NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Slams Trump EPA’s Polluter-First Agenda and Rollback of Power Plant Pollution Limits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Washington (June 12, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and a co-chair of the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, today issued the following statement after Administrator Zeldin announced the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed repealing carbon pollution limits for coal-, oil-, and gas-fired power plants and gutting mercury and air toxics protections.

    “The Trump administration’s Polluters First Agenda harms all of us—especially fenceline and frontline communities—all while lining the pockets of fossil fuel executives,” said Senator Markey. “Under the guise of saving Americans money on their energy bills, Trump and Zeldin are ripping away protections from the carbon pollution turbocharging climate disasters and the toxics poisoning lungs. If Trump were serious about tackling the rising cost of living for American families and ensuring the reliability of our electrical grid, he would bring affordable clean energy and storage online—not turn the EPA into Every Polluter’s Ally. I will continue to fight this Polluters First Agenda because Americans deserve an EPA that puts their health over corporate wealth.”

    Under the Inflation Reduction Act and the Clean Air Act, Congress mandated the EPA to set standards that regulate large sources of air pollution like power plants. These rules were incredibly effective at reducing mercury in the air by over 90 percent, as well as other cancer-causing pollutants like lead, nickel, and arsenic. Carbon pollution has led to increasingly frequent billion-dollar climate disasters which are only worsening in severity each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey, Health, Labor Leaders, Educators, Climate Advocates Host Virtual Teach-In on Trump Administration’s Cuts to Critical Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Health Care and Food Justice Cuts | Climate and Education Cuts

    Washington (June 12, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee, yesterday hosted virtual teach-ins on Republicans’ proposed cuts to health care, food security, education, and climate initiatives as part of their Big Billionaire Bill (also called budget reconciliation). Senator Markey, Representative Summer Lee (PA-12), and advocates discussed how these cuts would mean people lose their jobs, their health care, their ability to feed their families, and put the future of our country at risk—all to guarantee tax breaks for billionaires. The budget bill is currently being debated by Senate Republicans after House Republicans passed the Big Billionaire Bill in May.

    “It’s simple: Republicans want to rip health care from 16 million people, tear food away from hungry families, cut off access to education for working class Americans, kill jobs, raise energy bills, and slash efforts to make our air and water cleaner– all to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. They want to do this through hard-to-understand processes, back-room negotiations, and by lying to the American public about what these cuts will do,” said Senator Markey. “I am using every opportunity I can to guarantee people know Republicans are voting against their livelihoods, their lives, and their future if they support this bill. We have the power to stop these cuts. We cannot agonize – we must organize to end this big billionaire boondoggle once and for all. Our future depends on it.”

    “There’s nothing beautiful about forcing families to choose between taking their kids to the doctor or feeding them—but that’s exactly what this budget bill would do if it lands on Trump’s desk. Drastic cuts to healthcare like Medicaid and food assistance like SNAP will hurt millions of people in Western Pennsylvania and across the country,” said Representative Lee. “The power of the people is always greater than the people in power, and in this moment, we must all use our power to pressure Republicans to vote no and put the people first—not the billionaires, not the corporate profiteers, and not the oligarchs in the White House. Lives literally depend on it.”

    “The Republican agenda is clear: raise costs on hardworking families and rip coverage away from millions. If they are successful in making the largest cuts to health care in history, 16 million Americans will lose coverage, all to fund tax breaks for billionaires and big corporations. These Republican attacks on Americans’ health care are as extreme as they are unpopular, and we must do everything we can to stop them from wreaking havoc on this country’s health care system. No one should lose access to life-saving care and coverage just so the ultra-rich can pay less in taxes,” said Anne Shoup, Senior Advisor, Protect Our Care.

    “The Senate must vote ‘NO’ on any budget bill that cuts or weakens SNAP and takes food away from millions of children, older adults, and people with disabilities. Period,” said Salaam Bhatti, SNAP director at the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). “SNAP is one of the most effective programs out there, fueling the health and well-being of families, as well as our economy. Simply put, a strong and productive country is only possible when everyone has access to food. We urge Senators to oppose any cut to SNAP and instead work towards building a nation free from hunger.”

    “I’ve seen the faces of the people this bill will hurt. I think about the mothers trying to stretch every dollar to keep the lights on, the laid-off workers who need help to get back on their feet, the kids who will go without health care, and the retirees who will go to bed hungry because they can’t afford groceries,” said Zab Martinez, an AFSCME member and Medicaid and SNAP eligibility specialist from Dane County, Wisconsin. “We cannot let this bill pass. I urge you to speak up, write your senators, and demand that they stand with working families, not for billionaire tax giveaways.”

    “Republicans’ Billionaire Tax Scam will take health care away from millions, food out of the mouths of children, and raise costs for everyday families all to give trillions in tax breaks to the wealthy and large corporations. This is a dangerous and irresponsible piece of legislation designed to benefit the richest Americans, while everyday families suffer – and we are going to continue to uplift the voices of the bipartisan majority of Americans who overwhelmingly oppose this harmful bill,” said Michael Linden, Director of Families Over Billionaires.

    “Why would Republicans in Washington gut the basic needs kids and disabled Americans rely on to get by when the cost of groceries and housing are going up? To give the wealthy a tax break. It’s an outrage, which is why over 60% of Americans who hear anything about congressional Republican’s Big Beautiful Betrayal hate it. Now is the time for citizens to learn the consequences of the congressional Republican plan and spread the word so we can stop this Medicaid massacre dead in its tracks,” said Joe Radosevich, Counselor at the Center for American Progress (CAP).

    “Rather than protect Medicare and Medicaid, this bill cuts them, denying healthcare to 14 million people. Rather than strengthen public education, it weakens it. Rather than feeding poor families, it rips food out of their mouths. Education is an opportunity agent, and federal supports should not be used as a piggy bank to defund our already underfunded public schools. The bill includes $20 billion for a reckless school voucher program in the guise of a tax shelter for the well-off. Vouchers syphon crucial funds away from public schools into private hands. They are directly responsible for some of the largest student achievement drops ever recorded and mostly go to parents with kids already in private school,” said Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

    “We have 1,600 workers at Ultium and their jobs are going to be at risk. These are good UAW jobs making $30 an hour, and this bill is going to threaten that. It could have a dramatic impact on the auto industry, on dozens of investments across the entire country,” said David Green, Director of United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 2B. “If we don’t use our voices, they’re going to continue to take them away from us. And we have to fight for what’s right. And I am always going to be on the front line fighting for good union jobs with benefits because that’s how we move this country forward and that’s how we build the middle class.”

    “The energy tax credits on the chopping block during this budget reconciliation process have been utilized by school districts all over the country to install renewable energy projects from roof-top solar arrays to ground-source heat pumps, saving millions of tax-payer dollars on utility bills. These savings can be used to increase teacher salaries and build resilience in communities as schools produce their own power and lighten the load on the energy grid, all while moving us toward a more equitable future powered by clean, renewable energy. In Nevada alone, Washoe County School District is set to receive a $1.7 million check for just one school and Clark County School District, the nation’s 5th largest, has at least five solar eligible projects, including an array on Northeast Career and Technical Academy that is also training future solar installers.  Please urge your Senators to save energy tax credits in their version of the budget reconciliation bill,” said Liz Becker, IRA Campaign Coordinator of the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada (PLAN).

    “The big bad boondoggle bill puts West Virginian communities, especially those most vulnerable to pollution, at risk. With cuts to programs that would facilitate a fair economic transition in Appalachia, such as a grant program to replace gas vehicles with electric vehicles and clean energy tax credits, West Virginians are losing out on the chance for safe and good-paying jobs. Furthermore, cuts to air monitoring, greenhouse gas emission data collection, and environmental review resources make our communities less safe and informed about the air we breathe and the water we drink. West Virginians have suffered with generations of corporate pollution and economic exploitation, and this bill would roll back a critical chance to escape the cycle of environmental injustice on which this country was built,” said Dani Parent, Co-executive Director of West Virginia Citizen Action.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with President of the United Arab Emirates His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    Prime Minister Carney recognized the UAE’s leadership in artificial intelligence and energy, and discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral collaboration in these sectors.

    The two leaders committed to remaining in contact.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Votes to Rein In Government Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Rep. Estes Votes to Rein In Government Spending

    Today, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted alongside House Republicans to pass H.R. 4 – the Rescissions Act of 2025. The legislation rescinds $9.4 billion of previously appropriated funding by Congress by a vote of 214 to 212.
     
    “The wasteful, fraudulent and abusive spending of taxpayer dollars by the federal bureaucracy, coupled with the over $36 trillion national debt, is placing a disastrous economic burden on the American people and future generations,” said Rep. Estes. “I was pleased to vote for the common sense rescissions package because it cuts reckless government spending that is misaligned with our nation’s values. Kansans deserve a government that is a good steward of their hard-earned dollars, and this legislation is a great step in the right direction to restore America’s fiscal health.”
     
    Background
    Rescissions are presidential requests that are sent to Congress to cut wasteful funds, as described in the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. The legislation only requires a simple majority in the House and Senate to pass.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luttrell reintroduces the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act

    Source:

    Congressman Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Chairman of the Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs (DAMA) Subcommittee on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, reintroduced the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act.

    “I am proud to reintroduce the Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act. This legislation ensures that veterans and their families receive the support they have earned and holds the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable by ensuring veterans receive fair and accurate decisions on their benefit claims, “ said Congressman Luttrell. “It is crucial our veterans get the help they deserve, and I will continue to fight for those who served our nation in Congress.

    Background
     This bill would: 

    • Require the VA to create systems that help claims processors learn from their avoidable deferrals.
    • Require the Veterans Board of Appeals to learn from these mistakes through their training programs.
    • Authorize annual performance evaluations for Board judges.
    • Require the VA to develop a plan to decrease unnecessary remands.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Unveils Effort to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Rooting Out Medicare and Medicaid Fraud

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

     ***VIDEO AVAILABLE***

    Senator Cortez Masto Spoke at a Press Conference Today About Her Proposal, which Comes as Senate Republicans Unveil Plan to Cut Americans’ Health Care

    FTPs for TV stations is available here.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) unveiled draft legislation to invest in and improve the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program (HCFAC). HCFAC was created to combat fraud across federal health programs, primarily Medicare and Medicaid. Cortez Masto’s legislation would strengthen the program and provide the government with a real, effective way to root out fraud and abuse in the health care system without kicking millions of Americans off of their health care. Footage of her speaking about this legislation today can be found here.

    In 2022, HCFAC related activities recovered $11 for every $1 the program spent to support health care audits and investigations. Following its investigations, HHS-OIG estimates that 2,332 individuals and entities were banned from doing business with Medicare and Medicaid as a result of alleged fraud and abuse. Infractions include egregious neglect of beneficiaries (like residents at nursing homes), inappropriate billing practices, and supporting fraudulent providers and suppliers.

    “As the former Attorney General of Nevada, I know first-hand the importance of investing in oversight for our government programs,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This draft legislation increasing HCFAC funding is exactly what our agencies need to root out real fraud and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid while protecting Americans’ access to care. I hope to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure this commonsense, cost-effective bill becomes law.”

    HCFAC is a joint initiative by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to combat fraud across federal health programs, primarily Medicare and Medicaid. The program needs additional support and funding in order to keep pace with increasingly sophisticated health care fraud schemes.

    This draft legislation would increase mandatory HCFAC funding for HHS, CMS, and DOJ. This legislation would also allow HCFAC funding to be used to conduct oversight of all CMS programs, including the Affordable Care Act Insurance Marketplace and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

    The bill text can be found here and a summary can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has worked to strengthen the Medicare and Medicaid programs. She passed legislation to allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap the cost of insulin at $35-a-month for Medicare recipients through the Inflation Reduction Act. She has also pushed pharmacy benefit managers to help continue to lower prescription drug costs. As Nevada Attorney General, Cortez Masto worked with the Nevada Medicaid Fraud Control Unit to go after bad actors, rooting out fraud and abuse within the system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Nevada Delegation, and Governor Lombardo Demand Trump Administration Reverse Course on Nevada Job Corps Center Closure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) led a letter joined by Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Governor Joe Lombardo (R-Nev.), and Representatives Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-04), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.-03) demanding that the Department of Labor (DOL) reverse course on its decision to defund and close Nevada’s Job Corps Program. The bipartisan outcry from Nevada officials at all levels underscores the importance of the Sierra Nevada Job Corps to Northern Nevada and its impact on tens of thousands of unprivileged students, staff, and employers from throughout the state. 

    “For more than sixty years, Job Corps has aided millions of low-income individuals gain the skills they need to succeed in the workplace,” wrote the officials. “Job Corps is the largest free residential education and job training program for young adults aged 16-24; and thus, is vital to helping students graduate high school, develop career technical skills, and connect students with employers. At a time when almost three-fourths of jobs require training beyond a high school diploma, Job Corps provides students the opportunity to succeed when they may not initially have the tools to do so.”

    “The Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center in Reno has been a vital economic engine for Northern Nevada, serving approximately 25,000 Nevadans since its opening, and graduating more than 500 vocational students a year,” they continued. “In the 2024 program year alone, nearly 82 percent of its students secured full-time employment with a starting wage of at least $17.97 per hour — nearly $6 above the Nevada’s minimum wage. Furthermore, 75 percent of Sierra Nevada Job Corps participants earn at least one certification required by employers.”

    “The DOL’s imminent stop work order on all Job Corps programming will displace approximately nearly 300 students and 170 staff members at the Sierra Nevada Job Corps Center,” they concluded. “The closure will also compel the Center to evict all of its students, leaving the vast majority at serious risk of homelessness. […] While we appreciate your department working to increase accountability and bring workforce programs into alignment with the Administration’s priorities, we strongly urge you reconsider the decision to cut funding and close Job Corps programs in Nevada and nationwide.”

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has been consistent in her fights against harmful gutting of support to students and families in need throughout Nevada, including cuts to mental health grant funding and food and nutrition programs. She has also delivered critical support to at-risk youth across Nevada. She helped secure nearly $12 million in funding for the Communities in Schools (CIS) program, which works with local partner organizations to provide eligible students and their families with essential services, including mental health care and access to high-quality afterschool and leadership programs. Cortez Masto’s provision to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools was included in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Bipartisan Group Introduce Resolution Honoring Female Veterans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), John Boozman (R-AR), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate June 12, 2025, as “Women Veterans Appreciation Day” to honor the women who have served in the Armed Forces both on and off the battlefield throughout American history.

    “On Women Veterans Appreciation Day, we honor the millions of American women whose service has strengthened both our military and our nation,” said Senator Collins. “As we prepare to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army, it is fitting that we recognize the vital contributions that women have made throughout the history of America’s armed forces. Over the years, their roles have expanded from support positions to senior leadership, and at every step, women have answered the call of duty, serving with courage, skill, and distinction.”

    The complete text of the resolution can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Hears From CEO Of SSM Health Health About Impacts Of Medicaid Cuts In Republicans’ Reconciliation Package

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 12, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke by phone with the CEO of SSM Health, Laura Kaiser, to discuss the impact that President Trump’s and congressional Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act will have on Medicaid, their hospitals, and the patients they serve. In short, the Republican bill will slash Medicaid coverage in order to pay for significant tax breaks for billionaires. In addition to serving the people of Illinois, SSM Health also has hospitals in Missouri, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma.

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act cuts $800 billion from Medicaid and $300 billion from the Affordable Care Act (ACA), resulting in 16 million Americans losing health insurance coverage. Under the Republican bill, 498,674 people in Illinois, 250,397 people in Missouri, 199,430 people in Oklahoma, and 258,396 people in Wisconsin are projected to lose their health insurance coverage.

    “President Trump and congressional Republicans are coming for your health care to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. It’s as cruel as that,” said Durbin. “It doesn’t matter if you live in a red or blue state—16 million Americans will lose health coverage— and hospitals will suffer as I discussed with SSM Health. These hospitals don’t just represent Illinoisans—they also serve the people of Missouri, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. During our call, we discussed the horrible impacts this bill will have on their patients, especially children and in rural areas. I hope the Missouri and Oklahoma Senators as well as the senior Senator of Wisconsin will do the right thing for these hospitals and the people they represent and reject this cruel bill.”

    Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

    1. Patients must first report their employment to obtain Medicaid coverage resulting in difficulties navigating the bureaucratic mess of hastily crafted verification systems.
    1. It halts provider taxes used by 49 states including Illinois to draw down a federal match to finance the Medicaid program—this provision blocks new or increased provider taxes, which will harm access to all patients in urban and rural hospitals.  
    1. It increases co-pays for Medicaid beneficiaries for doctor visits and prescriptions and allows providers to refuse to see patients who fail to pay—resulting in low-income patients forgoing care.
    1. And it fails to extend the enhanced premium tax credits for purchasing insurance on the exchange. These tax credits make insurance more affordable and resulted in the uninsured rate reaching a record low under President Biden. 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Lynch, Meeks, Torres Introduce Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Public Housing Caucus Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), and Ritchie Torres (D-NY) reintroduced the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act. The legislation would permanently authorize and expand the Choice Neighborhoods Program. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. 

    The Choice Neighborhoods Program is a transformative grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development that converts severely distressed neighborhoods into high-quality, mixed-use community developments. Established in 2010, the program has provided $1.8 billion in competitive grants to localities and community organizations for comprehensive neighborhood redevelopment across dozens of distressed communities. In a recent HUD report, researchers found that in the neighborhoods studied, every dollar of Choice funding leveraged an additional $7.34 toward housing redevelopment.

    “As American families struggle with our national housing affordability crisis, we need an all-hands-on deck approach to promote the development of affordable housing and rejuvenation of public housing all over the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Choice Neighborhood Program has proven to be the kind of transformative tool we need in this effort, catalyzing public and private investment in underserved areas that enables the revitalization of entire communities. Not only does this program expand the construction of affordable housing options, but it opens the door for working class families to access new opportunities and climb the economic ladder. I’m proud to introduce the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act with Senators Blunt Rochester and Van Hollen, along with Reps. Lynch, Meeks, and Torres, as we seek to permanently reauthorize this vital work and strengthen the program in the process.”

    “The Choice Neighborhoods Program leverages public and private investment to expand affordable housing and revitalize entire communities. It’s exactly the sort of solution we should be supporting to solve the housing crisis,” said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks. “It’s a proven model that not only improves housing but also uplifts neighborhoods, businesses, and the families who live there. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act.”

    “The housing crisis in America demands bold, comprehensive solutions and the Choice Neighborhoods Program delivers just that,” said Rep. Torres. “It empowers communities to rebuild from within, transforming public housing and surrounding neighborhoods into engines of opportunity. By permanently authorizing this program, we’re aiming make a long-term investment in housing, equity, and economic mobility. I’m proud to join Rep. Cleaver and my colleagues in advancing this legislation to ensure that every community, especially the most underserved, can share in America’s promise of opportunity.”

    “As the United States faces a severe affordable housing shortage, the Choice Neighborhoods program is a proven tool that can reinvigorate our most distressed neighborhoods and unlock their future success,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. “By catalyzing public and private investment, this program has successfully contributed to the preservation of affordable housing and created over 21,000 new housing units across 52 communities in America, including in my hometown of Wilmington. Making this program permanent not only ensures these transformative investments continue, but it also gives us yet another tool in our toolbox to address the housing affordability crisis in Delaware and across the country. I’m grateful to Senator Van Hollen and Congressman Cleaver for joining me in leading this effort, and I’m hopeful we can work together in both chambers to get this bill passed” 

    “As communities struggle to keep up with the demand for affordable housing, we must accelerate our efforts to redevelop and revitalize underserved neighborhoods. This legislation will help build on the success of the Choice Neighborhoods Program – unlocking additional public and private investment to create greater access to housing, and ultimately opportunity, across the country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

    “As a recent HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant recipient, our experience with the program has been extremely positive,” said Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group. “Choice funding has accelerated our neighborhood plan significantly, with 250 new mixed income homes in or beginning construction just two years after the award. In addition, we’ve been able to leverage over $150 million in additional funding with this grant and the HUD staff has been professional, responsive, and knowledgeable – great to work with. We enthusiastically support this bill to continue and expand the Choice program.”

    “The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative (CNI) revitalizes distressed public housing and nearby areas through community-driven redevelopment,” said Mark Thiele, CEO of NAHRO. “By focusing on housing, people, and neighborhoods, it makes communities safer and more vibrant, creating opportunities without displacing residents. Continued support for CNI is essential to creating lasting positive change in communities nationwide. NAHRO proudly endorses the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act of 2025. This act will help transform areas of extreme poverty into sustainable, mixed-income neighborhoods by redeveloping distressed housing and investing in communities.” 

    “PHADA supports the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act of 2025,” said Tim Kaiser, executive director of Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA). “Permanently authorizing the Choice Neighborhoods program—which leverages public and private funding to revitalize public housing developments and their surrounding neighborhoods—will ensure this program remains a vital tool to address the capital needs backlog. PHADA remains committed to advocating for robust funding and resources for public housing programs, including Choice Neighborhoods.”

    This legislation has been endorsed by the  American Planning Association; Catholic Charities USA; Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity; Delaware State Housing Authority; Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County; Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC); National Association of REALTORS; National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials; National Center for Healthy Housing; NeighborGood Partners; Public Housing Authorities Directors Association (PHADA); REACH Riverside Development Corporation; Sussex County Habitat for Humanity; UnidosUS; Wilmington Housing Authority; Wilmington Neighborhood Conservancy Land Bank; and YWCA Delaware.

    Official text of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act is available here.

    A one-pager of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Act is available here.

     

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Biggs Leads Effort to Protect American Jobs and Consumers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

    Congressman Biggs led a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick urging his department to reverse its plan to terminate the Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA) and instead pursue substantive negotiations that strengthen American businesses and protect American jobs through a bilateral arrangement.

    Since its inception in 1996, the TSA has been renegotiated every five years, ensuring fair and enforceable trade deals that support American tomato growers and keep prices stable for consumers. According to economic analysis, terminating the agreement now risks up to 50,000 jobs in Arizona and Texas alone.

    “President Trump’s America First trade policies have delivered real results for American workers, and abandoning the TSA now would undermine those achievements,” said Congressman Biggs.

    “The TSA has safeguarded tens of thousands of American jobs, stabilized markets, and strengthened our vital agriculture sector. Pulling the plug on the TSA would only hurt American families still struggling from the radical Biden-Harris regime’s inflationary policies.

    “This is an opportunity for President Trump to do what he does best: Make a deal that benefits American businesses, workers, and consumers. I will continue to defend our hardworking farmers and fight for fair trade agreements in Congress.”

    The letter may be read here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Pass Legislation to Restore Law and Order in Nation’s Capital, End D.C. Sanctuary City Policies

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

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

    WASHINGTON—Today, House Republicans passed H.R. 2056, the District of Columbia Federal Immigration Compliance Act, which mandates that the District of Columbia (D.C.) government comply with requests from federal immigration authorities, effectively ending D.C.’s sanctuary city policies.

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-La.), who introduced H.R. 2056, released the following statements: 

    “House Republicans are committed to restoring law and order across our nation, and that starts right here in our capital,” Chairwoman McClain said. “Sanctuary city policies have created a haven for illegal activity and jeopardized the safety of American citizens. Rep. Higgins’ H.R. 2056 sends a clear message: no city is above federal law. Republicans will not sit back while extreme policies threaten American lives.”

    “Sanctuary policies prioritize criminal illegal aliens over the safety and security of the American people. Our nation’s capital city should set an example for enforcing federal immigration laws. I appreciate my colleagues’ support in the House. I urge the Senate to pass this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk so we can restore some modicum of decency in Washington, DC,” Congressman Higgins said.

    H.R. 2056 amends federal law to explicitly require the District of Columbia government to comply with requests from federal immigration authorities. It mandates information sharing between D.C. authorities and federal immigration agencies. It also requires D.C. to detain illegal aliens upon request from federal immigration authorities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain’s Statement on President Trump Signing into Law Legislation That Repeals Burdensome Biden Emissions Rules

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

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

    Chairwoman McClain’s Statement on President Trump Signing into Law Legislation That Repeals Burdensome Biden Emissions Rules

    Washington, June 12, 2025

    WASHINGTON—Today, House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) praised President Trump’s signing of three Congressional Review Act resolutions that repeal emissions regulations implemented under the Biden administration, granting California biased waivers. The regulations sought to force a nationwide shift to electric vehicles—posing a direct threat to Michigan’s auto industry, its workers, and the future of American manufacturing.

    “These resolutions represent a major victory for American workers, consumers, and small businesses,” Chairwoman McClain said. “The emissions rules were rushed, unworkable, and out of touch with our nation’s economic realities. Signing them into law means restoring Congressional oversight and protecting industries that drive innovation and opportunity nationwide.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Pass President Trump’s Rescissions Request, Save Billions in Taxpayer Dollars

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

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

    WASHINGTON — Today, House Republicans passed H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, to rescind $9.4 billion of wasteful spending identified by President Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) managed floor debate and issued the following statement:

    “Today’s vote sends a clear message: House Republicans are putting American taxpayers first. This $9.4 billion is just the beginning,” Chairwoman McClain said. “Americans didn’t send us here to fund insect powder in Madagascar or electric buses in Rwanda. We’re going line by line, rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, and keeping our promises to the American people.”

    H.R. 4 cuts $9.4 billion in wasteful spending, such as:

    • $8,000 for promoting vegan food in Zambia.
    • $500,000 for electric buses in Rwanda.
    • $3 million for an Iraqi version of Sesame Street.
    • $67,000 for feeding insect powder to children in Madagascar.

    The bill complements Republicans’ broader fiscal reforms in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, codifies DOGE cuts, and delivers on President Trump and House Republicans’ promises to root out waste, fraud, and abuse.

    Watch Chairwoman McClain’s opening floor remarks here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Assault of Sen. Alex Padilla

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    Search News

    The following is a statement from CWA President Claude Cummings Jr.

    Today’s assault on Sen. Alex Padilla is an escalation of the Trump administration’s attempts to forcibly silence anyone who questions their actions. We all have a right and an obligation to speak up if something is wrong.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Kansas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning March 18.

    The disaster declaration covers the Kansas counties of Clark, Comanche, Ford, Gray, Haskell, Kiowa, Meade and Seward as well as the Oklahoma counties of Beaver and Harper.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with 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 business or 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.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.62% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after 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 SBA no later than Feb. 2, 2026.

    ###

    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: AG Brown joins lawsuit challenging Trump administration attack on California’s Clean Vehicles Program

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – Attorney General Nick Brown today joined coalition of 11 attorneys general in challenging the federal government’s unprecedented and unlawful use of the Congressional Review Act to disapprove California’s waivers for its various clean vehicle standards, which Washington subsequently adopted.

    Waivers have never been subject to the Congressional Review Act nor have any other agency orders that adjudicate requests for permission —such as oil and gas leases or mining permits. The actions taken here contradict the non-partisan Government Accountability Office and Senate parliamentarian, who both determined that the law’s process to disapprove federal regulations does not apply to these waivers.

    “Transportation is the single greatest contributor to greenhouse gas pollution in Washington, and our residents understand the transition to zero-emission vehicles is critical in the fight against climate change,” Brown said. “This is the Trump administration’s latest unlawful attempt to derail Washington’s and the nation’s transition to a clean future.”

    Motor vehicle emissions contribute to the formation of smog, as well as fine particle pollution and toxic air pollution, all of which are linked to premature death, respiratory illness, cardiovascular problems, and cancer, among other serious health impacts. Transportation is also the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions in the country, and cars and trucks account for 80% of those transportation emissions.  

    The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to set federal emission standards for air pollutants from new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines that cause or contribute to air pollution that endangers public health or welfare. The Clean Air Act allows only California to adopt more stringent emission requirements independent from EPA’s regulations, because only California had vehicle emissions standards before the passage of the federal Clean Air Act.  California can enforce these standards with an EPA preemption waiver. The act requires EPA to approve waivers for California’s rules absent certain, limited circumstances not present here.

    Once EPA grants California a waiver, Washington may adopt California’s standards and does not need a waiver of its own. Since 2023, the EPA granted California three waivers, allowing it to enforce the most recent standards for passenger vehicles, Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II), as well as standards for heavier duty vehicles under the Omnibus and Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) standards. Historically, EPA, under both Democratic and Republican administrations, has granted California more than seventy-five preemption waivers for updates to the State’s new motor vehicle emissions control program. As Congress intended, these waivers have allowed California, and those states that adopted California’s standards, to improve on their vehicle emissions programs.

    Under ACCII, which Washington adopted in 2022, automakers must continue to sell an increasing number of zero-emission vehicles—as they have been for decades. By model year 2035, 80% of the passenger vehicles sold in Washington must be zero-emission, while the remaining 20% may be plug-in hybrids. The Advanced Clean Truck regulations aim to accelerate the widespread adoption of zero emission vehicles in the medium and heavy-duty truck sector, and are similarly critical for Washington’s efforts to meet air quality standards and protect public health. The Omnibus regulation requires internal combustion heavy-duty trucks sold in Washington to meet strict standards for oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions, which are major contributors to smog formation.

    Under the direction of President Trump, the EPA transmitted these California waivers to Congress as “rules” in an attempt to invoke CRA procedures, even though all three waivers state EPA’s consistent and longstanding position, under both Republican and Democratic administrations, that waiver decisions are not “rules.” The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate illegally used the CRA to target California’s Clean Air Act waivers.

    The complaint filed today alleges that the attempt to invalidate California’s waivers violated constitutional principles of federalism and separation of powers, the Take Care Clause, and multiple federal statutes including the Congressional Review Act and Administrative Procedure Act.  The complaint asks the court to declare the resolutions to be unlawful and to require the Administration to implement the Clean Air Act consistent with the granted waivers.

    Attorney General Brown joins California Attorney General Bonta and the attorneys general of Colorado, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont in filing the lawsuit.

    A copy of the complaint is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties.

    Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces Spartanburg Co. woman charged with Medicaid fraudRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that his office’s Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit (VAMPF) has arrested Mikalia S. Mitchell, 32 years old, of Pacolet, SC, on two counts of Forgery, value less than $10,000 {16-13-0010(A)}, and one count of Medical Assistance Provider Fraud {43-07-0060}. Mitchell was booked into the Spartanburg County Detention Center on June 12, 2025.

    An investigation by VAMPF revealed that, between August 1, 2024, and January 25, 2025, Mitchell is alleged to have knowingly and willfully caused false claims for payments to the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the agency that administers the State’s Medicaid program. As a personal care attendant, Mitchell is accused of forging signatures on timesheets and submitting falsified records, claiming she provided services to two Medicaid beneficiaries when she did not.

    This case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office. 

    Forgery, value less than $10,000, is a felony and, upon conviction, has a penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine at the discretion of the court, or both. Medical Assistance Provider Fraud is a class A misdemeanor and, upon conviction, has a penalty of up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000.  

    Pursuant to federal regulations, VAMPF has authority over Medicaid provider fraud; abuse and neglect of Medicaid beneficiaries in any setting; and the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of individuals residing in assisted living facilities or nursing homes. 

    Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

    The South Carolina Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, dba VAMPF, receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $2,889,252 for federal fiscal year 2025. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $963,084 for FFY 2025, is funded by South Carolina.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USAID Official and Three Corporate Executives Plead Guilty to Decade-Long Bribery Scheme Involving Over $550 Million in Contracts; Two Companies Admit Criminal Liability for Bribery Scheme and Securities Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Four men, including a government contracting officer for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and three owners and presidents of companies, have pleaded guilty for their roles in a decade-long bribery scheme involving at least 14 prime contracts worth over $550 million in U.S. taxpayer dollars.

    • Roderick Watson, 57, of Woodstock, Maryland, who worked as a USAID contracting officer, pleaded guilty to bribery of a public official;
    • Walter Barnes, 46, of Potomac, Maryland, the owner and president of PM Consulting Group LLC doing business as Vistant (Vistant), a certified small business under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) contracting program, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official and securities fraud;
    • Darryl Britt, 64, of Myakka City, Florida, the owner and president of Apprio, Inc. (Apprio), a certified small business under the SBA 8(a) contracting program, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official; and
    • Paul Young, 62, of Columbia, Maryland, the president of a subcontractor to Vistant and Apprio, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official.

    In addition, Apprio and Vistant, both of which contracted with USAID, have agreed to admit criminal liability and enter into three-year deferred prosecution agreements (DPAs) in connection with criminal informations filed today in the District of Maryland. As part of these resolutions, both Apprio and Vistant admitted to engaging in a conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official and securities fraud. The DPAs entered into with Apprio and Vistant require each company to, among other obligations, provide ongoing cooperation with and disclosures to the Justice Department, implement a compliance and ethics program, and report to Justice Department regarding remediation and implementation of these compliance measures.

    “The defendants sought to enrich themselves at the expense of American taxpayers through bribery and fraud,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Their scheme violated the public trust by corrupting the federal government’s procurement process. Anybody who cares about good and effective government should be concerned about the waste, fraud, and abuse in government agencies, including USAID. Those who engage in bribery schemes to exploit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s vital economic programs for small businesses — whether individuals or corporations acting through them — will be held to account.” 

    “Watson was entrusted to serve the interests of the American people — not his own — and his criminal actions for his own personal gain undermine the integrity of our public institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Public trust is a hallmark of our nation’s values, so corruption within a federal government agency is intolerable. This office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue and prosecute corruption at every level to ensure accountability and protect public trust.”

    “The guilty pleas reflect the FBI’s unwavering commitment to holding accountable all those who abuse the authority and responsibility of public service,” said FBI Criminal Investigative Division Acting Assistant Director Darren Cox. “The actions of the defendants in this scheme serve to erode public trust. The FBI is focused on rebuilding this trust and protecting American taxpayers from corruption through investigations such as these.”

    “Corruption in government programs will not be tolerated. Watson abused his position of trust for personal gain while federal contractors engaged in a pay-to-play scheme,” said Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Sean Bottary of the USAID Office of Inspector General (USAID-OIG). “USAID-OIG is firmly committed to rooting out fraud and corruption within U.S. foreign assistance programs. Today’s announcement underscores our unwavering focus on exposing criminal activity, including bribery schemes by those entrusted to faithfully award government contracts. We appreciate our longstanding partnership with the Department of Justice in holding accountable those who defraud American taxpayers.”    

    “Watson exploited his position at USAID to line his pockets with bribes in exchange for more than $550 million in contracts. While he helped three company owners and presidents bypass the fair bidding process, he was showered with cash and lavish gifts,” said Chief Guy Ficco of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). “Through its financial crime investigations, IRS-CI works to protect taxpayer dollars and ensure government funds are awarded based on merit — not corruption. In close coordination with our law enforcement partners, IRS-CI helped put an end to their greed and criminal conduct. Now, Watson and his co-conspirators will face justice.”

    Overview of Bribery Scheme

    According to court documents, beginning in 2013, Watson, while a USAID contracting officer, agreed with Britt to receive bribes in exchange for using Watson’s influence to award contracts to Apprio. As a certified small business under the SBA 8(a) contracting program, which helps socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, Apprio could access lucrative federal contracting opportunities through set-asides and sole-source contracts exclusively available to eligible contractors without a competitive bid process.

    Vistant was a subcontractor to Apprio on one of the contracts awarded through Watson’s influence. After Apprio graduated from the SBA 8(a) program and it was no longer eligible to be a prime contractor for new contracts with USAID under this program, the scheme shifted so that Vistant became the prime contractor and Apprio became the subcontractor on USAID contracts awarded through Watson’s influence between 2018 and 2022.

    During the scheme, Britt and Barnes paid bribes to Watson that were often concealed by passing them through Young, who was the president of another subcontractor to Apprio and Vistant. Britt and Barnes also regularly funneled bribes to Watson, including cash, laptops, thousands of dollars in tickets to a suite at an NBA game, a country club wedding, downpayments on two residential mortgages, cellular phones, and jobs for relatives. The bribes were also often concealed through electronic bank transfers falsely listing Watson on payroll, incorporated shell companies, and false invoices. Watson is alleged to have received bribes valued at more than approximately $1 million as part of the scheme.

    In exchange for the bribe payments, Watson influenced the award of contracts to Apprio and Vistant by manipulating the procurement process at USAID through various means, including recommending their companies to other USAID decisionmakers for non-competitive contract awards, disclosing sensitive procurement information during the competitive bidding process, providing positive performance evaluations to a government agency, and approving decisions on the contracts, such as increased funding and a security clearance.

    Apprio and Vistant also agreed to resolve concurrently with the Justice Department in its separate Civil False Claims Act investigations relating to the bribery scheme.

    Overview of Vistant Securities Fraud Scheme

    According to court documents, in 2022, Barnes and Watson defrauded a licensed small business investment company (SBIC), in furtherance of the bribery scheme, by inducing it into executing a credit agreement with Vistant. Through the credit agreement, Barnes caused Vistant to issue stock warrants that, if exercised, would result in the SBIC having a 40% equity stake in Vistant. The credit agreement also provided for a $14 million loan to Vistant from which Barnes could pay himself a $10 million dividend. Prior to executing the credit agreement, Watson agreed at Barnes’s request to speak with the SBIC about Vistant’s performance as a government contractor on USAID contracts. When speaking with the SBIC, Watson omitted that Barnes had bribed Watson to obtain USAID contracts for years. Watson’s endorsement of Vistant thereafter induced the SBIC to enter into the credit agreement with Barnes.

    Overview of Apprio Securities Fraud Scheme

    According to court documents, in 2023, Apprio, acting through Britt, engaged in a scheme in which Apprio fraudulently induced a private equity firm, which had an investment pool that was licensed as a SBIC, to purchase from Apprio’s parent company a 20% equity stake in the company for $4 million and simultaneously extend it a $4 million loan secured by shares of Apprio stock. In addition to making false material representations in the stock purchase and loan agreements, Britt intentionally omitted during his negotiations the material fact that he had bribed Watson for years, which was intended to deceive and induce the private equity company into executing the agreements.

    Deferred Prosecution Agreements with Apprio and Vistant

    The Justice Department reached its resolution with Apprio based on several factors, including Apprio’s credit for clearly accepting responsibility for its criminal conduct, fully cooperating in the investigation and engaging in timely remedial measures. Based on these factors, the criminal penalty calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines reflects a 10% reduction off the bottom of the applicable Guidelines fine range pursuant to the Criminal Division Corporate Enforcement and Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy (CEP). According to court documents, Apprio agreed that the appropriate criminal penalty based on the law and facts in its case is $51,673,185; however, Apprio also met its burden of establishing an inability to pay the criminal penalty sought. Based on the Justice Department’s independent analysis, it determined that paying a criminal penalty and civil settlement greater than $500,000 would substantially threaten the continued viability of Apprio. Accordingly, the Justice Department determined that the appropriate resolution of this case is a DPA and a payment of $500,000 in a civil settlement.

    Similarly, the Justice Department reached its resolution with Vistant based on a number of factors, including Vistant’s credit for clearly accepting responsibility for its criminal conduct and cooperating with the investigation. Although Vistant’s cooperation was initially delayed and limited, Vistant began to fully cooperate thereafter. Vistant also received credit for engaging in timely remedial measures. Based on these factors, the penalty calculated under the Guidelines reflects a 5% reduction off the bottom of the applicable Guidelines fine range pursuant to the CEP. Vistant agreed that the appropriate criminal penalty based on the law and facts in its case is $86,407,740; however, Vistant also met its burden of establishing an inability to pay the criminal penalty sought. Based on the Justice Department’s independent analysis, it determined that paying a criminal penalty and civil settlement greater than $100,000 would substantially threaten the continued viability of Vistant. Accordingly, the Justice Department determined that the appropriate resolution of this case is a DPA and a payment of $100,000 in a civil settlement.

    Watson is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Young is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 3 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Britt is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Barnes is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 14 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

    The FBI, USAID-OIG, and IRS-CI are investigating the cases.

    Trial Attorneys Matt Kahn and Brandon Burkart of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick D. Kibbe for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the cases. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Walking the walk: Alectra raises over $10k to support YWCA Hamilton’s fight against gender-based violence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On Tuesday June 11, Alectra employees participated in YWCA Hamilton’s “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes”, annual event, raising more than $10,000 to support efforts to end gender-based violence. The event brings together community members in a symbolic walk to raise vital funds and awareness for survivors and the programs that support them.

    “Alectra is honoured to walk alongside our community partners in support of such an important cause,” said Brian Bentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alectra Inc. “Gender-based violence affects people in every community, and we all have a role to play in ending it. We’re proud to support the YWCA in the incredible work they do each day.”

    This year, 75 Alectra employees participated in the walk events earning the “Largest Team” award continuing their commitment to helping raise funds that directly support local shelters, crisis services, and advocacy programs run by YWCA Hamilton.

    To learn more about Alectra’s community support initiatives, visit: alectra.com/community

    About Alectra’s Family of Companies

    Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions.

    Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.

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    Media Contact

    Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson, ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com |
    Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/29109247-28b6-4faf-8789-479d33896a9f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler and Riley Introduce Bipartisan Leaps Act to Help Farmers Cut Costs, Conserve Water, and Reduce Emissions

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 6/12/25… Today, Reps. Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Riley (NY-19)  introduced the Leveraging Efficiency Awareness for Pumping Systems (LEAPS) Act, a commonsense, bipartisan bill to help farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture producers save money on energy costs, conserve water, and reduce carbon emissions by modernizing irrigation and water management systems.

    The legislation directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide clear, accessible information and tools to farmers on the benefits of upgrading to energy-efficient pumping systems. These systems are essential to agricultural irrigation, livestock watering, aquaculture, and waste management operations across the country.

    The LEAPS Act requires USDA to:

    • Publish user-friendly educational materials on cost and energy savings, water conservation, and emissions reductions achievable through energy-efficient pumping systems.
    • Develop an online pre-assessment tool to help farmers estimate potential energy and cost savings from upgrades.
    • Provide targeted training for USDA energy auditors on pumping system efficiency.
    • Expand USDA’s Conservation Stewardship Program to explicitly include energy-efficient pumping systems.

    According to the bill’s findings, over 600,000 irrigation pumping systems are currently in use across the United States, many of which still rely on outdated and inefficient equipment. Upgrading these systems could save farmers over $1.8 billion annually in energy costs and eliminate more than 8 million metric tons of carbon emissions each year.

    “In today’s economy, farmers are already grappling with rising input costs and increasing weather challenges,” said Congressman Lawler. “This is about using smarter tools to support the people who feed our country. By equipping farmers with the right resources, we can boost productivity, cut waste, and strengthen rural economies—all while protecting our environment.”

    “Farmers know it when their systems are outdated, but figuring out what to upgrade, how much it costs, and where to start is harder than it should be,” said Congressman Riley. “This bill gives farmers the tools they need to make smart decisions—and when they upgrade, it creates work for manufacturers right here in Upstate New York. It’s a win for our farmers, our factories, and anyone who wants Washington to actually get something done.”

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Stops the Green Agenda in the Columbia River Basin

    Source: US Whitehouse

    STOPPING RADICAL ENVIRONMENTALISM: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum revoking an executive action issued by the prior administration that called for “equitable treatment for fish.”

    • Today’s Memorandum revokes the Biden Administration’s “Restoring Healthy and Abundant Salmon, Steelhead, and Other Native Fish Populations in the Columbia River Basin” Memorandum, which placed concerns about climate change above the Nation’s interests in reliable energy resources.
    • This Memorandum directs the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to withdraw from agreements stemming from Biden’s misguided executive action, including the December 14, 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) filed in connection with related litigation.
    • The specified agencies will coordinate with the Council on Environmental Quality to review and revise environmental review processes related to the matters in the MOU, save Federal funds, and withdraw from the MOU.

    RESTORING AMERICAN ENERGY DOMINANCE AND SECURING AMERICAN PROSPERITY: President Trump continues to prioritize our Nation’s energy infrastructure and use of natural resources to lower the cost of living for all Americans over speculative climate change concerns.

    • President Trump recognizes the importance of ensuring the future of wildlife populations in the Columbia River Basin, while also advancing the country’s energy creation to benefit the American public.
    • The MOU required the Federal government to spend millions of dollars and comply with 36 pages of onerous commitments to dam operations on the Lower Snake River. 
    • Dam breaching would have resulted in reduced water supply to farmers, eliminated several shipping channels, had devastating impacts to agriculture, increased energy costs, and eliminated recreational opportunities throughout the region.  
    • The dam breaches would have eliminated over 3,000 megawatts of secure and reliable hydroelectric generating capacity—which is enough generation to power 2.5 million American homes.

    PUTTING AMERICA FIRST: President Trump continues to deliver on his promise to end the previous administration’s misplaced priorities and protect the livelihoods of the American people. Unlike the previous administration, the Trump Administration understands that policies that promote environmental quality and economic growth are not mutually exclusive.

    • President Trump champions the needs of the American people and prioritizes U.S. interests in reliable, affordable energy resources.
      • President Trump signed an Executive Order reinvigorating America’s beautiful clean coal industry to support grid stability and hundreds of thousands of U.S.  jobs.
    • President Trump is committed to unleashing American energy dominance, reversing all executive actions that impose undue burdens on energy production and use.
      • On Day One, President Trump declared a National Energy Emergency to unlock domestic energy production and bring down costs for everyday Americans.
    • President Trump’s commonsense approach to environmental conservation empowers the American people to take full advantage of our nation’s vast and great natural resources.
      • President Trump reversed the burdensome regulations that impeded Alaska’s ability to develop its vast natural resources, unleashing the state’s potential to create a safe and prosperous future for the entire Nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Empowers Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response

    Source: US Whitehouse

    STRENGTHENING WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND RESPONSE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order returning common sense to wildfire prevention and response.

    • The Order directs the Secretary of the Interior and Secretary of Agriculture to consolidate their wildland fire programs.
    •  The Order supports local wildfire preparedness and response by improving Federal partnerships, as well as driving responsible land management and prevention at the State and local level.
    • The Order directs the use of available technology, including AI, data sharing, innovative mapping, and weather forecasting, to enhance State and local wildfire identification and response capabilities.
    • The Order directs Federal agencies to modify rules to facilitate preventive prescribed fires and appropriate fire-retardant use, promote innovative use of woody biomass and other forest products to reduce fuel loads that strengthen fires, and minimize wildfire ignition risks from the bulk-power system.
    • The Order modernizes wildfire prevention and response by instructing Federal agencies to declassify historical satellite data to improve wildfire prediction and revise or eliminate rules that impede wildfire detection, prevention, and response.
    • The Order directs the Secretary of Defense to prioritize the sale of excess aircraft and aircraft parts to support wildfire mitigation and response.

    EMPOWERING STATE AND LOCAL LEADERS: President Trump is empowering State and local leaders to combat wildfires effectively.

    • For too long, State and local wildfire responses have been slow and inadequate due to reckless mismanagement and lack of preparedness.
    • Wildfires threaten every region, yet many local government entities continue to disregard commonsense preventative measures.
    • Firefighters are forced to rely on outdated technology and face challenges in quickly responding to wildfires because of unnecessary regulation and bureaucracy.
    • Immediate action is essential to ensure the devastation of the Los Angeles wildfires never occurs again.
    • By streamlining Federal wildfire capabilities, States can leverage an efficient and straightforward approach concerning wildfire response and mitigation.

    RESTORING COMMON SENSE TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT: President Trump has consistently demonstrated a commonsense approach to safeguard and protect the environment and American communities.

    • On Day One, President Trump signed a Memorandum to prioritize routing water to Southern California in the wake of the destructive wildfires.
    • In President Trump’s first week back in office, he and First Lady Melania Trump visited Los Angeles to inspect wildfire damage, promising immediate Federal support and relief.
    • Upon visiting Los Angeles, President Trump immediately issued measures to provide increased water resources in California and promote expedited recovery procedures for Californians after their State government’s disastrous mishandling and misuse of resources and lack of preparation for the January 2025 wildfires.
    • In March 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order to enhance forest management, promoting responsible use of American timber to reduce wildfire risks.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response

    Source: US Whitehouse

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1. Purpose. The devastation of the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires shocked the American people and highlighted the catastrophic consequences when State and local governments are unable to quickly respond to such disasters.  In too many cases, including in California, a slow and inadequate response to wildfires is a direct result of reckless mismanagement and lack of preparedness. Wildfires threaten every region, yet many local government entities continue to disregard commonsense preventative measures. Firefighters across the country are forced to rely on outdated technology and face challenges in quickly responding to wildfires because of unnecessary regulation and bureaucracy. 
    The Federal Government can empower State and local leaders by streamlining Federal wildfire capabilities to improve their effectiveness and promoting commonsense, technology-enabled local strategies for land management and wildfire response and mitigation.  

    Sec. 2.  Streamlining Federal Wildland Fire Governance.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall, to the maximum degree practicable and consistent with applicable law, consolidate their wildland fire programs to achieve the most efficient and effective use of wildland fire offices, coordinating bodies, programs, budgets, procurement processes, and research and, as necessary, recommend additional measures to advance this objective.

    Sec. 3.  Encouraging Local Wildfire Preparedness and Response.  (a)  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall:
            (i)   expand and strengthen the use of partnerships, agreements, compacts, and mutual aid capabilities that empower Federal, State, local, tribal, and community-driven land management that reduces wildfire risk and improves wildfire response, including on public lands; and
            (ii)  develop and expand the use of other measures to incentivize responsible land management and wildfire prevention, mitigation, and response measures at the State and local levels.
    (b)  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the heads of executive departments and agencies (agencies) represented at the National Interagency Fire Center, shall:
            (i)   develop a comprehensive technology roadmap, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), to increase wildfire firefighting capabilities at the State and local levels, including through artificial intelligence, data sharing, innovative modeling and mapping capabilities, and technology to identify wildland fire ignitions and weather forecasts to inform response and evacuation; and
            (ii)  promote the use of a risk-informed approach, as consistent with Executive Order 14239 of March 18, 2025 (Achieving Efficiency Through State and Local Preparedness), to develop new policies that remove barriers to preventing and responding to wildfires, including through year-round response readiness, better forest health, and activities outlined in Executive Order 14225 of March 1, 2025 (Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production).

    Sec. 4.  Strengthening Wildfire Mitigation.  Within 90 days of the date of this order:
    (a)  The Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall consider modifying or rescinding, as consistent with applicable law, Federal rules or policies that impede the use of appropriate, preventative prescribed fires.
    (b)  The Secretary of Agriculture and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall consider modifying or rescinding, as consistent with applicable law, Federal rules or policies hindering the appropriate use of fire retardant to fight wildfires.
    (c)  The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall consider promoting, assisting, and facilitating, as consistent with applicable law, innovative uses of woody biomass and forest products to reduce fuel loads in areas at risk of wildfires.
    (d)  The Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Energy, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission shall consider initiating rulemaking proceedings to establish, as consistent with applicable law, best practices to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition from the bulk-power system without increasing costs for electric-power end users, including through methods such as vegetation management, the removal of forest-hazardous fuels along transmission lines, improved engineering approaches, and safer operational practices.  
    (e)  The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior, shall review pending and proposed wildfire-related litigation involving electrical utility companies to ensure the Department’s positions and proposed resolutions in such matters advance the wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts identified in this order.

    Sec. 5.  Modernizing Wildfire Prevention and Response. 
    (a)  Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of OSTP, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the heads of relevant agencies, shall, as appropriate, identify, declassify, and make publicly available historical satellite datasets that will advance wildfire prevention and response and improve wildfire prediction and evaluation models.
    (b)  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the heads of agencies represented at the National Interagency Fire Center, shall:
            (i)   Identify rules that impede wildfire prevention, detection, or response and consider eliminating or revising those rules, as consistent with applicable law.  This consideration and any resulting rulemaking proceedings shall be reflected in the Fall 2025 Unified Regulatory Agenda. 
            (ii)  Develop performance metrics for wildfire response, including metrics related to average response times, annual fuels treatments, safety and cost effectiveness, and other subjects, as appropriate for inclusion in strategic and annual performance plans.
    (c)  Within 210 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense shall evaluate and, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, prioritize the sale of excess aircraft and aircraft parts to support wildfire mitigation and response.

    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
            (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
            (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior in equal shares.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        June 12, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Fire Update – June 12

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 12, 2025

    As of 11:00 hours on Thursday, June 12, there are 23 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, three are categorized as contained, six are not contained, 12 are ongoing assessment and two are listed as protecting values.

    This year, Saskatchewan has had 258 wildfires, which is well above the five-year average of 147 to date. 

    Of these fires, approximately 44 have been caused by lightning. The remaining fires are human caused and can be categorized by the following: 

    • Recreation: a wildfire caused by people or equipment engaged in recreational activities such as fishing, picnicking, hiking or quadding.
    • Resident: a wildfire resulting from activities performed by people or machines for agriculture or an accidental fire caused by activity associated with normal living in a forested area.
    • Industry: a wildfire that is caused by an industrial activity such as land clearing, harvesting or power distribution.
    • Incendiary: a device used to cause a wildfire for the purpose of mischief, also called arson.

    Most human-caused fires are accidental. At this time, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) believes approximately 30 fires have been intentionally set. People are encouraged to call Crimestoppers or the SPSA at 1-855-559-5502 to report individuals who intentionally started a fire.

    The SPSA can confirm more than 290 values have been lost in the wildfires. This number could increase to over 400 as damage continues to be assessed by verification activities.

    The provincial fire ban remains in effect for the area north of the provincial forest boundary up to the Churchill River. This includes provincial parks, provincial recreation sites within the boundary and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District. The fire ban continues to prohibit the use of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks. 

    Repatriation efforts remain underway as 34 communities have repatriated or are in the process or repatriating. A full list of communities actively repatriating can be found on saskpublicsafety.ca. 

    Support for wildfire evacuees is provided by the SPSA, the Canadian Red Cross, or the community from which residents have evacuated. 

    If a resident’s community is supported by the Canadian Red Cross, they can call 1-800-863-6582 from 8 a.m to 10 p.m. daily to be connected to supports.

    If their community is supported by SPSA’s Emergency and Community Support (ECS) program, they can register through the Sask Evac App then call 1-855-559-5502 for assistance. Once a person has registered and called 1-855-559-5502, the SPSA will contact them with details about support depending on your family situation.

    Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office.

    People can find the latest information, an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.

    A list of fire restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here.

    Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board Crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety. 

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on the Passage of the HALT Fentanyl Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement on the House passage of the HALT Fentanyl Act:

    “The United States has made tremendous progress in the fight to protect our communities from fentanyl, and while there is still much more to be done, the HALT Fentanyl Act is far too broad and ignores all medical uses of ‘fentanyl-related substances.’ These substances need to be controlled — but when prescribed and used as directed, many of them serve as critical pain management tools for countless Americans.

    “This legislation is just another performative overreach by Republicans to say that they know better than doctors about what is best for their patients. We don’t need to criminalize care and expand harsh mandatory minimum sentencing requirements. We need well-thought-out and meaningful solutions that address the root causes of addiction, expand resources to help those struggling, and work with medical professionals.

    “But that’s not what President Trump and Republicans are doing. Instead of expanding funding for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — which supports naloxone programs, treatment programs, and prevention efforts — President Trump has essentially dissolved the agency, firing more than a third of its staff and proposing a budget that cuts $1 billion of its funding. Republicans are also working to cut at least $600 billion from Medicaid, which will seriously undermine our ability to address the opioid epidemic. If President Trump and Republicans were serious about addressing these issues, there are proven solutions we can act upon to save lives — but the HALT Fentanyl Act is not one of them.”

    Issues: Public Safety & Criminal Justice

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on GOP Rescissions Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement regarding the Republican rescissions package, which passed the House of Representatives 214-212. 

    “A rescission package means going back on your word. Let me be clear: Congress and Congress alone has the power to appropriate funding. What is happening here is that Donald Trump and Elon Musk took illegal actions to cut Congressionally appropriated funding, so now Trump’s minions in Congress are going back and cleaning up for him. This is a thinly veiled attempt to sidestep court orders that have demanded the Trump Administration reinstate illegally gutted funding. 

    “The cuts to USAID have already killed an estimated 300,000 people around the world and are undermining the United States’ global leadership. This is funding for food and medicine for children, maternal health care programs, and for clinics that treat survivors of gender-based violence. It accounts for less than one percent of our federal spending and stops diseases before they reach our border, and helps to stabilize countries, preventing conflict before it starts. 

    “And the cuts to public broadcasting are a direct attack on free press in this country. In many rural communities, these stations are the only reliable sources of local news, critical weather alerts, and educational programming for kids. These stations not only keep people informed but also employ thousands of people in communities across the country. 

    “These cuts are not only bad for the American people but further erode our checks and balances in this country and the powers of Congress defined in the Constitution. Trump’s yes-men are rubber stamping his agenda and cutting away at the fabric of our democracy in doing so.”

    Issues: Arts & Education, Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Frankel, Shaheen, Schatz, Meeks Statement on Recissions Package Cuts to Foreign Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representative Lois Frankel (D-FL), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs joined U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs, and Representative Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, in issuing the following statement concerning the recissions package sent to Congress by the Trump administration, which would cut $8.3 billion in foreign assistance, including $900 million in cuts to global health programs, as well as cuts to democracy assistance, economic and development assistance, and economic and energy support for Ukraine and other states affected by Russia’s illegal invasion:

    “The cuts to U.S. foreign assistance in the White House’s recissions package undercut key American national security interests and risk our country’s safety and prosperity. Our soft power toolkit helps prevent conflict and promote democracy and stability. The draconian DOGE cuts that President Trump and Elon Musk have put in place have been justified through misleading claims that ignore the harm to America and global death toll that have resulted from their actions. Their claims about fiscal responsibility are laughable in the context of President Trump’s push at all costs to pass a budget that adds $2.4 trillion in deficits while stripping millions of Americans of their health care,” said the Members.

    “When America retreats from the world, China and Russia advance. And when our adversaries take our place, America is weaker and more vulnerable. Our manufacturers and workers get boxed out of export markets by unfair economic competition from China. And vulnerable populations around the world, suffer from severely restricting access to HIV treatment and prevention services to forcing food ration cuts in refugee camps.

    “That is the legacy of DOGE’s impact on America’s foreign policy infrastructure and soft power. Our country in retreat in the face of great power adversaries. Our global influence diminished. And the poorest of the poor globally being left to die because of slipshod cuts by tech dilettantes.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Action Taken by Governor Phil Scott on Legislation – June 12, 2025

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott announced action on the following bills, passed by the General Assembly.

    On June 12, Governor Scott signed bills of the following titles:

    • S.12, An act relating to sealing criminal history records
    • S.45, An act relating to protection from nuisance suits for agricultural activities
    • S.63, An act relating to modifying the regulatory duties of the Green Mountain Care Board
    • S.69, An act relating to an age-appropriate design code
    • S.109, An act relating to miscellaneous judiciary procedures
    • S.122, An act relating to economic and workforce development
    • S.123, An act relating to miscellaneous changes to laws related to motor vehicles
    • S.124, An act relating to miscellaneous agricultural subjects
    • S.126, An act relating to health care payment and delivery system reform
    • S.127, An act relating to housing and housing development

    When signing S.69, An act relating to an age-appropriate design code, Governor Scott issued the following statement:

    “As we see more and more kids using technology, I believe most would agree we need to take steps to protect them in a reasonable and responsible way when they’re online. With ongoing lawsuits in other states, I recognize this new law will likely face a legal challenge. But I’m hopeful with the enactment of this law delayed until January 1, 2027, it will allow enough time to provide clarity and change the law if necessary.”

    To view a complete list of action on bills passed during the 2025 legislative session, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Letlow Supports Cuts to Federal Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congresswoman Julia Letlow released the following statement on her vote in favor of cutting $9.4 billion in federal spending, implementing certain cuts identified by President Trump.

    “Americans are rightly concerned with how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent. Just like every Louisiana family has to do, Congress must confront rising debt by cutting back on spending we can’t afford. As an appropriator, I will always fight for Louisiana’s priorities and for a more efficient federal government. Tightening our belt will save taxpayer money and better serve the people I represent.”

                                                         

    MIL OSI USA News –