NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Global: Autonomous AI systems can help tackle global food insecurity

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Woo Soo Kim, Professor, Mechatronic Systems Engineering & Founding Director, Global Institute for Agritech, Simon Fraser University

    There is a growing and urgent need to address global food insecurity. This urgency is underscored by reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, which states that nearly 828 million people suffer from hunger worldwide.

    Climate change is further escalating these issues, disrupting traditional farming systems and emphasizing the need for smarter, resource-efficient solutions.

    But imagine a future where indoor farming systems can operate entirely on their own, managing water, nutrients and environmental conditions without human oversight. Such autonomous systems, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and powered by robotics, could revolutionize how we produce food, especially in regions with limited arable land.

    Tackling food and water insecurity requires innovative solutions like precision agriculture, using AI and robotics to foster sustainable development.

    My research team at Simon Fraser University’s (SFU) School of Mechatronics Systems Engineering has developed a prototype of an AI-powered sensing robot capable of autonomously monitoring the water needs of tomato plants.

    Simon Fraser University researchers and students at the Arusha Climate and Environmental Research Centre, Aga Kahn University, a 3700-acre ecological reserve, tested drone technology to improve farming operations in Tanzania.
    (Woo Soo Kim)

    AI-powered farming

    In conventional greenhouses, several water management techniques are used to enhance efficiency and minimize waste. These include drip irrigation and using soil moisture sensors and automated irrigation systems.

    Despite their effectiveness, these methods have limitations in responsiveness and accuracy, and can lead to over- or under-watering, wasting resources and impacting crop health.

    Agriculture takes up the vast majority of the water humanity uses. As water scarcity affects over two billion people worldwide, it is critical to find innovative ways to more efficiently use water.

    At SFU, we’ve built an innovative robot that uses electrical signals from plants, also known as plant electrophysiology responses, as real-time indicators of plant health and hydration needs. The system integrates advanced AI algorithms to interpret these signals and determine when water should be supplied.

    This technology eliminates the traditional guesswork and manual labour involved in irrigation, promoting efficient water use and reducing waste while optimizing plant health.

    Recent research highlights the potential of integrating AI innovations into agriculture. AI-powered systems can significantly improve water efficiency, reduce chemical runoff and optimize crop yields.

    Advances in robotics are also facilitating non-invasive and continuous monitoring of plant health, enabling interventions that are both precise and timely.

    Recent advances in plant physiological signal monitoring have shown that sensors capable of capturing electrical signals reflecting plant stress, hydration and overall health can provide highly specific, real-time data.

    A research team at SFU has developed an AI-powered sensing robot capable of autonomously monitoring water needs of tomato plants using the plant’s own electrical signals.
    (Woo Soo Kim)

    Our non-invasive sensing robot improves this process by enabling continuous and efficient monitoring of plant health, making automation more responsive and effective.

    When combined with AI, these signals enable precision watering that is dynamically adapted to the plant’s actual needs, representing a significant leap in intelligent plant care.

    Furthermore, recent innovations using multi-spectral imaging and machine learning have vastly improved our ability to detect disease and when plants are stressed. This can be integrated with electrical sensing robots like ours to develop comprehensive systems to monitor plant health.

    With these improvements fully autonomous agriculture is becoming feasible. This technology goes beyond irrigation, using robotic sensing to interpret plant signals and enable autonomous nutrient management and environmental monitoring.

    These multifunctional robots aim to optimize resource use, reduce waste, and increase crop yields, supporting global food security through holistic plant health management.

    From greenhouses to fields

    Our prototype shows promise in greenhouses. However, the real potential of AI water management lies in scalable, adaptable solutions. Addressing global food and water security requires international collaboration to share knowledge, technology and develop region-specific strategies for areas impacted by scarcity and climate change.

    In recent years, our team has engaged deeply with agricultural communities in Tanzania and Asia-Pacific nations such as Singapore, Philippines, Japan and South Korea, understanding their unique challenges.

    These regions face acute water shortages, limited access to sophisticated technology and the adverse impacts of climate change. To be effective, solutions developed in controlled environments must be adapted and made accessible to farmers.

    This means developing sensor tools that are affordable and simple to use, and scalable AI and robotic systems that can operate effectively under variable environmental and infrastructural conditions.

    The real potential of AI water management lies in developing scalable, adaptable solutions.
    (Alana McPherson)

    International collaboration plays a vital role here. Sharing knowledge through cross-border research partnerships, capacity-building programs and technology transfer initiatives can accelerate the deployment of smart agriculture solutions worldwide.

    The Food and Agriculture Organization, the Association of Pacific Rim Universities and the World Bank are actively fostering such collaborations, emphasizing that sustainable agriculture progress depends on integrating cutting-edge technology with local knowledge.

    Our goal is to develop affordable, easy-to-deploy AI sensing robots for smallholder farms that can provide real-time plant monitoring to reduce waste and improve yields.

    These systems can foster resilient farming ecosystems, and contribute toward meeting the UN’s sustainable development goal of ending hunger and malnutrition.

    Ultimately, scaling prototypes like ours from greenhouses to global agriculture requires strong international collaboration. Supportive policies and knowledge sharing will accelerate the deployment of intelligent water management systems. This will empower farmers globally to achieve more sustainable and resilient food production.

    Woo Soo Kim receives funding from Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and Mitacs.

    – ref. Autonomous AI systems can help tackle global food insecurity – https://theconversation.com/autonomous-ai-systems-can-help-tackle-global-food-insecurity-258788

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bentz Participates in the Natural Resources Committee’s Markup of His Bill Which Would Facilitate Expansion of the City of The Dalles’ Drinking Water Supply

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario)

    Washington, D.C.— This week in the Natural Resources Committee, Congressman Cliff Bentz’s (R-OR) bill, The Dalles Watershed Development Act, was included in the full committee markup. This critical legislation, if enacted, would transfer 150 acres of U.S. Forest Service land within The Dalles’ municipal watershed to city ownership.

    Said Congressman Bentz: “On April 29, 2025, my bill H.R. 655, was included in the Federal Lands Subcommittee hearing marking the critical first step in the legislative process. The bill received support among the subcommittee as well as the acknowledgement of the United States Forest Service that a land transfer would greatly benefit the community. The bill has now moved to the second step which is today’s “markup”.  It was voted out of committee and will now move to the floor.  If passed across the floor, it will move to the Senate.”

    The City of The Dalles has long relied on its municipal watershed for 80% of its annual water supply. Protecting this watershed is essential to maintaining water quality, meeting future demand, and ensuring public safety. This bill would allow the city to expand the size of its reservoir and allow much less red tape in taking action to protect city water infrastructure works and the city’s watershed.

    “The City of The Dalles has maintained a great working relationship with the Forest Service, but the need for expansion of the reservoir, on land owned by the federal government, would be unnecessarily burdened by lengthy federally required administrative reviews.” said Congressman Bentz. “To afford to expand its water storage capacity, avoiding unnecessary costs is absolutely crucial.  This transfer of land would help avoid costs.  Water security is a top priority, and this legislation will provide the land needed to meet the city’s future growth.”

    Congressman Bentz will continue to work with the Natural Resources Committee, House Leadership, local leaders and federal agencies to advance this legislation.

    Read the bill text, here.

    Watch the hearing here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bentz Statement on Public Lands

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.– To be clear – I do support and encourage sale or exchange of parcels of federal land when there is a clear economic or social demand for such disposition, and when that disposition follows appropriate procedure and is generally supported by those affected. I include congressional action as an appropriate procedure. I do not support a mandated disposition of millions of acres of federal land, the amount of which was arbitrarily established, the primary goal not being to respond to demand, but instead being the removal of land from federal ownership.

    A policy to permanently dispose of massive amounts of land currently owned and managed for multiple use by the federal government should not be included in a reconciliation package where debate, by design, is truncated or completely avoided. A decision to irreversibly divest the nation of  federally owned land is an important policy issue that must be carefully discussed with and designed by those of us representing states impacted by this policy.

    Of particular concern in making any decision to sell public land is the sale’s impact on those who have rights in the land or currently have some type of use of the land. Indian Tribes, neighbors, grazing permittees, those utilizing public access across the land, hunters, watershed function, holders of easements, and environmental impact are some of the issues that must be taken into account in making a decision to alter ownership. These realities make the process used in selecting parcels of federal land offered for sale extremely important.

    Some might argue that the abject failure of the federal government to adequately manage BLM and Forest Service land justifies its sale. But sale of this land to someone else is no way to assure it’s proper management.  The best way to protect this land is to identify and correct the reasons these agencies are failing in their mission. The easiest observation to make is that environmental organizations, using the ESA, CWA, CAA, and other environmental laws, compliant federal judges, and the Access to Justice Act, (an act that pays the attorney fees of plaintiffs who successfully sue the federal government) through protracted and expensive litigation, make a mockery of agency’s attempts to craft management plans. If our nation is to be a landowner (and it is), it must take care of that land. This means that the laws that are being perverted to line the pockets of environmental organizations at the expense of the taxpayer and our forests and rangelands, must be changed so that such perversion is stopped. 
     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harshbarger, Sherrill Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Digitize Prescription Information, Improve Patient Safety

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), a practicing pharmacist before being elected to Congress, and U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) reintroduced the bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act. This legislation would allow the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to move forward with a proposed rule allowing drug manufacturers to transmit prescribing information electronically to doctors and pharmacists, as opposed to printed copy, as currently required.

    “Pharmacists and physicians deserve timely, accurate data when making decisions that impact patient health, not pages of printed material that often arrive late and are immediately discarded,” said Rep. Harshbarger. “This bipartisan bill is a practical update that empowers healthcare professionals with real-time digital access, cuts waste, and ensures patients are receiving the most up-to-date information. Thank you to my colleague, Representative Sherrill for working with me to bring prescribing information into the 21st century.”

    “I’m focused on improving our healthcare system to ensure healthcare providers are able to provide the best possible care to patients. Under outdated rules, providers are prohibited from receiving prescribing information for medications digitally. This legislation would finally modernize our system, allowing pharmacists to access real-time updates on prescription medications that will ensure they can dispense medicines to patients safely while reducing waste at the same time.” said Rep. Sherrill.

    Under the current policy, which has not been updated since 1962, prescribing information sent to providers that contain important information related to a specific drug must be printed, running an average of 45 pages per prescription. This information is not intended for patients but rather contains the drug’s chemical makeup and information that informs a healthcare professional on the drug’s interaction with other drugs. In 2014, the FDA proposed a rule that would allow the electronic distribution of prescribing information. Since then, Congress has used the appropriations process to prevent the agency from finalizing that rule, requiring the bulky paper labels to be printed and distributed, even though many are immediately discarded by healthcare professionals for being outdated.

    The Harshbarger-Sherrill legislation would give healthcare professionals the option to choose how they receive prescribing information. In most cases, healthcare professionals choose to receive the information digitally because the information is available in real-time. Printed information takes approximately 8-12 months from printing to shipment, and information is often outdated by the time it reaches the recipient.

    This legislation has drawn support from leading pharmacy and healthcare advocacy organizations, including the Alliance to Modernize Prescribing Information (AMPI) and the following groups: Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), Allergy & Asthma Network, American Pharmacists Association, AmGen, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Association for Accessible Medicines, Beyond Type 1, Biotechnology Innovation Organization, BioNJ, BioUtah, Boomer Esiason Foundation, Environmental Paper Network, Georgia Bio, Healthcare Distribution Alliance, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, LUNGevity Foundation, Lupin, Maryland Tech Council, MassBio, McKesson, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, National Consumers League, National Grange, NewYorkBIO, North Carolina Biosciences Organization, Texas Healthcare and Biosciences Institute, and Zero Cancer.

    Additional sponsors of this legislation include Reps. David Valadao (R-CA), Don Davis (D-NC), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Julia Letlow (R-LA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Steve Womack (R-AR), and Paul Tonko (D-NY).

    You can read the full bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Leads Digital Asset Subcommittee Hearing Highlighting Need for Clear Regulations for Digital Assets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    June 25, 2025

    Washington, D.C.— Senate Banking Subcommittee on Digital Assets Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) led the Digital Asset Subcommittee Hearing entitled “Exploring Bipartisan Legislative Frameworks for Digital Asset Market Structure” highlighting the need to clearly allocate jurisdiction among regulators in order to maintain the United States’ leadership in financial innovation.

    “The days of America sitting on the sidelines while the digital asset industry moves overseas are over,” said Lummis. “For the first time in our nation’s history, we have the most pro-digital asset president in U.S. history, and we have a chairman at the helm of the Banking Committee who sees the immense value in the United States leading on digital assets. We must work to immediately pass comprehensive market structure legislation to secure our financial future for generations to come. Digital assets are the future, and we must ensure the United States leads the way.”

    Senator Lummis’ full remarks can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE FACT THAT THE ADMINISTRATION CONTINUES TO RUN AWAY FROM CONFRONTING THESE SITUATIONS ON CAPITOL HILL IS VERY PROBLEMATIC”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on MSNBC’s Morning Joe where he emphasized that Iran is a sworn enemy of the United States and the Trump administration must follow the Constitution and stop hiding its actions in the Middle East from Congress and the American people.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Leader Jeffries, thanks so much for being with us. I’m wondering, do you consider his win last night in New York City, do you think it provides a roadmap for Democrats running in 2026 on how to energize the base?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: I think what’s clear is that the relentless focus on affordability had great appeal all across the City of New York. He also clearly out-worked, out-organized and out-communicated the opposition. And when someone is successful in being able to do all three things at the same time, it’s usually going to work out for them.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Yeah, The New York Times editorialized that he was not qualified to be mayor. Of course, The Wall Street Journal and others say that he is far too extreme on economic issues and even issues involving Israel. I’m curious what your thoughts are on him ideologically. Is that—does he have an ideology that you would want your candidates in 2026 to have?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, from the standpoint of House Democrats and what our focus has been, clearly, we have an affordability crisis in the United States of America, and our focus will continue to be on driving down the high cost of living in this country. Donald Trump promised to lower costs on day one. Costs haven’t gone down. They’re going up. He’s crashing the economy in real time, his tariffs are going to impose thousands of dollars in additional cost on everyday Americans per year and he may even be driving us toward a recession. That’s the reason why Donald Trump has become so unpopular, it’s because he’s failed the country on the economy. And so, our vision is going to be for an affordable America—work hard, play by the rules, live the good life, provide a comfortable living for yourself and for your family. That means being able to actually afford a home, educate your children, have access to healthcare, go on vacation with your children and your family every now and then and, of course, Joe, one day retire with grace and dignity.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Democrats look at Donald Trump’s approval ratings and you have a lot of other Democrats and people on media asking the question, why is the Democratic Party’s approval ratings, why are they lower than Donald Trump’s? I take it that’s something that you all grapple with every day. Why has the Democratic Party over the past year found itself at sort of its lowest ebb in recent history? And how do Democrats get out of that?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Yeah, no, it’s a very important question and, listen, institutions are unpopular right now in the United States of America and that includes, of course, the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. The dynamics that we have to work through, of course, one, Donald Trump and Republicans have given the American people every reason to run away from them, and it’s going to be important for us to continue to make clear why this administration failed on the economy, failed foreign policy, trying to take away healthcare from tens of millions of Americans, ripping food out of the mouths of children and seniors and veterans. Of course, all of that is problematic, all of that is unpopular. That’s why the One Big Ugly Bill has such a high disapproval rate in the United States of America. We also recognize, as Democrats, that it’s going to be important for us to articulate our affirmative agenda, what we stand for, this principle of working hard and playing by the rules, being able to live the good life, an affordable life for hardworking American taxpayers. And that is something that we’re going to have to lean into. The other thing I’d note, Joe, as you know, perhaps the most important thing in terms of a midterm election dynamic, is what’s the generic ballot say to us? Every single significant generic ballot poll has House Democrats beating House Republicans consistently, including a recent Fox News poll that had us up by about eight points. And so, at the end of the day, yes, we have to lean into improving the Democratic brand. But at the end of the day, what will be most significant, most important is how our vision contrasts with the management of this President, which has been a failure in the United States of America.

    JONATHAN LEMIRE: Leader Jeffries, let’s turn you now to the situation in Iran. We played some sound from you earlier in the show, expressing unhappiness that the administration briefing was postponed. The White House saying it’s well, it’s so Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense can be part of it later this week. Is that acceptable to you, and do you have concerns that the administration is not being fully forthcoming as to what actually transpired in Iran over the weekend?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Yes, there’s every reason to be concerned. There was this briefing that had been scheduled to take place in the House of Representatives and in the Senate. There was absolutely no reason that we’ve been provided that it should have been canceled in terms of the important questions that need to be asked and answered by the Trump administration. What was the imminent threat to the safety and security of the United States of America that justified this strike without seeking the congressional authorization required by the Constitution? What is the assessment of the damage that was done to Iran’s nuclear program? Was it completely and totally decimated? No evidence to date has been provided to suggest that that representation made by Donald Trump is accurate. What is the plan to avoid another costly failed war in the Middle East? Why was aggressive diplomacy abandoned by the Trump administration, notwithstanding the success that had taken place under President Obama’s administration in actually pushing back Iran’s nuclear aspirations. These are questions that need to be answered by the administration. And the fact that they continue to run away from confronting these situations on Capitol Hill is very problematic.

    JONATHAN LEMIRE: So, Leader Jeffries, to that point, you and many people who have had your position in the decades before this, have expressed frustration when presidents don’t seek congressional authority for military action like this. Do you feel like that a greater good was achieved here if Iran’s program was, if not destroyed, but at least significantly delayed? What should be the next steps for this administration in this process?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, to be clear, Iran can never be allowed to become a nuclear-capable power. Iran is a sworn enemy of the United States, of Israel, of Jordan, of our allies in the Middle East, a sworn enemy of the free world. But the question, of course, is, was this strike successful in meaningfully pushing back Iran’s nuclear aspirations, or is it going to complicate things in the Middle East in ways that put our men and women in uniform, American troops and America in harm’s way? That’s simply the reason that having an all-Member briefing on Capitol Hill sooner rather than later is important so these answers can be obtained for the American people, the representatives of the American People, in the United States Congress. That is the reason, fundamentally, why it’s been Congress that was given the power to declare war, to authorize military force and when administrations act differently, they have an obligation and a responsibility to provide the facts, the evidence and the truth, justifying their actions to the American people.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Well, this has been the debate, and we talked about it yesterday with another Member of Congress. This has been a debate going back 30, 40, 50 years. Obviously Republicans were saying this after Barack Obama attacked Libya. Republicans were saying this with Bill Clinton in the 1990s on Kosovo. But if you’re going to have a surprise attack with B-2 bombers that are going to be going over to Iran, striking their nuclear facilities. Do you think it’s a good idea to inform 535 members of Congress before that operation takes off?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, the key here is what was the imminent nature of the threat that justified immediate military action and surprise military action—

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Right—

    LEADER JEFFRIES: If there was no imminent threat—

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Well, the United Nations, I’m curious if you’re concerned, like the United Nation’s nuclear agency, the IAEA had said that Iran had already enriched uranium up to 60 percent, and as you know, the jump from 60 to 100 percent is negligible, and had enough enriched uranium for several weapons. Would you consider that to be considerable enough? A considerable enough threat to strike Iran under those circumstances?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, certainly it’s a challenging situation, but one of the reasons why we need a briefing, Joe, is to have an understanding, was that enriched uranium even damaged or was it removed by the Iranians prior to the strike? We don’t know the answers to that question. It certainly is something that should be talked about, and the American people should be informed about the reality of whether it was a successful strike or not. In terms of the Iranian nuclear threat, I think we’ve all been clear that Iran can never be permitted to become nuclear capable. But the constitution is not a mere inconvenience, it’s the reality and if members of the executive branch, if hawkish individuals across the country want to change things, there’s Article I, Section 8, Clause 11. They can put forward a constitutional amendment but the framers of this country saw fit to vest this authority within the House and the Senate, not the executive branch.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: Right. And at what point should that be triggered? Should it be triggered by every strike, like, for instance, Barack Obama in 2011 in Libya, or countless strikes by the Bush administration and the Obama administration after September the 11th? Is it every strike or is it when you are going in sending troops in? When do you think that action is triggered?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Seems to me, and it’s a great question, Joe, that it has to relate to whether the step that was taken, one, is in response to an imminent threat to American interests, and two, whether it’s an act of war. And part of the reason why, after the fact, it’s important for Members of Congress to be able to have a briefing with the administration that is comprehensive and that gives Members the opportunity to ask questions so we can provide these answers to the American people who clearly do not want another failed, costly, deadly war in the Middle East.

    JOE SCARBOROUGH: All right. Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thank you so much for being with us.

    Full interview can be watched here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Announces $1.29 Million HHS Grant to STEP Inc.

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

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded STEP Inc., located in Franklin County, Virginia, a $1,296,059 grant. The funding supports head start and early head start projects. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “Solutions that Empower People (STEP) serves communities in Franklin and Patrick Counties. 

    “This grant for nearly $1.3 million helps STEP support its head start and early head start programs.”

    BACKGROUND

    According to its website, Solutions That Empower People (STEP), Inc. is a dynamic community action agency that provides services at significant milestones throughout life. Programs are designed to partner with individuals and families to help them overcome adversity and enhance their quality of life through community, economic, personal, and family development.

    In a recent 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: Griffith Discusses SWVA Electric Grid Challenges, Votes to Strengthen Electric Grid and Advance Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025

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

    Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, participated in a markup hearing to advance several energy-related measures. His bill to help keep baseload power plants online, H.R. 3632 the Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025, was favorably reported by the Committee. 

    Congressman Griffith’s remarks on his bill can be found here or below. 

    BACKGROUND

    The Power Plant Reliability Act of 2025 amends Section 207 of the Federal Power Act to allow a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) or a state Public Utility Commission to petition the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue an order to keep a power plant open and allocate costs for fixing a reliability issue.

    Congressman Griffith has long held concerns about the early retirement of Virginia’s and regional electric power plants, including the impacts on electric bills in Southwest Virginia.

    Congressman Griffith’s recent e-newsletter on blackouts and brownouts can be found here.

    In the 119th Congress, Congressman Griffith is serving his first term as chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment.

    Following the Environmental Protection Agency’s June announcement proposing rollbacks of power plant rules, Congressman Griffith issued his support in a statement. 

    Congressman Griffith serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Coal Caucus. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Allen and McBath Lead Effort to Increase Access to Care for Energy Workers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)

    Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-06), introduced the Health Care for Energy Workers Act to increase access to care for current and former energy workers.

    Specifically, this bipartisan, bicameral legislation would update the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA) to allow nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) to order care for current and former Department of Energy (DOE) workers who receive health care under this Department of Labor (DOL) program. The EEOICPA provides compensation and medical benefits to employees who work or have worked in the nuclear weapons industry. Under current EEOICPA regulations, NPs and PAs are unable to order home health care services for patients, creating unnecessary barriers to care, especially for patients in rural communities.

    Upon introducing the bill, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

    “Georgia’s 12th District is home to thousands of energy workers employed at Plant Vogtle and the Savannah River Site, many of whom qualify under the EEOICPA for their health care needs. However, those who live in rural areas are often hours away from the nearest physician, highlighting the need for greater flexibility to ensure these beneficiaries receive the care they deserve. I am proud to lead this bill with Congresswoman McBath to cut unnecessary red tape and improve access to care for energy workers in Georgia and nationwide,” said Congressman Allen.

    “America’s workers deserve access to the health care that will help them lead full lives,” said Rep. McBath. “Too often, necessary treatments might not be available in rural communities. This bill represents an important next step in ensuring more frontline workers have access to quality and efficient care as they serve our communities.”

    NOTE: The Health Care for Energy Workers Act would benefit over 7,000 Georgia energy workers, including many employed at Plant Vogtle and the Savannah River Site. A Senate companion bill has been introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Patty Murray (D-WA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alleged Perpetrator of Terror Attack in Colorado Charged with Hate Crimes

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Alleged Perpetrator of Terror Attack in Colorado Charged with Hate Crimes

    An indictment was unsealed today in Denver charging Mohamed Sabry Soliman with 12 hate crime counts, including nine counts of violating 18 U.S.C. § 249 and three counts of violating 18 U.S.C. § 844(h), for using Molotov cocktails to attack members of the group “Run for Their Lives” and others who had gathered in the park in front of the Boulder County Courthouse on June 1. Soliman had previously been charged by complaint with a federal hate crime offense on June 2.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Justice Department Files Complaint Challenging Minnesota Laws Providing In-State Tuition Benefits for Illegal Aliens

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: The Justice Department Files Complaint Challenging Minnesota Laws Providing In-State Tuition Benefits for Illegal Aliens

    Today the United States is challenging laws in Minnesota that provide reduced in-state tuition — and in some cases, free tuition — for illegal aliens. These laws unconstitutionally discriminate against U.S. citizens, who are not afforded the same privileges, in direct conflict with federal law. The Department of Justice has filed the complaint in the District of Minnesota. This challenge builds upon a recently successful lawsuit against the state of Texas on a similar law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Government Technology recognizes 2024 Oregon Summer EBT for best practices

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) was recognized in a national Government Technology Case Study for its excellence in the use of smart technology in rolling out the Summer EBT program. As a result, more than 362,000 children were able to get more food during summer 2024.

    About Summer EBT

    Thousands of children in Oregon rely on free or reduced-price school meals. But what happens in the summer months when these meals are gone? This is called the summer hunger gap. To address this gap, the federal government last year rolled out a new program to provide food to school-aged children during the summer months.

    Oregon was one of 35 states to pick up on the federal Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, which provided a total of $120 in nutrition benefits for each eligible child when school is out.

    Summer EBT qualification is based on income. For families to qualify, the household income needs to be under 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

    “The majority of the people we served are working. It could be part time or they’re just starting off – they are bringing in income but it’s just not enough. The Summer EBT helps supplement their food budget for their children,” Singer said.

    A tight timeline

    It was go-time for ODHS in early 2024. There was only 16 weeks to set up a new program, bring in community partners, identify and reach out to eligible families, create communication plans and products, and establish the innovative technology needed to accomplish this task. ODHS is the lead agency and administers this program in partnership with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

    “It was a very short amount of time to build an entire system. The challenge was to quickly build a system to deliver quality services not only for this year but next year also,” Nate Singer, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Director, said. OEP is responsible for determining eligibility for people applying for benefits and processing applications to deliver those benefits.

    Goal setting

    Initial estimates in 2024 projected that Oregon would provide Summer EBT to at least 294,000 children.

    “The one thing I wanted for the project was to exceed that expectation because that would mean we would be providing more services for families and we could increase our outreach for all the of the services ODHS offers,” said Christine Doody, Self-Sufficiency Programs Policy Business Manager and Program Manager for Summer EBT.

    The expectation was exceeded about 68,000, meaning more than 362,000 children were able to get food benefits last summer.

    Innovation in action

    To identify eligible children, OEP used data from ODHS and ODE. Most children who received the benefit were “automatically eligible” because they receive other benefits. These families didn’t need to apply, and the benefit was automatically added to their Oregon EBT card.

    Other families needed to apply. ODHS brought in contractors Amazon Web Services and Deloitte Consulting to help with the technology and planning to make applying easy.

    “We tried to make it simple as possible. People could apply with a paper application or online. The online application could be done on a mobile phone. If someone had questions about whether they needed to apply or needed help to apply, they could call the Summer EBT Call Center to talk to someone. The call wait time was below five minutes. People could hear right then, on the phone, they would get their benefits if they applied. It took minutes,” Singer said.

    The Oregon Summer EBT Call Center included an Interactive Voice Response system offering self-service options for supported languages: English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somali, Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Ukrainian, and Chuukese. For other languages, or for other assistance, the calls could be routed to help.

    “This gave families the ability to take control of their case. They could use voice activation to say, ‘I want text messages’ from us, or they could change their demographic information or ask for a new card. The family could do that on their own,” Doody said.

    This population of customers – families with children in school – are used to getting texts and email from their schools, so they were already familiar with getting information this way. In fact, 99 percent of families that needed to apply chose to use the online application rather than a paper application. Those that used the online caption reported a 96 percent satisfaction rating.

    Communications and community engagement

    There was also communications and community engagement support, as well as an effective feedback loop. A workgroup with community representatives, such as the Oregon Food Bank and Partners for a Hunger Free Oregon, was in place. The community partners advised on all communication products such as news releases, the application design and social media kits.

    “We worked together to get the information as far out to communities as we could. We were also able to get good data from the Call Center to let us know how we were doing. We had a strong feedback loop that we responded to quickly,” Christy Sinatra, ODHS Senior Communications Advisor, said.

    For example, people asked if children in charter, private schools, or home schools could be included in Summer EBT. The answer was, yes, if they are found to be eligible. It was also important to communicate to people that the Summer EBT benefits expired after 122 days – so it was important to use them before then.

    “We are trying to increase equity and access. There’s not just one approach. We pushed many communications and engagement levers – technology, in-person outreach, digital communications, community partnerships, media exposure. All those things working together to make the program successful and making sure every eligible kid gets this,” Sinatra said.

    “The Oregon Summer EBT program demonstrated the strength of cross-agency collaboration and intentional program design. Staff were equipped with thoughtful tools and invited to shape how the program would operate, ensuring that those on the ground had a voice in critical decisions. That partnership—from planning to implementation—meant that families and children not only received meaningful support but also felt seen, heard, and cared for. The feedback from the community speaks volumes about the impact of that collective effort,” Singer said.

    “The project was just overwhelmingly amazing. I just hope that people read this and apply for this summer,” Doody said.

    2025 Summer EBT began May 22

    The 2025 Summer EBT launched Thursday, May 22, 2025. Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    ODHS will be running the whole program this summer – setting a goal of serving 375,000 children.

    “We will be doing additional outreach, based on data and staff feedback, and providing new ways to engage with people such as going out to more schools and community events,” Doody said.

    The program is set to: expand tactics to better reach people and communities that data showed were underserved; help schools connect families to Summer EBT; and increase strategic partnerships that serve priority audiences.

    Resources:

    Learn more about Summer EBT including how to apply for this benefit for your children: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/sebt.aspx.

    Double Up Food Bucks Oregon: Visit https://doubleuporegon.org/ to learn how to double your SNAP and Summer EBT dollars at farmer’s markets, produce stands, community supported agriculture programs and grocery stores.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alasdair Gray: unseen artworks offer insight into a profoundly creative and original artist

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Blane Savage, Lecturer in MA Creative Media Practice and BA(Hons) Graphic Art & Moving Image, University of the West of Scotland

    Artist, writer, playwright, illustrator – and the man who made the Oscar-winning film Poor Things possible – Alasdair Gray was one of Scotland’s great creative polymaths and eccentrics, now celebrated every year on “Gray Day” (February 25). A new exhibition at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow has opened to reveal a selection of nine previously unseen artworks from The Morag McAlpine Bequest.

    This is the first time works have been on display from the bequest gifted by him to Glasgow Life Museums following the death of his wife in 2014, which comprises artworks he created for her on anniversaries, birthdays and Christmas.

    A small show like this cannot fully do justice to the vibrancy and volume of Gray’s output, but these nine pieces give a broad flavour of the artist’s working style and idiosyncratic idea development.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Gray was a graduate of Glasgow School of Art where he specialised in murals and stained glass. In addition to being a talented artist and writer, he was also a professor of creative writing at Glasgow University.

    His landmark novel Lanark: A Life in Four Books (1981), a story within a story of adolescence, with the mythical Unthank standing in for Glasgow, has been praised as a modern classic.

    His influence on the Scottish art and literary scene was a powerful one. Regarded as the father figure of the Scottish Renaissance in art and literature, Gray’s postmodern work was a merging of realism, fantasy and science fiction, interwoven with his socialist political views. This was supported by his own book illustrations and typography. He inspired many young Scottish writers, including Irvine Welsh and Iain Banks.

    Gray was also a strong Scottish nationalist. Inspired by a poem by Dennis Lee, Gray’s epigram, “Work as if you live in the early days of a better nation” was inscribed on the wall of the new Scottish Parliament building when it opened in 2004.

    His creative works are deeply embedded in the psyche of the west end of Glasgow. Several of his murals are on display there, such as the one at the top of the escalators in Hillhead subway station, the surreal collages in The Ubiquitous Chip restaurant and the extraordinary night-sky ceiling fresco in Òran Mór, a church-turned-bar. These murals are a hybrid of styles, often black and white linear illustrations filled with colour, traditional painting and printmaking techniques.

    These “new” artworks on display show different aspects, stages and details of Gray’s creative practice when designing artwork for print, such as the Tippex-infused works that allowed him to merge disparate elements of his cut-out collages.

    The highlights of the show include the original artwork for his novel Poor Things, a subversive post-modern rewrite of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, set in and around Glasgow, and adapted by filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos in 2023.



    Read more:
    Poor Things: meet the radical Scottish visionary behind the new hit film

    The illustration features the anti-hero Godwin Baxter hugging two smaller figures – the reanimated Bella Baxter and Archibald McCandless MD, the primary narrator of the novel. They are surrounded by anatomical illustrations of body parts and in the centre a woman’s head has been cut open revealing her brain. Gray’s illustrative style utilises bold ink outlines, watercolour washes and solid blocks of colour.

    The front cover illustration of Agnes Owen’s A Working Mother (1994) with black line work and solid acrylic colour washes, reflects Gray’s interest in everyday life and how alcohol smooths over the cracks. Hung beside it are two versions of working class figurative character sketches for People Like That (1996), in a similar style.

    A black and white illustrated jacket design for Old Negatives (1989), Gray’s four-verse sequence describing aspects of love in its “absences and reverses”, has been designed using solid blocks of black with repeating motifs engraved within them.

    Also included is a self-portrait of Gray as playwright, together with a series of 12 small black-and-white portraits of the performers of his play in Working Legs: A Play for Those Without Them (1997) performed by the Bird of Paradise Theatre Company. Set in a world of wheelchair users, those who can walk are monitored by the welfare state.

    Gray was known for illustrating friends and family as revealed in his artwork Simon Berry and Bill MacLellan, Glasgow Publishers, Jim Taylor, Australian Writer and Printer, Shelley Killen, USA artist, where are all the figures of the title are roughly drawn with pencil and ink. The solid blue background is painted in acrylic, overlaid with Gray’s inked observations of each.

    On the ground floor is what Gray called “my best big oil painting”, of a Cowcaddens streetscape in the 1950s which is by far the strongest piece on display here. Gray takes a wide-angled, almost fish-eye lens perspective to capture a famous Glasgow neighbourhood that was partially demolished and modernised in postwar development.

    St Aloysius Church in Garnethill and Speir’s Wharf at Port Dundas can still be clearly seen, connecting us to the Glasgow of the present day. Gray’s narrative-driven imagery of daily life plays out, with local characters, playing children and besuited pals going out for the evening, all framed by street lamps and tenements immersed in a dark foreboding industrialised landscape.

    Gray’s illustrations and artworks resonate not only with a celebration of Glasgow’s places, characters and life, they also give us insights into the intensely personal psyche of a creative genius. It’s a shame that more of this particular bequest could not have been displayed, but an opportunity to see these previously unseen works is most welcome.

    Alasdair Gray: Works from the Morag McAlpine Bequest will be on show at the Fragile Gallery, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow until June 2026

    This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something, The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

    Blane Savage does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Alasdair Gray: unseen artworks offer insight into a profoundly creative and original artist – https://theconversation.com/alasdair-gray-unseen-artworks-offer-insight-into-a-profoundly-creative-and-original-artist-259470

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Continued Lee Efforts to Sell Off America’s Public Lands: “The Latest Lee Proposal Is Just One More Attempt To See If Congress Blinks”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    06.25.25

    Cantwell Statement on Continued Lee Efforts to Sell Off America’s Public Lands: “The Latest Lee Proposal Is Just One More Attempt To See If Congress Blinks”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, released the following statement in response to the latest proposal from U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) to sell off America’s public lands to the highest bidder.

    Lee’s most recent draft comes after the Senate Parliamentarian rejected his opening gambit because it fails to meet strict Senate rules governing the budget process that Senate Republicans are relying on to circumvent the Senate filibuster, which normally curtails divisive partisan proposals. It is expected that Lee will continue to modify his controversial land sales proposal to pass muster with the parliamentarian until right up to the Senate votes on the measure later this week as part of the larger reconciliation bill.  After the Senate Parliamentarian rejected Lee’s opening gambit — deeming the proposal ineligible under budget reconciliation process rules — Lee responded, “I’m doing everything I can to support President Trump and move this forward.” He promised, “We’re just getting started.”

    “Republicans seem hell bent on trying to sell public lands. Members need to stand up and stop this giveaway of our natural heritage. The latest Lee proposal is just one more attempt to see if Congress blinks. A massive change to our public land policy should not be included in a budget bill. We need climbers, hikers, hunters, gateway communities, and everyone who loves the outdoors to call their elected representatives right away to say our public lands are not for sale,” Sen. Cantwell said.

    Lee’s revised language would require the Secretary of Interior to sell between 0.25 percent and 0.50 percent of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in the 11 Western states, minus Montana. It would also allow for the nominations of BLM land to be sold. The land would have to be in a 5-mile radius of the border of a population center.

    Yesterday, Sen. Cantwell hosted a virtual press conference to push back on Lee’s proposal. She was joined by Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, professional athletes and outdoorsmen Tommy Caldwell and Graham Zimmerman, REI leader Susan Viscon, and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers spokesperson Kaden McArthur.

    READ MORE:

    The Associated Press:  GOP plan to sell more than 3,200 square miles of federal lands is found to violate Senate rules

    The Seattle Times: Pitch to sell public lands hits snag. What does that mean for WA?

    The Spokesman Review: Public land sales provision would violate Senate rule, but its backer pledges to try again

    The Tri-City Herald: What public lands near Tri-Cities could be sold under new Trump tax plan?

    Video of yesterday’s virtual press conference is available HERE; a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s opening remarks is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to observational study linking nitrate in drinking water to pre-term birth rates

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A observational study published in PLOS Water looks at the link between nitrate in drinking water and premature births.

    Prof Oliver Jones, Professor of Chemistry, RMIT University, said:

    “The headline on this research may sound scary; however, to my mind, there are several issues with this paper. 

    “Firstly, the data are from 1970-1988 and so are not current. Secondly, the author did not perform any measurements themselves but instead used public health data and water quality data. The water quality data was self-reported and so may not be accurate, and it only comes from one place in the USA, so it does not reflect conditions elsewhere. 

    “This data was used to show a very weak possible association between estimated early prenatal nitrate exposure and birth outcomes. An association between two factors does not mean one causes the other. The apparent relationship can be due to a range of different factors that have nothing to do with the two variables being considered. I am inclined to think that this is the case here because there is a large overlap in the data and because the effect disappears above 10 mg/L, which does not make sense from a toxicological point of view. Other factors that may affect health, such as the mother’s health or diet, were not available, so could not be taken into account. This is quite important in this case since at concentrations of less than 10 mg/L, the main source of nitrate is actually food, not water. It is thus possible that the results reflect diet, not nitrate.

    “Arguing that a policy change is needed on a very well-studied compound based on a single paper that at best only found a weak statistical association from 40-year old data from one part of the USA and which shows no increased risk at the higher exposure concentrations, is, in my view, possibly a little overzealous.” 

    ‘Early prenatal nitrate exposure and birth outcomes: A study of Iowa’s public drinking water (1970-1988) by Semprini was published in PLOS Water at 19:00 UK time on Wednesday 25th June. 

    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pwat.0000329

    Declared Interests

    Prof Oliver Jones “I am a Professor of Chemistry at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. I have no direct conflicts of interest to declare; however, I have received research funding from the Water Industry and EPA Victoria for research on environmental pollution in the past.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Presidents of Belarus and Cuba Discussed Trade and Economic Cooperation in Minsk

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    MINSK, June 25 (Xinhua) — Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko met with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Minsk on Wednesday, the press service of the Belarusian head of state reported.

    During the meeting, the leaders of the two countries discussed ways to strengthen bilateral dialogue with an emphasis on developing trade, economic, scientific and technical cooperation. The parties also considered issues on the global and regional agenda, and the interaction of the two states on multilateral platforms.

    A. Lukashenko noted that Belarus offers Cuba not only the export of goods and services, but also active participation in the work to develop all mutually beneficial areas and directions based on a comprehensive and strategic partnership. “We are ready to introduce modern scientific achievements and technologies into the Cuban economy for the successful implementation of joint projects designed for a long-term economic and, above all, social effect,” the Belarusian president said.

    M. Diaz-Canel, in turn, pointed out that Cuba has the political will to give impetus to bilateral relations with Belarus in all areas, especially in the trade and economic sphere. “We are interested in stimulating and encouraging trade in goods. We strive for Belarusian companies to participate more in the implementation of the national plan for the socio-economic development of Cuba until 2030,” the President of Cuba emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada opens applications for the AI Compute Access Fund

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Fund will support Canadian SMEs in accessing high-performance compute capacity

    June 25, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

    As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape our world, the Government of Canada seeks to harness AI’s opportunities, mitigate its risks and foster trust. With strategic government investments and support for responsible AI adoption, Canada will grow its AI ecosystem and enhance productivity across the country.

    Today, the Government of Canada opened applications for the AI Compute Access Fund, a key initiative under the Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy. This fund will provide up to $300 million for affordable access to compute power for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) to develop made-in-Canada AI products and solutions.

    A due diligence assessment of each project proposal will be conducted to evaluate:

    • the organization’s capacity and experience to implement the project
    • the project’s ability to achieve AI Compute Access Fund objectives
    • the viability, impact and benefits of the project to Canada

    Investing in AI is vital to building the strongest economy in the G7. The Government of Canada remains steadfast in supporting the nation’s AI ecosystem with strategic investments that will drive both economic growth and responsible technological advancement. With this commitment, the government is unlocking new opportunities for prosperity, resiliency and national security, while strengthening Canada’s leadership position in the global AI landscape.

    The Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, including the Access Fund, will help:

    • scale Canada’s AI industry
    • increase productivity and drive AI adoption rates across the country
    • make high-performance computing more accessible for small and medium-sized businesses
    • foster groundbreaking, made-in-Canada AI solutions in sectors such as life sciences, energy and advanced manufacturing

    With the AI Compute Access Fund and the broader $2 billion Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy, the government is ensuring that Canadian innovators have the tools they need to compete, drive discoveries and create new jobs in a modern, tech-enabled economy.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: Temporary Closure of Maple Valley Road Bridge in Coventry Scheduled to Begin July 7

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Beginning, Monday morning, July 7, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is scheduled to temporarily close the Maple Valley Road Bridge in Coventry. During its closure, RIDOT will use accelerated bridge construction methods to replace the structure, reopening it by the end of this year.

    The closure only affects the portion of Maple Valley Road between Route 117 (Flat River Road) and Town Farm Road in the central Coventry area. Local traffic will be permitted on either side of the closed bridge. During the closure, RIDOT will sign recommended detour routes using Franklin Road for those approaching from the west, and Town Farm Road for those approaching from the east. A detour map is available at www.ridot.net/DetourMaps.

    The replacement of the Maple Valley Road Bridge is part of a $12.9 million project to address this bridge and two others, one on Cahoone Road and another on Nicholas Road, both in western Coventry. All three bridges are structurally deficient. While RIDOT expects to reopen the Maple Valley Road Bridge by the end of this year, the entire bridge project concludes in spring 2027.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings and weather.

    The replacement of the Maple Valley Road Bridge is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Clyburn, And Over 40 Members of the House and Senate to the Trump Administration: Reverse Course and Fully Implement Broadband

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Representative Jim Clyburn (D-SC) and over 40 of their colleagues called on Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to fully implement the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program as Congress intended to connect all Americans to high-quality, affordable internet. This letter comes as the Department of Commerce announced substantial changes to the implementation of the BEAD program. 

    “We write to express our opposition to the Department of Commerce’s recently announced BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice,” wrote the Lawmakers. “The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access. We urge you to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet these statutory objectives.” 

    “The broadband division of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law begins with this congressional finding: ‘Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States,’” the Lawmakers continued. “This fundamental reality is why the BEAD program was established to fulfill the subsequent finding that ‘the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.’”

    The letter was also signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) as well as Representatives Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Bishop (D-GA-02), Bynum (D-OR-05), Carson (D-IN-07), Carter (D-LA-02), Cleaver (D-MO-05),  Davis (D-IL-07), DelBene (D-WA-01), Evans (D-PA-03),  Fields (D-LA-06), Figures (D-AL-02), Garcia (D-TX-29), Goodlander (D-NH-02), Hoyle (D-OR-04), Huffman (D-CA-02), Lofgren (D-CA-18), McGovern (D-MA-02), Menendez (D-NJ-08), Mrvan (D-IN-01), Neguse (D-CO-02), Pappas (D-NH-01), Scholten (D-MI-03), Sewell (D-AL-07), Soto (D-FL-09), Thompson (D-MS-02), Titus (D-NV-01), Tlaib (D-MI-12), Tokuda (D-HI-02), Williams (D-GA-05), and Wilson (D-FL-24).  

    The full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Secretary Lutnick: 

    We write to express our opposition to the Department of Commerce’s recently announced BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was established by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide high-quality, affordable, and sustainable broadband to connect the nearly 25 million Americans that continue to wait for high-speed internet access. We urge you to ensure that states receive the full funding and flexibility they retained prior to the issuance of the restructuring notice to fully meet these statutory objectives. 

    The broadband division of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law begins with this congressional finding: “Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to full participation in modern life in the United States.” This fundamental reality is why the BEAD program was established to fulfill the subsequent finding that “the benefits of broadband should be broadly enjoyed by all.” To achieve this goal, the statute states that funding recipients must “ensure coverage of broadband service to all unserved locations” before using any funds for other purposes. The restructuring notice appears to violate this requirement by allowing applicants to exclude certain unserved locations. Such an allowance would defy bipartisan congressional intent, which was predicated on the understanding that public investment was needed to achieve universal service precisely because building the infrastructure to cover many rural areas was too costly to be profitable. 

    In addition to excluding unserved, predominantly rural locations, the restructuring notice would likely result in others receiving worse service. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requires that “priority broadband projects” funded by the program be “designed to provide broadband service that meets speed, latency, reliability, consistency in quality of service, and related criteria as the Assistant Secretary shall determine; and [to] ensure that the network[s] built by the project[s] can easily scale speeds over time to meet the evolving connectivity needs of households and businesses, and support the deployment of 5G, successor wireless technologies, and other advanced services.” Of currently available technologies, fiber-optic networks are faster and more reliable and can scale speeds much more easily. We made the decision to invest larger sums now in broadband infrastructure that would be resilient and capable of meeting Americans’ growing digital demands for decades. 

    The restructuring notice also undermines the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s provisions designed to ensure that broadband service is affordable and put to good use. The new rules remove specific requirements that ensured that participating providers would provide a low-cost internet option for low-income customers as required by the statute. Additionally, while the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law specifically allows funds to be spent on “broadband adoption, including programs to provide affordable internet-capable devices,” the notice rescinds approval of previously approved “non-deployment activities” and puts all funding for these activities on hold. For example, this provision of the notice puts on hold a South Carolina plan to use BEAD program funds for virtual primary health—equipping low-income households in rural health deserts with access to the full suite of virtual health services at no cost to the patients. If the broadband infrastructure being built by BEAD program funds isn’t put to good use, much of the investment will have been wasted. 

    As reflected in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s congressional findings, high-quality internet access is a requirement to fully participate in the world, and the BEAD program is our once-in-a century opportunity to finish closing the digital divide. We fear this opportunity would be squandered by the restructuring notice and its changes to coverage, quality, and affordability. We therefore urge you to implement the BEAD program in accordance with the best reading of the statute so we can make high-quality internet accessible and affordable for all Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Minnesota Congressional Delegation Introduces Bicameral, Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Melissa Hortman, Mark Hortman, and Condemning Political Violence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN), along with Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Representatives Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN),  Angie Craig (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), and Brad Finstad (R-MN) introduced a resolution to honor the life of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark Hortman, and condemn political violence. 

    Full text of the resolution is available HERE and below:

    Whereas, on June 14, 2025, a gunman entered the home of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and shot and critically injured him and his wife, Yvette Hoffman;

    Whereas the gunman then entered the home of Minnesota State House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and assassinated her and her husband Mark Hortman;

    Whereas the gunman had documents that listed dozens of lawmakers targeted for assassination;

    Whereas the law enforcement officers of Brooklyn Park and Champlin saved additional lives by intervening with their bravery and rapid response to the attack;

    Whereas Speaker Emerita Hortman was a formidable public servant who served her community and the people of Minnesota with deep devotion, compassion, and strength;

    Whereas acts of political violence have no place in the United States and represent a grave threat;

    Whereas swift condemnation of political violence by elected officials is necessary to preserve and protect the democracy of the United States;

    Whereas, when these violent acts expose division, the people of the United States must persevere in the pursuit of democratic principles, resolving their differences through debate and civil discourse; and

    Whereas political violence not only attacks the life and liberty of the representatives of the people of the United States, it also attacks the right of the people to be represented: Now, therefore, be it

    Resolved, That the Senate, in this moment of tragic loss—

    (1) strongly condemns and denounces the attacks on Minnesota State legislators in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota on June 14, 2025;

    (2) honors the life of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman for her devotion to public service and her tireless efforts to serve the people of Minnesota and the life of her husband, Mark Hortman;

    (3) honors Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman, who were shot and critically injured, and wishes for their full and speedy recovery;

    (4) honors the courageous law enforcement officers who saved additional lives with their rapid response to the attack and successfully apprehended and charged the suspected perpetrator on June 15, 2025;

    (5) calls on all community leaders and elected officials to publicly and unequivocally denounce acts of political violence; and

    (6) calls on all people of the United States to unite in this moment of pain and tragedy and reaffirm the commitment of the people of the United States to a safe, civil, and peaceful democracy in which violent rhetoric and acts are not tolerated.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper Statement on Republicans’ Last-Ditch Effort to Sell Our Public Lands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    This week, the Senate parliamentarian struck down Senate Republicans’ initial provision to their budget to sell three million acres of public land to bankroll tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy

    WATCH: Hickenlooper also spoke in a Senate roundtable today about protecting our public lands

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper released the following statement about Senate Republicans’ updated proposal in the budget reconciliation bill to sell off Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land after their previous provision was struck down by the Senate parliamentarian.

    “Republicans’ provision to sell off our American treasures is wildly unpopular in Colorado and throughout the country. It is flat out wrong.

    “We’ll keep fighting against their last-ditch efforts to sneak their provision back into their big ugly bill. Our public lands are not for sale now, or ever.”

    In an attempt to skirt the Senate parliamentarian, Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee recently released updated budget reconciliation text that focuses on the sale of BLM lands. It mandates BLM dispose of between 0.25% and 0.50% of their estate within five miles of a population center. The Wilderness Society estimates up to 1.2 million acres would be required to be put up for sale. The bill specifies that those sales will be mandated in Colorado and ten other western states.

    Hickenlooper called out how this reckless fire-sale of our public land would devastate our outdoor recreation industry and Americans’ access to public lands today at ENR Ranking Member Senator Martin Heinrich’s public lands roundtable. Watch his remarks HERE. 

    In addition to the public lands sale provision, the bill rescinds Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding for the National Park Service (NPS) and BLM, including $267 million for NPS to pay for rangers, maintenance, emergency responders, and scientists. The bill would also eliminate IRA funding for updates to the electric grid, industrial decarbonization, and tribal energy loans.

    Hickenlooper also voted against the Republican budget resolution twice, and will vote against the budget bill again. In April, Hickenlooper led a group of Western senators to introduce an amendment to the budget bill to protect public lands from being sold to pay for Republicans’ tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy. He took to the Senate floor to condemn the public lands sale provision in the House version of the bill. At the end of May, Hickenlooper held a press conference in Estes Park with Congressman Neguse, public lands advocates, and local elected officials to call out the Trump administration’s threats to Colorado’s national parks and public lands – including Rocky Mountain National Park.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Doctor Recruitment Partnership Announcement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    L-R: Nick Hilton, MLA for Yarmouth and Ministerial Assistant for Health and Wellness; Dr. Mohammad Srour; Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness; Premier Tim Houston; Wadih Fares, Honorary Consul of Lebanon in Halifax; and Dr. Gus Grant, CEO and Registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia, at the announcement. (Province of Nova Scotia)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrest leads to federal charges for Salvadoran alien illegally residing in Massachusetts after deportation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — An ICE Boston operation led to federal charges for an illegally present 32-year-old Salvadoran alien who was unlawfully residing in Lynn after having been previously deported. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts indicted Jose Leonardo Gutierrez-Mendez June 9 on one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien.

    Officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston arrested Gutierrez-Mendez during a targeted operation May 8.

    “Jose Leonardo Gutierrez-Mendez blatantly disregarded U.S. immigration laws and illegally took up residence in Lynn after a previous deportation,” said ICE Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “We will not stand idly by and allow illegal aliens to repeatedly break our laws. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing alien offenders from our New England communities.”

    ICE removed Gutierrez-Mendez from the United States to El Salvador in August 2014. At some point after his deportation, Gutierrez-Mendez unlawfully reentered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, and without having been inspected, admitted or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    Gutierrez-Mendez apparently resided in Lynn until officers with ICE Boston arrested him.

    If convicted, Gutierrez-Mendez faces a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Furthermore, he is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed.

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Havasupai Tribe Private Nonprofits Affected by Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Havasupai Tribe of the July 25, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by flooding occurring Aug. 22-23, 2024.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature who suffered financial losses directly related to the disaster. Examples of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% and terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 25.

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    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to California Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Chinatown Apartment Complex Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses  and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in California of the July 25, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Chinatown Apartment Complex Fire occurring Sept. 13, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Ventura.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 25.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Celebrates Exceptional North Carolinians at Long Leaf Pine Presentation

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Celebrates Exceptional North Carolinians at Long Leaf Pine Presentation

    Governor Stein Celebrates Exceptional North Carolinians at Long Leaf Pine Presentation
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein inducted nine North Carolinians into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for their contributions to our state. 

    “I am proud to honor this group of outstanding North Carolinians who have made important contributions to our state and its people,” said Governor Stein. “They exemplify the best of North Carolina through their storied careers in government, education, and advocacy.”

    The Order of the Long Leaf Pine honorees are as follows:

    • Bobby Kimbrough – Forsyth County Sheriff
    • Maggie Kane – Founder and Executive Director, A Place at the Table
    • Karen Amspacher – Director, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center
    • Dr. Otis Smallwood – Superintendent of Bertie County Schools
    • Reuben Blackwell – Former CEO of Opportunities Industrialization Center of Rocky Mount
    • Rev. Pauli Murray – Civil rights activist and author (Posthumous)
    • Ricky Hurtado – Chair of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Hispanic/Latino Affairs and former North Carolina Representative
    • Chavi Koneru – Co-founder and Executive Director of North Carolina Asian Americans Together
    • Phil Ford, Jr. — Former UNC basketball player, NBA player, and UNC assistant coach 
    Jun 25, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ivey Praises Positive Results of Montgomery Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit on One-Year Anniversary

    Source: US State of Alabama

    MONTGOMERY – One year after the official launch of the Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Unit, Governor Kay Ivey praised the successful combined law enforcement effort to address violent crime in the Montgomery area.

    “The results speak for themselves.  Violent crime is on the decline and more criminals are behind bars today in Montgomery thanks to this joint anti-crime effort launched a year ago,” said Governor Ivey. “The Metro Area Crime Suppression Unit’s channeling of resources toward increased criminal surveillance and enforcement has delivered positive results. The City of Montgomery recently announced violent crime in the Capital City is down by 30 percent and overall crime has declined by 19 percent. These proven anti-crime efforts will continue.”

    Over the last 12 months, MACS personnel have conducted 3,100 traffic stops. They have served 983 arrest warrants ranging from Failure to Appear on traffic charges to Capital Murder. They have made 429 arrests, including 30 juveniles. They have seized 268 illegal firearms and confiscated 164 machine gun conversion devices. And, they have recovered 69 stolen cars.

    “Preserving public safety is an essential role of government at every level and it makes sense to join the intelligence gathering and crime-fighting resources of state, federal and local agencies to tackle violent criminals and keep our communities safe. I am pleased to have supported the creation of the MACS Unit, and this legislative session, I was proud to continue funding this successful crime fighting effort.

    “I am also proud to have championed the Safe Alabama package of legislation that passed into law this session to bolster law enforcement statewide in their continuing mission to protect our streets from violent criminals. One of its chief provisions is the expansion of law enforcement civil and criminal liability protection.  Alabama proudly backs the blue in our continuing commitment to protect the public,” Governor Ivey concluded.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fengate Asset Management and Tilbury Properties break ground on new P3 student residence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SARNIA, Ontario, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fengate Asset Management (Fengate), in partnership with Tilbury Properties (Tilbury), broke ground today on the new Lambton College student residence in Sarnia, marking the official start of construction.

    Fengate and Tilbury joined Lambton College students, employees, elected officials, partners, and community stakeholders on site for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the new student residence.

    “Fengate and our partners at Tilbury are proud to be delivering this essential home-away-from-home for students of Lambton College, and we are proud to be on site to break ground on the largest project in the college’s history,” said Mac Bell, Managing Director, Infrastructure Investments at Fengate.

    “Tilbury has deep roots in the local Sarnia community,” said Michael Kaye, Founding Partner at Tilbury. “In 1969, my grandfather’s construction company was awarded the contract to build the first ever Lambton College building on this campus. To be following in his footsteps and partnering with the College on this legacy project that will have a similar impact on the community and Lambton College students for decades to come is truly an honour.”

    Located in the heart of Lambton County, Lambton College is a globally recognized leader in education, innovation, and applied research. As the sole postsecondary institution in the region, the College plays a vital role in the community, driving economic development and diversification, propelling social and environmental innovation, and providing quality education to domestic and international students to ensure a thriving skilled workforce.

    Fengate and Tilbury were selected to design, construct, finance, operate, and maintain the new residence under a public-private partnership (P3) following a competitive procurement process. The partnership recently achieved financial close on the 311-bed on-campus residence and are targeting an opening date of September 2027.

    About Fengate

    Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager focused on infrastructure, private equity and real estate strategies, with more than $10 billion of capital commitments under management. The firm has been investing in infrastructure since 2006 with a focus on mid-market greenfield and brownfield infrastructure assets in the transportation, social, energy transition and digital sectors. Fengate is one of North America’s most active infrastructure investors and developers with a portfolio of more than 50 assets. Learn more at www.fengate.com.

    About Tilbury

    Tilbury Properties is a Canadian real estate development firm focused on purpose-built student housing. Founded in 2020, the company has over 1,000 student beds in various stages of development, making it one of the leading developers in Canada’s student housing sector. Learn more at www.tilburyprop.com.

    Media Contact

    Maddison Sharples
    Vice President, Communications and Marketing
    Fengate Asset Management
    +1 416-254-3326
    Maddison.Sharples@fengate.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Malliotakis Launch Recommerce Caucus to Power America’s Secondhand Economy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    New Bipartisan Caucus to Champion the U.S. Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs Driving the Growing Recommerce Economy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D, CA-37) and Nicole Malliotakis (R, NY-11) announced the launch of the Recommerce Caucus, a bipartisan coalition dedicated to championing the growing recommerce economy—the buying and selling of pre-owned, refurbished, and secondhand goods.

    The caucus will prioritize empowering small sellers, expanding digital access, and strengthening sustainability through recommerce—a sector projected to reach $1.04 trillion globally by 2035.

    “As a lifelong thrifter and advocate for sustainable business practices, I’m proud to partner with Rep. Malliotakis to launch the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus,” said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. “Recommerce is more than a trend—it’s a growing economic engine that provides consumers with affordable, high-quality goods and gives entrepreneurs, small businesses, and resellers access to trusted, thriving marketplaces. Together, we’re committed to advancing policies that support the circular economy, reduce waste, and empower buyers and sellers nationwide.”

    “As more Americans turn to resold, refurbished, and repaired items, I’m joining my colleague, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, in launching the bipartisan Recommerce Caucus. We support the efforts of leading industry platforms to create trusted spaces for buying and selling in the growing secondhand economy,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “Supporting the growth of the recommerce market will help create new economic opportunities and benefit American small businesses and entrepreneurs.”

    “As the pioneer of online recommerce, we believe recommerce is about more than transactions—it’s about connection, sustainability, and unlocking economic opportunity. At eBay, we’re proud to support the formation of the new Recommerce Caucus and look forward to working with Congress to highlight how recommerce empowers small businesses, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts in communities across the country,” said Jamie Iannone, President and CEO of eBay, Inc.

    “Poshmark is proud to support the Recommerce Caucus, an initiative that aligns perfectly with our mission of putting people at the heart of commerce, empowering everyone to thrive. As a member of the PASS Coalition, we understand the positive impact policy can have on the secondhand market, and we look forward to collaborating with the Caucus to champion policies that support innovation and growth of entrepreneurship across the country,” said Manish Chandra, founder and CEO of Poshmark.

    “Etsy believes in the power of conscious consumerism and empowering small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs. The Recommerce Caucus is a shining example of how, by embracing the circular economy, we can champion a more sustainable future and create meaningful economic opportunities for sellers nationwide,” said Chelsea Mozen, Senior Director of Impact and Sustainability at Etsy.

    “The Recommerce Caucus supports Depop’s mission to make fashion circular. For us, this is about extending the life of clothes, empowering a new generation of creative entrepreneurs and connecting a global community that’s reshaping fashion. By advocating for policies that grow resale culture, we’re not only making desirable secondhand fashion more accessible, we’re also unlocking economic opportunities for individuals and small businesses. Together we’re shaping a more sustainable future where everyone can discover and express their style through circular fashion,” said Peter Semple, Interim CEO at Depop.

    “American Circular Textiles applauds Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Malliotakis for launching the bipartisan ReCommerce Caucus. For too long, resale, repair, and reuse have been sidelined in policy conversations, despite their critical role in reducing waste, creating jobs, and giving everyday Americans the chance to participate in the circular economy. This caucus reflects a long-overdue recognition of the entrepreneurial power and environmental impact of recommerce. At a time when consumers are price-sensitive and seeking more affordable, sustainable options, recommerce offers critical access—not only to income, but to quality goods at lower costs. We look forward to working with the caucus to support national policies and build domestic infrastructure that supports reuse at scale—from digital marketplaces facilitating global trade to local repair and resale hubs—to ensure the United States leads in circular innovation,” said Rachel Kibbe, Founder and CEO, American Circular Textiles.

    “OfferUp is proud to support the launch of the Recommerce Caucus. As a mobile-first marketplace serving communities nationwide, we know how important it is to make resale simple, trusted, and accessible—especially at the local level. Every day, our millions of users show us how local recommerce helps them earn income, find affordable goods, and keep quality items in use. We look forward to working together to ensure more Americans can benefit from the powerful economic and environmental impact of this growing movement,” said Nathan Garnett, Chief Business Officer, OfferUp.

    “Mercari strives to be a planet-positive company that contributes to solving environmental issues through our mission to help circulate all forms of value to unleash the potential in all people. We are excited to be part of the launch of the Recommerce Caucus in the United States Congress, and applaud Rep. Malliotakis and Rep. Kamlager-Dove for their innovative leadership recognizing the paradigm shift happening in retail as consumers are not simply looking to make extra money and find bargains, but also becoming more conscious about the impact shopping habits can have on the planet. We’re glad to have such thoughtful champions and are eager to work together to continue to grow the circular economy,” said Shintaro Yamada, Mercari CEO.

    The Recommerce Caucus is committed to:

    • Empowering small sellers and entrepreneurs by advocating for policies that help individuals and small businesses earn income through resale, repair, and refurbishment on digital platforms.
    • Promoting a sustainable, circular economy by supporting initiatives that extend product life cycles, cut down on landfill waste, and encourage environmentally responsible commerce.
    • Ensuring access to digital marketplaces by reducing participation barriers and promoting digital access so all Americans can fully benefit from recommerce’s economic potential.

    The caucus is endorsed by a growing coalition of leading platforms and advocates, including eBay, Etsy, Mercari, OfferUp, Pinterest, Poshmark, Red Bubble, and the PASS Coalition.

    Background:

    Recommerce—the resale, repair, and refurbishment of goods—is transforming the way Americans participate in the economy. In 2024, 58% of consumers purchased secondhand apparel, with 56% of those transactions occurring online. Platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Poshmark are lowering barriers for entrepreneurs and small sellers, while helping reduce waste and extend the life of everyday products.

    As consumers increasingly prioritize affordability and sustainability, recommerce is becoming a cornerstone of the circular economy. The Recommerce Caucus aims to ensure federal policies keep pace with this growth — supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, expanding digital access, and promoting sustainable commerce.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson Reintroduces Bipartisan Flood Resiliency and Land Stewardship Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) reintroduced the bipartisan Flood Resiliency and Land Stewardship Act. This legislation will improve flood and drought mitigation through existing USDA conservation programs. 

    “Covering the devastating Flood of 2008 was one of the primary reasons I decided to get involved in public service. Even in the lowest of times, Iowans banded together to recover and rebuild in a more resilient way. At the federal level, we must pursue proactive solutions that prioritize commonsense mitigation and flood prevention efforts to help save lives and livelihoods in the event of severe weather. While we can’t predict the weather, we can ensure we are prepared. I will continue working across the aisle to deliver certainty and protect our communities, businesses, and agriculture.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    “I’ll never forget the concern I felt for my neighbors while reporting on the massive Quad Cities flood in 2019 as I livestreamed on the ground to warn Quad citizens of the rising waters that were creeping dangerously into businesses and homes along the Mississippi River. Now, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to take action by introducing bipartisan legislation that will help our farming communities improve flood resiliency on their lands by strengthening soil health and water quality. Floods and droughts affect all Americans, and I’m glad to work across the aisle toward delivering solutions for my neighbors.” – Congressman Eric Sorensen

    “We applaud Representatives Ashley Hinson and Eric Sorensen for their bipartisan leadership to advance flood-smart agriculture policy through the Flood Resiliency and Land Stewardship Act. By making flood and drought prevention a core purpose of USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program, this bill will help farmers, local communities, and other stakeholders deliver locally led flood solutions that protect both farmlands and downstream communities.” – Julie Seger, Director of Policy & Government Relations, American Flood Coalition Action

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –