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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth Celebrate 100 Years Of Chicago Union Station

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    July 25, 2025

    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released the following statements to celebrate 100 years of Chicago Union Station:

    “Chicago, often referred to as the crossroads of America, holds a unique position in the converging point for railroads that cross our nation,” said Durbin. “Our very own Union Station is one of the busiest rail terminals in the country, and this week marks 100 years of reliable transportation for passengers. We were able to secure a significant federal investment for Union Station to ensure our city remains not just a crossroads, but a thriving nexus that efficiently connects people, goods, and ideas—and I’ll continue working to secure resources to modernize the Station. As we celebrate this centennial achievement, I look forward to keeping the heart of America’s rail network beating strong into the future.”

    “Chicago is a national epicenter of passenger, commuter and freight rail—with Union Station at the heart,” Duckworth said. “As we celebrate the Station’s 100-year anniversary, we also honor the hardworking engineers, conductors and staff who help more than 30 million riders each year get where they need to go safely and efficiently. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Durbin and our local leaders to secure critical investments for Union Station and the Chicago Hub Improvement Program—efforts that will improve passenger rail not only in Chicago but across the Midwest foryears to come.”

    In 2023, Durbin and Duckworth announced $93.6 million in secured federal funding for the Chicago Hub Improvement Project (CHIP) through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal-State Partnerships for Intercity Passenger Rail grant program, which received funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. CHIP is Amtrak’s multi-phased project to revitalize Chicago Union Station and revolutionize Midwest passenger rail.

    Durbin worked to bring parties together—local officials, the State, Amtrak, and other stakeholders including labor, environmental groups, and businesses—to ensure there was a unified push for the project. In September of 2023, Durbin, Duckworth, and U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) led 29 Midwest colleagues in a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose expressing their support for Amtrak’s Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program application for CHIP.

    In May of this year, Durbin raised the issue of CHIP funding with Transportation Secretary Duffy, urging the DOT to obligate the remaining funds for the $93.6 million grant awarded in 2023.

    Durbin and Duckworth will continue to build upon previous investments in the CHIP and lead stakeholders in advocating to advance the improvement of Chicago Union Station, cementing its critical importance to both Illinois and the Midwest.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Calls on Bureau of Indian Affairs to Reconsider Recognition for Georgia’s Native American Tribes

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

    Read Letter PDF

    WASHINGTON D.C. –  Today, Congressman David Scott (GA-13), wrote a letter to Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Assistant Secretary, Scott Davis, and Department of the Interior Secretary, Doug Burgum, urging the department reconsider a decision to deny federal recognition for Georgia’s Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muscogee Creek Tribe. The letter further calls on the BIA to reexamine its rigid criteria for federal recognition which often overlooks the historical disruptions and forced assimilation that fractured many tribal communities.

    “Georgia’s Native American communities have been a vital part of our state’s history for well over 1,000 years,” said Congressman David Scott. “Despite their undeniable legacy and obtaining state recognition from the General Assembly, the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe continue to face systemic barriers to gaining federal recognition. These barriers are rooted in centuries of marginalization and a refusal by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to recognize how some tribes were forced to hide their ancestry in order to remain in their homelands. It’s time for the BIA to correct this historical injustice while ensuring future petitions are reviewed with greater transparency, respect, and cultural understanding.”

    “I commend Congressman David Scott for championing the voices of Georgia’s Native communities and calling for a fair review of federal acknowledgment for the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and the Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe—two tribes already recognized by the state of Georgia,” said Chairman Nealie McCormick. “His support brings vital attention to these communities, which have preserved their heritage, culture, and identity despite generations of hardship. Acknowledgment at the federal level is a meaningful step toward justice, fairness, and greater opportunity for these tribes.”

    “I’m thrilled at the prospect of having our State-Recognized Tribes be reconsidered for Federal Recognition,” said Council Chair Bennett. “It is my opinion that the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and the Lower Muscogee Creek have endured almost two centuries of abuse at the hand of the Federal Government over the events that took place in Georgia in the 1830s.  Georgia passed laws that made it impossible to remain in the State if you admitted heritage.  We have kept our Tribes together, we have maintained our identity, and we have suffered greatly in many ways because of it. There is a massive amount of history in the State of Georgia, which we have, in many instances, held onto by a thread due to a lack of monetary means. It is our hope that we will be able to maintain our Heritage and our Traditions by means of Federal Recognition.”

    The federal recognition process for Native American tribes is critical for signaling that the U.S. government acknowledges a tribe as a sovereign entity with the right to self-govern. Federal recognition establishes a government-to-government relationship, similar to how the U.S. interacts with foreign nations. It allows tribes to access funding for Indian Health services, housing, education, jobs and economic development, and vital cultural preservation.

    The BIA’s decision to deny federal recognition to the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muscogee Creek Tribe have imposed real-world consequences for these tribes. Decades of denials have relied on a strict administrative criterion that failed to consider the disruptions of traditional governance and loss of records caused by generations of forced assimilation and exclusion.

    Read Letter HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain’s Statement on President Trump Signing the HALT Fentanyl Act into Law

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Chairwoman McClain’s Statement on President Trump Signing the HALT Fentanyl Act into Law

    Washington, July 16, 2025

    WASHINGTON—House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after President Trump signed the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act into law:

    “President Trump just sent a clear message to fentanyl traffickers: your time is up. This legislation gives law enforcement the tools they need to hold criminals accountable, protect our communities, and keep deadly fentanyl off our streets,” Chairwoman McClain said.

    This bill permanently makes fentanyl a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. It also strengthens law enforcement’s ability to prosecute fentanyl traffickers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain: “House Republicans Just Put America Back in the Lead on Crypto”

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON—House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after the House passed three major crypto bills: the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, the CLARITY Act, and the GENIUS Act:

    “For too long, innovators and entrepreneurs have faced regulatory uncertainty that stifled growth. That ends now. House Republicans just put America back in the lead on crypto. Each of these bills is a critical step toward securing America’s leadership in the digital economy while providing accountability and oversight for the industry,” Chairwoman McClain said. “We’re answering President Trump’s call to make the United States the crypto capital of the world. I commend Chairman French Hill for his outstanding leadership in getting this done. House Republicans are leading the way.”

    The Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act stops the creation of a government-run digital dollar, protecting financial privacy and freedom. 

    The CLARITY Act sets clear rules for financial regulators, protects consumers, fixes loopholes, and supports innovation in the United States.

    The GENIUS Act creates clear rules for payment stablecoins, protecting consumers, and keeping the U.S. dollar at the foundation of the global financial system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain Supports Rescissions Package to Rein in Wasteful Spending

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Chairwoman McClain Supports Rescissions Package to Rein in Wasteful Spending

    Washington, July 18, 2025

    WASHINGTON—House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today voted to support the rescissions package submitted to Congress by the Trump administration, a common-sense step toward restoring fiscal responsibility and curbing unnecessary government spending.

    “Washington has a spending problem, and this package is another step in the right direction,” Chairwoman McClain said. “These targeted rescissions are about eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse, not cutting essential services. We cannot keep passing the buck to future generations. I’m proud to support this effort to streamline federal spending and protect hard-working taxpayers.”

    The rescissions package withdraws $9 billion in unspent federal funds, returning taxpayer dollars to the Treasury instead of allowing them to be used inefficiently or redirected without oversight.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain Applauds President Trump Signing Rescissions Package into Law

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Chairwoman McClain Applauds President Trump Signing Rescissions Package into Law

    Washington, July 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON—Today, House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed into law the $9 billion rescissions package passed by Congress:

    “Today is a major win for American taxpayers. President Trump just made it official: wasteful Washington spending will not go unchecked,” Chairwoman McClain said. “Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars should be spent on real priorities, and House Republicans will continue to root out waste, fraud, and abuse.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Applauds USDA Reorganization Plan, Selection of Kansas City as Hub

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a reorganization plan that includes making Kansas City, Missouri a new staffing and services hub for the

    “We applaud Agriculture Secretary Rollins bold reorganization plan, which will bring the USDA closer to the farmers and ranchers it serves,” said Congressman Alford. “With more than 87,000 farms, Missouri is an excellent choice as a new hub for agency staff and services. With costly deferred maintenance and low occupancy rates, the USDA’s headquarters and other offices in the DC area have become an onerous burden on American taxpayers. Our office has long advocated for decentralizing federal agencies from the USDA to the Small Business Administration. The Kansas City Metro Area is proud to welcome the Agriculture Department.”

    Congressman Alford has been a longtime advocate for the decentralization of federal agencies, including USDA. As a member of the Agriculture Committee in the 118th Congress, he specifically pushed for this action. Now, as a member of the Appropriations Committee he has oversight of the USDA’s budget.

    Additional background courtesy of the USDA:

    The Department currently has approximately 4,600 employees within the National Capital Region (NCR). This Region has one of the highest costs of living in the country, with a federal salary locality rate of 33.94%. In selecting its hub locations, USDA considered where existing concentrations of USDA employees are located and factored in the cost of living. Washington, D.C. will still hold functions for every mission area of USDA at the conclusion of this reorganization, but USDA expects no more than 2,000 employees will remain in the NCR.

    USDA will vacate and return to the General Services Administration the South Building, Braddock Place, and the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, and revisit utilization and functions in the USDA Whitten Building, Yates Building, and the National Agricultural Library. The George Washington Carver Center will also be utilized until space optimization activities are completed. These buildings have a backlog of costly deferred maintenance and currently are occupied below the minimum set by law. For example, the South Building has approximately $1.3 billion in deferred maintenance and has an average daily occupancy of less than 1,900 individuals for a building that can house over 6,000 employees.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke, Panetta, Introduces Bill to Streamline Drone Exports to U.S. Allies

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and former Navy SEAL Commander Ryan Zinke and Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Leading Exports of Aerial Drones (LEAD) Act of 2025, legislation to make it easier for American manufacturers to export unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, to our allies and partners. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

    The bill makes direct changes to the Arms Export Control Act, United States Munitions List, and Missile Technology Control Regime, requiring that UAS be regulated similarly to manned aircraft and treated separately from missile technology when it comes to defense transfers.

    “Our allies need advanced, American made technology on the battlefield and they need it delivered fast and efficiently,” said Zinke. “The LEAD Act cuts outdated restrictions and gives our partners better access to Americas most modern and advanced drone technology which will protect lives, enhances lethality, and strengthen global security.”

    Read the full bill text here.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressional Pro-Life Caucus and Advocacy Groups Condemn Threats Against Rep. Cammack

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    Washington, D.C. — Washington, D.C. — Today, the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus—Representatives Kat Cammack (R-FL), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Andy Harris (R-MD), Bob Onder (R-MO), and Chris Smith (R-NJ)—released the following statement:

    “The death threats directed at Congresswoman Kat Cammack, her unborn child, her family, and her staff are unacceptable. These threats followed the Wall Street Journal profile which detailed her personal experience with a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy—an experience that should spark compassion, not hatred.

    This response exposed just how reckless and dangerous the abortion lobby’s disinformation campaign has become.

    Let’s be clear: not a single major medical organization—including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Mayo Clinic, and the Cleveland Clinic—considers treatment for ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage to be elective abortion. These are life-threatening emergencies that require medical intervention.  

    It is intentionally deceptive to refuse to distinguish between elective procedures that terminate an unborn life and lifesaving care. Miscarriage is not elective. Treating a rupturing ectopic pregnancy is not a choice—it is a medical necessity. No woman should be denied life-saving care because a doctor or hospital fears legal or political consequences.

    The Pro-Life Caucus is working alongside women’s health advocates, medical professionals, and bipartisan lawmakers to deliver clear, compassionate policy. Our goal is simple: protect life, defend truth, and ensure every woman gets the care she deserves.”

    We are inspired and grateful that numerous pro-life and women’s advocacy organizations have also voiced their strong condemnation of these threats and stand in support of Congresswoman Cammack and the Pro-Life Caucus’ efforts to advance legislation that protects women’s healthcare, safeguards unborn lives, and upholds the truth.

    “SBA Pro-Life America stands with Representative Kat Cammack and the House Pro-Life Caucus against anyone who intentionally confuses doctors about whether treatment for ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage is allowed under pro-life laws. Make no mistake — every state protects women in a medical emergency such as ectopic pregnancy, and the federal Emergency Medical Treatment And Labor Act (EMTALA) ensures that pregnant women and their unborn children receive appropriate care in the emergency room,” said Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of SBA Pro-Life America. “We rejoice with Rep. Cammack as she anticipates the birth of her child, and we condemn all threats against her and her family. We are grateful to Representative Cammack for sharing her story and turning her bad experience into an opportunity to educate medical professionals and the public so that women and the babies get the best possible healthcare.”

    “Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee (CWALAC) stands with Congresswoman Cammack as she faces violent threats from the pro-abortion left,” said Penny Nancy, President and CEO, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee. “These threats are a direct result of a culture that has forgotten the value of human life, and we lament that Congresswoman Cammack is facing threats born from lies. CWALAC applauds Congresswoman Cammack for speaking truth about the pro-abortion narrative.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Lead Bill to Protect DACA Applicants’ and Recipients’ Data from Abuse by the Trump Administration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – In response to the Trump Administration’s escalating efforts to weaponize federal data for mass deportations that include DACA recipients, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) helped introduce the Protect DREAMer Confidentiality Act. This bill would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security from disclosing information of current and prospective DACA recipients to ICE, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, or other law enforcement agencies for purposes outside of administering the DACA program. With over 100,000 initial applications still unprocessed and the Trump Administration’s aggressive mass deportation push, many DACA-eligible individuals are fearing retaliation, and this bill seeks to restore trust in the DACA process.
    “The Trump Administration’s attacks on law-abiding immigrant communities have DACA recipients living in fear that the data they provided the government will be used to separate them from their families,” said Senator Rosen. “I’ll always stand with Nevada’s DACA community, and I’ll continue doing everything I can to make sure they can have peace of mind. I’m proud to help introduce this important bill to protect the sensitive information of DACA recipients and applicants from being misused by the Trump Administration.”
    Senator Rosen has a strong record of supporting DACA recipients and protecting the DACA program. In June, she commemorated the 13th anniversary of DACA with a Senate floor speech condemning the Trump Administration’s ongoing attacks on the program and calling for permanent protections. Senator Rosen also helped introduce legislation requiring ICE and immigration enforcement agents to clearly identify themselves and their authority—further defending immigrant communities from intimidation and abuse. She has also supported actions to protect mixed-status families, keep them together, and make it easier for DREAMers to work and remain in the United States.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $12 Million to Revitalize Former Mill Sites Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $12,000,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending to revitalize former paper and textile mill sites in East Millinocket, Lewiston, and Lincoln. This funding, included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill, was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee this week and now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
    “Many communities throughout Maine are still working to create job opportunities and spur economic activity following paper mill closures,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support the continued efforts to redevelop the former Great Northern Paper Mill in East Millinocket, Camden Yarns Mill in Lewiston, and Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
    “We’re deeply grateful to Senator Collins for her continued support of East Millinocket’s redevelopment efforts. Senator Collins’ advocacy was instrumental in advancing this critical federal investment. Funding for this phase marks a pivotal moment in our work to transform the former Great Northern Paper mill site into a vibrant hub of economic opportunity. With this support, we are one step closer to creating sustainable jobs, attracting private investment, and restoring long-term economic vitality to our region,” said Former U.S. Representative and Chairman of East Millinocket Board of Selectman Michael Michaud.  
    “The federal government’s critical support of the Maine MILL would allow us to complete construction of our new facility in Lewiston and would firmly establish an important expansion of a major civic institution for our entire community. This investment would also significantly contribute to the economic development of the Lewiston-Auburn area. We are deeply grateful to Senator Collins for her essential support,” said Rachel Ferrante, Executive Director of Maine MILL.
    “The Town of Lincoln thanks Senator Collins for her critical support in advancing federal funding for infrastructure improvements to the ongoing redevelopment of the former Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill, now known as the Lincoln Technology Park. This effort will help spark new private sector investments and vital job creation at the former mill site,” said Richard B. Bronson, Lincoln Town Manager.
    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:
    East Millinocket Paper Mill – $5,000,000 to support the ongoing redevelopment of the former Great Northern mill site by stabilizing and rehabilitating existing structures — adding strategic infrastructure for priority projects and continuing site clean-up for redevelopment and construction of new facilities.
    Maine MILL – $3,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the Camden Yarns Mill building to serve as Maine MILL’s permanent home. Currently located on Canal Street in Lewiston, the Maine MILL showcases the history of Lewiston-Auburn’s manufacturing mills and related trades.
    Lincoln Technology Park – $4,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the former Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill by making infrastructure upgrades for future development by businesses.
    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: More Than $59 Million for Maine Drinking Water, Wastewater Infrastructure Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $59,063,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects throughout Maine in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee this week, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
    “Maintaining and upgrading drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is vital to strengthening the economic and environmental health of communities throughout Maine,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would help to ensure Mainers continue to have access to clean, safe drinking water and functioning sewer systems while preserving Maine’s natural resources. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:
    City of Biddeford for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: City of Biddeford
    Project Location: Biddeford, ME
    Amount Requested: $6,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Biddeford.
    City of Brewer for Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: City of Brewer
    Project Location: Brewer, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,576,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Brewer.
    Canton Water District for Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Canton Water District
    Project Location: Canton, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,250,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Canton.
    Caribou Utilities District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Caribou Utilities District
    Project Location: Caribou, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,288,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Caribou.
    Clinton Water District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Clinton Water District
    Project Location: Clinton, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,250,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Clinton.
    Town of Fort Kent for Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of Fort Kent
    Project Location: Fort Kent, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,500,000
    Project Purpose: To improve water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure in Fort Kent.
    City of Gardiner for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: City of Gardiner
    Project Location: Gardiner, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,422,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Gardiner.
    Town of Gorham for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of Gorham
    Project Location: Gorham, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Gorham.
    Loring Development Authority for Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Loring Development Authority
    Project Location: Limestone, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,740,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade water infrastructure in Loring Commerce Centre.
    Lubec Water District for Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Lubec Water District
    Project Location: Lubec, ME
    Amount Requested: $2,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Lubec.
    Town of Machias for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of Machias
    Project Location: Machias, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,378,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Machias.
    Monmouth Water Association for Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Monmouth Water Association
    Project Location: Monmouth, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,555,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Monmouth.
    Town of North Haven for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of North Haven
    Project Location: North Haven, ME
    Amount Requested: $4,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in North Haven.
    Town of Old Orchard Beach for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of Old Orchard Beach
    Project Location: Old Orchard Beach, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Old Orchard Beach.
    Old Town Water District for Drinking Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Old Town Water District
    Project Location: Old Town, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,560,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Old Town.
    Presque Isle Utilities District for Water Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Presque Isle Utilities District
    Project Location: Presque Isle, ME
    Amount Requested: $2,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade drinking water infrastructure in Presque Isle.
    Richmond Utilities District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Richmond Utilities District
    Project Location: Richmond, ME
    Amount Requested: $2,500,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Richmond.
    South Berwick Sewer District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: South Berwick Sewer District
    Project Location: South Berwick, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in South Berwick.
    Town of Southwest Harbor for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Town of Southwest Harbor
    Project Location: Southwest Harbor, ME
    Amount Requested: $780,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Southwest Harbor.
    Vassalboro Sanitary District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Vassalboro Sanitary District
    Project Location: Vassalboro, ME
    Amount Requested: $386,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Vassalboro.
    Veazie Sewer District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Veazie Sewer District
    Project Location: Veazie, ME
    Amount Requested: $1,878,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Veazie.
    Pleasant Point for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point
    Project Location: Washington County, ME
    Amount Requested: $5,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Washington County.
    Wells Sanitary District for Wastewater Infrastructure Improvements
    Recipient: Wells Sanitary District
    Project Location: Wells, ME
    Amount Requested: $3,000,000
    Project Purpose: To upgrade wastewater infrastructure in Wells.
    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $6 Million for Maine After-School and Child Care Programs Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $6,000,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for Maine after-school programs and child care in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee this week, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
    “Access to affordable after-school programs and child care helps promote financial stability for families while benefiting Maine’s small businesses and local economies,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support the next generation of Mainers, helping to ensure students and their families have the skills, tools, and support needed to achieve their goals. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:
    Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine– $3,000,000 to support the construction of the Bridge to Success Teen Center. The Center aims to provide teenagers and young adults from low-income family’s access to career and college-readiness programs. This funding would also support renovations to the Portland Clubhouse to accommodate a growing membership and expand services for elementary and middle school students.
    Rumford Child Care and Community Center – $3,000,000 to support the construction of a child care and community center at the site of the Rumford Elementary School. The facility would support families in Northern Oxford County and Western Franklin County.
    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Collins, Colleagues Send Letter to OMB Advocating for Release of Critical NIH Research Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined Senator Katie Britt (R-AL) and 12 of her Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Russell Vought, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), advocating for the disbursement of appropriated funds for the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
    Specifically, the letter requests that the Administration faithfully implement the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, which was signed into law earlier this year. This legislation contains critical funding to support NIH initiatives across a range of critical research areas, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and rare pediatric disorders.
    “We write to ask you to fully implement the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, including funds appropriated for the National Institutes of Health (NIH)… Suspension of these appropriated funds – whether formally withheld or functionally delayed — could threaten Americans’ ability to access better treatments and limit our nation’s leadership in biomedical science. It also risks inadvertently severing ongoing NIH-funded research prior to actionable results,” the Senators wrote.
    “We share your commitment to ensuring NIH funds are used responsibly and not diverted to ideological or unaccountable programs. We are confident Secretary Kennedy and Director Bhattacharya are well positioned to uphold gold standard research by ensuring that NIH awards are grounded in transparency, scientific merit, and a clear alignment with national interests,” they continued.
    “Our shared goal is to restore public trust in the NIH precisely because its work is focused on results, accountability, and real-world impact. Withholding or suspending these funds would jeopardize that trust and hinder progress on critical health challenges facing our nation. Ultimately, this is about finding cures and seeing them through to fruition,” the Senators concluded.
    Joining Senators Collins and Britt in signing the letter were Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Todd Young (R-IN).
    Senator Collins has consistently voiced her opposition to cuts in NIH research funding. In February, she announced her opposition to the proposed cap on indirect costs for NIH sponsored research, which are usually negotiated between NIH and the grant recipient. In April, Senator Collins chaired the first full Senate Appropriations Committee hearing with a focus on the importance of biomedical research. At Senator Collins’ invitation, Dr. Hermann Haller, President of the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory (MDI Lab), provided testimony on how the proposed NIH cap would affect biomedical research occurring in Maine and at institutions across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UPDATE: Senator Collins Successfully Secures the Release of Remaining Education Funding for Maine Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: July 25, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced that it will release the remaining formula grant funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 that states had anticipated receiving on July 1. The pause in releasing these funds risked the loss of nearly $28,000,000 for Maine’s public schools. This announcement comes in response to a letter sent earlier this month by Senator Collins and nine of her Republican Senate colleagues to Russell Vought, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), advocating for the release of these anticipated education formula funds. Senator Collins also personally spoke to Education Secretary Linda McMahon to advocate for the release of this frozen funding.
    “These formula funds are essential to the operation of Maine’s public schools, supporting everything from classroom instruction to adult education,” said Senator Collins. “I am pleased that following outreach from my colleagues and me, the Administration has agreed to release these highly-anticipated resources. I will continue working to ensure that education funds are delivered without delay so that schools have adequate time to plan their finances for the upcoming school year, allowing students to arrive back to class this fall to properly-funded schools.”
    Specifically, the letter — led by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senator Collins — requested that the Administration faithfully implement the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Resolution Act, which Congress passed and the President signed into law earlier this year. The letter was also signed by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
    Prior to today’s announcement, last week, Senator Collins announced that the ED will release funding to support 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide afterschool and summer learning opportunities for students. Earlier this month, Senator Collins also announced that the ED awarded a total of $4,981,867 in TRIO Student Support Services grants to 11 Maine colleges and universities following her questioning of Secretary McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs during an Appropriations hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: As Trump Administration Continues To Gut Education Department, Warren Exposes Harmful Impact to Students with Disabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 25, 2025
    According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 60,000 public schools and about 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator due to Trump’s cuts at ED.
    Warren: “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities.”
    Video of Exchange (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), in a forum held by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), “Robbing Our Students’ Futures: The Indefensible Attacks on Public Education,” highlighted the consequences of President Donald Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s cuts to the Department of Education (ED) for students with disabilities and their families.
    “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities,” said Senator Warren. “This forum is a valuable opportunity to speak out and stand up against these horrible cuts so we can start building a better future for our nation’s children.”
    In the hearing, Senator Warren slammed Secretary McMahon for her broken promise to “make sure that our students with special needs are taken care of.” In March, Secretary McMahon fired half of the staff at ED’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which is responsible for protecting students facing discrimination in school, and closed down 7 out of OCR’s 12 regional offices, including the one in Boston. Nearly half of all OCR complaints involve discrimination against students with disabilities, and following these cuts, OCR has begun dismissing complaints at an unusually high rate.
    Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, testified that due to the cuts at OCR, 60,000 public schools and 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator, with OCR dismissing 30% more cases last year than in the previous year. She warned it would be “improbable, if not impossible” for OCR to sufficiently resolve incoming disability discrimination cases with staff cut in half.
    Senator Warren also highlighted the story of G, a student with an intellectual disability whose mom filed a complaint with OCR after G was allegedly locked in a padded room at her school repeatedly, despite not posing a danger to herself or others. The Trump administration fired the lawyer assigned to investigate G’s case, leaving G without any support. Ms. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, stressed the importance of making the public aware of the impact of cuts to public education by sharing stories like G’s. She described ED as an “opportunity engine” for providing educational oversight and funding for various education programs, which are crucial for students with disabilities.
    “We are in this fight because we believe that the future of this nation lies with our children. We speak out, we fight back, and we do not pass budgets that leave the door open for more cuts for the education of our children,” concluded Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On July 17, 2025, Senator Warren released a new 23-page report, “Education At Risk: Frontline Impacts of Trump’s War on Students,” highlighting warnings from 11 major national education and civil rights organizations on the impact of the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education (ED), slashing support to millions of American students, primary and secondary school teachers, administrators, parents, and student loan borrowers.
    On July 15, 2025, Senators Warren and Sanders, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, urging her to reverse the interest hike on student loan borrowers in the SAVE forbearance.
    On July 14, 2025, Senator Warren joined a letter to the director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, and Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, demanding that the Department of Education stop blocking nearly $7 billion in funds for K-12 schools, including for afterschool programs.
    On July 3, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in submitting an amicus brief for NAACP v. US, arguing to the United States District Court District of Maryland that President Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education violate separation of powers and lack constitutional authority.
    On June 10, 2025, Senator Warren met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who were worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of the Department of Education to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office, revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General René Rocque requesting they conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 170 companies from all over the world participated in all eight CIIEs

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    SHANGHAI, July 25 (Xinhua) — A total of 170 overseas companies and 27 institutions have joined the eight China International Import Expos (CIIE), the organizer of the expo announced at a press conference on Friday.

    According to the organizer, more than 50 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the national comprehensive exhibition, which will be held within the framework of the upcoming 8th CIIE this year. Sweden, the UAE and other countries will act as honorary guest countries, and Kyrgyzstan will participate for the first time.

    This year, the volume of reserved exhibition space for the CIIE commercial exposition has exceeded 330,000 square meters, the organizer added.

    As CIIE Deputy Bureau Director Wu Zhengping noted, companies from Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and other countries set a record in participation, which clearly demonstrates their confidence in the Chinese economy and enthusiasm for the CIIE.

    This year, CIIE will for the first time include a special zone for products from participating least developed countries. The expo will also expand and upgrade the existing African products zone and launch a “cross-border e-commerce product selection platform” to help overseas SMEs successfully enter the Chinese market. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Meshanticut Lake

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are recommending people avoid contact with Meshanticut Lake in Cranston due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally present in bodies of water, but under certain environmental conditions will form harmful algae blooms?(HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

    Use caution in all areas of Meshanticut Lake as cyanobacteria HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies.?Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water.?

    Skin contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with cyanobacteria HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.?

    If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:

    — Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your clothes when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or?DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov?and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Colleagues Call For Investigations Into Deaths of Americans in Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    07.25.25
    Cantwell, Colleagues Call For Investigations Into Deaths of Americans in Gaza
    Lawmakers seeking accountability for the July 11 death of Saifulla Kamel Musallet, as well as updates into the deaths of 6 other Americans
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 28 of her Democratic colleagues in the Senate in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi calling for an investigation into the death of Palestinian-American Saifullah Kamel Musallet in the West Bank earlier this month, as well as updates into the investigations of other deaths in Gaza, including 26-year-old Aysenur Ezgi Eygi from Washington state.
    “The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths. These failures have made it more likely that more Americans and other civilians will be killed in the West Bank by Israeli security forces or violent settlers who can act with impunity,” the senators wrote.
    “Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.”
    Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a 20-year-old Palestinian American from Florida, was visiting family near the West Bank town of Sinjil on July 11 when he was beaten to death by extremist Israeli settlers. He is the seventh American killed in the region since Jan. 1, 2022 – a list that also includes University of Washington student Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot and killed by Israeli military during a peaceful protest against illegal settlements in September.
    Following Aysenur Ezgi Eygi’s death, Sen. Cantwell sent a solo letter to President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling for a full and independent investigation.
    “The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and a pattern of indifference by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to killing of civilians in the West Bank, including Americans,” the senators wrote yesterday. “It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans.”
    The letter was led by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and is cosigned by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Chris Murphy (D-CN).
    Full text of the letter is HERE and below.
    Dear Secretary Rubio and Attorney General Bondi,
    We write with grave concern regarding the brutal killing of a Palestinian-American, Saifullah Kamel Musallet, near the West Bank town of Sinjil, on July 11, 2025. The U.S. government must conduct a credible and independent investigation into his beating death and hold all perpetrators accountable. Protecting and supporting U.S. citizens abroad is one of the foremost responsibilities of the U.S. government. The Biden Administration failed to secure accountability for the killing of respected Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, or any of the other four American citizens – Omar Assad, Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour, and Aysenur Ezgi Eygi – killed in the West Bank while they were in office.[1] Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.
    Saifullah Kamal Musallet is the seventh American citizen killed in the West Bank since January 2022 — and the fifth in just the last nineteen months. The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and a pattern of indifference by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to killing of civilians in the West Bank, including Americans.
    Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen from Florida, was visiting family in the West Bank when he was beaten to death by extremist Israeli settlers during a settler attack on the town of Sinjil. Reports indicate that ambulances could not reach the injured for more than two hours because settlers were blocking the area and the Israeli military refused to allow ambulances to pass.[2] In April of this year, a 14-year-old boy from New Jersey, Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee, was also killed in the West Bank. Amer was reportedly shot at the entrance to Turmus Ayya and the Israeli army pronounced him dead after detaining him. Reports suggest that Amer was shot a total of 11 times and two other Americans were also shot in the incident.[3]
    Last year, three other U.S. citizens were killed in the West Bank, including two teenagers. Tawfic Abdel Jabbar and Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour were both 17-year-old U.S. citizens visiting their families in the West Bank when they were shot and killed in separate incidents. In both cases they were shot in the head while they were traveling in vehicles.[4] The third U.S. citizen gunned down in the West Bank last year was Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old American citizen raised in Seattle who was shot in the head by an Israeli soldier from a distance of 200 meters.[5]
    The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths. These failures have made it more likely that more Americans and other civilians will be killed in the West Bank by Israeli security forces or violent settlers who can act with impunity.
    It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans. To that end, we urge you to immediately launch an independent investigation into the brutal killing of Saifullah Kamel Musallet, including the circumstances that blocked ambulances from reaching him. We also ask that you provide us with an update on the status of any investigations into the killings of the six other Americans who have been killed since January 2022, and provide us with a briefing on actions you are taking to ensure accountability for their deaths and to prevent future killings of Americans in the West Bank.
    We respectfully ask for a response within two weeks.

    [1] Lucas, Ryan. “DOJ Silent as Families of Americans Killed in West Bank, Gaza Demand It Investigate.” NPR, 10 Oct. 2024, www.npr.org/2024/10/10/nx-s1-5106059/west-bank-gaza-israel-justice-department/.
    [2] Levine, Heidi, et al. “Palestinian American from Florida Killed in the West Bank, Family Says.” The Washington Post, 12 July 2025, www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/07/11/palestinian-american-west-bank-death-tampa/.
    [3]Ott, Haley. “American Teen Fatally Shot in Israeli-Occupied West Bank as Netanyahu Visits Trump.” Cbsnews.com, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2025, www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-west-bank-palestinian-american-amir-mohammed-rabee-killed/.
    [4] Yahya Abou-Ghazala, and Alex Marquardt. “Families of Killed Palestinian-Americans Demand Answers of US, Israel.” CNN, 23 Feb. 2024, www.cnn.com/2024/02/23/world/palestinian-americans-demand-answers-invs.
    [5] Hubbard, Ben, and Gulsin Harman. “At Funeral in Turkey, Family Mourns American Activist Aysenur Eygi.” The New York Times, 14 Sept. 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/09/14/world/middleeast/turkey-us-activist-killed-israel-west-bank.html.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Senator Mullin Welcomes Oklahoma Student Leaders to Washington, D.C.

    US Senate News:

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

    RELEASE: Senator Mullin Welcomes Oklahoma Student Leaders to Washington, D.C.

    Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) met with Oklahoma students participating in the Bank of America Student Leaders Summit hosted by the Close Up Foundation. The students shared their goals with Senator Mullin and discussed a variety of topics. Photos below.
    “It is always a pleasure to welcome our great student leaders to the nation’s capital. They are the future of this country and I am encouraged by their enthusiasm and determination,” said Senator Mullin. “I am proud of all of our students in Oklahoma and it is an honor to be in Washington fighting for them every day. My colleagues and I are committed to leaving a better America for them and the generations that follow.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Laurel Lee and Congressman Pfluger Introduce Legislation to Cut LNG Bunkering Red Tape

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

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced the Cutting LNG Bunkering Red Tape Act, a bill that codifies a Trump-era Department of Energy (DOE) order clarifying that ship-to-ship transfers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) used as marine fuel—commonly known as LNG bunkering—are not considered exports under Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act unless conducted in foreign waters. The bill is referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

    “The Biden Administration’s harmful energy policies have created unnecessary regulatory burdens that stall innovation and weaken American energy leadership,”said Rep. Lee. “Liquefied natural gas is a more efficient, cleaner, and cost-effective energy source. My bill ensures that LNG bunkering is not hindered by red tape, so that ports in Florida and across the nation can continue to expand, drive job creation, and compete globally.”

    “LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy, domestic prices, national security, and partners and allies around the world that want our product. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration spent four years imposing one regulation after another on these exports, stifling the energy industry,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This legislation permanently reverses one of these misguided policies to ensure American LNG can compete on the global stage by removing regulatory uncertainty and streamlining the use of it as a cleaner, more efficient fuel source for maritime transportation. I am proud to lead this legislation with my good friend from Florida, Representative Laurel Lee.”

     Background: 

    During the Biden Administration, DOE issued an order treating certain domestic LNG ship-to-ship transfers as exports, subjecting them to extensive federal regulation and public interest review. In contrast, President Trump reversed this position, rightly determining that LNG bunkering within U.S. waters should not be treated as an export. Rep. Lee’s legislation would cement this clarification in federal law.

    Florida is a major hub for marine transportation, including cruise ships and other vessels, increasingly turning to LNG as a clean and modern fuel source. JAX LNG, based in Jacksonville, has been a national leader in LNG bunkering, but has faced unnecessary regulatory hurdles due to shifting federal interpretations

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act alongside Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to improve hiring and retention for tribal law enforcement officers in Central Washington and across the United States.  

    Here is what they are saying about the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act: 

    Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, said, “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act. The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” 

    Jeremy Takala, Law & Order Committee Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, said, “Bolstering support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing the many serious and systemic public safety issues in Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for the Yakama Nation and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. At Yakama we are facing an overwhelming confluence of public safety crises. We have experienced a surge in violent and property crimes, the highest rate of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People in the region, and a terrifying rise in outside gang and cartel-related drug activity coming onto our lands, including the pervasive and deadly fentanyl epidemic. The recent coordinated, multi-agency drug trafficking interdiction “Operation Overdrive” that dismantled a large drug distribution network operating on the Yakama Reservation shows what is possible when all levels of government work together to make our communities safer. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help give the Yakama Nation and other tribes the tools and funding necessary to protect our communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s partnership with us and his continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” 

    Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation, said, “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” 

    Glen Nenema, Chairman, Kalispel Tribe of Indians, said, “Many tribal police departments are chronically understaffed and massively underfunded. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act would level the playing field for tribal police benefits, retirement, and pension, allowing tribes to improve retention and recruitment of officers on tribal lands. Ultimately, passage of the act would help improve overall safety in tribal communities. We are grateful to Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for championing this act and hope the overwhelming tribal support will ensure its approval.” 

    Everett Ekdahl, Jr., Vice President, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, said, “As a tribal law enforcement officer and an elected tribal leader, I know firsthand how hard it is to recruit and retain law enforcement officers. This bill will make it so much easier to achieve that objective by ensuring tribal law enforcement officers have access to proper retirement benefits. This bill will make our community safer.” 

    Leonard Forsman, Chairman, Suquamish Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will provide tribal nations with the tools necessary to recruit and retain law enforcements officers. It shows Congress’s commitment to public safety on tribal lands and the fair treatment of tribal law enforcement officers. We are grateful for Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, and Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez for their leadership on this important issue.” 

    Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Chairman, Hopi Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act represents a crucial advancement in ensuring that tribal law enforcement agencies, such as Hopi Law Enforcement Services, have the support they need to protect those that live and work on the Hopi Reservation. The Hopi Tribe is grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for their leadership strengthening recruitment, retention, and public safety across tribal nations.” 

    Teri Gobin, Chair, Tulalip Tribes, said, “The Tulalip Tribes strongly and unequivocally support the Tribal Law Enforcement Parity Act. Our tribal law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and they deserve the same retirement and benefits as their federal counterparts. This legislation is about parity and public safety. We are losing dedicated, highly trained officers because we can’t offer competitive retirement benefits. Passing the Parity Act is critical to keeping our officers on the force and ensuring the safety and security of everyone—tribal and non-tribal—who lives, works, and visits our lands.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salvadoran serial criminal convicted of unlawful reentry after ICE Boston arrest

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation resulted in a federal conviction for an illegally present Salvadoran national who unlawfully reentered the United States after having previously been deported. Arsenio Valladares, 44, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien July 7 at the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts.  

    “Not only did Arsenio Valladares display a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws; his presence in our community placed the safety of our residents in danger,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He has been convicted of several violent crimes and represents a threat to our neighbors. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien offenders from New England.”

    ICE deported Valladares from the United States April 23, 2008. Sometime after his removal, Valladares illegally reentered the United States without permission.

    Prior to his removal, Valladares was convicted of assault and battery with a deadly weapon, assault and battery on a police officer, assault and battery, operating a vehicle under the influence, larceny and malicious destruction of property.

    In November 2024, ICE Boston became aware of Valadares’ presence in the United States after being notified that his fingerprints were taken in connection with criminal charges in Massachusetts. Officers with ICE Boston arrested him on immigration charges March 18.

    Valladares faces to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 at his sentencing hearing, scheduled for later this month. Furthermore, Valladares is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts is prosecuting the case.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROBoston and @HSINewEngland.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Dear Friends,
    This week, Bryan Kohberger received four consecutive life sentences for the November 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Under Idaho law, these fixed sentences mean Kohberger will never be eligible for parole and will die in prison. With this sentencing, a painful chapter closes in one of the darkest moments in our state’s history.
    Four young lives full of promise were stolen from us far too soon—from their families, classmates, friends, and all of us who came to know their names and stories. Their loss is immeasurable, and their absence is felt every day.
    There is no sentence that can bring true justice for this kind of evil. Nothing can undo the heartache or fill the empty chairs at family tables. But this outcome ensures that Bryan Kohberger will never harm another innocent life.
    For more than two years, my office worked side by side with Latah County prosecutors. While Prosecutor Thompson retained full authority over the case, including all plea negotiations, my Criminal Division provided crucial support by handling the complex legal challenges that could have derailed the entire prosecution.
    Criminal Division Chief Jeff Nye led my team alongside Deputy Attorneys General Ingrid Batey and Madison Gourley. Together, they fought off more than a dozen motions challenging the death penalty. They defended law enforcement’s use of investigative genetic genealogy—the first time this technique had been used in Idaho. When defense lawyers tried to throw out the entire case, my team protected the grand jury indictment.
    Each challenge they defeated kept this case moving forward. The genetic genealogy work that first identified Kohberger became crucial evidence. Their successful defense of this investigative tool will help Idaho law enforcement solve future cases.
    Most importantly, their focus on key legal briefing and arguments gave Latah County prosecutors the ability to concentrate on discovery and prepare for trial. Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna, where he belongs.
    I know that no matter the outcome this week, no words, legal ruling, or sentence from a judge can heal what these families have endured. My sincere wish is that they have not carried this burden alone and that Idaho never forget the names and memories of Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan.
    Please continue to keep these families in your prayers—not just today, but in the days and years to come. Their grief does not end with a sentence, and neither should our care for them.
    As Attorney General, I’ll never stop fighting to protect Idaho families. I stand with our prosecutors, law enforcement community, and our citizens to ensure justice is done.
    Best regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Dear Friends,
    This week, Bryan Kohberger received four consecutive life sentences for the November 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Under Idaho law, these fixed sentences mean Kohberger will never be eligible for parole and will die in prison. With this sentencing, a painful chapter closes in one of the darkest moments in our state’s history.
    Four young lives full of promise were stolen from us far too soon—from their families, classmates, friends, and all of us who came to know their names and stories. Their loss is immeasurable, and their absence is felt every day.
    There is no sentence that can bring true justice for this kind of evil. Nothing can undo the heartache or fill the empty chairs at family tables. But this outcome ensures that Bryan Kohberger will never harm another innocent life.
    For more than two years, my office worked side by side with Latah County prosecutors. While Prosecutor Thompson retained full authority over the case, including all plea negotiations, my Criminal Division provided crucial support by handling the complex legal challenges that could have derailed the entire prosecution.
    Criminal Division Chief Jeff Nye led my team alongside Deputy Attorneys General Ingrid Batey and Madison Gourley. Together, they fought off more than a dozen motions challenging the death penalty. They defended law enforcement’s use of investigative genetic genealogy—the first time this technique had been used in Idaho. When defense lawyers tried to throw out the entire case, my team protected the grand jury indictment.
    Each challenge they defeated kept this case moving forward. The genetic genealogy work that first identified Kohberger became crucial evidence. Their successful defense of this investigative tool will help Idaho law enforcement solve future cases.
    Most importantly, their focus on key legal briefing and arguments gave Latah County prosecutors the ability to concentrate on discovery and prepare for trial. Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna, where he belongs.
    I know that no matter the outcome this week, no words, legal ruling, or sentence from a judge can heal what these families have endured. My sincere wish is that they have not carried this burden alone and that Idaho never forget the names and memories of Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan.
    Please continue to keep these families in your prayers—not just today, but in the days and years to come. Their grief does not end with a sentence, and neither should our care for them.
    As Attorney General, I’ll never stop fighting to protect Idaho families. I stand with our prosecutors, law enforcement community, and our citizens to ensure justice is done.
    Best regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Women and girls of African descent: Celebrating contributions, recognising challenges

    Source: APO

    This Friday marks the first observation of the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, following a declaration last year by the UN General Assembly.

    It recognises their immense contributions to society, but also acknowledges the challenges they face due to the double burden of racism and sexism.

    Although woman and girls of African descent embody strength, resilience and untapped potential, they remain among the most marginalised groups globally due to the intersection of racial, gender and socioeconomic discrimination.

    For example, they suffer alarming maternal mortality rates, according to the UN’s reproductive health agency, UNFPA. Oftentimes, cases are not related to income or education, but rather to racism and structural inequality stemming from a legacy of slavery and colonialism.

    “The good news is these things are not irreversible,” Patricia DaSilva, a senior programme adviser with the agency told UN News.

    “We can fix them. We have the solutions for many of the problems that we are facing in terms of maternal health for women and girls of African descent.”

    Data and solutions

    UNFPA advocates for stronger health systems and investment in midwifery programmes, culturally sensitive training for healthcare providers and improvements in data collection.

    The agency also invests in partnerships such as an initiative in the Pacific region of Colombia, home to large communities of people of African descent.

    “We have worked with the traditional midwives for them to integrate ancestral knowledge with modern health practices. This includes supporting accurate birth registration,” she said.

    “It sounds like a really simple thing, but when you are in a remote community without access to technology, without access to administrative offices, it becomes this really, really important issue.”

    Agents of change

    Ms. DaSilva upheld the theme for the International Day, which focuses on women and girls of African descent as leaders, not just beneficiaries.

    “I think it is important that the international community, the global community, understands that women and girls of African descent are not recipients of aid. They are leaders. They are innovators. They are agents of change,” she said.

    “We have an opportunity and even an obligation and a responsibility to support the efforts to resource their solutions, to elevate their voices and continue to really double our efforts to dismantle the structural barriers that continue to impede their progress.”

    The first celebration of the International Day coincides with the start of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs through 2034.

    The aim is to take concrete actions to confront the legacies of enslavement and colonialism, deliver reparatory justice, and secure the full human rights and freedoms of people from the African diaspora worldwide, building on the previous Decade, which ended last year.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Protects American Innovation from the CCP

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – During a U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee hearing, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) touted her report that uncovered loopholes and a lack of consistent due diligence standards are exposing hundreds of millions of dollars in sensitive American intellectual property to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
    Ernst emphasized the need for Congress to pass her INNOVATE Act to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs and safeguard intellectual property from Chinese espionage to ensure America continues to be the world’s leader in developing cutting-edge technology.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here. 
    Foundation for Defense of Democracies Senior Fellow Emily Bruyère agreed with Chair Ernst that reforming the due diligence process in the SBIR and STTR programs is an essential step to ensuring that companies receiving federal funding do not have concerning malign foreign ties.
    Bruyère emphasized the need to clawback award dollars if a small business exposes taxpayer-funded intellectual property to a foreign adversary.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Trump Promised to End Child Sexual Mutilation — and He Delivered

    Source: US Whitehouse

    During his campaign, President Donald J. Trump repeatedly pledged to end the irreversible chemical and surgical mutilation of our children: “We are not going to allow child sexual mutilation.”

    For years, politicians have promised to end the barbaric, pseudoscientific practice — but President Trump is the only one who has actually delivered.

    This week, Yale New Haven Health and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center announced they are ending their so-called “gender-affirming care services.” They join a growing list of health systems across the country following President Trump’s executive action.

    • Phoenix Children’s Hospital stopped providing puberty blockers and hormone therapy to minors.
    • Stanford Medicine ended sex-change surgeries for minors.
    • Children’s Hospital Los Angeles closed its “Center for Transyouth Health and Development and Gender-Affirming Care.”
    • Denver Health suspended sex change surgeries for patients under 19.
    • UCHealth ended so-called “gender-affirming services” for patients under 19.
    • Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago stopped sex-change surgeries for patients under 19.
    • UChicago suspended so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors.
    • Northwestern Memorial Hospital stopped sex-change surgeries for minors.
    • Rush Medical Center halted gender-affirming care for new patients under 18.
    • In New York City, Mount Sinai and New York-Presbyterian both curbed so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors.
    • In Pennsylvania, Penn State Health, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the University of Pennsylvania Health System all stopped so-called “gender-affirming care” for patients under 19.
    • The Hospital of Richmond at VCU Health halted so-called “gender-affirming care” for new patients under 19.
    • Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters suspended hormone therapy and puberty blockers for gender-affirming care in children under 19.
    • Seattle Children’s Hospital stopped providing so-called “gender-affirming surgery” to patients under 19.
    • In Washington, D.C., Children’s National Hospital “paused” prescribing puberty blockers and hormone therapies for minors, while Northwest Washington Hospital did the same.
    • Kaiser Permanente paused sex-change surgeries for patients under 19 across all its hospitals and surgical centers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Participates in 30th Session of ISA Assembly

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Kingston, July 25

    The State of Qatar participated in the 30th session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Assembly, held in Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, from Jul. 21 to 25.

    Representing Qatar at the session was Assistant Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Convention on the Law of the Sea Omar Ali Al Ali.

    During Qatar’s statement under item (8) of the agenda, concerning the annual report of the Secretary-General of the ISA, Al Ali reaffirmed Qatar’s support for the Authority in fulfilling its duties under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982, and the 1994 Agreement relating to the implementation of Part XI of the Convention.

    He emphasized the importance of balancing the mining regime in the area being developed by the Authority with adequate protection of the marine environment, and adhering to a rigorous scientific approach in this regard, in order to preserve marine ecological diversity and ensure a healthy marine environment for future generations in the interest of sustainable development.

    The Assistant Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Convention on the Law of the Sea welcomed the adoption by the ISA Assembly of the draft resolution to designate a world deep-sea day, to be observed annually on the first day of November. 

    MIL OSI Africa –