Providing Real Opportunities for Growth to Rising Entrepreneurs for Sustained Success Act (PROGRESS Act) to improve access to capital for small businesses owned by women and people of color.

    “The Biden-Harris Administration has overseen a boom in small business growth. But for many small businesses, particularly those owned by enterprising women and people of color without long-term relationships with financial institutions, securing access to capital remains far too tough, which hurts their ability to grow,” said Rep. Chu, who serves on both the House Ways and Means Committee and House Small Business Committee. “Sen. Wyden and I are introducing the PROGRESS Act to create first employee and investor tax credits so we can level the playing field for women-owned and minority-owned small businesses and unlock their full growth potential.”

    “Women business owners, particularly women of color, are underestimated, underrepresented and undercapitalized,” said Sen. Wyden. “Nobody can question the entrepreneurial spirit of women small business owners in America, but tax laws on the books today aren’t doing nearly enough to support them compared to others. Everybody wins when more small business owners have a chance to get ahead and grow, and that’s what this bill is all about.” 

    On average, white business owners start with nearly three times the working capital of black-owned businesses. Male entrepreneurs, on average, start with nearly twice as much capital as female entrepreneurs. The numbers are even more stark when considering only third-party capital. In 2023, only 2.2 percent of venture capital funding went to companies founded solely by women. This disparity is acutely felt by women of color who now account for 50 percent of all women-owned firms, yet received less than one percent of venture capital funding over the past decade. Owners of small businesses that lack employees are more diverse than employer firms. More than one-third of non-employer businesses are owned by people of color and more than four in ten are owned by women. Unfortunately, these businesses struggle to grow and face endemic barriers to accessing funding.

    Because of their size, their industry, or the way they are organized, many women-owned businesses can’t take advantage of tax benefits designed for small businesses. This lack of capital has limited the ability of these entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

    The PROGRESS Act creates two new tax incentives to unlock the growth potential of these businesses:

    First Employee Credit:
    A new first employee credit will stimulate business growth and job creation.

    • A credit equal to 25 percent of W-2 wages reported can be claimed annually, up to $10,000 in a single tax year, with a lifetime limit of $40,000.
    • Because many businesses do not turn a profit in their early years, the first employee credit is creditable against the business’ payroll tax liability.
    • Certain businesses that have not reported full-time equivalent W-2 wages in a previous year are eligible for the credit.
    • Eligible businesses must be majority owned by U.S. individual(s) that each earn $100,000 or less per year ($200,000 in the case of joint filers).

    Investor Credit:
    A new investment credit will encourage third-party capital investment and allow small businesses to grow and thrive. 

    • A credit of up to 50 percent of a qualified debt or equity investment can be claimed, up to $10,000 in a single tax year, with a lifetime limit of $50,000.
    • Investors that fund certain businesses can use the credit to boost their rate of return.
    • Eligible businesses must have at least one full-time equivalent employee and be majority owned by U.S. individual(s) that each earn $100,000 or less per year ($200,000 in the case of joint filers).

    Click here for a one-page summary of the bill is available.

    Click here for a detailed bill summary.

    Click here for the full bill text.

    “We support the creation of tax incentives designed to boost the potential of all small businesses, but we’re particularly encouraged to see legislation that would help support historically underserved businesses—those owned by women and minorities,” said John Arensmeyer, Founder and CEO of Small Business Majority. “Our research consistently finds that many types of small businesses struggle to access the capital they need to grow, but small firms owned by women and minorities are most likely to experience funding challenges. Policies like the tax credits proposed by Senator Wyden and Representative Chu are critical to ensuring a level playing field so that more entrepreneurs have the chance to succeed.”

    “As an organization that represents thousands of women owned small businesses across the country the Main Street Alliance is proud to endorse the PROGRESS Act,” said Richard Trent, Executive Director of Main Street Alliance. “Still too many barriers exist for entrepreneurs to start and grow their small business. During the past four years 19 million new small businesses were founded, unleashing the creativity, drive and contributions of people willing to take a risk on the American dream. By providing a critical first employee credit these businesses will be more likely to expand, and thrive.”

    “I am encouraged by the introduction of the Progress Act which will empower small businesses to create more jobs by offering tax credits for hiring and incentivizing investment,” said Anne Zimmerman, Co-Chair of Small Business For America’s Future. “Small Business for America’s Future has long championed thinking outside the box on incentives that support small businesses, and this legislation represents an innovative approach to strengthening America’s true economic engine: small business owners. We’ve heard countless stories of small business owners wanting to expand but hit a wall because of limited to no access to capital, which is the lifeblood of any growing business. The Progress Act is the type of smart policy we need to create more opportunities for Main Street businesses to help us grow, innovate and compete in today’s market.”

    “The PROGRESS Act is a crucial step forward in creating new opportunities for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)-owned businesses to gain access to capital,” said Chiling Tong, President and CEO of National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce (National ACE). “Many AAPI-owned businesses, particularly start-ups, face unique barriers to capital, including language barriers, lack of awareness, or lack of relationships with lending institutions. By providing tax credits for investors in these businesses, this legislation opens up critical financial resources that will help AAPI entrepreneurs grow their businesses, create jobs and support their communities. Congresswoman Chu is a longtime champion of the AAPI small business community, and we applaud her continued commitment to addressing the unique barriers faced by AAPIs and ensuring that AAPI entrepreneurs have access to opportunities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Van Hollen Urge Federal Housing Finance Agency to Implement Energy-Efficient Building Codes for New Federally-Backed Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in sending a letter to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director Sandra Thompson urging the Agency to require that new homes with mortgages backed by government-sponsored enterprises, such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae, meet up-to-date building codes for energy efficiency. In their letter, the Senators ask Director Thompson for an updated timeline for a decision, while calling on FHFA to act swiftly in order to improve home energy efficiency and ultimately save Granite State homeowners and renters money.

    The Senators wrote, in part: “Aligning new home energy standards with updated model codes will save money for homeowners and renters across the country. HUD and USDA found that the increased initial costs of construction are more than made up for by lower monthly energy costs. […] Beyond these financial benefits, updated codes help save lives by protecting families from the impacts of extreme weather events, particularly utility outages during heat waves and cold snaps. Updated energy codes can also yield better indoor air quality and reduce exposure to pollutants that can have negative health impacts including asthma, heart disease and lung cancer.”

    They continued: “This year is an ideal time for FHFA to make these changes. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act provided over $1.2 billion of federal funding to help states and localities update their building codes. Already, multiple state and local governments, as well as HUD and USDA have adopted the updated building codes.”

    The Senators concluded: “We urge you to move quickly to adopt modern energy standards for new homes utilizing Enterprise-backed mortgages to align with other federally backed housing construction, and ask you for an update on your timeline for taking this action. These standards will support a stable, efficient housing market by reducing wasted energy, improving health outcomes, and lowering costs for both renters and homeowners across the country.”

    The letter was cosigned by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Peter Welch (D-VT). This letter is supported by Americans for Financial Reform, Rocky Mountain Institute, and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

    The full letter text can be found here.

    Shaheen has championed work to secure federal investments in clean energy and energy efficiency initiatives and to lower energy costs across New Hampshire, especially by fighting for updated building energy codes standards. Earlier this year, Shaheen sent a letter to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) urging it to require that new homes with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac meet up-to-date building codes for energy efficiency. The Senator also recently applauded action by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to adopt updated Minimum Energy Standards for new single and multifamily federally-backed homes.

    Shaheen was a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made huge investments in clean energy, including $225 million to support the adoption and implementation of updated building energy codes based upon her longstanding bipartisan legislation with Senator Rob Portman. Shaheen also helped secure $1 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act, of which New Hampshire is eligible for nearly $2.5 million to support modern code adoption, implementation, enforcement, training and workforce development. Shaheen recently wrote an op-ed in the Union Leader urging the State of New Hampshire to adopt the latest building energy codes and use this federal funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Slams Extreme Project 2025 Proposals During Speech on House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Co-Chair Lori Trahan (MA-03) spoke on the House floor ripping the dangerous proposals laid out in Project 2025, the blueprint for the next Republican president to eliminate presidential checks and balances, roll back women’s reproductive freedoms, and gut the middle class. 

    “Project 2025 will take us backwards to a time where life was great if you were wealthy or well-connected. But that same time was hard – it was hard for workers and parents like mine who wanted nothing more than to give their kids a better life than they had,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “That’s why I’m here to tell you that we can’t and we won’t go back. House Democrats will move our country forward with a vision where people are proud to be an American again.”

    Footage of Trahan’s remarks on the House floor can be accessed HERE or by clicking the image below. A transcript of her remarks as delivered is embedded.

    ——————————————

    Congresswoman Lori Trahan

    Remarks as Delivered

    Floor Speech on Project 2025

    September 24, 2024

    Mr. Speaker, I rise today to sound the alarm about the dangerous and extreme policies put forward in Project 2025, the self-described blueprint for the Republican president to take over total control of the federal government and our lives. Spanning more than 900 pages, Project 2025 lays out not a concept of a plan, but a plan, for Donald Trump or another GOP president to ignore the Constitution and unilaterally turn back the clock on working families, on women, and on our children.

    For families, Project 2025 calls to eliminate overtime pay and kick people with pre-existing conditions off their health care insurance. For women and girls, Project 2025 calls for taking the Republican abortion bans that are devastating women in Georgia and Texas and jeopardizing IVF in Alabama – and doing the same nationally. And for our children, Project 2025 calls for eliminating the Department of Education and defunding our public schools.

    Each and every one of these proposals would have been devastating for millions of Americans. I know that, Mr. Speaker, because every one of them would have ruined my life.

    My dad was a union ironworker. He picked up overtime whenever possible so that he could keep a roof over our heads and put food on the table. Like so many families, Project 2025 taking away the chance to work overtime could have meant us losing our home or going to bed hungry.

    And when my dad was diagnosed with MS at just 48 years old, he needed his health insurance to visit the doctor and afford his medications. Project 2025 allowing an insurance corporation to kick him off his health care coverage just because he was sick would have been a death sentence, just as it could be for millions of Americans with pre-existing conditions.

    When my husband and I decided to start our family but struggled to get pregnant, we were forced to turn to IVF, and we were so fortunate to have our two beautiful daughters. But as we saw in Alabama, Project 2025’s proposals that endanger IVF fertility treatments can be physically and mentally debilitating for couples turning to fertility treatment as their last hope.

    Finally, I am the proud product of Lowell Public Schools from elementary to high school. Like any public school student, I can tell you so many stories of teachers who made the most of the little resources they had to give us every opportunity to succeed. Ripping that lifeline away from working families, as Project 2025 proposes, is a horrible idea plain and simple.

    Project 2025 will take us backwards to a time where life was great if you were wealthy or well-connected. But that same time was hard – it was hard for workers and parents like mine who wanted nothing more than to give their kids a better life than they had. That’s why I’m here to tell you that we can’t and we won’t go back.

    House Democrats will move our country forward with a vision where people are proud to be an American again – proud because working families aren’t just getting by or making ends meet, but getting ahead. Because women have the freedom to make their own health care decisions without the fear of politicians getting in the way. And because our children can go to class and thrive while us moms and dads don’t have to worry about their school being defunded or worse, the next target of a deranged mass shooter.

    That should be something all of us can get behind. And it’s why I urge my Republican colleagues: Reject Project 2025, and work with us to build a future where people have every chance to get ahead.

    Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Peters Demand Action from Agency that Missed Conflicts of Interest Deadline

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) joined Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Gary Peters (D-Mich.) in demanding the Federal Acquisition Regulatory (FAR) Council implement their bipartisan 2022 law to prevent conflicts of interest in government contracting. The FAR Council failed to do so by the June 27, 2024, deadline.

    “The executive branch is slow walking its implementation of laws Congress passed to mitigate conflicts of interest. That’s unacceptable. Taxpayers ought to rest assured their hard-earned dollars aren’t going to contractors with potential conflicts. The FAR Council has had almost two years to make mandatory changes, which means it’s high time Congress and the public see results,” Grassley said of this bipartisan letter to the FAR Council.  

    Grassley and his colleagues in their letter highlight conflict of interest cases, including one where a U.S.-based technology service simultaneously worked for a foreign adversary. Such circumstances put U.S. vulnerabilities at risk of falling into the wrong hands. The Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act aimed to address reported conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and contractors’ other work. However, the FAR Council has neglected to institute congressional reforms.

    Read the senators’ full letter HERE. 

    Background:

    Among other provisions, the Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act, now law, requires: 

    • Federal agencies to identify potential conflicts early in contracting processes. 
    • Federal contractors to disclose preexisting business relationships with entities that may conflict with the work an agency has hired them to do. 
    • Private companies under contract with the U.S. government to disclose new potential business that opposes any ongoing services they’re providing the American people. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Strengthen Cross-Border Trade, Guard Against Terrorism Heads to President’s Desk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Carper (D-DE), James Lankford (R-OK), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their legislation to create a pilot program to strengthen the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program passed the House and now heads to the President’s desk:

    “In order for America to remain competitive in global markets, we must ensure our ports are open, efficient, and secure,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would allow additional trusted trading partners to expedite shipments important to Texas’ economy while protecting against illegal goods and national security threats, and I urge the President to swiftly sign it into law.”

    “I am proud that the bipartisan Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) Pilot Program Act passed in the House,” said Sen. Carper. “This commonsense bill will improve the reliability and efficiency of our supply chains in expediting the customs clearance process for trusted merchants. When President Biden signs this bill into law, the CTPAT Pilot Program will help reduce congestion at ports of entry and strengthen our national security.”

    “America’s supply chain security is essential to keeping food on the table and businesses up and running,” said Sen. Lankford. “This bill will create a new pilot program to strengthen standards for border security while streamlining our trade with other nations, and I look forward to seeing it become law in the days ahead.”

    “This bipartisan bill offers a commonsense approach that will both protect our national security and strengthen our supply chains,” said Sen. Hassan. “I’m pleased that it will now head to the President’s desk, as we continue to work together to help U.S. businesses thrive and outcompete the world.”

    The legislation was introduced in the House by Representatives Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Elissa Slotkin (MI-07), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), and Robert Menendez (NJ-08).

    Background:

    CTPAT was created as a part of the SAFE Port Act of 2006 to support secure cross-border trade through a fast-track, customs clearance process for trusted merchants who voluntarily submit themselves to enhanced security screening measures. The legislation would create a pilot program that would allow up to 20 trusted non-asset and asset based, third-party logistic providers (3PLs) to become CTPAT certified. The carrier companies would work with Customs and Border Protection to become CTPAT certified by meeting additional security requirements and participating in inspections throughout the cargo transit process.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Their Letter, Durbin, Duckworth Applaud Biden Administration For Approving Illinois Disaster Declaration Following Summer Tornadoes, Extreme Weather

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    09.23.24

    The Senators led the Illinois delegation in calling for federal assistance for seven counties

    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) applauded the Biden Administration for approving Governor JB Pritzker’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the State of Illinois, to support seven Illinois counties in recovering from severe storms in which more than 40 tornadoes spun through Central and Northern Illinois and downstate Illinois flooded between July 13 and July 16, 2024.  On August 29, Durbin and Duckworth led the Illinois delegation in sending a letterto President Biden in support of Governor Pritzker’s request for federal assistance.

    “Severe summer storms have become increasingly common, placing strain on communities left in its wake.  This summer, Illinois saw tornadoes, flooding, and damaging winds that put Illinoisans in danger and impacted several counties across the state,” said Durbin.  “Thankfully, President Biden has recognized the severity of the situation and responded to our request.  Illinoisans will have access to the federal support they need to rebuild and prepare for the next disaster.”

    “As communities across Illinois continue recovering from this summer’s severe storms, it’s clear we must do everything possible to better prepare for and mitigate additional loss in the future,” said Duckworth.  “I’m thankful President Biden is heeding our request for assistance and providing this federal support to impacted communities.  I’ll continue working to bring home critical resources that help folks in every corner of the state prepare for and recover from future hazardous weather and natural disasters.”

    The federal assistance includes grants for individuals to recover from the storms, as well as take hazard mitigation measures to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from future natural disasters.  The counties eligible for the assistance are Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago Counties.  

    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance today by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Continue Reading

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    09.23.24

    The Senators led the Illinois delegation in calling for federal assistance for seven counties

    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) applauded the Biden Administration for approving Governor JB Pritzker’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the State of Illinois, to support seven Illinois counties in recovering from severe storms in which more than 40 tornadoes spun through Central and Northern Illinois and downstate Illinois flooded between July 13 and July 16, 2024.  On August 29, Durbin and Duckworth led the Illinois delegation in sending a letterto President Biden in support of Governor Pritzker’s request for federal assistance.

    “Severe summer storms have become increasingly common, placing strain on communities left in its wake.  This summer, Illinois saw tornadoes, flooding, and damaging winds that put Illinoisans in danger and impacted several counties across the state,” said Durbin.  “Thankfully, President Biden has recognized the severity of the situation and responded to our request.  Illinoisans will have access to the federal support they need to rebuild and prepare for the next disaster.”

    “As communities across Illinois continue recovering from this summer’s severe storms, it’s clear we must do everything possible to better prepare for and mitigate additional loss in the future,” said Duckworth.  “I’m thankful President Biden is heeding our request for assistance and providing this federal support to impacted communities.  I’ll continue working to bring home critical resources that help folks in every corner of the state prepare for and recover from future hazardous weather and natural disasters.”

    The federal assistance includes grants for individuals to recover from the storms, as well as take hazard mitigation measures to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from future natural disasters.  The counties eligible for the assistance are Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will, and Winnebago Counties.  

    Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance today by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Bipartisan Group Of Senators Urge Supreme Court To Maintain Strength Of Landmark Criminal Justice Reform Provision in HEWITT V. U.S.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    09.23.24

    In an amicus brief, the Senators encourage the justices to reject a Fifth Circuit interpretation that narrows the scope of a First Step Act provision reducing the length of mandatory minimums and modifying minimum sentencing enhancements

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led fellow Senate Judiciary Committee colleagues U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Mike Lee (R-UT) in submitting an amicus brief to the Supreme Court in Hewitt v. United States. The brief deals with the Senators’ landmark 2018 bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation—the First Step Act (FSA)—and provisions reducing the length of mandatory minimums and modifying minimum sentencing enhancements.

    The Supreme Court granted certiorari in Hewitt and Duffey on July 2, 2024, and consolidated the two cases, both of which arise out of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. In the brief, the Senators encourage the Court to clarify Section 403 applies to defendants who were sentenced before the Act was passed but whose cases were vacated and remanded for resentencing after the Act was enacted. Federal circuit courts are split on this question, which could lead to radically different sentences for similarly-situated defendants.

    The Senators said: “The answer, unequivocally, is yes.”

    The Senators continued, writing: “In designing the First Step Act, Congress sought to ensure that individuals who committed an offense before the Act was enacted, but who were not yet subject to a sentence for that offense, would benefit from Section 403. That group, as Congress conceived of it, includes both individuals facing an initial sentencing proceeding as well as individuals facing resentencing following vacatur of a prior sentence.”

    The Senators urged the Supreme Court to reject the Fifth Circuit’s faulty interpretation, writing: “There is no principled basis, much less a textual basis, on which to differentiate between defendants whose prior sentences were vacated and those being sentenced for the first time. The interpretation adopted by the Fifth Circuit, which the Executive Branch itself rejects, is flatly inconsistent with the concept of vacatur, finds no support in the First Step Act’s text, contradicts the purpose of the Act, and produces outcomes that undermine the fairness and legitimacy of the criminal justice system. This reading of Section 403 is inconsistent with Congress’ intent as reflected in its chosen text.”

    Click here for the Senators’ full amicus brief.

    Championed by Durbin, Grassley, Booker, and Lee, the First Step Act was signed into law in 2018 and serves as a beacon for “smart on crime” policies. The law makes the Fair Sentencing Act’s reforms retroactive, as well as:

    • Requires the Department of Justice to develop a risk and needs assessment system to assess the recidivism risk of all prisoners, place them in programs and activities to reduce risk, and permit early transition into prerelease custody based on earned time credits;
    • Reduces mandatory minimum sentences for some drug trafficking offenses;
    • Expands the safety valve to allow judges to sentence low-level, nonviolent drug offenders with minor criminal histories to less than the required mandatory minimums; and
    • Authorizes incarcerated individuals to file compassionate release motions in federal court.

    As noted at a hearing earlier this year, these reforms have been tremendously successful. Of the 44,671 incarcerated adults released under First Step Act reforms through January 2024, only 9.7 percent have been arrested for new crimes. By comparison, the overall Bureau of Prisons recidivism rate currently stands at around 43 percent. To date, there have been 4,146 retroactive sentence reductions and 4,756 compassionate release motions granted.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Educational Activities in Space

    Source: NASA

    As students of all ages returned to school this month, crew members on the International Space Station continue to conduct a variety of educational programs and activities that support learning on the ground. These efforts are part of a wider commitment at NASA to engage, inspire, and attract future generations of explorers and to build a diverse future workforce equipped with skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

    One current activity is Robo-Pro Challenge 5, an educational program hosted by JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) in cooperation with NASA. For the challenge, students create software programs to control NASA’s Astrobee and JAXA’s Internal Ball Camera, using image processing to move the free-flying robots through a series of coordinates to a target point. The challenge helps support computing and coding curricula, and the hands-on experience inspires the study of STEM subjects.

    Genes in Space is a national contest for students in grades 7 through 12 to design DNA analysis experiments for the space station. It is sponsored by the ISS National Lab and New England Biolabs in collaboration with Boeing and miniPCR bio. There have been more than a dozen contests to date, many producing significant results.
    Genes in Space-5 provided proof of concept of simultaneously amplifying multiple DNA sequences in space, expanding the possibilities for in-flight research and health monitoring.
    Genes in Space-6 used CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing for the first time in space, using the technique to generate breaks in the DNA of a common yeast, direct a method to repair the breaks, and sequence the patched-up DNA to determine whether its original order was restored.

    Genes in Space-9 validated technology used to synthesize proteins without needing living cells. This technique could produce proteins for research, vaccines, and development of diagnostic tests for environmental contaminants and infectious agents. Ultimately, such synthesis also could enable portable, low-cost devices for health monitoring, detection of environmental hazards on Earth and in space, and other applications.

    In addition to the Robo-Pro challenge, several other programs involve student coding. AstroPi, a program from ESA (European Space Agency), uses special computers, one equipped with an infrared camera and the other with a standard visible spectrum camera. European students write programs for the computers that address specific challenges such as measurement and calibration and image processing. One project successfully identified and computed the horizontal wavelengths of atmospheric gravity waves in clouds.

    Zero Robotics also is a competition where students write software to control one of the Astrobees, co-led by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Innovation Learning Center, and other collaborators. Finalists have their code downloaded to the Astrobee platform and can observe its performance in space.

    High school students United with NASA to Create Hardware, or HUNCH, is a learning program where high school students design and fabricate real-world products for NASA. More than 2,500 students have participated to date, flying some 3,000 products to space, including a tape dispenser that can be operated with one hand, footpads, sleeping pad liners, and orange blackberry croissants and other food products.

    Through ISS Ham Radio, a collaboration with Amateur Radio on the International Space Station, students use ham radio to ask astronauts questions about life in space, career opportunities, and other space-related topics. Participating teachers report that the program has a significant and positive impact on students, increasing interest in all STEM areas. The experiences also help students make real-world connections among disciplines, learn problem-solving, and hone communication skills. To date, more than 100 crew members have communicated with over 1 million students from 49 U.S. states, 63 countries, and every continent.

    Developed through NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, STEMonstrations are short educational videos demonstrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics in microgravity for grades K through 12. The videos are available online and every STEMonstration includes materials teachers can use to explore the topics in their classrooms. Six videos released in the past 12 months have been viewed 98,705 times to date across various social media platforms. The program provides students with a connection to NASA and scientific work conducted on the space station, inspiring the next generation of explorers and contributing to a diverse future workforce.

    Melissa GaskillInternational Space Station Research Communications TeamNASA’s Johnson Space Center

    Search this database of scientific experiments to learn more about those mentioned in this article.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Helps Build New Federal Sea Level Rise Website

    Source: NASA

    Designed to be user-friendly, the resource contains the latest sea level data, explainers, and other information from several U.S. agencies.
    The U.S. Interagency Task Force on Sea Level Change launched the U.S. Sea Level Change website on Monday, Sept. 23. Designed to help communities prepare for rising seas, the site features the latest science on changing sea levels, details about the impact on the environment and coastal communities, and strategies to mitigate the consequences. NASA led the development of the website for the task force.
    “NASA, together with our partner agencies, has studied climate change and Earth’s rising seas for decades,” said Karen St. Germain, director of the Earth Science Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “The data collected by our satellites and ground-based instruments is crucial to helping policymakers and communities prepare for the consequences of sea level rise. By combining NASA data with information from other federal agencies, the U.S. Sea Level Change website is the latest example of government working for the benefit of humanity.”
    Demonstrating a whole-of-government approach, the sea level task force sits within the U.S. Global Change Research Program and includes leading researchers from NASA, the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Agency for International Development, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Geological Survey.
    They’ve designed a user-friendly hub that brings together information on sea level change from the various federal agencies. While being detailed and accurate for resource managers, researchers, and others seeking more technical information, the website is intended to be accessible to anyone interested in the latest science and strategies to cope with rising seas.
    “Everyone will have access to accurate sea level and flooding information in their favorite U.S. coastal city and see the timing of the projected increase in water levels and flooding frequency,” added Nadya Vinogradova Shiffer, who directs NASA’s sea level change team as well as the ocean physics program at the agency’s headquarters in Washington.
    The contributing federal agencies focus on different aspects of sea level rise, including basic scientific research and the effects of rising seas on the environment, as well as infrastructure. With the new site, users can explore the topic from different angles.
    “Having this information in one place, delivered in a consistent and authoritative way through a true interagency effort, represents a big step forward for how the federal government helps coastal communities prepare for future sea level rise,” said Ben Hamlington, a sea level researcher at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
    Site visitors can find explainers on sea level science, summaries of what rising seas will look like for various parts of U.S. coastlines, and updates to the 2022 interagency report on sea level rise. The report concluded that U.S. coastlines will experience an average of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) of rise above current sea levels by 2050 and that the amount of rise in the next 30 years could equal the total rise seen over the past 100 years.
    The report also outlined near-term sea level rise under various levels of greenhouse gas emissions, from best-case to business-as-usual to worst-case scenarios. The scenarios are based on improved scientific understanding of how melting glaciers and ice sheets — as well as upward and downward vertical land motion — will affect ocean heights at our coasts. The data and scenarios have been updated for the task force website.
    NASA contributions to the 2022 interagency report, as well as to the newly launched sea level website, are part of ongoing agency work to understand Earth’s rising seas. NASA’s efforts to monitor the ocean span more than 30 years and include satellites such as Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich and the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) mission. Both were jointly developed by the agency and international and domestic partners. Agency partners on Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich include ESA (European Space Agency), the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites, and NOAA. For SWOT, NASA partners include the French space agency CNES (Centre National d’Études Spatiales), CSA (the Canadian Space Agency), and the UK Space Agency.
    For more on how NASA studies our home planet, see:
    http://www.nasa.gov/earth
    News Media Contacts
    Elizabeth Vlock / Aries KeckNASA Headquarters, Washington202-358-1600 / 202-604-2356elizabeth.a.vlock@nasa.gov / aries.keck@nasa.gov
    Jane J. Lee / Andrew WangJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-354-0307 / 626-379-6874jane.j.lee@jpl.nasa.gov / andrew.wang@jpl.nasa.gov
    2024-127

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Charges Four Entities for Failing to Register as FCMs

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission filed charges against four entities for failing to register as futures commission merchants. Each complaint seeks an order directing the entities to cease and desist from committing violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations as charged.

    The four entities charged are:

    • cryptoiminerstrade.com allegedly based in New York and Los Angeles, claims to offer binary options based off the value of commodities like foreign currencies and cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. It claims to be “one of the leading platforms in the U.S. offering binary options, Forex and spreads.” It touts its ability to handle customer funds and further claims that it is regulated by the CFTC.
    • Expert Stocks Zone allegedly based in New York, claims to offer binary options based off the value of commodities like foreign currencies and cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. It claims to be “one of the leading platforms in the U.S. offering binary options, Forex and spreads.” It touts its ability to handle customer funds and claims that its “first priority is the security of our clients’ funds,” for which it has received awards.  It further claims that it is regulated by the CFTC.
    • FalconForexBot allegedly based in New York and Beaumont, Texas, claims to offer binary options based off the value of commodities like foreign currencies and cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin. It claims to be “one of the leading platforms in the U.S. offering binary options, Forex and spreads” and describes itself as a “a true opportunity to earn on cryptocurrency/binary.” It touts its ability to handle customer funds and claims that its “first priority is the security of our clients’ funds,” for which it has received awards.  It further claims that it is regulated by the CFTC.
    • swiftminingexpert.com allegedly based in New York and Los Angeles, claims to offer binary options based off the value of commodities like foreign currencies and cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin. It claims to be “one of the leading platforms in the U.S. offering binary options, Forex and spreads.” It touts its ability to handle customer funds and further claims that it is regulated by the CFTC.

    The CFTC strongly urges the public to verify a company’s CFTC registration before committing funds.  If an entity is unregistered, a customer should be wary of providing funds to that entity. A company’s registration status can be found using NFA BASIC. 

    The Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this case are Leslie R. Kan, Michael Geiser, Elizabeth C. Brennan, David W. Oakland, Lara Turcik, K. Brent Tomer, Lenel Hickson Jr., and Manal M. Sultan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 class of the Army Acquisition Hall of Fame announced

    Source: United States Army

    ARLINGTON, Va. (Month DD, 2024) – Douglas R. Bush, the U.S. Army Acquisition Executive, announced today the 2024 inductees into the Army Acquisition Hall of Fame.

    The 2024 class of the Army Acquisition Hall of Fame includes Ms. Maureen Cross, Ms. Cathy Dickens, Mr. Gary Winkler, and retired Lt. Gen. Joseph Yakovac. These acquisition leaders will be inducted at a ceremony during the Association of the United States Army’s Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 15.

    “The 2024 Army Acquisition Hall of Fame inductees epitomize exceptional leadership, marked by unwavering dedication, innovative vision and relentless commitment to service,” said Bush. “Their induction celebrates their alignment with the core values of the Army, their devoted pursuit of our mission and the profound impact they have made, leaving a legacy that will endure for years to come.”

    The Army Acquisition Hall of Fame is open to former Army Acquisition Workforce professionals who served a minimum of 20 years in federal service and have been retired or separated from service at least one year. Nominees were evaluated on their significant and enduring contributions to the Army acquisition community’s historic and ongoing missions.

    The Army Acquisition Workforce is currently made up of more than 33,000 Army civilians, officers and noncommissioned officers who develop, acquire and sustain operational capability. Army acquisition covers six functional areas: engineering and technical management, contracting, life cycle logistics, program management, test and evaluation, and business financial management and cost estimating.

    “The legacy of the 2024 Army Acquisition Hall of Fame inductees extends far beyond their achievements, fostering the spirit that fuels our workforce – a spirit defined by perseverance, teamwork and an unyielding pursuit of excellence,” said Lt. Gen. Robert Collins, director of the Army Acquisition Corps. “These leaders personify the guiding principles that propel our Army forward and serve as an inspiration to those who follow in their footsteps.”

    For more information on the Army Acquisition Hall of fame, visit https://asc.army.mil/web/hall-of-fame/.

     

     Ms. Maureen Cross

    For exceptional leadership, selfless service, and enduring contributions to Army Acquisition, Ms. Maureen Cross is hereby inducted into the 2024 Class of the United States Army Acquisition Hall of Fame. Since joining the Army Acquisition Workforce in 1993, Ms. Cross served in a number of high-profile positions and established herself as a leader and team builder. In her role as the director of the Army Systems Acquisition Review Council Secretariat within the Deputy for Acquisition and Systems Management Office, Ms. Cross provided program management oversight to more than 600 programs valued in excess of $30 billion annually. Ms. Cross’ comprehensive knowledge of regulation, policy and statute made her a trusted advisor to senior Army acquisition leaders, and resulted in vastly improved program success. Mrs. Cross’ profound and enduring contributions supporting the nation reflect great credit upon the United States Army and honor the Army Acquisition Workforce.

     

    Ms. Cathy Dickens

    For exceptional leadership, selfless service and enduring contributions to Army Acquisition, Ms. Cathy Dickens is hereby inducted into the 2024 Class of the United States Army Acquisition Hall of Fame. As the deputy to the commanding general of U.S. Army Aviation Command, Ms. Dickens managed a multifaceted and diverse organization with an annual budget of over $4 billion and a global workforce of over 11,000 military and civilian employees. Throughout her career, Ms. Dickens served as a trusted acquisition authority, consultant and advisor to a number of senior leaders, including managing and directing an acquisition program valued at $25 billion annually and active contracts of $110 billion. Ms. Dickens’ efforts saved taxpayer money while improving efficiencies to get Soldiers much-needed equipment in the field. Her profound and enduring contributions supporting the nation reflect great credit upon the United States Army and honor the Army Acquisition Workforce.

     

    Mr. Gary Winkler

     

    For exceptional leadership, selfless service, and enduring contributions to Army Acquisition, Mr. Gary Winkler is hereby inducted into the 2024 Class of the United States Army Acquisition Hall of Fame. Mr. Winkler served as the Army’s first chief knowledge officer, and principal director for governance and acquisition, and provided oversight of Major Automated Information System programs and developed enduring Army policies, procedures and tools to prioritize and manage the Army’s IT-based capabilities. As Program Executive Officer for Enterprise Information Systems, Mr. Winkler managed a $4 billion portfolio of 40 major programs for large-scale enterprise systems supporting finance, logistics, personnel, communications infrastructure, biometrics, medical and warfighting functions. His profound and enduring contributions supporting the nation reflect great credit upon the United States Army and honor the Army Acquisition Workforce.

     

    Retired Lt. Gen. Joseph Yakovac

    For exceptional leadership, selfless service and enduring contributions to Army Acquisition, Lt. Gen Joseph Yakovac is hereby inducted into the 2024 class of the United States Army Acquisition Hall of Fame. Yakovac was instrumental in delivering capabilities to the field in his work with Program Executive Office for Ground Combat Systems and the development of the acquisition workforce at large when he served as director of the Army Acquisition Corps. Yakovac’s focus was always on people, programs and processes. He worked to instill a culture that encouraged people to work together across various domains and provided exemplary leadership and mentorship, developing future technical and acquisition leaders. His profound and enduring contributions supporting the nation reflect great credit upon the United States Army and honor the Army Acquisition Workforce.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Local 709 Partners with Lockheed Martin, Technical College on State-of-the-Art Training Facility

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Local 709 in Marietta, Ga., has announced a new partnership with Lockheed Martin and the Chattahoochee Technical College’s Aviation Training Academy.

    Local 709 leaders and representatives from Lockheed Martin attended a ceremony to celebrate the launch of a newly completed, state-of-the-art training facility. The first class of 10 students began their training on Aug. 19, 2024. Lockheed Martin has offered conditional employment to all 10 students upon successful completion of the program.

    The company plans to enroll all new students specializing in aircraft structures and electrical work through this training program. Currently, Chattahoochee Tech offers programs in Aircraft Structural Technology, Avionics Technology, and Aircraft Upholstery and Trim. Programs pending FAA approval include Aviation Maintenance (Airframe), Powerplant Maintenance, and a combined Airframe and Powerplant diploma.

    “The IAM is thrilled to embark on this partnership with Lockheed Martin and Chattahoochee Tech, investing in the next generation of skilled aviation professionals,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “This collaboration will not only strengthen the workforce but also provide life-changing opportunities in our communities.”

    “Local 709 is proud to be a part of this new program,” said IAM Local 709 President Mark Pietrofere. “It will encourage growth in the aviation maintenance and manufacturing fields, respond to industry growth, and an aging workforce.”

    To fill these positions, Lockheed Martin is collaborating with local high schools, technical schools, and county workforce boards to recruit students. Job requisitions tied to Chattahoochee Tech will be posted on the Lockheed Martin website and clearly labeled with “Chattahoochee Tech” in the job title. 

    It is also recommended that applicants register with local county workforce boards to help reduce tuition costs and potentially receive assistance with gas, food, and transportation expenses. The initiative represents a U.S. Department Labor apprenticeship program, which opens up more opportunities for student participants.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dissenting Statement of Commissioner Summer K. Mersinger Regarding cryptoiminerstrade.com, Expert Stocks Zone, FalconForexBot, and swiftminingexpert.com

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Each of the four “Unregistered Entity Sweep” matters before the Commodity Futures Trading Commission[1] today seeks a cease-and-desist order and uses the Commission’s administrative process to avoid bringing these charges in the federal courts.  I respectfully dissent from the Commission’s use of administrative proceedings to bring an unregistered futures commission merchant (FCM) charge without identifying any relevant facts to support that charge.

    The recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in SEC v. Jarkesy[2] raises the level of scrutiny that any agency, including the Commission, should apply before employing the use of administrative proceedings.  In each of these four matters, I am concerned that there is insufficient evidence that the proposed respondent was acting as an FCM.  Specifically, while there may be sufficient evidence that the proposed respondent engaged in soliciting or in accepting orders for the relevant types of transactions, there is no evidence that the proposed respondent accepted money, securities, or property (or extended credit in lieu thereof) to margin, guarantee, or secure those trades or contracts.[3]

    FCMs are vital intermediaries in our markets and serve as critical agents to their customers in facilitating the execution and clearing of derivative transactions.  They are distinct from designated contract markets or swap execution facilities which execute derivative transactions, and from derivatives clearing organizations that clear derivative transactions.  They are also distinct from other intermediaries, such as commodity pool operators, commodity trading advisors, introducing brokers, and swap dealers.  Just because a person or entity may purport to accept money for a derivative transaction does not necessarily mean that it should be registered as an FCM or that an enforcement case should be brought against it if it did not do so.  This requires a deeper analysis, and, more importantly, evidence that the person or entity actually engaged or purported to engage in activity that meets the required elements of the FCM definition.

    While I support acting to stop entities from falsely claiming that they are registered with the Commission, I cannot support the unregistered FCM charges in this sweep without additional evidence.  Furthermore, when our Division of Enforcement utilizes administrative avenues to bring its cases, it must do so with careful and thorough consideration of the underlying evidence to ensure that any succeeding decisions under those cases by presiding officers or other administrative judges are limited to only those appropriate under the law.  Therefore, I dissent.

    [1] This statement will refer to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission as the “Commission” or “CFTC.”

    [2] Securities and Exchange Commission v. Jarkesy,144 S. Ct. 21 (2024).

    [3] See Commodity Exchange Act Section 1a(28), 7 U.S.C. §1a(28) (defining a futures commission merchant as “an individual, association, partnership, corporation, or trust that is engaged in soliciting or accepting orders for the purchase or sale of a commodity for future delivery; a security futures product; a swap; any agreement contract, or transaction described in section 2(c)(2)(C)i) or section 2(c)(2)(D)(i); any commodity option authorized under section 4c; or any leverage transaction authorized under section 19…and in or in connection with [those activities], accepts any money, securities, or property (or extends credit in lieu thereof) to margin, guarantee, or secure any trades or contracts that result or may result therefrom”).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta’s Sponsored Bill to Solve More Crime Through Forensics Services Signed into Law

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Tuesday, September 24, 2024

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

     

    AB 3042 extends the sunset on Proposition 69, the “DNA Fingerprint, Unsolved Crime and Innocence Protection Act” which directs funding from criminal fines to bolster essential crime-solving DNA services

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a statement after Assembly Bill 3042 (AB 3042) was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. Authored by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D – Elk Grove), AB 3042 ensures DOJ will be able to continue to provide important forensic DNA services with funding through updates to Proposition 69, the “DNA Fingerprint, Unsolved Crime and Innocence Protection Act.” The bill also extends the sunset date for Proposition 69 and directs funding from criminal fines to support essential crime-solving DNA programs both at DOJ and local law enforcement agencies. 

    “I am very proud of the important work that is done in our Bureau of Forensic Services and will continue to be done thanks to this new law,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The Bureau receives crucial funding through Proposition 69, and AB 3024 will ensure that Proposition 69 remains in place to support our efforts to solve crime through forensic services. I want to thank Assemblymember Nguyen, our legislative partners and Governor Newsom for their work toward this important goal.”

    “I would never feel safe knowing someone who has harmed me or my loved ones are still out there,” said Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen. “I am proud to author AB 3042 in collaboration with Attorney General Bonta to continue key funding to better support public safety in our communities as well as exonerating the innocent.”

    Voters approved Proposition 69 in November 2004. Proposition 69 specifically directs money from criminal fines to be allocated towards funding the CAL-DNA Data Bank program which helps to solve violent crimes both at local public crime laboratories and within DOJ itself using the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). In another provision of Proposition 69, the CAL-DNA Data Bank also assists with the identification of missing and unidentified persons, including abducted children, using separate Missing Person CODIS databases. Historically, DOJ has received more than $74 million through Prop. 69 over a span of two decades. However, this proposition included a sunset date that would terminate funding collection after twenty years. AB 3042 sought to extend the sunset date to establish a steady source of revenue outside of the General Fund that will support DNA testing programs at both state and local levels. 

    AB 3042 was supported by California Association of Crime Laboratory Directors, California District Attorneys Association, California State Sheriffs’ Association, County of Kern County Board of Supervisors, Los Angeles Board of Supervisors, Los Angeles County Professional Peace Officers Association, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

    The text of the legislation is available here. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Providing Sustainable Power for 123,000 More Homes

    Source: US State of New York

    In celebration of Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission has issued final siting permits for the Rich Road Solar Energy Center and Prattsburgh Wind LLC projects. The solar farm and the wind farm, located in St. Lawrence County and Steuben County, respectively, will bring a combined 387 megawatts of clean, renewable energy to New York’s electric grid, powering more than 123,000 average-sized homes. Both facilities will contribute significantly to the State’s ambitious climate goals while providing economic benefits to local communities.

    “These two massive renewable energy projects are prime examples of our progress in transitioning to a clean energy economy,” Governor Hochul said. “With the issuance of these siting permits, we are creating good-paying jobs in the North Country and the Southern Tier, while providing clean sustainable energy for our families and businesses.”

    The Rich Road Solar project developers estimate that the 240 MW solar farm—which will be supplemented with an additional 20 MW battery energy storage system (BESS) located in the Town of Canton, St. Lawrence County—will generate clean energy capable of powering more than 61,000 average-sized homes. The Prattsburgh wind farm, a 147 MW wind project spanning the Towns of Prattsburgh, Avoca, Cohocton, Howard, and Wheeler in Steuben County, will produce enough power for an estimated 62,000 homes according to its developers.

    Today’s announcement marks the second and third major renewable energy facility permits issued by ORES this month. Together, the projects bring the total number of ORES-approved large-scale renewable energy projects to 18 since 2021, representing over 2.7 gigawatts of clean energy. The approvals come during New York’s Climate Week, highlighting the State’s continued leadership in advancing clean energy initiatives and reinforcing its commitment to working toward the State’s climate goals.

    Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission Interim Executive Director Jessica Waldorf said, “Today’s announcement demonstrates the State’s continued commitment to a clean energy transition and the responsible siting and development of renewable energy resources. ORES’ issuance of the permits of the Rich Road Solar Energy Center and Prattsburgh Wind LLC projects will support the delivery of significant amounts of clean energy to the electric grid and local community benefits, while mitigating significant adverse environmental impacts.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “The implementation of wind and solar developments like the projects announced today in St. Lawrence and Steuben counties is a critical part of Governor Hochul’s commitment to advancing a clean energy economy and achieving the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. DEC commends the Governor and ORES for their efforts to accelerate green energy deployment and address the challenges of climate change to ensure a greener future for all New Yorkers.”

    Alliance for Clean Energy New York Executive Director Marguerite Wells said, “Every megawatt of clean energy that comes online is a win for New Yorkers in the fight against climate change, and brings lasting economic benefits to our state. We thank the state and ORES for granting these siting permits and we look forward to the day the switch is flipped and power flows from these important projects.”

    New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “With the impacts of climate change growing more dire by the day, we can no longer afford to just talk about renewable energy, we need to deliver real projects on the ground, and that’s why we’re thrilled to see Governor Hochul and the team at ORES approve the Rich Road Solar Energy Center and Prattsburgh Wind projects. Together, their promise of 387 megawatts of clean energy mark another important step on New York’s path to meeting our CLCPA obligations and transitioning to the clean energy economy we need.”

    The application for the Rich Road solar farm was deemed complete on January 3 and a draft permit was issued by ORES on March 4. A thorough, timely, and transparent review process followed that included a public comment period and hearing. The facility will feature three ground-mounted solar PV arrays on single-axis tracker racking systems, a 34.5 kilovolt (kV) to 345 kV collection substation, and a point of interconnection switchyard. Construction of the facility will create more than 300 full-time jobs, with four permanent positions during operation. The project is expected to provide $24 million in direct payments to the Town of Canton, St. Lawrence County, and local school districts over the next 35 years.

    The application for the Prattsburgh wind farm was deemed complete on October 30, 2023, with a draft permit issued by ORES on December 29, 2023. The project will encompass 36 wind turbines and related infrastructure across approximately 53 acres of primarily rural land. The project will generate more than $1.2 million annually in tax revenue for local municipalities and over $500,000 in direct lease and neighbor agreement payments to landowners. Additionally, it will create 81 on-site jobs during construction and eight full-time positions during operation.

    Both projects are integral to New York’s broader strategy to meet the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act’s targets, which mandate 70 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and a zero-emissions electricity sector by 2040. Additionally, both projects were approved in less than the one-year timeframe required under the law.

    For more information about the Rich Road Solar and Prattsburgh Wind projects, as well as other ORES-permitted facilities, visit the ORES website.

    New York State’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan

    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that a minimum of 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is advancing a suite of efforts – including the New York Cap-and-Invest program (NYCI) and other complementary policies – to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and 85 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. New York is also on a path toward a zero emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economy-wide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York’s unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $28 billion in 61 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the State, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 170,000 jobs in New York’s clean energy sector as of 2022 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New York’s climate action with more than 400 registered and more than 130 certified Climate Smart Communities, over 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the State’s largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the State to help target air pollution and combat climate change.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Helping More Children With Complex Mental Health Needs

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced awards amounting to nearly $90 million over five years to help six providers across the state establish services that provide critical support to youth struggling with complex mental health issues. Administered by the State Office of Mental Health, the critical time transition program will serve youth between the ages of 11 and 17 to help them utilize one-on-one support, provide stability for the child and their family, and help the child avoid extended stays in emergency departments or psychiatric emergency programs.

    “By investing in these programs, we can help more children with complex mental health issues get the services they need,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State is taking a new approach to this issue by providing one-on-one support options locally across the state and in some instances, in a home-like setting where they can receive the level of care they need as they recover.”

    OMH awarded approximately $14.5 million over five years to each of the following six service providers, for a total of nearly $90 million across all of the providers. This includes $100,000 in start-up funding to each provider to help provide immediate support to get the program underway.

    • Northeast Parent and Child in Schenectady County
    • ACCESS CNY in Onondaga County
    • Hillside in Monroe County
    • Rehabilitation Support Services in Orange County
    • Essex County ARC in Essex County
    • Children’s Home of Wyoming Conference in Broome County

    These six service providers will use critical time intervention, an evidence-based practice that mobilizes support for individuals during periods of transition. These supports include mental health and behavioral treatment; interpersonal and rehabilitative skills training; vocational and educational planning; intensive family or caregiver education; coordination of all stakeholders and service providers; and, as needed, a transitional home-like environment to stay and receive support.

    Each transitional residential setting will have space to accommodate up to eight youth. These residences will accommodate children for up to 120 days as they adjust their support systems and prepare to return to their community.

    Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “It is always a priority to provide services for our youth in a community-based setting avoiding hospitals and emergency rooms. This Critical Time Transition Program will provide intensive services for youth and their families in a welcoming and healing community environment. This innovative program is a result of the forward-thinking approach Governor Hochul has demonstrated with her continued emphasis on strengthening our state’s mental health system.”

    Families with youth who have complex needs and are enrolling them in outpatient programs may need additional support that is not immediately available. These families often find themselves relying on extended stays at hospitals while they are waiting for services and if they believe they cannot safely care for their children at home.

    Children and teens having complex needs, including co-occurring developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, are more likely to experience discharge delays from higher levels of care waiting for the appropriate community services. Drawn out hospital stays can have a negative impact on outcomes for youth with complex behavioral needs, especially for ones that do not require this level of care.

    The Healthcare Association of New York State recently highlighted these challenges in a report released in February, indicating that a survey of 52 hospitals in 2022 found that more than 500 individuals – including children – remained in hospitals for a month or more after they were ready for discharge. Among other recommendations, the report called for crisis respite transition programs for people living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, so they can readily access essential care as they wait for placement in outpatient programs.

    The program model was created in close collaboration with other child-serving New York State agencies that are integral to solving this statewide issue. This includes the state Office of Children and Family Services, the State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, the State Department of Education and the Council on Children and Families.

    Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said, “Evidenced by this investment and several other initiatives, Governor Hochul has demonstrated she is listening to the families and service providers who are seeking relief for children that have specialized health care needs. The system grapples with prolonged hospitalizations involving children and youth with complex mental health needs, and there have been limited avenues post-stabilization. Yet with this new funding and the evidence-based model, the government and voluntary agencies will have additional resources to keep families together, promote well-being, and facilitate a healthy transition for children discharged from the hospital back into their communities.”

    Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Willow Baer said, “With this funding, Governor Hochul is addressing a gap in care that impacts too many young New Yorkers with co-occurring diagnoses, prolonging unnecessary hospitalizations and disruptions for families. OPWDD is proud to partner with the Office of Mental Health and the award recipients to build this innovative and much needed transitional approach to care.

    State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Students today are experiencing unprecedented levels of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and isolation. These challenges reflect the complex needs of young people, which demand equally complex solutions. Access to mental health services is essential for the well-being and development of our students. Together with Governor Hochul and our government partners, we are committed to taking meaningful steps to provide the vital support and resources necessary for our children to thrive.”

    Council on Children and Families Executive Director Vanessa Threatte said, “This funding will help ensure that children across New York – those who have suffered abuse, neglect, and trauma or whose complex psychiatric and intellectual and developmental needs require more specialized or intensive service – receive needed services. As the executive director of the Council on Children and Families, the state agency responsible for promoting cross-agency collaboration, I am especially excited about this new program and look forward to working closely with the dedicated group of providers to connect our state’s most vulnerable youth to services.”

    State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “Our young people with unmet complex needs must receive care that seeks to minimize family trauma and prevents extended hospital stays. With Governor Hochul’s $90 million in support of critical youth mental health services, we are moving in the right direction – young people with unmet complex needs will finally receive one on one attention, critical time intervention, and competent care, but we also know that there is much more that needs to be done. I look forward to working with Governor Hochul and our community partners to ensure that our families receive the mental health and behavioral support they need to thrive.”

    Assemblymember Aileen Gunther said, “Our young people are the future, and this investment will provide more comprehensive, community-based care for those who are struggling. Strengthening these local support systems will provide immediate impacts for kids, while also taking a burden off our stressed emergency rooms and psychiatric emergency programs. I commend this funding and the Governor’s dedication to supporting our youth during this pivotal time in their lives.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investing in rural health facilities across Alberta

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Alberta’s government is committed to providing the highest quality of health care services for all Albertans, no matter where they live in the province.

    To ensure Albertans can get the care they need close to home, the government is investing almost $15.5 million to improve access to health care services in rural and remote communities. This investment will support the construction of a new dialysis unit in Lloydminster, the construction of the Brian Rosche Ambulance Station in Slake Lake, and will enhance kidney care services for residents of Grande Prairie and its surrounding area.

    “We are committed to supporting capital projects in every corner of the province. Rural Albertans deserve access to high-quality health care services, and this program has been designed to ensure facilities can service the needs of their communities.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    The projects in Slave Lake and Lloydminster are funded through the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program, which funds strategic capital projects at rural health facilities to help ensure Albertans can access the health care services they need as close to home as possible.

    The program is supporting 44 projects in 39 communities, including construction of the new dialysis unit in Lloydminster. Alberta’s government is investing $6.2 million in the project, which is expected to be complete in late fall 2025. The new location will operate six stations initially, with the ability to add more as the demand increases. The unit will operate Monday through Saturday to accommodate the needs of hemodialysis patients, who typically receive three four-hour treatments each week.

    “Our investment in rural health facilities demonstrates our strong commitment to delivering equitable health care for all Albertans. This funding will strengthen local communities by improving access to essential services, bringing quality care closer to home.”

    Martin Long, parliamentary secretary for rural health

    Alberta’s government has also provided $6.8 million through the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program for the recently completed Brian Rosche Ambulance Station in Slake Lake – a 990-square-metre facility designed to better accommodate local staff and ambulances. The facility, named in honour of the late Brian Rosche, a dedicated community leader and former Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 councillor, includes accommodation for nine crew members, a training and multi-purpose room, kitchen, living spaces, and space for nine ambulances in the garage. These enhancements will help ensure staff are supported to deliver prompt, effective and high-quality emergency medical care.

    “Mr. Rosche’s unwavering commitment to advancing health care in the region, including his advocacy for a new EMS facility, has been deeply valued by the community. We are grateful for his legacy and excited for the positive impact this facility will have on our community.”

    Francesca Ward, mayor, Town of Slave Lake

    “This facility is a crucial addition to our health care infrastructure and will enhance our ability to respond to emergencies in the Slave Lake area. It’s also a fitting tribute to Brian Rosche’s dedication to advancing health care in our region.”

    Rob Barone, associate executive director, EMS, North Zone

    Enhancing kidney care services in Grande Prairie

    In addition to the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program, Alberta’s government is investing in major capital projects to meet the health care needs of Albertans living in rural communities.

    Alberta’s government is providing $2.42 million to enhance and consolidate kidney care services for Grande Prairie and area residents. The funding will help the Queen Elizabeth II Ambulatory Care Centre expand its hemodialysis unit to provide care for up to 24 patients a day in the future.

    The Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation is providing $1.5 million to support the project. The space will be named the Sargent Family Kidney Care Centre, honouring the Sargent family’s significant donation to the foundation for this project.

    “Improving access to kidney care services will significantly impact our community in a positive way. We are proud to support this initiative and grateful to the Sargent Family Foundation for their dedication to extended kidney care in Grande Prairie and the Peace Region.”

    Keith Curtis, executive director, Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2024 includes $65 million over two years for the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program.
    • The Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Program is intended to support the renovation of rural health facilities and to help purchase and install new equipment.
      • Since its inception in 2021, the program has invested $115 million across the province.

    Related information

    • Capital Plan
    • Alberta Health Services Capital Projects

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada launches Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    OTTAWA, September 24, 2024

    Canada, like elsewhere around the world, has seen a rise in hate both on the streets and online in recent years. The federal government is committed to doing whatever it takes to protect everyone living in Canada as well as the resilient and diverse communities across the country to ensure that all can thrive while being their authentic self.

    The rise in hate incidents has disproportionately affected Indigenous Peoples; Black, racialized, religious minorities, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities; women; and persons with disabilities. Hate not only harms those directly targeted but also impacts the broader Canadian society, undermining social cohesion and posing a threat to national security.

    That’s why today, the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, unveiled Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. The Action Plan represents Canada’s first-ever comprehensive cross-government effort to combat hate. It brings together 20 key federal initiatives grounded on three pillars:

    • Empower communities to identify and prevent hate;
    • Support victims and survivors, and protect communities; and
    • Build community trust, partnerships and institutional readiness.

    The Action Plan invests $273.6 million over six years, and $29.3 million ongoing, to tackle hatred from multiple angles. It includes increasing support to victims and survivors, helping communities prevent, address and protect people from hate; enhancing research and data collection; providing greater resources for law enforcement; and raising public awareness.

    Everyone has a right to be safe and treated with dignity. We will collaborate with provincial, territorial and international governments, as well as First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners, and cities and communities across Canada to make this happen. Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate will help us continue building a safer and more inclusive Canada where everyone can succeed, regardless of who they are, who they love or what they believe in.

    Quotes

    “Everyone has the right to feel safe, regardless of who they are, what they look like or what they believe in. We have all been alarmed to witness the tragic consequences of hate, both at home and abroad. Hate has no place in Canada – whether in person or online, in our schools, or in our places of worship. Our government is committed to keeping communities across the country safe. Because when someone becomes a victim of hate, it affects all of us. Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting Hate represents an unprecedented cross-government effort to combat hate while providing more support to victims of hate and at-risk communities. As we face difficult and challenging times, we must stand up for who are as a country – a country where diversity is our strength and where everyone can be who they are and achieve their dreams without fear.”

    —The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

    “Hate, in all its forms, has no place in Canada – everyone has a right to feel and be safe in their homes and in their communities. We all have a role to play in fighting discrimination and fostering a fairer, safer and more inclusive Canada. The Changing Narratives Fund, as part of Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate, will break down systemic barriers and empower diverse voices in the arts, culture and media. The fund ensures their experiences and perspectives are better represented, and advances anti-racism, equity, and diversity and inclusion within the cultural and media sectors.”

    —The Honourable Pascale St‑Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

    “In the face of an increase in hate crimes, our government is stepping up to ensure at-risk communities can access financial support to protect their institutions. The new Canada Community Security Program is designed to be simpler, more flexible and more generous, in direct response to what we’ve heard from community organizations across the country.”

    —The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs

    “No one should live in fear of being who they are, but we know that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and expression continues to be a reality in Canada. This is wrong and must be eliminated. Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate complements actions we have taken to protect and support Canadians since 2015, including the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, all of which were developed by listening to the voices and lived experiences of individuals and communities across Canada. As always, we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with all communities experiencing hate and we will not hesitate to use all federal tools to protect and support them.”

    —The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth

    “We all expect to be safe in our homes, in our neighbourhoods and in our communities. This is why we introduced Bill C-63, a key component of Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. We know that online harms can have real world impacts with tragic and sometimes fatal consequences. This legislation is about keeping everyone safer in an online world that can feel more dangerous and unfortunately more toxic each and every day so that women, racialized persons, 2SLGBTQI+ people, and people of diverse faiths and backgrounds can go to their places of worship, community centres, schools or work without fearing that online threats might turn into real world danger.”

    —The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

    “Canada is as innovative as it is diverse, and it is far more successful when everyone is given a fair chance to develop their full potential, free from hate and discrimination. With Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate, we are standing up to confront hate and protect Canadians, and Statistics Canada will be key in researching and gathering the data needed to build a safer and more resilient society.”

    —The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

    “Canada is a country rich in diversity, where every person deserves to feel safe and be respected. This is why today we’re launching Canada’s first-ever Action Plan on Combatting Hate, a commitment of $273 million to help build a safe Canada for everyone.”

    —Sameer Zuberi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

    Quick facts

    • Budget 2022 provided $85 million over four years, starting in 2022–23, to the Department of Canadian Heritage to launch and implement the new Anti-Racism Strategy and a national action plan on combatting hate. Budget 2024 provides an additional $273.6 million over six years, starting in 2024–25, and $29.3 million ongoing to support Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. The Action Plan brings together key initiatives led by federal departments and organizations, including Canadian Heritage, Public Safety Canada, Justice Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Women and Gender Equality Canada, Statistics Canada and the Canadian Race Relations Foundation. 

    • According to the July 2024 Statistics Canada data release, the number of police-reported hate crimes increased from 3,612 incidents in 2022 to 4,777 in 2023 (+32%), even though some victims might not report a hate crime they experienced. This followed an 8-percent increase in 2022 and a 72-percent increase from 2019 to 2021. Overall, the number of police-reported hate crimes (+145%) has more than doubled since 2019.

    • Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate is complemented by the work of the Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism and the Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia.

    • Public Safety Canada’s enhanced Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) (previously the Security Infrastructure Program) is also part of Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate. The CCSP is making it easier and more efficient for organizations and communities at risk of hate-motivated crime to access security support when they need it.

    • The Action Plan aligns with ongoing efforts to further mitigate the risk of exposure to harmful content online through Bill C-63, which proposes to create a new Online Harms Act to create stronger protections for the most vulnerable groups online. The Government of Canada has tabled Bill C-63, An Act to enact the Online Harms Act, to amend the Criminal Code, the Canadian Human Rights Act and An Act respecting the mandatory reporting of Internet child pornography by persons who provide an Internet service and to make consequential and related amendments to other Acts, in the House of Commons.

    • Canada is signatory to the Christchurch Call to Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content Online, which is a global pledge by 56 governments, including Canada, as well as online service providers and civil society organizations to coordinate and collaborate on efforts to eliminate terrorist and violent extremist content online. The Government of Canada reiterates its engagement to advance the Christchurch Call to Action in Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate.

    • Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate complements Changing Systems, Transforming Lives: Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy 2024–2028. Both initiatives take a comprehensive and intersectional approach to confronting hate, racism and discrimination.

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    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Waleed Saleem
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
     waleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Canadian Heritage
    819-994-9101
    1-866-569-6155
    media@pch.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More Than $3.9 Billion Invested Since 2020 Toward Improving Highways

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on September 24, 2024

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan reflects on the past four years of significant investments into our province’s infrastructure. These investments improve safety, support our export-based economy and work toward the goal of improving 10,000 km of highways by 2030.

    “Our government recognizes the importance of strategic funding to build, maintain and operate a safe and reliable highway network, along with continued improvements on the road ahead to keep our great province strong,” Highways Minister Lori Carr said. “This critical infrastructure helps people get to the places and services they need, while it moves the products of our key industries that create jobs and support our strong and growing export-based economy.”

    More than $3.9 billion has been invested overall since 2020-21 toward such initiatives as building passing lanes, upgrading thin membrane surface (TMS) highways, maintenance activities and other significant infrastructure. This overall investment includes a $300 million Stimulus Program; a booster shot to Saskatchewan’s economy during the global pandemic.

    Highlights within the first five years of Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan include:

    • More than 40 new sets of passing lanes throughout the province, which improves safety on strategic trade corridors, as the province ships to more than 160 countries around the globe.
    • More than 840 km of TMS improvements.
    • More than 85 bridge replacement or rehabilitation projects.
    • More than 1,100 culvert replacement projects.

    Major projects and other initiatives include:

    • Twinning segments of Highways 6 and 39 between Regina and southeast of Corinne.
    • Continuing work to improve the Highway 5 corridor between Saskatoon and Humboldt.
    • The completion of the Garson Lake Road to the Alberta-Saskatchewan Border.
    • Development of an ongoing passing lane strategy, which includes future projects on Highway 10 between Fort Qu’Appelle and Melville, along with Highway 17 from Lloydminster heading north.
    • More than $350 million toward building, maintaining and operating the transportation system in Northern Saskatchewan.
    • Completion of a five-year, $100 million investment in road safety.

    This recent and ongoing work means an expected 5,900 kms of highways will be improved in the first five years of the provincial government’s Growth Plan and positions Saskatchewan to be ahead of the pace needed to meet the goal of 10,000 kms improved by 2030.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA Pacific Region investigation leads to seizure of firearms and prohibited devices in Vancouver

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 24, 2024                 Vancouver, British Columbia            Canada Border Services Agency

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to protecting Canadians by intercepting and investigating smuggling attempts at our borders.

    Between August 2023 and January 2024, Border Services Officers at Vancouver International Airport Air Cargo Operations and Mail Center intercepted two firearm suppressors and two replica firearms in two related incidents. As these are prohibited devices, the Pacific Region Criminal Investigations Section launched an investigation into the importer of these devices. On August 28, 2024, CBSA criminal investigators, with assistance from the Vancouver Police Department, executed search warrants on the suspect’s residence in Vancouver. A number of items were seized, including:

    • two firearms;
    • two completed 3D printed firearms;
    • two 3D printed lower receivers;
    • eighteen replica firearms;
    • various other firearm parts and accessories;
    • suspected drugs.

    The suspect was arrested and the investigation is ongoing.

    Quotes

    “The safety and security of Canadians is our top priority. By stopping the smuggling of illegal firearms and drugs, we’re keeping communities safe. This seizure is a great example of the ongoing cooperation between the CBSA and local law enforcement agencies.”

    – The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety

    “The Canada Border Services Agency works hard to intercept undeclared firearms and firearm parts at our borders and investigates those who break Canada’s laws. The efforts of our officers and investigators, with support from the Vancouver Police Department, have removed dangerous firearms and prohibited devices from this community.”

    – Nina Patel, Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency, Pacific Region

    “Violent offenders, organized criminals, and crime groups have no respect for local or international boundaries. Law enforcement and national security agencies must work together to prevent the proliferation of weapons and drugs that threaten public safety within our communities. We are grateful to have assisted Canada Border Services Agency during this important investigation.”

    – Don Chapman, Superintendent, Operations Support Command, Vancouver Police Department

    Quick facts

    • Smuggling and other Customs Act and Criminal Code contraventions may lead to arrest, criminal charges and prosecution in a court of law.

    • The CBSA screens goods, including international mail and courier items, coming into Canada and examines more closely those that may pose a threat to the safety of Canadians.

    • For the latest enforcement statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.

    • If you have information about suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Line toll-free at 1-888-502-9060.

    Contacts

    Media Relations

    Canada Border Services Agency

    media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

    1-877-761-5945

    @CanBorderPAC

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Far too many people’s lives are impacted by hate and its devastating consequences. Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate is informed by individuals and communities with lived experience of hate.

    OTTAWA, September 24, 2024

    Far too many people’s lives are impacted by hate and its devastating consequences. Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate is informed by individuals and communities with lived experience of hate. It is grounded in consultation activities organized by the Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, which included:

    • 15 town halls
    • 2 national summits on antisemitism and Islamophobia;
    • 1 national youth forum on anti-Black racism;
    • 21 roundtables; and
    • an online questionnaire open to everyone in Canada.

    Additionally, the Action Plan builds on community engagement conducted by the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat for the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, three roundtables led by Public Safety Canada on the Security Infrastructure Program (now known as the Canada Community Security Program), and research and recommendations from the Canadian Race Relations Foundation. 

    The Action Plan lays the foundation for the Government of Canada’s robust response to the growing threat of hate while ensuring every person’s right to be safe and treated with dignity. To achieve this goal, priority areas for action are organized under three pillars:

    • Empower communities to identify and prevent hate;
    • Support victims and survivors, and protect communities; and
    • Build community trust, partnerships and institutional readiness.

    To drive real change across the country, the Action Plan brings new and existing initiatives together to foster greater coordination and collaboration among federal organizations. Working in collaboration with their provincial, territorial, international, Indigenous and municipal counterparts, it includes federal initiatives led by:

    • Canadian Heritage;
    • Canadian Race Relations Foundation;
    • Justice Canada;
    • Public Safety Canada;
    • Royal Canadian Mounted Police;
    • Statistics Canada; and
    • Women and Gender Equality Canada.

    Everyone has multiple and diverse factors of identity that intersect. This impacts how individuals understand and experience hate and the government’s response to hate crimes and hate incidents. This Action Plan was developed using Gender-Based Analysis Plus in an effort to develop responsive measures that take into account the diversity of needs and realities.

    For more information, consult the Action Plan web page at https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/combatting-hate.html.

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    Waleed Saleem
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
    waleed.saleem@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –