NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Announces $1.8 Million in Federal Grants to Support Central Florida Service Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    June 30, 2025

    AmeriCorps State and National is awarding over $27 million to Florida for FY25 to address community needs across the state

    ORLANDO, FL – Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) announced Central Florida will be receiving $1.8 million in federal grants from AmeriCorps, the federal agency for service and volunteering. This funding will support the City of Orlando’s Operation AmeriCorps and City Year Orlando’s ongoing efforts to provide academic support to students in underserved neighborhoods. 

    This funding announcement comes after a federal judge ordered the Trump Administration to restore funding to AmeriCorps programs following a lawsuit filed by a coalition of states over the administration’s efforts to dismantle the federal agency.

    “These federal grants are an investment in the volunteers and programs that help address Central Florida’s most pressing needs. Both City Year Orlando and Operation AmeriCorps work to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. And that work isn’t possible without strong federal support,” said Rep. Frost. “The Trump Administration may label AmeriCorps’ work as ‘wasteful,’ but in Central Florida, we know their work is essential to building a stronger, thriving community for everyone.” 

    AmeriCorps State and National provides grants to hundreds of nonprofits, faith and community-based organizations, public agencies, Indian Tribes, and institutions of higher education. Recipient organizations, known as grantees, design service activities for AmeriCorps Members that demonstrate an evidence-based or evidence-informed approach to strengthening communities and solving community problems.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Twelve Appointments to Various Boards and Commissions

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JUNE 27, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced twelve appointments to various boards and commissions.

    Casey Burton, Ph.D., of St. James, was appointed to the State Board of Health and Senior Services.

    Mr. Burton is the executive director of research and governmental affairs at Phelps Health in Rolla, Missouri. He also serves as an adjunct assistant professor of chemistry at the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) where he develops and leads sponsored research involving noninvasive disease detection and characterization. Burton also serves on the boards of the Ozark Biomedical Initiative, Missouri Ozarks Community Action, Inc., Phelps County Community Resource Center, and more. Burton earned his doctorate in analytical chemistry and bachelor’s in chemistry from Missouri S&T.

    James Carter Jr., of St. Charles, was appointed to the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

    Mr. Carter currently serves as an Advanced American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter and is certified and licensed by the Board of Evaluation of Interpreters in both Illinois and Missouri. In addition to his professional responsibilities, Carter is a member of the World Association of Sign Language Interpreters (WASL), World Federation of the Deaf (WFD), and Deaf in Government (DIG). He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Lincoln Christian University.

    Earl Crawford, of Excelsior Springs, was reappointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Mr. Crawford currently serves as executive director at Missouri Inclusive Housing Development Corporation. He has previous experience as a special education teacher, superintendent of a rehabilitation center, and an education consultant, among other positions. In addition to his professional experience, Crawford has served on the Marshall Parks and Recreation Board, Marshall School Board, Marshall Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Valley College Board of Trustees, and Midland Empire Resources of Independent Living (MERIL), as well as vice president of the Marshall Chamber of Commerce. He holds a Master of Special Education from the University of Central Missouri.

    Betty Davidson, Ph.D., of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Ms. Davidson is a retired educational professional and expert in disability studies and inclusive practices. She previously served as the director of visually or orthopedically impaired students at the Special School District of St. Louis County. She also  serves as the chair of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER), the president of Inclusivity Media, the vice president of the St. Clare Hospital Auxiliary for SSM Health, and more. Dr. Davidson earned a doctorate in higher education from Saint Louis University, a master’s in special education from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, and her bachelor’s degree from Harris-Stowe State College. 

    Aaron Durso, of Taneyville, was appointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Mr. Durso currently serves as Bull Creek Village Clerk. He has previous experience as burough manager and the municipal authority manager in Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, and Senior Pastor at LOVE Christian Fellowship. A disabled veteran of the United States Air Force, Durso was honorably discharged in 1993. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Newburg Theological Seminary, Master of Ministry at Chesapeake Theological Seminary, and Bachelor of Religious Education at the University of Valley Forge.

    Ronald Hack, of Sunset Hills, was reappointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Mr. Hack is a retired lawyer, formerly serving as a partner at Evans & Dixon, LLC and Gallop Johnson & Neuman, L.C. He has been an active community volunteer for more than 30 years, currently serving on the boards of the Sunset Hills Conservation Foundation and the Southwest Area Chamber of Commerce. Hack earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College.

    Katie Jones, of St. Peters, was reappointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Ms. Jones is the chief program officer for Boone Center Inc. (BCI). She previously worked as supervisor for Cardinal Ritter Senior Services and a case manager for the Child Abuse and Neglect Unit for the Division of Family Services. In addition to her professional career, Jones is also a member of the Missouri Association of County Developmental Disabilities Services, Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop Managers, and the Legislative Committee of St. Charles Coalition. Jones earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Sociology from Lindenwood University.

    Jennifer Meyer, of O’Fallon, was appointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Ms. Meyer currently serves as principal at J. Meyer Strategies. She has previous experience as director of field operations for Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer and district field director for Senator Roy Blunt. In addition to her professional experience, Ms. Meyer serves as an executive board member for both the Freedom 13 and the North County Police Business Association. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Missouri – St. Louis.

    Susan Orton, of St. Louis, was reappointed to the Governor’s Council on Disability.

    Ms. Orton currently serves as a realtor and sales associate with Coldwell Banker Realty – Gundaker. In addition to her professional responsibilities, she is a member of the St. Louis Realtors Association, Member Inclusion Advisory Committee, and Brain Injury Association of Missouri. Orton is a graduate of Towson High School.

    Paul Ogier, of Chesterfield, was appointed to the Health and Educational Facilities Authority of the State of Missouri.

    Mr. Ogier is a retired certified public accountant (CPA), providing limited consulting services to not-for-profits in the senior housing industry. He also serves as the chief financial officer for the Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus in a part-time capacity. Ogier is an active member of his community, previously serving on the board of the Leading Age Missouri, Missouri Health Care Association, and the Treasurer of the Nursing Facilities Agent Corporation. Ogier earned his bachelor’s degree from the Missouri State University.

    Jill Wedemeier, of Leopold, was reappointed to the Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board.

    Ms. Wedemeier is a judicial assistant and law clerk for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. She previously served as the Cape Girardeau assistant prosecuting attorney. She is an active member of the Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence board, and the Leopold R-III School District Foundation. Wedemeier earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from Southeast Missouri State University.

    Claire West, of Jefferson City, was reappointed to the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System (LAGERS) Board of Trustees.

    Prior to her retirement, Ms. West owned and operated Claire West Consulting LLC, a retirement consulting firm. She has previous experience as executive director of the Joint Committee on Public Employee Retirement. Additionally, West served on the board of the Missouri Association of Public Employee Retirement Plans from 2000 to 2007. She holds an associate’s degree in business from Columbia College.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Appointment to 18th Judicial Circuit

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JUNE 27, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced a judicial appointment to the 18th Judicial Circuit.

    Sean Pilliard, of Sedalia, was appointed as the Associate Circuit Judge for Pettis County in the 18th Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. Pilliard is a seasoned attorney specializing in a wide range of legal areas including bankruptcy, criminal defense, and family law, based in the Law Offices of Sean P. Pilliard. Pilliard is a member of the Pettis County Bar Association, Sedalia and Pettis County Economic Development, and the Sedalia Park Band board. He also serves as a volunteer for several area youth activities. Pilliard earned his Juris Doctor from Vanderbilt University School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Missouri. He will fill the vacancy left by Judge R. Paul Beard II.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Evans Announces He Won’t Seek Re-Election, Will Serve Full Term Ending Jan. 3, 2027

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

    PHILADELPHIA (June 30, 2025) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) today announced that he will not seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026, concluding a distinguished career in public service spanning over four decades.

    “Serving the people of Philadelphia has been the honor of my life,” said Evans. “And I remain in good health and fully capable of continuing to serve. After some discussions this weekend and thoughtful reflection, I have decided that the time is right to announce that I will not be seeking re-election in 2026. I will serve out the full term that ends Jan. 3, 2027. I am deeply proud of what I have been able to accomplish over my 45 years in elected office — from revitalizing neighborhoods block by block to fighting for justice, economic opportunity, investments in infrastructure and education. I cannot express the gratitude that I have for the trust that voters put in me as their voice in both state and federal office. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to serve as their advocate in government.”

    Evans emphasized that he will continue to serve his constituents fully until the end of his term, that his offices will remain open, and that he will support a smooth transition for his successor.

    A Legacy of Service to Philadelphia

    Born in North Philadelphia and raised in the Germantown and West Oak Lane neighborhoods, Dwight Evans began his career as a teacher in the city’s public schools and as a community organizer with the Urban League. In 1980, at just 26 years old, he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, where he served for 36 years. He made history as the first African-American chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, serving in that powerful role for two decades.

    Among his signature accomplishments in Harrisburg was spearheading the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative, which brought healthy grocery stores and thousands of jobs to underserved communities and became a national model for bringing healthy food to food deserts in both urban and rural areas. He was also instrumental in the creation of Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program, which became the model for nationwide CHIP.

    In 2016, Evans was elected to represent Pennsylvania’s 2nd Congressional District (later redistricted as the 3rd), succeeding longtime Congressman Chaka Fattah. In Congress, he serves on the influential Ways and Means Committee, which oversees Social Security, Medicare, taxes and trade, and has served on the Small Business Committee and Agriculture Committee, advocating for equitable economic development, criminal justice reform, funding for school repairs, affordable housing, and access to health care and healthy food.

    In 2025, Evans has fought to defend gains made during the Biden-Harris administration and against the pending Trump “Reverse Robin Hood” bill that would give the richest another tax cut and cut Medicaid and SNAP food aid. He fought the bill during a nearly 18-hour markup in the Ways and Means Committee, and voted against it in the full House – a vote two Republicans slept through, including one 31 years younger than Evans. He will vote against it again if the Senate returns it to the House.

    Evans has been a vocal supporter of key legislation including the American Rescue Plan, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Inflation Reduction Act, and Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. He also introduced bills to address gun violence, finance repairs to schools, invest in historically Black colleges and universities, and promote economic empowerment in urban communities.

    Throughout his time in public office, Evans remained rooted in his neighborhood — living just blocks from where he grew up — and never wavered in his commitment to building a better Philadelphia for all.

    Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans’ office’s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight full years in Congress.

    Evans serves on the influential House Ways and Means Committee, including its Subcommittee on Health. The committee oversees Social Security, Medicare, taxes, and trade. Evans’ website is evans.house.gov and his social media handle is @RepDwightEvans on YouTube, Bluesky, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Threads.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell, Fitzpatrick, Klobuchar Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Close the Boyfriend Loophole

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), along with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation aimed at closing the ‘boyfriend loophole,’ which allows stalkers and abusers to access guns because they weren’t married to their victim. The Strengthening Protections for Domestic Violence and Stalking Survivors Act prevents convicted stalkers, and all former dating partners convicted of a domestic violence offense, from buying or owning firearms, regardless of when the relationship occurred. 

    “Federal law includes a ‘boyfriend loophole’ that allows abusive dating partners subject to protection orders and convicted stalkers to access firearms. This loophole is a serious danger that has cost lives and will continue to do so until we address it,” said Dingell. “I know this fear all too well. Growing up, I lived in a house with a man – my father – who should not have had access to a gun. No child, spouse, or partner should have to experience the trauma my family did. This legislation will close this loophole once and for all by ensuring abusive dating partners subject to protection orders and convicted stalkers cannot get their hands on a firearm. Perpetrators of violence – including dating partners – should not be able to access a firearm, and I will not stop fighting until we can deliver on this promise.”

    “If someone has been convicted of stalking or abusing their partner, they should never be allowed to buy a gun. That’s common sense. But unfortunately, loopholes in federal law still put survivors at risk,” said Fitzpatrick. “This bill closes those gaps, ensuring all violent offenders are held to the same standard—spouse, boyfriend, or otherwise. I’ve long made combatting domestic violence and stalking a priority and will continue advancing policies to guarantee every survivor is protected.”

    “The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act included provisions from my bill to close the boyfriend loophole, but there is still more we need to do to address gun violence and keep firearms out of the hands of abusive dating partners and convicted stalkers,” said Klobuchar. “As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the serious emotional and physical toll stalking takes on victims, especially when guns are involved. By preventing convicted stalkers from purchasing guns, our common sense legislation will protect victims and help save lives.”

    The Strengthening Protections for Domestic Violence and Stalking Survivors Act would:

    • Prevent those convicted of certain stalking offenses from purchasing firearms;
    • Clarify that abusive dating partners subject to certain court orders are treated the same as an abusive spouse;
    • Update the definition of “dating relationship” for purposes of federal firearm prohibitions to include “individuals who have or have had a continuing serious relationship of a romantic or intimate nature,” regardless of when the relationship occurred. The law currently requires that the dating relationship is “recent,” which could exclude abusers convicted of domestic violence against partners from a prior relationship.

    This bill is endorsed by the National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Moms Demand Action, GIFFORDS, Jewish Women International, and Legal Momentum. 

    “Victims and survivors of domestic violence in any intimate or dating relationship, regardless of marital status, are vulnerable to the threat of firearms. Every day, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (The Hotline) hears from those whose abusive experiences include the use of firearms to threaten, coerce, and control them. And tragically, thousands of victims have lost their lives by firearms,” said Marium Durrani, Vice President of Policy at The Hotline. “We applaud the incredible bipartisan dedication of these Members of Congress to finally close these dangerous loopholes to better protect victims and survivors from gun violence and we urge Congress to act— lives are on the line.”

    “Survivors of dating violence and stalking deserve the full protection of the law, regardless of their relationship status. For too long, a dangerous loophole has allowed abusive partners and stalkers who are not married to their victims to access firearms, despite posing clear threats to survivor safety,” said NNEDV President and CEO, Stephanie Love-Patterson. “This gap in our laws has had deadly consequences. Abuse is abuse, whether it happens within a marriage or not. Every survivor deserves safety, justice, and the opportunity to rebuild their life free from fear. We applaud Representatives Dingell and Fitzpatrick, and Senator Klobuchar, for their leadership and for taking this critical step toward saving lives.”

    “Letting abusers keep their guns is a death sentence for too many women—especially Black women,” said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action. “This bill is a life-saving solution, and we’re proud to support its reintroduction. We can’t claim to care about families and freedom while ignoring the deadly intersection of domestic violence and firearms.”

    “Our laws have big loopholes in them that make it easier for domestic abusers to get guns and have very real consequences for victims of domestic violence and stalking. This is an unacceptable and dangerous reality that puts the lives of women and children at risk across the country,” said Emma Brown, Executive Director at GIFFORDS. “95% of Americans support blocking domestic abusers from having guns, including 94% of Republicans. We are grateful to Senator Klobuchar and Representatives Debbie Dingell and Brian Fitzpatrick for their steadfast leadership on this issue.”

    “The risk of a woman being killed by her intimate partner increases 400% when that partner has access to a firearm. But most victims of intimate partner violence are dating partners and under current law do not have the same protections from armed abusers as married survivors do,” said Meredith Jacobs, CEO of Jewish Women International. “Jewish Women International applauds Representatives Debbie Dingell and Brian Fitzpatrick and Senator Amy Klobuchar for re-introducing legislation that will fully close the dating and stalking loopholes and for their ongoing leadership to disarm domestic abusers.”

    “For far too long, survivors of dating violence and stalking have been left exposed by a glaring weakness in our gun safety laws—the so-called ‘boyfriend loophole.’ This bipartisan legislation represents a long-overdue step toward protecting all survivors, regardless of relationship status. By finally closing this loophole, we can stop known abusers from accessing deadly weapons and interrupt the cycle of violence before it escalates further,” said Azaleea Carlea, Legal Director of Legal Momentum. “The data is undeniable: when abusers have access to firearms, the risk of homicide increases fivefold. The link between guns and lethality in intimate partner violence is not just well-documented, it’s devastatingly clear and our laws must reflect this reality. Legal Momentum strongly supports this legislation because no survivor should be left unprotected simply because the law failed to recognize their relationship or the threats they face. Safety should never depend on a legal technicality.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon to Retire at End of 119th Congress

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Bacon to Retire at End of 119th Congress

    Touts Accomplishes and Pledges to Continue Outstanding Service and Pursue Legislative Initiatives

    Omaha, Neb. – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee’s (HASC) Cyber, Information Technologies and Innovation Subcommittee (CITI), announced he will not seek reelection in 2026 and will retire at the end of the 119th Congress. 

    “After consultation with my family and much prayer, I have decided not to seek reelection in 2026 and will fulfill my term in the 119th Congress through January 2, 2027. After three decades in the Air Force and now going on one decade in Congress, I look forward to coming home in the evenings and being with my wife and seeing more of our adult children and eight grandchildren, who all live near my home. I’ve been married for 41 years, and I’d like to dedicate more time to my family, my church, and the Omaha community. I also want to continue advocating for a strong national security strategy and a strong alliance system with countries that share our love of democracy, free markets and the rule of law. 

    “During the remainder of the 119th Congress, we will be focused on finishing the job. Providing top-notch constituent services in the district, for which we were recognized in 2021 with the Congressional Management Foundation’s Democracy Awards for Constituent Services in 2021, will be a priority as it always has been.  

    “To date, we have processed close to 8,500 casework/requests for assistance; we have helped people who were wrongly marked as deceased, helped citizens in distress around the world return home; helped people devasted by disasters such as flood and tornadoes, literally climb out of the ruble and connect them with resources; we have solved problems with Medicare, Social Security and IRS problems, passports and immigration, and so much more. Our team has worked diligently every day to advocate for and deliver on behalf of our constituents. 

    “Legislatively, I aim to work to get five agricultural bills passed that were included as part of the Farm Bill, including the increase of defenses for our nation’s food supply chain and removing barriers for the next generation of farmers seeking to establish their operations. I will continue my work on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and lay the groundwork for a new VA hospital in Omaha.  

    “My service to our great nation started in the Air Force, where I served sixteen assignments, five commands and four deployments and will continue in Congress until the end of the 119th Congress. I’d like to find new ways to serve our great country.  I have a love for national security, and I’ll always be a proponent for old-fashioned Ronald Reagan Conservative values.  It has been an honor to serve the 2nd District of Nebraska and the nation, and I thank our constituents for trusting me to represent them. I am proud of the work we have done and will continue to do until the lights in the office are turned off for the last time. Thank you, and God bless America.” 

    Highlights from Rep. Bacon’s Congressional Career 

    Legislative Record 

    • Most bills signed into law in the 118th Congress and bill totals as of Jan. 2025 

    ·         Total number of stand-alone bills enacted into law: 2 

    ·         Total numbers of bills enacted through NDAA: 33 

    ·         Total number of bills enacted through non-NDAA legislation: 3 

    ·                     Total number of bills introduced that became law: 38 

    Defense 

    Rebuilt and Improved Offutt AFB & Camp Ashland 

    • Delivered forceful congressional advocacy for Offutt Air Force Base, one of the district’s leading engines of economic growth and prosperity 
    • Led the fight in the House to secure critical resources to respond to the devasting 2019 floods 
    • Engaged with the Secretary of the Air Force to prevent the permanent loss of the flying mission 
    • Secured more than $1.5 billion for the cleanup, rebuild and critical improvements to Offutt AFB – one of the largest employers in the region – including a new runway 
    • Worked tirelessly to protect, modernize, and replace aircraft fleets at Offutt AFB including the RC-135, WC-135 and E-4B 

    Confederate Base Names: Original co-sponsor for H.R. 7155, National Commission on Modernizing Military Installation Designations Act, the bi-partisan legislation in the House to re-designate military bases named after Confederate generals 

    Spearheaded the Restoration of DoD Electronic Warfare Capability 

    • Drove major legislative reforms requiring the Pentagon to develop a new EW strategy, implementation plan and other organizational reforms 
    • Secured more than $1.5 billion to double the size of the USAF’s fleet of EA-37B Compass Call aircraft, the most powerful and sophisticated electronic attack aircraft in the world 
    • Helped guide the establishment of the Joint EMSO Center (JEC) at STRATCOM 

    Relentlessly Championed Initiatives to Modernize America’s Strategic Nuclear Deterrent 

    • Secured more than $75 million establish the NC3 technical engineering and development hub in Nebraska 
    • Advocacy helped speed the establishment of the new 95th Wing at Offutt focused on NC3 operations 
    • Helped secured more than $500 million to advance development of the future E-4C SAOC aircraft which will be based at Offutt 

    Championed Improvements to Military Quality of Life  

    • Led the most significant and comprehensive package of legislative reforms to improve the quality of life for military servicemembers and families in US history 
    • Largest single-year increase for junior enlisted pay ever (14.5%) 
    • Billions in critical improvements to military housing and barracks  
    • Major expansion and improvements to childcare for military families 
    • Fought for employment reforms and RIF protections for federally employed military spouses  

    Conference Committee 

    • Passage of major national defense legislation in 2017, 2018 and 2019 that reversed the dangerous decline in military readiness after years of neglect and funded the modernization of US military capabilities 
      • Named to select House-Senate Armed Service Conference Committee for 3 straight years 

    Agriculture 

    • Responsible for numerous provisions in the Farm Bill, including language related to the Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccine and measures to address foreign ownership of farmland and improve SNAP administration 
    • Original sponsor of the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, which established lynching as a federal hate crime 

    Education 

    • STOP School Violence Act of 2018 (co-sponsor) – Provides DOJ money for grants to states and local governments to improve security including the placement and use of metal detectors and other deterrents measures at schools and school grounds. Fighting for $125 million in FY’20 to fund these grants 

    Civil Rights and Holocaust Education 

    • House Republican lead for Anti-Lynching Legislation making lynching a federal crime – Language was amended into H.R. 35 and passed House 2/26/20) 
    • Helped lead effort to push H.R. 943 – Never Again Education Act which was signed by the President 5/29/20 
    • Worked with state leaders on getting Holocaust Education requirements enacted into state statute 
    • Leader on support for non-profit security grants for religious institutions 

    Veterans Affairs 

    • Finalized additional funding for the VA’s Ambulatory Care Center and pushed House Leadership to go ahead and pass the bill while my friend Brad Ashford was still in office 
      • CHIP IN Bill: Congressman Bacon’s CHIP IN Bill, H.R. 3888, was incorporated into HR 5293: Department of Veteran Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2021, extending the program through 2025 
      • HR: 217 in the 119th – seeks to extend the program and expand authorities to include minor projects and non-recurring maintenance projects (passed House) 
    • Led Congressional efforts to support Gold Star families and survivors; championed significant legislation to care for and honor these families 
      • Lifetime installation access for survivors 
      • Major reforms to military veterans transition assistance programs 
      • Mandated regular meetings with DoD leadership and surviving families 

    Infrastructure and Jobs Act:  

    • Voted for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which provided $165 million for Nebraska’s 2nd District: Eppley, modernization of natural gas lines and other projects 

    Eppley Airfield 

    • Over $77.1 million of improvements to Eppley Airfield from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funding and other sources 
      • Make it a true international airport 
      • Increase flights and inspection areas 
      • Streamline process of checking in and TSA for consumers 

    Other Community Funding projects of note: 

    • (2024) Wahoo Airport Runway – $4.3 million 
    • 2024) Saunders County Emergency Radio Equipment – $2.6 million 
    • (2024) City of Omaha N. 24th Street Lighting Project – $4.17 Million 
    • (2023) OPPD Grid Resiliency and Modernization – $7.7 million 
    • (2023) City of Omaha North 24th Street Streetscape Improvement Projects Phase II – $4 million 
    • (2023) Blackstone Business Improvement District – $2 million 
    • (2022) North 24th St. Streetscape Improvements – $3 million 
    • (2022) the CHOICE $50 million federal grant to redevelop the Southside Terrace Garden Apartments and the surrounding Indian Hill neighborhood in South Omaha. 
    • (2019) the CHOICE neighborhood grant program, which awarded $25 million for the 75 North project to the City of Omaha and Omaha Housing Authority for 5 years 

    Other Accomplishments/Recognitions 

    • Founded the bipartisan For Country Caucus 
      • Co-chair of bipartisan Caucus made up of 30 veteran members of Congress, evenly divided between R’s and D’s 
      • Objective of the Caucus is to work in a nonpartisan way towards a more productive government. Members serve with integrity, civility and courage 
    • Restarted the Main Street Caucus 
    • Co-chair of the Congressional Electronic Warfare Caucus, leading voice in Congress to advance and reform US capabilities to defend and dominate the electromagnetic spectrum
    • In 2023, appointed to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council by former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy 
    • Center for Effective Lawmaking 
      • One of the top ten effective legislators in the 118th congress, 2nd most effective Republican 
      • Most effective Republican in the 117th Congress and fourth overall, despite being in the minority party 
    • Rated #1 Most bi-partisan Republican 117th Congress-Common Ground Committee 
      • Earned a perfect score by the Common Ground Committee of 110 (2024) 
      • Rated #1 in 2022 by Common Ground Committee with a score of 104 out of 110 
    • 2021 Democracy Awards-Constituent Services, Congressional Management Foundation  
      • Over the course of 8 and ½ years, the office has processed close to 8,500 casework/requests for assistances including people who were erroneously marked as deceased; devastated by disasters such as floods and tornadoes literally climb out of the rubble and connect them with resources to rebuild; and in distress around the globe trying to return home. 
      • Other cases include problems with Medicare, passports or immigration, helping veterans get their benefits, cutting through red tape to solve Social Security and IRS problems, and others. 
    • 2024 Democracy Awards- Workplace Environment, Congressional Management Foundation  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Announces $1,068,364 HHS Grant to Scott County Public School Head Start

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    Griffith Announces $1,068,364 HHS Grant to Scott County Public School Head Start

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Scott County Public School Head Start, based in Weber City, Virginia, a $1,068,364 grant. The funding supports head start and early head start projects. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “Local communities in Scott County receive services from Scott County Public School Head Start.

    “This grant for more than $1 million helps Scott County Public School Head Start administer services through its head start and early head start programs.”

    BACKGROUND

    According to its website, Scott County Public School Head Start provides high quality care and early education programs designed to support child development and promote school readiness. The program serves a total of 147 young children within the service area, with 12 different Center locations.

    Recently in a Health Subcommittee hearing with Congressman Griffith present, Secretary Kennedy noted President Trump’s Budget request recommends Head Start continue to receive funding equal to the FY 2025 enacted level.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressional Delegation Requests Documents and Demands Answers on Detention of Georgetown Scholar Badar Khan Suri

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) and 21 additional Members of Congress demanded relevant documentation and information related to the arrest and detention of Georgetown postdoctoral fellow Dr. Badar Khan Suri. In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, lawmakers sought urgent clarification regarding the justification for Dr. Khan Suri’s arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 17, 2025, and his subsequent detention. The lawmakers also requested the disclosure of key documents and evidence substantiating the federal government’s claims and actions, citing serious concerns about due process violations and the misuse of immigration authorities.

    The documents and key information requested by the lawmakers include:

    • The full and complete March 15th State Department memo, including all attachments, that describe Secretary Rubio’s finding that Dr. Khan Suri’s presence or activities in the United States would have potentially serious foreign policy consequences for the United States and would compromise a compelling United States foreign policy interest.
    • Dr. Khan Suri’s I-213 Record of Deportable/Inadmissible Alien from the Department of Homeland Security, including details about Dr. Khan Suri’s apprehension, criminal history, prior immigration encounters, and other relevant information that supports potential grounds for deportation or inadmissibility. 
    • Any and all evidence in the Department of Homeland Security’s possession related to the activities referred to in a X (formerly Twitter) post from DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin, stating that “Suri was a foreign exchange student at Georgetown University actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media. Khan Suri has close connections to a known or suspected terrorist, who is a senior advisor to Hamas.”
    • The Department of Homeland Security’s documented reasons for Dr. Badar Khan Suri’s transfer to the Prairieland Detention Facility in Alvarado, TX.
    • Any information provided from outside groups such as Canary Mission.

    Dr. Badar Khan Suri is a legally admitted visiting scholar with no prior criminal record, was never charged with a crime, and the obscure immigration provision with which he was charged is not a ground for mandatory detention. The Administration has made no credible argument to support his arrest or detention. However, Dr. Khan Suri was held in ICE custody at the Prairieland Detention Center, where he was deemed a high-risk custody detainee requiring maximum security control and supervision until his court-ordered release on May 14, 2025. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and detention violate Dr. Khan Suri’s constitutional rights, including his First Amendment and due process rights.

    Full text of the letter follows below, and a signed copy is available here.

    ***

    Dear Secretary Rubio and Secretary Noem:

    We write to request key information and documents pertaining to the case of Georgetown postdoctoral fellow Dr. Badar Khan Suri, who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 17th. Specifically we seek the following: from the State Department, the attachments cited in the March 15th memo issued by the Secretary presenting the finding that Dr. Khan Suri’s presence and activities in the United States would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences and would compromise a compelling U.S. foreign policy interest, including “Tab 1- DHS Letter on Badar Khan Suri” and “Tab 2- HSI Subject Profile of Badar Khan Suri” and the time and content of the notice provided to relevant Congressional committees; and from the Department of Homeland Security, Dr. Khan Suri’s I-213, his Notice of Custody Determination, the documented reasons for the detainee transfer, context pertaining to Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin’s March 19th comments as well as context pertaining to how Dr. Khan Suri was identified by DHS.

    Dr. Badar Khan Suri held J-1 visa status as a visiting scholar and postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University at the Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding. He was duly admitted to the United States on this visa in December 2022. He is married to a U.S. citizen, with whom he has three children: a nine-year-old son and five-year-old twins—a boy and a girl. At the time of his arrest, he was teaching a course as an adjunct professor on Majoritarianism & Minority Rights in South Asia at Georgetown University. He has spent his life studying peace and conflict resolution and hopes to become a university professor and embark on a career in academia and teaching. Dr. Khan Suri and his wife moved to the United States because it ensures religious freedom for all, and they wanted to raise their children in a society that values religious tolerance.

    Dr. Khan Suri was charged with removability under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) § 237(a)(4)(C)(i) and detained pursuant to INA § 236(a).  Masked and physically unidentifiable Homeland Security agents arrested Suri at approximately 9:30 p.m. in Arlington, Virginia on the evening of March 17, 2025 pursuant to a Warrant for Arrest of Alien, Form I-200.  The Constitution establishes due process rights for “all ‘persons’ within the United States, including [noncitizens], whether their presence here is lawful, unlawful, temporary, or permanent.”  The government has not disclosed information to support that the detention of Mr. Suri was justified. It has not demonstrated that Mr. Suri—a husband to a U.S. citizen, a father of three young children, and with no criminal history—needed to be detained. An ICE officer involved in his booking stated that they knew he was not a criminal and did not do anything wrong.

    The law limits the government’s authority to deport people under INA § 237(a)(4)(C)(i) and imposes key requirements in such instances. The Executive Branch does not have the authority to deny visas to foreigners solely because of the foreigner’s political beliefs or because of their anticipated speech in the United States. When Congress passed the Moynihan Amendment in 1987, the Senate Committee warned that “[f]or many years the United States has embarrassed itself by excluding prominent foreigners from visiting the United States solely because of their political beliefs…individuals had done no more than exercise rights to freedom of expression and association…constitutionally protected for all U.S. citizens.”  The Secretary’s authority to determine that entry would compromise foreign policy interests should be used “sparingly and not merely because there is a likelihood that an alien will make critical remarks about the United States or its policies, and that the “compelling foreign policy interest” standard should be applied strictly. 

    If a reasoning has been made on foreign policy grounds, the Secretary of State cannot exclude or condition entry based on a noncitizen’s “past, current, or expected beliefs, statements, or associations, if such beliefs, statements, or associations would be lawful within the United States,” unless the Secretary personally certifies to Congress that admitting the individual would compromise a compelling U.S. foreign policy interest.  Therefore, we request the full and complete March 15th memo, including all attachments that describe Secretary Rubio’s finding that Dr. Khan Suri’s presence or activities in the United States would have potentially serious foreign policy consequences for the United States and would compromise a compelling United States foreign policy interest. We also require the notice (including when it was provided and justification therein) provided to the Chairs of the Committees on the Judiciary and Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and of the Committees on the Judiciary and Foreign Relations of the Senate.

    Department policy also requires additional procedures for detainees in custody of the Department of Homeland Security. ICE Policy 11022.1, “Detainee Transfers,” prohibits the transfer of individuals from one Field Office’s area of responsibility to another if, inter alia, they have immediate family, an attorney of record, pending or ongoing removal proceedings within the area, or if they have been granted bond or requested a bond hearing, unless a Field Office Director or their designee deems the transfer necessary for one of the seven specific reasons identified in the policy.  The policy states that “[t]he Immigration Officer will conduct a review to determine whether any of these factors exist. Before a transfer is made in a case where one or more of these factors exist, the transfer must be approved at the Assistant Field Office Director level or higher, and the reasons for the transfer must be documented in the detainee’s A-File. The policy also states that ICE is required to notify the attorney of record that the individual “is being transferred and include the reason for the transfer and the name, location, and telephone number of the new facility as soon as practicable on the day of the transfer, but in no circumstances later than twenty-four (24) hours after the transfer occurs.” Please provide the documented reasons for the transfer of Dr. Khan Suri.

    Additionally, ICE Directive 11064.3, “Interests of Noncitizen Parents and Legal Guardians of Minor Children or Incapacitated Adults” requires the Field Office Director to refrain from transferring detained noncitizens outside of the Field Office’s area of responsibility where their child or children are located unless dictated by exceptional circumstances or court order. Even when transfer is dictated, the Field Office Director must place the noncitizen as close as practicable to the minor child or children.  At the time of his transfer to Louisiana and then Texas, Dr. Khan Suri had a wife and three young children, and an attorney of record, in Virginia. Please share the justification provided either by exceptional circumstances or the court order provided for the transfers to Louisiana and Texas as well as the justification for how Texas was determined to be as close as practicable.

    On March 19, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs McLaughlin posted on X that “Suri was a foreign exchange student at Georgetown University actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media. Khan Suri has close connections to a known or suspected terrorist, who is a senior advisor to Hamas.” Please share any and all evidence, if you possess it, to the activities referred to in this post, accompanied by clarification of which activities were used as supporting information for his detention and under what grounds it was included.

    In addition, as part of Dr. Khan Suri’s detention, he was issued a Notice of Custody Determination and an I-213. Please provide those documents in full. In each of these requests for documentation, we ask that you also provide assurance of authentication for each document. In the event that documentation does not exist and therefore cannot be produced, please indicate as such. In the event that documentation contains classified information, please indicate and provide a vehicle through which Members and Congressional staff with appropriate security clearance can view such information in a congressional SCIF.

    Lastly, it would appear as if DHS targeted Dr. Khan Suri because of his identification by Canary Mission, a group that is involved in a McCarthyistic doxxing campaign towards individuals and their associates that champion pro-Palestinian viewpoints. In another recent case, a district court judge found DHS and DOS acted on a tweet from Betar and pressure from Canary Mission to strip someone of a student visa.  Please share if information identified by or communication by/with Betar, Canary Mission, Middle East Forum, or another outside group was used as evidence or support in the case of Dr. Khan Suri. If yes, what steps were taken to authenticate their evidence.

    Dr. Khan Suri is a scholar on conflict resolution who has no criminal record, and the Administration has made no credible argument to support his arrest and detention. His arrest and detention appear to violate Dr. Khan Suri’s constitutional rights, including the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the Fifth Amendment. The Administration must explain and document its actions in this case, which appear to have flagrantly abused and possibly violated statutory authorities, and which have hitherto been carried out with a disturbing lack of transparency to the public.

    The Administration has done nothing to demonstrate its claims that Dr. Badar Khan Suri is a threat to the public, or to justify holding him with minimal outside contact 1,300 miles away from his wife and young children. This situation is intolerable, and demands urgent and speedy remedy, and we therefore request a response no later than July 11, 2025.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Trump’s Illegal & Unconstitutional Bombings in Iran, Duckworth Votes to Block Further Use of Military Force Without Congressional Authorization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    June 27, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee—issued the following statement today after voting for an Iran war powers resolution that would force the President to secure a declaration of war or authorization for use of military force from Congress to legally engage in a war against Iran. Senate Republicans blocked the resolution, which failed on a 53-47 vote. 
    “Ever since Donald Trump illegally launched a military strike against Iran, one thing has remained clear: our troops are at greater risk today than they were before the attack.
    “Our servicemembers will always execute their orders and complete their missions to the highest standard like the experts they are. But rather than declaring ‘mission accomplished,’ the Trump Administration should be focused on protecting them and American personnel in the region and convincing Congress to authorize its use of military force. We’re not sure these strikes actually halted the Iranian program yet, and it is unacceptable that the Administration sought to thwart members of Congress from performing their most solemn Constitutional duty: debating matters of war and peace.”
    “If Trump wants to honor our troops, he needs to come before Congress immediately to consult with the democratically elected representatives of our military, their family members and the American citizens before making decisions that risk the lives of our servicemembers, cost billions of taxpayer dollars and threaten to mire us in yet another quagmire in the Middle East. That is one of the reasons why I supported today’s resolution, which would force debate and a vote on whether to engage in acts of war against Iran—as Article I of our Constitution lays out. By blocking this resolution, Senate Republicans are once again making clear they would much rather bow down to Trump than putting our national security and the best interests of our servicemembers first.”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lower Gas Prices Just in Time for Summer Holiday Travel

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    Gas prices are falling as millions of Americans hit the road for the holiday weekend.
    According to CNBC, “gas is the cheapest it’s ever been.” Inflation-adjusted gas prices “are near the lowest levels we’ve seen in the last 20 years” — and with rising incomes, “Americans are actually spending far less of their income on energy than they have in quite some time.”
    The good news is being felt across the nation:
    Tupelo, Mississippi: “If you’re driving, you could be in for a pleasant surprise at the pump.”
    New York City, New York: “It looks like gas prices are about to get cheaper.”
    Toledo, Ohio: “Summer gas prices are at a surprising four-year low.”
    Columbia, South Carolina: “If you’re planning to hit the road ahead of the 4th of July weekend, gas prices are currently the lowest that they’ve been since 2021.”
    Jacksonville, Florida: “Some good news for gas prices — they continue to fall ahead of the 4th of July holiday.”
    Macon, Georgia: “If you’re planning to travel this week, gas prices in our area are down. They’re the lowest that we’ve seen this time since 2021.”
    The Arizona Republic:“Arizona motorists are seeing a relatively cheap summer at the gas pump, despite recent conflicts abroad.Oil prices have fluctuated since the start of the Israel-Iran war earlier this month. But gas prices have remained relatively steady across the nation — and have largely declined in Arizona.”
    GasBuddy: Gas Prices to Fall to Lowest July 4th Level Since 2021 as Middle East Tensions Cool
    CNN: “They’re pretty low — and they’re trending lower … This would be the lowest on Fourth of July for gas since at least 2021 — perhaps even since 2020 during COVID. Of course, people are making more money, on average, than they did back then, so on an inflation-adjusted basis, gasoline is swallowing up a smaller and smaller chunk of paychecks.”
    ABC News: “Most people traveling right now are traveling by road. Gas prices — $3.18/gallon right now, that’s the national average for regular unleaded. Last year, that was $3.49/gallon — so significantly lower.”
    CNBC: “As Americans gear up for summer travel, prices at the pump may be cooling off. This summer could bring the lowest gas prices in years.”
    The New York Times: “Summer road trips appear to be safe from a big spike in gasoline prices … The last time the cost for drivers was lower in late June was in 2021.”
    The Wall Street Journal: “The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline, $3.21, is about 23 cents cheaper than this time last year … Reduced prices would be a boon for consumers during the warmer months when Americans drive more. Low energy prices so far this year have already contributed to the economy’s resilience and helped keep inflation in check.”
    NBC News: “Looking at gas prices that are the best in four years — and this is so important for all of those millions of people who will be hitting the roads … 20 cents less than it was a year ago, so that’s six or seven bucks extra when you fill up. That’s real money.”
    Fox Business: “Summer gas prices hit lowest level in 4 years despite Middle East tensions”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Unveils Limited NO KYC,100x Leverage and 100% Deposit Bonus Match to Empower Crypto Futures Traders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin hovers near the $100,000 mark and market volatility intensifies, BexBack Exchange has announced a new limited-time promotional campaign designed to help traders maximize their potential returns. Starting today, all new users who deposit and complete one trade within seven days will receive a $50 USDT-M welcome bonus, along with a 100% deposit, match to double their trading capital. Combined with up to 100x leverage and zero KYC requirements, this promotion positions BexBack as a powerful entry point for both beginners and advanced futures traders navigating today’s unpredictable crypto landscape.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle, Bynum Announce $9.7 Million for Rural Airports Across Oregon

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    June 30, 2025
    Airports in Redmond, Creswell, Mulino, Roseburg, Ashland and Condon to benefit.
    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representatives Val Hoyle and Janelle Bynum, today announced $9.7 million combined in federal grants for infrastructure improvements to taxiways, fencing, aircraft storage and more at airports throughout Oregon.
    “Rural airports are a vital lifeline to communities that depend on them for economic growth and emergency services,” Wyden said. “I applaud these federal investments that will help strengthen infrastructure in these communities, and I will continue to fight for more resources to support rural airports across Oregon.”
    “Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities and economies – supporting local businesses, connecting travelers to world-class recreational opportunities, and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow several Oregon regional airports to make critical infrastructure improvements that will benefit our communities and economy. I’ll fight to protect the efficiency and safety of Oregon’s airports and the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more.”
    “I’m glad to see this critical funding coming to our rural airports in Roseburg and Creswell,” said Rep. Hoyle. “These investments are about more than just runways—they’re about jobs, emergency response, small business growth, and making sure rural Oregon stays connected. I’ll keep fighting to make sure communities like ours aren’t left behind.”
    “Rural airports are a critical part of keeping our communities connected and making travel accessible to everyone,” said Rep. Bynum. “Whether it be for work or vacation, flying should be safe and reliable. I’m ecstatic that over $8 million will go to Roberts Field airport in Redmond to provide Oregonians with the quality transportation they deserve. I’ll always fight to bring big wins home to Oregon’s Fifth.”
    The $9.71 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:
    Roberts Field, Redmond – $8.38 million
    Hobby Field, Creswell – $448,000
    Mulino State Airport, Mulino – $336,500
    Roseburg Regional Airport, Roseburg – $300,000
    Ashland Municipal/Sumner Parker Field, Ashland – $159,000
    Condon State Pauling Field, Condon – $76,000
    “We are grateful for the leadership and advocacy of U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, as well as U.S. Representatives Val Hoyle and Janelle Bynum, in securing this crucial funding,” said Redmond Airport Director Zachary Bass. “This federal investment underscores the strategic importance of Redmond Airport to the future of our region. The $8.38 million will support a transformative terminal expansion, adding over 80,000 square feet, increasing capacity, and enhancing accessibility. Beyond improving the travel experience, this project will drive local economic growth, create hundreds of construction and airport industry jobs, and strengthen Central Oregon’s connection to national markets.”
    “The City of Condon appreciates the FFA grant to make much needed improvements to Condon’s Linus Pauling Field,” said Condon Mayor Dustan Hall. “This state airport is an integral part of the agricultural and tourism industry in Gilliam County.” 
    Wyden, Merkley, Hoyle and Bynum have long supported rural airports across Oregon. In May, the Oregon delegation announced $22 million for airport infrastructure investments across the state. In September 2024, Wyden and Merkley announced $10 million in federal grants for airports in Medford and Prineville. In July 2024, Merkley, Wyden and Hoyle announced $17 million from the federal Airport Improvement Program for airports across Oregon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Finished 2024-25 Near Budget Forecast

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 30, 2025

    After beginning the year with a budget deficit of $273 million, the province finished the 2024-25 fiscal year with a $249 million operating deficit. Saskatchewan’s financial status was highlighted in today’s release of the 2024-25 Public Accounts Volume 1.

    “Revenue increased from budget last year while expenses also grew,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Jim Reiter said. “We are continuing to make investments that deliver on what the people of Saskatchewan have said is important to them – affordability, health care, education, community safety and fiscal responsibility.”

    Last year, total revenue of $20.9 billion increased by $994 million, or 5.0 per cent, from the 2024-25 Budget. This included the recognition of a significant receivable for the resolution of the tobacco litigation.

    While revenues increased from budget, expenses were also up over the same period. Total expenses of $21.1 billion are an increase of $970 million, or 4.8 per cent, from the 2024-25 Budget, primarily due to notable increases in the Health, Agriculture, and Environment and Natural Resources expense themes.

    Compared to the third quarter, revenues increased by $448 million while expenses were up $36 million. The year-end deficit is an improvement of $412 million from the third-quarter update.

    Saskatchewan’s net debt increased by $1.3 billion in 2024-25, primarily due to significant investments in important infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and roads. However, Saskatchewan still maintains the second lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in Canada and, as of March 31, 2025, had the second highest credit rating in Canada when ratings from the three key rating agencies – Moody’s Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Morningstar DBRS – are combined.

    “Building on the strength of our 2024-25 financial results and the 2025-26 Budget, Saskatchewan’s economy continues to grow and evolve,” Reiter said. “Earlier this year Statistics Canada confirmed that our province remains a national leader in economic growth, ranking us second in the country for real GDP growth in 2024.”

    The 2024-25 Public Accounts Volume 1 provides a complete and accurate view of the Government of Saskatchewan’s finances. To learn more information about the fiscal health of the province, you can view Volume 1 at publications.saskatchewan.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada’s new government delivers middle-class tax cut

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    In the election, Canadians called for change to bring down costs and put more money in their pockets. Canada’s new government promised to deliver this change, starting with a middle-class tax cut on Canada Day.

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced that as of tomorrow, July 1, the government’s middle-class tax cut will be in effect. This tax cut will save a two-income family up to $840 a year and generate tax savings for 22 million Canadians. By reducing income taxes, Canadians can keep more of their paycheques to spend where it matters most.

    The government is focused on bringing down costs, keeping communities safe, diversifying trade, and building one Canadian economy – the strongest in the G7.

    Quotes

    “Canada’s new government has a mandate for change, including cutting taxes for the middle class and bringing down costs. With our middle-class tax cut in effect tomorrow, families will save up to $840 and keep more of what they earn.”

    “Starting tomorrow, Canadians will keep more of their hard-earned money thanks to our middle-class tax cut. At a time when global uncertainty continues to affect household budgets, we’re making life more affordable and supporting the financial security of families across the country. This is about fairness – and about building a stronger economy that works for everyone.”

    Quick Facts

    • Income is reported and tax is calculated on an annual basis. To reflect a one-percentage-point cut in the lowest tax rate coming into effect halfway through the year, the full-year tax rate for 2025 will be 14.5 per cent and the full-year rate for 2026 and future tax years will be 14 per cent.
    • The Canada Revenue Agency has updated its source deduction tables for the July to December 2025 period so that pay administrators are able to reduce tax withholdings as of July 1. This means that, effective July 1, individuals with employment income and other income subject to source deductions can have tax withheld at 14 per cent. Otherwise, individuals will realize this tax relief when they file their 2025 tax returns in spring 2026.
    • The bulk of tax relief will go to those with incomes in the two lowest tax brackets (i.e., those with taxable income under $114,750 in 2025), including nearly half to those in the first bracket ($57,375 and below in 2025).
    • The rate applying to most non-refundable tax credits will continue to be the same as the lowest personal income tax rate.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming Kicks Off America’s 250th withStatehood Day Celebration at the Wyoming Capitol Square

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    June 13, 2025—Cheyenne, Wyo. – On July 10, from Noon to 8 p.m. the Capitol Square will kick off a year of celebration in advance of commemorating America’s 250th anniversary next July. The July 10 celebration coincides with Wyoming statehood day and launches monthly events at the Capitol leading up to the grand celebration of America’s semi-quincentennial on July 4, 2026.

    The July 10 festivities will include guided tours of the Capitol, Wyoming history talks, live entertainment, military vehicle displays, food trucks, and activities for children.  All events are free and open to the public.

    Bring your own picnic blanket or lawn chair to relax and enjoy the entertainment on the north side of the Capitol grounds. This special day offers a meaningful and memorable experience for all ages, celebrating Wyoming’s statehood and its role in our nation’s 250-year history. More details and a full schedule are available at Wyoming’s Kickoff to America’s 250th | Wyoming 250.

    Event Program (Subject to change)

     July 10, 2025: Noon to 8 p.m.

    Food Trucks Open at Noon

    Location: 26th Street

    Enjoy a variety of local food trucks and vendors throughout the day, featuring Mad Flavors, Queso’s Kitchen, Ranch Eats, The Florista (coffee), Fritzzeria (pizza), and Paul Paul’s, serving Asian, Cajun, and soul food, and Sprosty’s Frostys (popsicles).

    Interactive History and Educational Discovery for Kids

    Location: Capitol Extension Rooms W53 and 54 and Capitol Classroom

    Presented by the Wyoming State Museum and the Wyoming Veterans Commission, these interactive exhibits feature military uniforms and a collection of touchable historical artifacts for children and families to explore.

    Military Vehicle Display

    Location: 26th Street

    Presented by the Wyoming Air National Guard and Wyoming Veterans Commission, a variety of historic and modern military vehicles will be on display.

    Wyoming History & Military Talks: Stories of Strength & Legacy

    Discover Wyoming’s rich history through engaging talks throughout the day on the following topics: Wyoming’s Suffrage Story from 1869-1920, The Wyoming State Flag and the Women Who Made it Fly, Buffalo Soldiers, The Johnson County War, Wyoming Girl Guards, 148th Field Artillery & George Ostrom, Camp Douglas POW Camp, Cheyenne B-17 Modification Center and Mountain Men. Presented in partnership with the Wyoming Veterans Commission, Wyoming State Museum, and WyoHistory. See Wyoming’s Kickoff to America’s 250th | Wyoming 250 for specific times.

    Guided Capitol Tours

    Explore the rich history and architecture of the Wyoming Capitol. Reserve your spot for a guided tour here: wyoming250.com/guided-capitol-tour-signup.

    Ribbon Cutting of Exhibits | 2 p.m.

    Join us as we unveil new exhibits detailing Wyoming’s early history and statehood. Visit Suffrage Hall in the west wing on the first level of the Capitol to learn about the citizens who fought for women’s right to vote and hold office.

    Afternoon with Esther | 3 p.m.

    A League of Her Own, sponsored by the Cheyenne League of Women Voters, presents a captivating short performance featuring Wyoming’s suffragists in conversation with Esther Hobart Morris.

     Liberty Bell Rededication | Wyoming State Museum | 4 p.m.

    The Wyoming Liberty Bell has been newly refurbished and is now on display. Come see this iconic replica of American history.

     University of Wyoming Brass Quintet | 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | North Capitol Grounds

    Experience the energy and brilliance of these talented musicians as they deliver a selection of bold and captivating brass performances.

     Music by Jason Buchanan | 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. | North Capitol Grounds

    Come and listen as this talented Wyoming artist showcases a remarkable collection of original music, seamlessly blending soulful vocals with authentic folk elements and deeply reflective lyrics.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Updated Share Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) reports the following, in accordance with the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act:

    Following the cancellation of 288,027 common shares repurchased by IPC under the normal course issuer bid / share repurchase program, the total number of issued and outstanding common shares of the Corporation is 113,354,532 common shares with voting rights as at June 30, 2025 and IPC holds no common shares in treasury.

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and France, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50

    Or

    		 Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

    This information is information that International Petroleum Corporation is required to make public pursuant to the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the contact persons set out above, at 17:30 CEST on June 30, 2025.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Statement on Israel-Iran Ceasefire Agreement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement after President Trump announced the ceasefire agreement brokered between Israel and Iran:

    “Once again, President Trump has proven to be the Peacemaker in Chief. This is a fantastic step toward peace in the Middle East, but Iran is not to be taken at their word. We will not “trust but verify” — we will just verify that the Iranian terrorist regime completely halts their nuclear program.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 30 June 2025 News release Suriname certified malaria-free by WHO

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Today, Suriname became the first country in the Amazon region to receive malaria-free certification from the World Health Organization (WHO). This historic milestone follows nearly 70 years of commitment by the government and people of Suriname to eliminate the disease across its vast rainforests and diverse communities.

    “WHO congratulates Suriname on this remarkable achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This certification is a powerful affirmation of the principle that everyone—regardless of nationality, background, or migration status—deserves universal access to malaria diagnosis and treatment. Suriname’s steadfast commitment to health equity serves as an inspiration to all countries striving for a malaria-free future.”

    With today’s announcement, a total of 46 countries and 1 territory have been certified as malaria-free by WHO, including 12 countries in the Region of the Americas.

    “Suriname did what was needed to eliminate malaria—detecting and treating every case quickly, investigating to prevent spread, and engaging communities,” said Dr Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), WHO’s regional office for the Americas. “This certification reflects years of sustained effort, especially reaching remote areas. It means future generations can grow up free from this potentially deadly disease.”

    Certification of malaria elimination is granted by WHO when a country has proven, beyond reasonable doubt, that the chain of indigenous transmission has been interrupted nationwide for at least the previous three consecutive years.

    Dr Amar Ramadhin, Minister of Health of Suriname, stated: “Being malaria-free means that our population is no longer at risk from malaria. Furthermore, eliminating malaria will have positive effects on our healthcare sector, boost the economy, and enhance tourism.

    “At the same time, we recognize that maintaining this status requires ongoing vigilance. We must continue to take the necessary measures to prevent the reintroduction of malaria. We are proud that our communities are now protected, and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to our beautiful Suriname—while remaining fully committed to safeguarding these hard-won gains.”

    Suriname’s road to elimination

    Suriname’s malaria control efforts began in 1950s in the country’s densely-populated coastal areas, relying heavily on indoor spraying with the pesticide DDT and antimalarial treatment. By the 1960s, the coastal areas had become malaria-free and attention turned towards the country’s forested interior, home to diverse indigenous and tribal communities.

    Although indoor spraying was successful in coastal areas, its impact was limited in the country’s interior due to the prevalence of traditional open-style homes that offer minimal protection against mosquitoes. In 1974 malaria control in the interior was decentralized to Medische Zending, Suriname’s primary health care service, which recruited and trained healthcare workers from the local communities to provide early diagnosis and treatment.

    The surge in mining activities, particularly gold mining which often involves travel between malaria-endemic areas, led to increases in malaria, reaching a peak of more than 15 000 cases in 2001, the highest transmission rates of malaria in the Americas.

    Since 2005, with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the capacity to provide diagnosis was greatly expanded with both improvements in microscopy and the use of rapid diagnostic tests, particularly among mobile groups. Artemisinin-based treatments with primaquine were introduced in Suriname and neighboring countries through PAHO-led studies under the Amazon Malaria Initiative (AMI-RAVREDA), supported by the United States. Prevention among high-risk groups was also strengthened through the distribution of insecticide-treated nets funded by the Global Fund.

    By 2006, malaria had drastically decreased among the indigenous populations, prompting Suriname to shift its focus to high-risk mobile populations in remote mining areas. To reach these groups—many of whom were migrants from neighboring endemic countries—the country established a network of Malaria Service Deliverers, recruited directly from the mining communities. These trained and supervised community workers provide free malaria diagnosis, treatment, and prevention services, playing a vital role in closing access gaps in hard-to-reach regions.

    Through ensuring universal access to diagnosis and treatment regardless of legal status, deploying an extensive network of community health workers, and implementing nationwide malaria screening, including at border crossings, Suriname successfully eliminated malaria. The last locally transmitted case of Plasmodium falciparum malaria was recorded in 2018, followed by the final Plasmodium vivax case in 2021.

    Sustained leadership commitment and funding

    The government of Suriname has shown strong commitment to malaria elimination, including through the National Malaria Elimination Taskforce, Malaria Program, Malaria Elimination Fund, and cross-border collaboration with Brazil, Guyana and French Guiana. For many years PAHO/WHO, with the support of the U.S. Government, has provided technical cooperation throughout Suriname’s anti-malaria campaign. Since 2016 Suriname also participated in the “Elimination 2025” initiative – a group of countries identified by WHO as having the potential to eliminate malaria by 2025.

    This success in Suriname is a demonstration that malaria elimination is possible in challenging contexts in the Amazon basin and in tropical continental countries. The country’s malaria-free certification plays a critical role in advancing PAHO’s Disease Elimination Initiative which aims to eliminate more than 30 communicable diseases, including malaria, in countries of the Americas by 2030.

    Note to the editor

    WHO malaria-free certification

    The final decision on awarding a malaria-free certification is made by the WHO Director-General, based on a recommendation by the Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification and validation from the Malaria Policy Advisory Group. For more on WHO’s malaria-free certification process, visit  this link.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Secretary of State Sarai concludes participation in the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 30, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Access to development financing is essential to help countries thrive. It grows businesses, creates jobs, and builds a more secure future for families and communities at home and abroad. It also plays a critical role in supporting underserved communities in emerging markets as they make progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    To help drive progress on these priorities, the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), today participated in the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), a high-level UN event, taking place from June 30 to July 3, 2025, in Sevilla, Spain.

    At the conference, Secretary of State Sarai reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to sustainable development and to building a more inclusive international financing system. As a clear example of this commitment, Canada contributed The Common Principles for Private Capital Mobilization to the Sevilla Platform for Action. Canada is co-leading this work alongside France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom. The Common Principles will serve as a road map for Canada and others to mobilize private capital for sustainable development now and into the future.

    Secretary of State Sarai also announced 3 initiatives aimed at mobilizing sustainable investments in emerging markets. They are as follows:

    • The Blended Finance Accelerator for Fund Managers (A4FM) is a $10-million project in partnership with Convergence Blended Finance Inc. The project aims to increase the mobilization of private capital for blended finance funds—that is, a mix of private and public investment—improving the livelihoods of those in underserved communities in developing markets. The project supports gender inclusive investment strategies through knowledge building, repayable grants and tailored technical assistance
    • Support to the Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFF) Facility is a $2-million project in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme. This project aims to address the persistent misalignment between financial systems and SDGs. The INFF offers a structured approach to align diverse financial flows with sustainable development priorities
    • Funding the Future: Domestic Resource Mobilization in a Digital Economy is a $5-million project in partnership with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s Centre for Tax Policy and Administration. The project will help developing countries enhance domestic resource mobilization through a comprehensive technical assistance program, which includes support for implementing international standards to raise revenues from multinational enterprises, exchange information to combat illicit financial flows and implement measures to fight financial crime. The project will also mobilize international expertise to provide data, training, guidance and practical support to developing countries across a range of issues related to digitalization

    Following Secretary of State Sarai’s departure, Bob Rae, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York, who also attended the conference, highlighted Scaling Capital for Sustainable Development (SCALED) on his behalf. Canada is contributing approximately $50 million to the SCALED initiative.

    SCALED will help address major barriers to private sector investment in developing countries by simplifying and standardizing blended finance structures, as well as quickly and efficiently get investments to market in support of the SDGs.

    These investments demonstrate Canada’s commitment to mobilizing all sources of finance. Combined private and public investment strengthens economic growth and stability in developing markets, helping achieve the SDGs.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada and Germany wrap up a milestone year of global collaboration as Eureka Network co-chairs

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 30, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Research Council of Canada

    After a groundbreaking year, Canada and Germany concluded their historic co-chairship of the Eureka Network. For the first time in the network’s history, 2 countries jointly led the world’s largest public network for research and innovation. 

    The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) led the year-long co-chairship, which ran from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. Together, the co-chairs advanced the strategic goals of Eureka, facilitated new partnerships, and supported research and innovation projects across various industries and countries.

    Major milestones from the Canada-Germany Eureka co-chairship:

    • Circular Value Creation (CVC) call for proposals: A key initiative of the co-chairship focused on sustainability and resource efficiency, inviting participation from 17 countries. This is the largest joint call across Eureka in its history. The CVC call remains open until September 2025, providing exciting opportunities for innovators to work with international partners in the circular economy space.
    • Expanded global partnerships: One of the co-chairship’s most significant achievements was the strategic expansion of Eureka’s role within both the European and global innovation ecosystems. This includes the development of a joint action plan to strengthen cooperation between Eureka and the European Union in the medium to long term. The year also included the successful re-association of Singapore, which further enhances Eureka’s global outreach and fosters greater cross-regional collaboration. 
    • Impactful research and innovation opportunities: During the co-chairship, Eureka initiated several innovative bilateral and multilateral calls for proposals, focusing on areas such as light weighting and disaster resilience for climate solutions. These calls paved the way for groundbreaking innovation in addressing critical global challenges.
    • Eureka Global Innovation Summit 2025: A key highlight of the co-chairship was the Eureka Global Innovation Summit (GIS), held in April 2025 during Hannover Messe. The summit attracted more than 900 participants from around the world, including government ministers, industry leaders, and R&D experts. Canada had a strong delegation of companies who took full advantage of matchmaking opportunities, pitching sessions, and various B2B engagements designed to help create connections with potential R&D partners.

    Looking ahead 

    With the conclusion of the Canada–Germany co-chairship, the baton has officially passed to Switzerland for the 2025–2026 term. Canada remains fully committed to global collaborative innovation. As we move forward, we will continue to work side by side with our global partners — going further together.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: 2025 Library and Archives Canada Scholar Awards highlight five remarkable Canadians

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Library and Archives Canada (LAC), in partnership with the LAC Foundation and with the support of founding sponsor Air Canada, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 LAC Scholar Awards. Once again, five exceptional Canadians are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to the creation and promotion of Canada’s culture, literary heritage and historical knowledge.

    The recipients for 2025 are

    • Danny Ramadan, author and LGBTQ+ refugee activist
    • Gabrielle Boulianne-Tremblay, actress, writer, screenwriter and trans persons’ rights advocate
    • Margaret MacMillan, historian and professor
    • Rupi Kaur, poet, performer and author
    • Tomson Highway, playwright, novelist, pianist and composer

    About Library and Archives Canada

    LAC is the custodian of Canada’s documentary heritage, preserving and sharing the stories that shape who we are, from triumphs and struggles to voices both prominent and underrepresented. Home to the fourth-largest documentary collection in the world, LAC safeguards millions of items and makes them accessible to Canadians and the world. From handwritten letters and rare books to photographs, films and digital media, its holdings span centuries and reflect the creativity, resilience and diversity of people across the country.

    About the Library and Archives Canada Foundation

    The LAC Foundation is an independent non-governmental registered charity dedicated to supporting the work of LAC. The Foundation’s mission is to raise funds to support LAC’s programs and initiatives and to highlight the importance of preserving and promoting Canada’s cultural heritage.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Participates in High-Level Opening Session of FFD4

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Sevilla, June 30, 2025

    The State of Qatar participated in the high-level opening session of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) currently taking place in Seville in the Kingdom of Spain.

    The State of Qatar’s delegation to the session was headed by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad.

    The conference comes to follow up on the United Nations’ (UN) process on financing for development by reinforcing the agreements and commitments of the three previous international conferences.

    The first of which was held in Monterrey, Mexico, in 2002 where fundamental principles for development financing were established.

    Doha hosted the second conference in 2008 amid the global financial crisis, giving it particular significance in addressing the impact of the crisis on developing countries.

    The third conference, which took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2015, resulted in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, a comprehensive framework for financing sustainable development.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan ARMOR Act to Strengthen AUKUS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – On Friday, House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim (CA-40), Arms Sales Task Force Chairman Ryan Zinke (MT-01), and Rep. Madeleine Dean (PA-04) introduced the AUKUS Reform for Military Optimization and Review Act (ARMOR) Act, a bipartisan bill that would streamline and strengthen the Australia, United Kingdom, and United States (AUKUS) trilateral security partnership.  

    POLITICO National Security Daily first covered the bill HERE.  

    The ARMOR Act strengthens the expedited review process for AUKUS transfers, exports, and other activities involving advanced technologies and defense articles and services.  

    “The AUKUS trilateral security partnership protects our national security and projects shared strength,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The ARMOR Act will improve and streamline the expedited review process for AUKUS activities involving   advanced technologies and defense articles and services. This will ensure that AUKUS Pillar II works as intended and with speed to deter pressing security threats.  I thank Reps. Zinke and Dean for joining me in this bipartisan effort.”  

    “Since it’s creation in 2021, AUKUS has played a transformative role in allowing the United States to counter the rising threat China poses and shape a free and open Indo-Pacific for years to come,” said Congresswoman Dean. “This legislation will strengthen the historic AUKUS partnership by streamlining arms sales to some of our closest allies — Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada — while preserving Congress’s oversight authority and protecting the most sensitive U.S. technologies that underpin our security. I am grateful to work with Representative Kim to champion this critical, bipartisan effort to support our allies and bolster our shared defense.”  

    “The United States shares a special relationship with the UK and Australia that goes far beyond a mutual language; our countries are the closest of allies and we collaborate on economic and global security to make the world a safer and more prosperous place. Expediting the sale of defense items and services to these close allies will strengthen our partnership and enhance America’s strength worldwide. I am proud to support this important piece of bipartisan legislation from Congresswoman Kim, and I look forward to continuing our work on the Foreign Military Sales Task Force,” said Congressman Zinke. 

    AUKUS is a trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States formed in 2021. There are two pillars of AUKUS: 

    • Pillar I is focused on helping Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines.  
    • Pillar II focuses on joint development and sharing of advanced technologies to boost military and defense capabilities. The ARMOR Act specifically relates to Pillar II. 

    Read more about the bill HERE and read the bill HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Senate Floor, Rosen Speaks Out Against Extreme Republican Bill to Strip Health Care from Americans, Hurt Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Rosen: “This DC Republican bill is extreme. It’s cruel. And it’s not what the American people want. They want lower costs. They want economic security. They want their kids to have care when they’re sick, and a fair shot to thrive. They don’t want their future sold off to billionaires.”

    Watch Senator Rosen’s Full Remarks HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) took to the Senate floor to speak out against Senate Republicans’ extreme tax and spending bill, which will severely harm Nevada families by ripping away Medicaid and food assistance from millions of Americans, all to pay for more tax cuts for major corporations and the ultra-wealthy.
    Below are excerpts of Senator Rosen’s floor remarks:
    I rise today to express my strong opposition to the devastating and dangerous tax and spending bill that Senate Republicans are trying to jam through this weekend on a party-line vote, a bill that will gut essential programs like Medicaid and SNAP, just to pay for even more tax breaks for billionaires.
    Let’s be clear about what’s happening here. This Big Beautiful Betrayal isn’t about fiscal discipline – it’s fiscally reckless. It’s not about responsibility or doing what’s best for average Americans. It’s about misguided priorities. It’s about giving more to the ultra-wealthy on the backs of hardworking families.
    […]
    Earlier this year, I held a roundtable in Las Vegas with Nevada families who rely on Medicaid – not as a talking point, not as a “pay for” in a budget bill – but as a lifeline.
    I talked to people like Jessica, whose daughter Kay is four years old, and she was born with Down Syndrome and was recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. 
    Jessica relies on Medicaid to help cover the cost of weekly physical, speech, and occupational therapies for Kay, all of which are responsible for helping her learn to walk, to use utensils, to write her own name.
    Kay also has a cardiologist and an endocrinologist to manage conditions related to her Down Syndrome. Medicaid covers those doctors. 
    It covers her insulin. And it covers the insulin pump that allows Jessica to manage her daughter’s diabetes around the clock — because Kay can’t communicate when her blood sugar is dangerously high or low.
    Jessica said something at that roundtable I’ll never forget. 
    She told me, QUOTE: I can’t imagine losing Medicaid… obviously I’m going to have to give up something, because I’m not gonna let her go without insulin and the lifesaving care that she needs. I can’t imagine having to think about what I’d have to cut or what I’d have to do in order to pay for the lifesaving care that she needs and deserves.” END QUOTE.
    […]
    This bill would also slash SNAP, the nutrition program that helps nearly one in six Nevadans put food on the table — and most of those recipients are children.
    When they cut this program, what are families supposed to do? How will they put food on the table? 
    And it doesn’t stop there. This bill threatens thousands of good-paying, union jobs in Nevada and across the country by letting critical tax credits for solar and wind projects expire before those projects can even get off the ground.
    In Nevada, we have more solar jobs per capita than any other state, and enough solar energy to power nearly one point three million homes. This bill will decimate this growing industry.
    And on top of that, Republicans have included an additional new tax on wind and solar projects, which won’t just kill the industry, it’ll raise energy prices for hardworking families. 
    All of this is causing companies across the country to stall or cancel projects over the uncertainty of losing access to these credits. That means fewer jobs, less investment, and more families left wondering how they’ll make ends meet.
    We’re talking about an industry that supports two hundred and eighty thousand American workers–electricians, technicians, construction crews–and we’re pulling the rug out from under them and killing thousands of clean energy jobs.
    Anyone who supports this bill is not pro-worker. They are not looking out for underdogs…for hardworking families. They’re focused on making the rich richer. 
    […]
    I will not stand by and let Nevada’s families lose access to their health care, and food assistance, and jobs, all so billionaires can pad their pockets.
    And let’s remember what we did when DEMOCRATS used the reconciliation process. 
    We expanded health insurance subsidies and gave Medicare authority to negotiate lower drug prices. We invested in clean energy. We cut costs for families, instead of cutting lifelines.
    This DC Republican bill is extreme. It’s cruel. And it’s not what the American people want.
    They want lower costs. They want economic security. They want their kids to have care when they’re sick, and a fair shot to thrive. They don’t want their future sold off to billionaires.
    So I say to my Republican colleagues: don’t turn your backs on families who need it the most. Don’t gut Medicaid to give billionaires a tax cut.
    The American people deserve better. And I will fight every step of the way to make sure they get it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Highlights How Republicans’ Cruel Tax Bill Hurts Working Americans to Help the Ultra-Wealthy: “It’s going to inflict bipartisan pain.” 

    US Senate News:

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

    Health care, community hospitals, food assistance, jobs are on the line 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Late last night, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) took to the Senate floor to reveal how Republicans’ disastrous tax and spending bill will force millions of working Americans in Vermont, West Virginia, and across the country to lose their health coverage, rip away vital food assistance for more than 42 million Americans, cut clean energy incentives and add a tax to wind and solar energy, raise utility bills and grocery prices, and tank the economy—all to pay for tax cuts for the very wealthy. 
    “Never in my time in Congress have I seen a bill that does so much damage, in so many ways, to so many people, in so many states, and that will affect so many generations. The clerks have read the bill—it’s now time for us to kill the bill,” said Senator Welch. “I say let’s come to our senses and not do something that is a massive escalation of the wealth transfer from the working class, the middle class to the very, very wealthy. Many of us have a number of amendments—and I do too—to try to make the point that our job is to make things better for everyday working Americans, not inflict additional burdens on them.”  
    “We have a job to do, and it’s to strengthen this economy, provide more stability for our families and our communities. And in this bill, we’re doing exactly the opposite: aggravating income inequality, not mitigating it, accelerating climate change rather than diminishing it, making life tougher for everyday families. I urge my colleagues to defeat this bill.” 
    Senator Welch has proposed changes to Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act to prevent harm to rural hospitals, strengthen access to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, block cuts and policies that weaken the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other food assistance programs, protect home energy efficiency tax credits and the home efficiency workforce, and support federal public defenders.    
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

    Read key excerpts from Senator Welch’s remarks: 
    “Here’s the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good—we still have time to kill this bill, and we should kill this bill. We Democrats are united in opposition to this bill, but it’s not only Democrats whose constituents are going to be hurt by this bill. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle have an opportunity to make a choice. Read the bill and decide: are you going to protect your constituents—who are going to suffer the same afflictions as my constituents—or are you going to defer to President Trump? 
    “The bad in this bill—it’s going to inflict bipartisan pain. This is not aiming at red state or blue state. This is aimed at working class and middle-class Americans…More than 76,000 people in West Virginia will lose access to health care because of this bill. 278,000 West Virginians are going to lose access to the nutrition programs, to SNAP. In Tennessee, more than 295,000 people will lose access to health care and Medicaid through this bill. And SNAP means 758,000 Tennesseans lose the nutrition benefits.  
    “I want to repeat here: this is the bipartisan infliction of pain. This is real. This is real. And is the tax cut—largely directed to the very wealthy people—is it worth inflicting that kind of pain on so many, when the tax cut benefits so few?”   
    ••• 
    “Inflation is going up under this bill. Just think how much more we’re going to pay in debt service—dead money. It’s about a trillion dollars. Home mortgages, folks are going to be paying at least a thousand dollars more. Small business loans, at least a thousand dollars more. Grocery prices, definitely going up for all Americans.  
    “There’s an ugly aspect of this bill as well, and it is that this bill is entirely in service of providing tax cuts, largely to the very wealthy. The top 1% of income earners in this country will get 60% of the benefit. That’s a couple hundred thousand people will get immense tax breaks that equal— exceed —the so-called ‘tax breaks’ that go to a couple of hundred million Americans. And it’s those in the 60% category paying the higher prices for utilities, credit card debt, cost of a car loan, rent, groceries.”  
    ••• 
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NYC School Speed Camera Program Extended

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to strengthen New York City’s school zone speed camera program through 2030. This legislation will ensure that speed cameras continue to save lives and protect New Yorkers by discouraging reckless driving. Speed cameras work and have already had a powerful impact. Where cameras are installed, speeding violations have dropped by 94 percent. These locations are significantly safer, with 14 percent fewer fatalities and injuries compared to areas without cameras.

    “It’s simple: speed cameras save lives and keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “There is no greater priority for me than the safety of New Yorkers, and strengthening New York City’s speed camera program means safer streets for everyone — from kids walking to school to seniors crossing the street to cyclists commuting home.”

    Legislation S.8344/A.8787 updates provisions first enacted in 2013 that authorized automated speed enforcement in school zones across New York City. By repealing outdated sections and extending the program’s expiration to July 1, 2030, the law guarantees the continued use of speed cameras to prevent dangerous driving and reduce traffic injuries.

    State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “At this point, there are no questions, just facts: speeding kills, and speed cameras save lives. No New Yorker should fear for their life while traveling on our streets. The speed camera program works—where there are cameras, drivers slow down and speeding plummets. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul for signing this into law and to the advocates and NYC DOT for their partnership in keeping the cameras on.”

    Assemblymember Deborah Glick said, “New York City’s school zone speed camera program has been incredibly successful in slowing motorists down and drastically reducing injuries and deaths in the streets around our schools. I was proud to sponsor legislation to renew this critical program, and I thank Governor Hochul for signing the bill, ensuring that these cameras can continue to keep dangerous drivers on notice that reckless driving will not be tolerated.”

    Governor Hochul has made traffic safety a top priority throughout her administration. In 2022, she reauthorized and expanded the school speed camera program to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since that expansion, injuries and fatalities during overnight and weekend hours have dropped by 8 percent. Today, more than 2,400 speed cameras are in place across the five boroughs, helping protect everyone who uses New York City streets.

    In 2024, Governor Hochul signed Sammy’s Law, granting the City the authority to lower speed limits to 20 miles per hour. Lowering speed limits is a demonstrated method to reduce the risk of death or injury during vehicular crashes and saves lives. Governor Hochul signed legislation to increase road safety by extending existing red light camera programs across the state and establishing a new red light camera program in the Hudson Valley. This includes the largest expansion of the red light camera program in New York City’s history.

    As part of the FY26 Enacted Budget, along with record investments in transportation, this spring Governor Hochul and the State legislature extended the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program until 2031 and expanded it to include MTA Bridges and Tunnels and NYS Bridge Authority properties. The program, which aims to improve work zone safety for both workers and drivers, was previously set to expire in 2026. The expansion also doubles the number of work zones eligible for participation in the program for both NYSDOT and the NYS Thruway Authority. A majority of the funds collected under this program are reinvested into the work zone safety programs including safety training and public awareness advertising.

    Today’s action builds on Governor Hochul’s legacy of authorizing communities across the state to utilize camera technology to maintain traffic safety and protect New Yorkers. With the extension of the school speed camera program, New York continues to take bold, data-driven steps to reduce traffic violence and make streets safer for all.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Luján Delivers Forceful Remarks on Republican Betrayal Bill, Highlighting Impacts on New Mexicans

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    WATCH Senator Luján’s Floor Speech HERE

    Washington, D.C. – In Case You Missed It: U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of both the Senate Finance and Budget Committees, took to the Senate floor to deliver a floor speech detailing how the Republican budget bill would devastate New Mexico’s families, farmers and ranchers, and children and seniors. Senator Luján’s floor speech came during the midnight hour as Senate Democrats held the Senate floor.

    Excerpts of Senator Luján’s floor speech are available below:

    “Some claim this bill will help Americans, which we know is not the truth. Because from where I stand, there is very little in this legislation that helps hard-working New Mexicans. It’s important that this debate is happening – because now New Mexicans and all Americans can see clearly what is in this bill and what is not.”

    “New Mexicans are hard-working people who believe in the values of loving your neighbor and following what the Bible teaches us: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This bill goes against everything New Mexicans stand for. It is not honest. It is not caring. And it is not fair.”

    “I have heard my colleagues claim that this does not cut assistance. That’s a lie. It’s not true. This bill cuts more than a trillion dollars from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid for crying out loud. Senate Republicans are gutting the Affordable Care Act and ripping health care away from over 17 million Americans.”

    “For our rural communities out there, for the farmers and ranchers who grow our food, this bill will hurt your bottom line while closing rural hospitals and rural grocery stores. For families who rely on SNAP, this bill means less food on the table and more children going to bed hungry. All while making health care, especially emergency care, harder to access. That is what this bill does to hard-working Americans.”

    “To the American people: Hear me when I say, keep speaking up. You have done it before. You helped stop the sale of our public lands. You made your voices impossible to ignore. Now, this bill is not the law of the land yet. But if we stay silent, it will be. So, keep organizing. Keep calling. Keep showing up.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Issues Futures Commission Merchant FAQs

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    CFTC Staff Issues Futures Commission Merchant FAQs | CFTC

    /PressRoom/PressReleases/9091-25
    Skip to main content

    June 30, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Market Participants Division (MPD) today published responses to frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding registering an entity as a futures commission merchant (FCM) and the ongoing regulatory obligations of operating an FCM. The FAQs address, among other issues, the FCM registration process, customer protections, and governance obligations and other requirements. 
    MPD has received an increased number of inquiries concerning the registration and operation of FCMs by entities that have not been registered with the CFTC or subject to oversight as a financial institution by a federal financial regulator. The responses to the FAQs are to assist entities in considering the significant responsibility of an FCM and the substantial resources needed to operate one. 

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA announces changes to the Pohénégamook border crossing

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 30, 2025            Montréal, Quebec           Canada Border Services Agency

    As part of its efforts to improve the efficiency of services at ports of entry, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will be making changes to the service provided at the Pohénégamook border crossing.

    As of July 7, 2025, there will no longer be in-person service at this port of entry. It will be replaced by the Program for Travellers in Remote Areas – Quebec (PTRA-Q).

    The new extended PTRA-Q hours of operation will be as follows:

    • Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
    • Open on Canadian statutory holidays
    • Closed on weekends and U.S. statutory holidays

    To take advantage of PTRA-Q, travellers must enroll in the program via this link: Travellers – Pilot Project for Travellers in Remote Areas: Quebec. (Note that the name of the program will be updated in online publications in the coming weeks.)

    Changes at the Pohénégamook border crossing will allow the CBSA to use its resources more efficiently by deploying officers at busier ports of entry. This will support the CBSA’s ability to process travellers and goods as well as to manage enforcement activities.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: On Senate Floor, Senator Warren Calls On Republicans to Look Sick Kids in the Eyes As They Vote to Rip Health Care Away From 17 Million Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    June 30, 2025
    Warren: “I actually don’t think my Republican colleagues have lost their hearts. I think they have lost their spines.”
    Floor Remarks (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) delivered remarks on the floor of the U.S. Senate, calling out her Republican colleagues for trying to pass their “Big Beautiful Bill,” which will rip health care away from 17 million Americans, slash food assistance, and raise costs for families.
    Remarks from Senator Elizabeth WarrenAs prepared for deliveryJune 29, 2025
    On Friday, I met Vivian. Vivian is an 11-year-old kid from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She likes school. She likes her friends. She likes reading Harry Potter. She’s a lot like any other 11-year-old. But for Vivi, going to school and being with her friends depends on Medicaid because Medicaid covers the costs for her wheelchair, her therapists, and her health aide.
    Right now, Republicans are trying to rip away health care from kids like Vivian. The cruelty is breathtaking. I ask for one Republican senator who plans to vote for this bill to look into Vivi’s eyes and tell her that her health care isn’t a priority in this country. Mitch McConnell said to Republican senators that he knew they were getting calls about Medicaid, but not to worry about people losing their care, because he said “they will get over it.” 
    I ask Republicans to look at Vivi and at Vivi’s sisters and her mom and dad and say if Vivi loses her Medicaid and her wheelchair and her therapists and her health aide that she will “get over it.” 
    Because here’s the deal: Vivi won’t get over it. Her family won’t get over it. The people of North Carolina won’t get over it. None of us—Massachusetts, Idaho, Arizona—none of us will get over it.
    The cruelty is off the charts, but the part that really burns is that the Republicans are trying to slash the health care that keeps kids like Vivi alive so they can hand out more tax cuts for billionaires. It’s beyond cruel. It’s obscene.
    I’m angry. And we should all be angry. Because instead of playing at the pool or the park like a regular kid on summer break, Vivian had to come here to Washington to ask senators not to cut her health care. In a country as rich as ours, that shouldn’t even be a question.
    I actually don’t think my Republican colleagues have lost their hearts. I think they have lost their spines. It seems that all they can do now is bow down to Donald Trump and his billionaire donors. They will bow down even if it means hurting families, community hospitals, and nursing homes in their own states. Trump wants the Republicans in Congress to hand out giant checks to the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations, and they are willing to do that, even if it means kicking Vivi to the curb.
    Republicans know what they’re doing. They know this bill will hurt people. They know this bill will kill people. And though it’s hard to believe, they just look the other way.
    But on behalf of Vivi — and the millions of other kids, mommas, seniors, and families who rely on the life-saving care that Medicaid makes possible — my Republican colleagues should grow a spine and stop this awful bill in its tracks. 
    If it wasn’t bad enough that this bill is set to rip away health care from 17 million Americans to pay for tax giveaways for billionaires, it has a bunch of other filthy giveaways buried in it, too.
    Who wins if Republicans pass this ugly bill? Billionaires, Wall Street, Big Tech, Big Oil. The wealthiest Americans and giant corporations.
    Big Oil will get a special “get out of paying your taxes” card while millions of people lose their health care coverage. Billions of dollars for Big Oil; nothing but pain for Vivi.  
    Meta – who’s really struggling — will win $15 billion to “incentivize” them to do research in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Meta gets $15 billion simply for existing while families lose their health care.
    Wall Street wins big with a provision Republicans squeezed in that would slash funding for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Giant corporations want the opportunity to cheat American families again – so Republicans are trying desperately to take the cop off the beat.
    And who loses thanks to this ugly bill? Americans who can’t afford health care. Families who need a little extra help putting food on the table. Grandmas and grandpas in nursing homes. Little babies and their mommas.
    If Republicans pass this bill, 17 million Americans would have their health care ripped away. That number has kept growing as Republicans make more changes to the bill. For them, it’s a question of how many MORE Americans they can rip away health care from.
    This bill would make the biggest cut to food assistance for families, kids, and veterans in history.
    One in four nursing homes would have to shut down. My Republican colleagues should call a few seniors in nursing homes in their states and go over the plans for where they go next. Maybe call the daughter of someone in one of those nursing homes and explain how she has to become a full-time caregiver tomorrow. Maybe call a few of the people whose lives you plan to tear apart.
    Budgets are about our values, and Republicans have made their values clear — they are willing to throw millions of Americans under the bus so they can help out a handful of their billionaire buddies and giant corporations. They should be ashamed.
    Here’s what Democrats believe: no baby should go hungry so that Mark Zuckerberg can buy another Hawaiian island.
    No person with a disability who needs a wheelchair or a home health aide to live independently should have to give that up so that Jeff Bezos can buy a third yacht. 
    No grandma should be pushed out of her nursing home so that Elon Musk can take a subsidized rocket ship ride to Mars.
    And it doesn’t have to be this way. What if, instead of tax breaks for billionaires, we make the rich pay their fair share? 
    What if, instead of slashing health care for kids, we make it possible for every American to see a doctor when they’re sick without breaking the bank?
    What if, instead of giving Big Oil more giant handouts, we make universal childcare a reality for families across this country?
    We can tax the rich. If Jeff Bezos can afford to rent Venice for a $50 million wedding, he can afford to pitch in so the next kid has an opportunity to make it in America, too.
    We can make life easier for working people — not harder. We can lower costs for families — not jack them up even more, like this bill does. We can put families first — not billionaires and billionaire corporations.
    Democrats believe this. We will vote NO on this awful bill. And for kids like Vivian, for seniors in nursing homes, for families who rely on home health aides, and the millions more Americans that this bill will hurt, I urge my Republican colleagues to join us and vote NO.

    MIL OSI USA News –