NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Forceful Senate Floor Speech, Senator Murray Slams Trump Administration for Aggressively Detaining Senator Padilla at Public Press Conference

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***WATCH SENATOR MURRAY’S REMARKS HERE***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, took to the Senate floor to respond to U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) being tackled, handcuffed, and violently removed from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) press conference this afternoon.  

    Senator Murray’s full remarks on the Senate floor, as delivered are below:

    “Mr. President, I come to the floor this afternoon, to the United States Senate, a place where people are elected by their constituents to come here to be their voice, every one of us. Republican, Democrat, elected by the people who we represent, to come here and be their voice and to do the job.

    “What is that job? To make sure that we are being their voice and speaking out for them, and part of that has to be asking questions. Part of that has to be demanding accountability. That has to be getting information so we can do the best job possible.

    “It is unacceptable that a United States Senator, in his own home state, elected by millions of people, went to ask a question for his constituents, to get an answer, and was brutally thrown to the ground and handcuffed.

    “That is wrong, and I cannot believe that we don’t have Senators on both sides of the aisle calling this out as outrageous.

    “This is what a democracy is about, Mr. President. Mr. President, it is about us coming to the United States Senate, speaking out, asking questions, getting information, so we can be their voice.

    “What happens when that voice is stifled? What happens when that voice is thrown to the floor and handcuffed? Our democracy is lost.

    “Mr. President, I have been here more than 32 years. I have come to this floor often to speak out, to be angry, to be a voice for my people. I have never come this close to having tears in my eyes, as I speak to both sides of this aisle, about this horrendous incident that occurred.

    “We are a democracy, but we can lose that democracy. It can be gone, unless all of us speak out and forcibly reject what happened to a United States Senator.

    “And to send the message that in this democracy it is just, it is right, it is part of our responsibility to speak up, to ask questions, and to be able to have the knowledge we need to represent the people that we come here for.

    “We use our voices, Mr. President. We use our votes, Mr. President, to be a part of this democracy. Not violence.

    “When violence is done by someone representing this administration, in a forceful way, against a United States Senator, how does any one of us go home and tell our constituents that they can be part of a democracy, speak out about what they believe in?

    “This is so wrong. This is so wrong.

    “Mr. President, I hope others speak up and speak out, and as a voice we say we want our democracy to succeed, and in order to succeed we need to be able to use our voices and to use our votes and to ask questions without being forcibly thrown to the ground, without being arrested by speaking up.

    “I say to the entire country, we have a democracy. We will lose it if we can’t use our voices. We will lose this democracy. None of us should be silent. None of us.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: We Are Going to Prevent the Largest Tax Increase in American History

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Senator Marshall Joins RFD-TV to Discuss the Reconciliation Benefits for Farmers and Ranchers
    Washington – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Suzanne Alexander on RFD-TV to discuss President Trump’s ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill,’ and how it will help farmers and ranchers by preventing the largest tax increase in American history and allocate $100 billion to crop insurance and Title One funding.

    Click HERE or on the image above to watch the full interview.
    On how the OBBB presents the largest tax increase in American history:
    “… This bill is going to prevent the largest tax increase in American history. This is going to mean $1,000 a month of Americans getting to keep their own hard-earned money. Look, it is tense up here in its own world, but I just never seen the Republican caucus so together, and this is a Republicans only exercise right now. The Democrats will not support these tax cuts.”
    On what the OBBB will do for farmers and ranchers:
    “I’m just so, so proud of what we’ve done on the agriculture portion of this, first of all, $50 billion for crop insurance, $50 billion for the Title One programs, the ARC and the PLC, and that’s mandatory spending … over the next 10 years, you put those together, there’s $100 billion that we’re going to help with crop insurance and the Title One funding.
    “But you know, first and foremost, farmers are businessmen and women, right? So, making these Trump tax cuts permanent, and I’m talking about bonus depreciation, and 199A – your listeners know exactly what I’m talking about – Those are very important.
    “There’s also a tax credit called 45Z, which is vitally important to rural America. This is how we’re going to take soybeans or corn and turn it into jet fuel. But we need a tax credit to get that, to get that industry up and going as well. So those are just a few examples of how this is going to help American farmers and rural America.”
    On protecting Medicaid and Medicare for rural Americans:
    “Well, look, we’re going to protect Medicaid. We’re going to make it better. We want to strengthen it for those who need it the most. And like you said, I know as much about a rural hospital as anybody does up here. They’re actually much more dependent upon Medicare, but Medicaid has a little bit of influence, so we’re going to do our best to make sure there’s a carve-out to protect those rural hospitals. There aren’t that many of them; the critical access hospital system is much different; they’re guaranteed a Medicare Plus rate as well. So, we’ll do our very best.
    “But the very best thing we could do for those hospitals is give them a strong agricultural economy. Hospitals are a reflection of the economy. They don’t drive the economy. So anything we can do to help the American farmer is going to help those hospitals as well.”
    On strengthening SNAP and making it better for those who need it most:
    “Look, we’ll probably not go quite as deep with this as maybe the House did, but 80, at least 70% of Americans want some type of work requirements. And that’s what our focus will be is a work requirement. We have 7 million healthy American men out there, working age, who are not working. 7 million of them. And they’re on Medicaid and they’re on food stamps – let’s help those people find a job. I hear there are a lot of jobs in rural America, so if you don’t have a job, we’ll train you up. We’ll get you out there working on the pipeline or the oil field or out there on some of these farms as well.”
    “… I don’t want anyone to go to bed hungry – we’re not going to let that happen. But on the other hand, it would be good for the health of these people who can work, to get them back and work. And again, I think 70% of Americans generally support these, some type of work requirements if you’re on government aid.”
    On the next steps for the OBBB:
    “Look, we’re still in the seventh inning here. It’s the seventh inning stretch when we get pen to paper by this weekend, I think the real debates will start next week, as we start trying to move, you know, a million dollars here and a million dollars there. But I just want everyone to rest assured, I’m going to be out there speaking for rural America – speaking for agriculture, protecting 45Z, protecting crop insurance, protecting these reference prices, [and] trying to grow the rural American economy as well.
    “So, I just can’t emphasize enough, I was just with the President, I think it was last Thursday, I was at the White House again yesterday, that this President has the back of farmers and ranchers, and we’re going to do everything we can to make them successful as well.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Calls for Full Funding of Federal Programs to Prevent Kansas Water Shortages

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) urged the Senate Appropriations Committee to fully fund a suite of federal programs that help Kansas communities tackle water shortages, improve water quality, and ensure long-term drought resilience. 
    “Every Kansan deserves access to clean, safe drinking water,” said Senator Marshall. “I have spoken with community leaders across Kansas who are dealing with aging water and wastewater infrastructure. Federal resources are essential to help these communities modernize their water systems, ensuring they can reliably serve residents and businesses now and into the future.” 
    “The State Revolving Loan Fund Program is an essential tool in helping Kansas communities maintain and repair aging infrastructure in their drinking water and wastewater treatment systems,” said Leo Henning, Deputy Secretary and Director of Environment for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “This critical funding is not a federal handout, as it provides reliable assistance through low-interest loans that are repaid. Funding is then redeployed to new communities for new projects, but without continued federal funding, Kansas could not maintain these programs or meet Kansas’s increasing infrastructure needs in the face of rising construction costs.  This funding must be continued to provide this vital lending hand to Kansas communities.” 
    “In a nation characterized by its vast geographic diversity, rural areas often confront unique challenges that hinder their economic growth and development,” said Carey Spoon, Executive Director of the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission. “Continued federal funding is paramount for improving local infrastructure in these economically depressed regions. Such support is not merely an investment in bricks and mortar; it is a commitment to the empowerment and upliftment of communities that have faced ongoing socio-economic difficulties. The importance of continued federal funding for local infrastructure improvements in rural, economically depressed regions cannot be overstated. Such initiatives not only address immediate infrastructural deficiencies but also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic development and enhanced quality of life for residents. It is imperative that we prioritize these investments, recognizing their potential to transform lives and communities for the better.” 
    “The SRF program through KDHE provides low interest revolving loans for water and wastewater infrastructure capital projects,” said Brad Mears, Executive Director of Kansas Municipal Utilities. “Both water and wastewater are capital intensive services which provide and protect quality of water in Kansas.  With aging infrastructure, the need for this low interest loan program is great.  This funding program allows for the maintenance of reasonable rates for water and wastewater programs.” 
    Background:

    Senator Marshall’s FY2026 Appropriations Requests for Water Infrastructure in Kansas include:

    A Language Submission on Water Challenges and Rescue Projects to the Senate Appropriations Committee, acknowledging the persistent water supply challenges facing central and western Kansas and emphasizing the critical role that water reuse projects play in supporting drought-affected regions.

    This request reinforces that addressing water shortages is a top priority for Kansas communities, strengthens the case for federal investment, and builds the legislative record for future policy efforts 

    Full funding for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Grant Program, which provides financial and technical assistance to local governments, water districts, tribes, and irrigation authorities for the planning, design, and construction of water recycling and reuse projects in Kansas. 

    Robust funding for numerous programs, including:

    Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), which helps Kansas communities finance upgrades to public water systems, ensuring safe and compliant drinking water for residents. 

    Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), which provides low-interest loans to Kansas communities for wastewater infrastructure projects that protect and improve surface water quality. 

    Rural Community Assistance Partnerships (RCAPs), which deliver technical assistance, training, and capacity-building support to rural Kansas communities to help them plan, finance, operate, and maintain safe drinking water, wastewater, and solid waste systems. 

    The USDA Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal Program, which offers long-term, low-interest loans and grants to rural communities for the acquisition, construction, or improvement of drinking water systems, sanitary sewage, solid waste disposal, and stormwater draining infrastructure 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette Statement on Passage of Steep White House Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO–01) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 4, Donald Trump’s $9.4 billion rescissions package to codify cuts made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    “House Republicans handed Donald Trump and Elon Musk everything they wanted. They’re gutting foreign aid, zeroing out public broadcasting, and cutting off lifelines for the world’s most vulnerable —all programs that have been historically bipartisan.

    “USAID’s life-saving humanitarian programs help mothers survive childbirth, prevent infectious disease outbreaks, and deliver critical HIV/AIDS treatment. Because of the $8.3 billion in cuts, millions of people across the world will die. It is estimated that cuts from DOGE have already led to the deaths of 300,000 people—most of them children.

    “Here at home, the Republican majority is zeroing out federal support for PBS and NPR. Why? Because Trump doesn’t like their factual reporting. These cuts will cause millions of Americans to lose access to local news, essential emergency alerts, and educational programming.

    “As the Senate considers deep cuts to other essential programs, like Medicaid, it is particularly outrageous that the House is voting to weaken American institutions here and abroad.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: South and Central Asia Subcommittee Chairman Huizenga Delivers Opening Statement at Hearing on the Bureau of Industry and Security FY26 Budget

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled, “Bureau of Industry and Security FY26 Budget: Export Controls and the AI Arms Race.”

    Watch Here
    -Remarks-

    Today’s hearing will examine the fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Bureau of Industry and Security, an agency whose mission is critical to ensuring America wins the AI arms race against the Communist Party of China.

    We are at a historic inflection point. Technologies that will define the 21st century, such as AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing are achieving breakthroughs that increasingly sound more like science fiction, than the reality that we’re used to. These technologies have a potential to unlock tremendous economic prosperity, medical innovations, and human flourishing.

    However, they are not just drivers of economic growth. They are instruments of military power and security as well. Advanced AI models could coordinate fleets of self-driving cars in Michigan. They could also direct autonomous drone swarms over the Taiwan Strait. The nation that leads in developing and deploying these technologies has an opportunity to gain geopolitical advantages for decades to come.

    The CCP understands this. That’s why it’s trying to dominate these critical technologies by any means necessary through state subsidies, forced tech transfers, economic espionage, chip smuggling, and exploiting access to the West’s most innovative AI labs and universities.

    AI dominance is central to the CCP’s goals. Its military modernization efforts, surveillance state, and human rights abuses are amplified by AI. Export controls play a crucial role in ensuring that US and allied technologies are not used to fuel the CCP’s pursuit of global dominance. Amongst its many important roles, BIS serves as a guardian of one of the world’s most valuable and powerful supply chains. The ecosystem of advanced chips, tools, components, and design software that underpins the development of cutting-edge artificial intelligence.

    China’s leading AI companies have made it clear just how dependent their future is on US technology. In response to a question on what their biggest obstacle to AI development is Deepeek’s CEO put it bluntly, “bans on shipments of advanced chips are the problem.”

    The CCP understands the importance of these AI choke points. That’s why it’s working around the clock to steal chips and exploit export control loopholes to internalize its production. That’s why this hearing today is so important.

    BIS’ fiscal 26 budget request includes a 133% increase in enforcement funding. A bold and necessary step. As the deep CEO made evident, it’s not a lack of talent holding back China’s AI development. It’s the lack of access to US technology. That’s what this budget supports. It allows BIS to better disrupt covert efforts to funnel US innovation to the CCP’s military and surveillance state.

    So, let’s be very clear, enforcement is not about punishing innovation. It’s about protecting it. It’s about making sure that the technologies that define the future are not weaponized against our values, our alliances or our own people.

    We also recognize that BIS operates in a dynamic and challenging environment. The technologies we’re discussing are evolving rapid rapidly. BIS must become faster, more adaptive and uh and more technologically capable than ever before.

    This subcommittee is committed to giving the bureau the tools and resources it needs to meet that challenge head on. The geopolitical struggle between America and China defines the technologies of our time. Global AI development shaped by democratic values or authoritarian control will depend on the decisions we make right now about licensing, enforcement, and strategic technology protection.

    I’m pleased that we are joined by Undersecretary Jeffrey Kessler, who leads BIS during this decisive period in history. Mr. Kessler, thank you for your service and your appearance here at the subcommittee. The window for preserving America’s technology edge is narrow, but it does remain open. BIS with the support of Congress, must ensure America wins the AI arms race.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RGA Statement on Democrat Governors’ Testimony Before House Oversight Committee

    Source: US Republican Governors Association

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Republican Governors Association Rapid Response Director Kollin Crompton released the following statement in response to Gov. Tim Walz (MN), Gov. Kathy Hochul (NY), and Gov. JB Pritzker (IL) testifying before the House Oversight Committee on their sanctuary city policies:

    “Democrat governors have made their stance clear; they would rather protect dangerous illegal criminals over American citizens. Look no further than every single Democrat governor signing a letter siding with chaos and lawlessness in the streets over law and order. Governors Walz, Hochul, and Pritzker couldn’t give straight answers because they know they are completely out-of-touch with the American people. Republican governors will always stand with law enforcement and law-abiding citizens while protecting the safety of our country.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: With Trump undoing years of progress, can the US salvage its Pacific Islands strategy?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Tidwell, Director, Center for Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Studies, Georgetown University

    Donald Trump signs a proclamation expanding fishing rights in the Pacific Islands, April 17. Getty Images

    Since 2018, the United States has worked, albeit often haltingly, to regain its footing with Pacific Island countries. It’s done this largely by reflecting a sentiment familiar in Pacific capitals: the region is not a geopolitical backwater, but a crucial strategic zone in the 21st century.

    Spurred by China’s strategic expansion – security deals, port access, political influence – the first Trump presidency and then the Biden administration renewed the US focus on the Pacific.

    Washington was also prodded by regional allies, including New Zealand. In 2018, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said: “We unashamedly ask for the United States to engage more and we think it is in your vital interests to do so. And time is of the essence.”

    Building on the tentative steps of its predecessor, the Biden administration acted. It opened new embassies, invited Pacific leaders to the White House, unveiled a dedicated strategy for the Pacific Islands, and committed to recognising the Cook Islands and Niue.

    It also negotiated more funding for the Compacts of Free Association with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Palau. Along with the 2022 Pacific Islands Summit, it all signalled Washington’s desire to be a better partner.

    Crucially, the Biden administration recognised climate change and the economy, not great-power rivalry, as the region’s defining security concerns. Now, much of that progress is being eroded.

    The second Trump administration has gutted key international development agencies, with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Millennium Challenge Corporation shuttered.

    More than mere symbols, these agencies were tools of statecraft, facilitating Washington’s capacity to compete with China’s “no questions asked” development model. Their removal leaves a vacuum, which Beijing will happily fill.

    China pressing the advantage

    Other signs of retreat are equally troubling. Congressional funding for the South Pacific Tuna Treaty – which pays for access for US fishing fleets and is the primary multiparty agreement the US has with the Pacific Islands – was tripled by Biden, but remains incomplete.

    Trump recently signed an executive order opening the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, a 1,282,534 square kilometre protected marine zone, to commercial fishing. This might be welcomed by the US tuna fleet, but it raises questions about Washington’s commitment to the tuna treaty.

    Hoped-for expansion of US consular access, especially vital for Pacific Islanders who must travel long distances for basic services such as visa applications, is in limbo. The US embassy in Vanuatu, damaged by the earthquake in 2024, remains closed, leaving diplomats to work out of their hotel rooms.

    China, by contrast, has not slowed down. Its security pact with Solomon Islands, its police training efforts in Samoa and Kiribati, and its growing intelligence presence across the region show a clear pattern of assertiveness.

    Beijing has proven adept at offering timely, visible assistance. Its diplomats show up. Its companies build. Its promises, however opaque, are matched with resources.

    The result has not necessarily meant Pacific nations have “chosen” China. Rather, most revert to the longstanding posture of “friend to all, enemy to none”.

    In a region where non-alignment is both a survival strategy and a principle of sovereignty, the perception of US unreliability makes China’s attentions all the more welcome, or at least tolerable.

    Not a binary contest

    The US now appears to be abandoning efforts to break this cycle, and the Trump administration risks a genuine strategic error rather than a mere diplomatic misstep.

    More than distant dots on a map, the Pacific Islands control vast stretches of ocean, including key shipping lanes and undersea cables. Their diplomatic weight matters in the United Nations.

    And the region matters to Taiwan, which is recognised by 12 countries globally, three of which are in the Pacific.

    Some argue the US should press Pacific nations to “choose” between Washington and Beijing. But that approach is shortsighted and counterproductive.

    Most have no interest in being drawn into a binary contest. They seek concrete benefits – resilience funding, fair trade, visa access – not ideological alignment. Framing relationships as zero-sum contests misunderstands the region’s diplomatic logic.

    Listening to Pacific leaders

    To revive the relationship, the US will need to show up, follow through and demonstrate its partnership offers more than rhetoric.

    This would involve restoring some elements of foreign assistance, fully funding the South Pacific Tuna Treaty obligations, opening and staffing embassies, and supporting Pacific regional organisations such as the Pacific Islands Forum with meaningful recognition and resources.

    But the US review of Pacific foreign assistance (a small portion of US development aid formerly administered by USAID) has been delayed once again, and likely won’t emerge until mid-July.

    More importantly, the US will have to listen to Pacific leaders, who have articulated their priorities clearly. They do not want to be sites of contest; they want to be agents of their own futures.

    In short, the US will have to treat the Pacific Islands as sovereign equals.
    When Trump returned to the White House, he found a workable policy architecture for the Pacific. Its core elements could still be rescued.

    But continued neglect, mixed signals and cost-cutting risk hastening the outcome China seeks – a region that finds Washington unreliable. Winston Peters, now foreign minister in a new government, might want to update his 2018 call for US engagement in the Pacific – with the emphasis on reliability.

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

    – ref. With Trump undoing years of progress, can the US salvage its Pacific Islands strategy? – https://theconversation.com/with-trump-undoing-years-of-progress-can-the-us-salvage-its-pacific-islands-strategy-258679

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Votes to Codify Federal Spending Cuts, Save Billions in Taxpayer Dollars

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) voted to pass H.R. 4 – the Rescissions Act of 2025. This bill codifies a rescissions request from the White House to eliminate $9.4 billion in unobligated, wasteful federal spending. Following his vote, Rep. Van Orden stated:

    “There is not a single scenario in the world where using Americans’ hard earned tax dollars to fund radical, left-wing social programs in other countries makes sense. Passage of today’s rescissions package is a prime example of what it means to cut waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government’s spending. The people I represent in Wisconsin’s Third District work too hard to have their money thrown away, and President Trump and I are both working to make sure it is not.”

    Examples of past spending that resulted in the rescissions include:

    • $35 million to address ‘vasectomy messaging frameworks’ and ‘gender dynamics’ in Ethiopia
    • $6 million for “Net Zero Cities” in Mexico
    • $4 million for “sedentary migrants” in Colombia
    • $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street
    • $3 million for circumcision, vasectomies, and condoms in Zambia
    • $800,000 for “transgender people, sex workers, and their clients and sexual networks” in Nepal

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DMV Lawmakers Call on Department of Transportation, Army To Investigate Deadly January 29th Plane Crash

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Lawmakers urge DOT and Army Inspectors General to investigate actions leading up to and after the tragic crash

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04) joined U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and U.S. Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) to write to the Inspectors General (IGs) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Army pushing for respective investigations into Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Army policies and procedures that may have contributed to the January 29, 2025 mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan National Airport that took 67 lives.

    In their letters the lawmakers highlighted the need for a deeper investigation into potential organizational failures that may have contributed to the tragedy.
     
    To the Department of Transportation, the lawmakers wrote, “Any lapses in internal accountability, interagency coordination, and safety oversight must be uncovered and addressed swiftly for the families of those lost that day, for the safety of the flying public and residents of the National Capital Region, and for the integrity of the National Airspace System.”

    In their letter to the DOT, the lawmakers requested an investigation into:

    1. FAA training and operations in the National Capital Region;
    2. The concurrent use of helicopter routes and runways at DCA;
    3. Pre-January 29, 2025 safety incidents at DCA between airplanes and helicopters, and FAA risk pattern identification, escalation and sufficiency of policy responses;
    4. Post-January 29, 2025 safety incidents at DCA between airplanes and helicopters, and FAA risk identification, escalation, and sufficiency of responses to those incidents and the January 29 crash;
    5. FAA Air Traffic Controller staffing, training, and real-time responses at DCA, including on January 29; and
    6. U.S. Army, federal law enforcement, and FAA interagency communication, including effectiveness of established working groups, and FAA follow-through.

    To the U.S. Army, they wrote, “While the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the immediate actual and proximate causes of the January 29, 2025 DCA aviation incident, the Department of the Army Inspector General has the authority to uncover the deeper institutional failures that enabled this tragedy. Emerging evidence points to longstanding lapses in internal accountability, safety oversight, safety culture, and interagency coordination.”

    Additionally, the lawmakers requested that the Army investigate the following:

    1. TAAB training activities and operations in the National Capital Region, including whether training standards, operational planning decisions, risk identification, or compliance with routes or equipment contributed to operational risk;
    2. Army and TAAB policy and practice on aircraft collision-avoidance systems, including the rationale for and coordination around the August 2024 ADS-B Out directive, and whether longstanding near-miss patterns were adequately identified, escalated, and addressed;
    3. Army, federal law enforcement, and Federal Aviation Administration interagency communication; and
    4. Army actions taken in response to the January 29, 2025 crash, including any policy changes, coordination efforts, transparency with oversight bodies, and measures to prevent further incidents.
       
      Sens. Warner and Kaine have been closely involved with the in the investigation of the January 29th collision, meeting with first responders and offering condolences to the families and loved ones of the 67 lives lost immediately following the tragedy. Last week, Sens. Warner and Kaine introduced comprehensive aviation safety legislation in response to the tragic mid-air collision. The senators also saw through passage of a legislation to remember the victims of the crash. Sens. Warner and Kaine also requested answers from FAA on its plans to protect the flying public in the wake of the January 29 collision. In March of this year, the senators responded to the preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on the crash. The senators have also sounded the alarm for years about the need for increased safety for the flying public, including fighting against additional flights out of DCA that contribute to overcrowding. 
       
      A copy of the letter to the DOT is available here. A copy of the letter to the Army is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman, Co-Chair of the Public Broadcasting Caucus, Statement on House Republicans Voting to Eliminate the Corporation for Public Broadcasting

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    “As part of Donald Trump’s rescissions bill that House Republicans just rubber stamped, they voted to eliminate all federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, betraying their own constituents who rely on public media and educational and emergency resources provided by CPB.

    “In voting to strip all funding from independent media, Republicans have once again caved to Donald Trump’s fragile ego and authoritarian attacks on the free press and the First Amendment.

    “While Republicans can gaslight their voters by feigning outrage when objective facts shed a poor light on President Trump, local stations around the country — especially in rural America — provide communities with essential local news, emergency alerts, and children’s education that will now be eliminated.

    “I know many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle recognize the importance of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and it is a shame that they have once again chosen to bend the knee to President Trump rather than stand up for their constituents.

    “I hope Republican Senators can find the necessary spine to do the right thing and reject Donald Trump’s baseless assault on the First Amendment. An independent free press is the bedrock of any democracy, and it is up to every American, and every elected official, to uphold and protect it.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Introduces Resolution Recognizing Black Contributions to Music

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a resolution celebrating the contributions of Black Americans to the musical heritage of the United States and designating June as Black Music Appreciation Month. In addition, the resolution recognizes the lack of access to arts education and training for Black students and calls for greater access to music education. U.S. Representatives Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05), and André Carson (D-IN-07) introduced a resolution in the House recognizing June as Black Music Month.

    “America’s music history has long been defined by Black music, but Black singers, songwriters, and musicians rarely get the recognition they deserve for their contributions and art,” said Senator Booker. “This resolution honors Black musicians from Aretha Franklin to Kendrick Lamar, along with so many others who have made an invaluable impact on our cultural history. I’m pleased to stand alongside my colleagues to recognize these artists and also recommit ourselves to expanding access to music education for children across the nation.” 

    “Black music is the soul of American music, shaping our culture in indelible and immeasurable ways. Black Music sets the rhythm of Black life and has shared our story, our joys, and our struggle with the world. Black Music Month is an important opportunity to support music and arts education, including for diverse communities, and connect Black music to the wider story of Black history, including as we celebrate Juneteenth this month. I am proud to introduce our resolution in the House with Congressman Meeks and Congressman Carson and to join with Senator Booker in announcing our resolutions,” said Congresswoman Shontel Brown.

    “To African American communities, music is more than just entertainment, it is a force of identity, healing, and resistance,” said Congressman Meeks. “I am honored to represent a district that has been home to musical legends such as Count Basie and Ella Fitzgerald. African American music is woven into the DNA of this nation—it tells our stories, preserves our struggles, and celebrates our triumphs. We must continue celebrating Black music and its cultural impact worldwide.”

    “Black music has always been more than entertainment. It’s a pathway for truth, resistance, and cultural pride,” said Congressman André Carson. “From the rhythms carried by our ancestors to the beats of hip hop transcending through today’s movements, Black music has always told our story when words alone did not suffice. This Black Music Month, we honor the genres we birthed and the voices that continue to inspire justice, joy, and speak truth to power across the world.”

    The resolution is endorsed by the following organizations: A Cuthbertson Consulting, Cold Narly Generation LLC, Conn Selmer, JazzSLAM, League of American Orchestras, Music Education Consultants, Inc., Music Travel Consultants, National Association for Music Education, National Association for the Study and Performance of African American Music, NAMM, National Concerts, Ohio Music Education Association, New Jersey Music Educators Association, Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society, and TeachRock.

    “Regardless of our socio-economic backgrounds or geographic location within the US, the impact and contributions of Black music is woven into the fabric of our nation. Our music is not just important because of the uniqueness of the art form, but the nurturing provided by those who first introduced the melodies, rhythms, and phrases to us as young music learners in elementary schools, and with our local communities far and wide. The economic impact to small towns and big cities which embrace the expression of this music in houses of worship and entertainment venues contributes and builds local legacies enabling us to preserve, embrace, and expand these gifts for the next generation of music makers, consumers, and admirers.  By supporting and exploring the contribution of Black Music making, we can provide a richer experience which recognizes and celebrates the vital contributions of all those who create and offer this art to our communities, enhancing everyone’s understanding and appreciation for cultural history through the arts,” said NAfME President-Elect Cecil Adderley, Chair of Berklee’s Music Education Department.

    “The New Jersey Music Educators Association (NJMEA) proudly supports Senator Cory Booker’s resolution recognizing June 2025 as Black Music Month. Black musicians and composers have shaped every facet of America’s musical heritage. We recognize the urgent need for greater access to high-quality, culturally relevant music education for Black students, an issue highlighted in this important resolution. NJMEA remains committed to fostering inclusive music programs and expanding access to high-quality music education so that all students can see their identities, cultures, and experiences reflected in the music they study and perform,” said NJMEA President, David Westawski.

    “June is Black Music Month, created by President Jimmy Carter in 1979 to honor the dynamic artistic narrative that chronicles the aspirations, achievements, innovations, and resilience of generations of Americans past and present, from the deep south field hollers that resonate from six score years ago to the electrifying blues, jazz, funk, soul, and hip-hop born in the crucible of today’s largest urban centers, with the voices and rhythms that will carry us into the future. It was in April of 1979 that WBGO signed on the air as Newark Public Radio, a fact that inextricably binds our story to the profound legacy of music created out of the richness of the African American experience. Black Music represents extraordinary value and significance in New Jersey’s artistic and cultural heritage, and it provides the foundation for our representation as the world’s foremost jazz media organization. It is, in fact, the impact that Black artists have had on the world of music that makes WBGO possible. Black music is not just a genre; it is a gift to the world. WBGO is proud to support Senator Cory Booker’s efforts to celebrate this monumental inheritance, not just for one month, but for every day of our existence,” said WBGO President and CEO, Steven A. Williams.

    “The Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society is in full support of the Black Music Month Resolution by Senator Cory Booker. Preserving the culture of Black Music is very important because every genre of music has been influenced by Black Music. It’s more important today than ever before to educate the history of Black Music. The impact of Black Music Culture is not only in America, but all over the world,” said the Rhythm and Blues Preservation Society President and CEO, Perry Thompson.

    The resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Dick Durbin (D-IL).

    To read the full text of the resolution, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Signs Into Law Fischer’s Resolution to Overturn California’s Unrealistic EV Mandate, Protect Truckers and Consumers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, President Donald Trump signed into law U.S. Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-Neb.) resolution of disapproval to repeal California’s Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT). Fischer’s resolution nullifies California’s unrealistic and stringent emissions requirements for heavy-duty trucks and heavy-duty diesel engines, which would have dictated emission policies for the entire country. 

    “I’ve been clear from the start—one state should not dictate emission policies for the entire country. California’s ACT regulation would have increased costs on American consumers and crippled the truck manufacturing industry nationwide by overloading companies and truckers with expensive, heavy-handed requirements. My commonsense resolution keeps government overreach at bay, protects consumers, and supports America’s free markets. I’m grateful President Trump signed it into law,”     Fischer said.  

    Background:

    Fischer 

    introduced the resolution of disapproval in April, and the U.S. Senate passed the resolution last month. Fischer also spoke on the Senate Floor to highlight the necessity in overturning the waiver and stopping one state from dictating emission policies for the entire country.

    California’s ACT would have required manufacturers of trucks, from class 2b to class 8, to meet zero-emission regulations by 2025. Under the regulation, manufacturers would have to sell an increasingly larger percentage of zero-emission vehicles between 2024 to 2035. Additionally, the ACT would require fleet owners with more than 50 vehicles to submit a one-time report on their existing operations.

    Fischer’s now signed-into law resolution nullifies California’s ACT rule that requires manufacturers to increase the sales of zero-emission trucks. The rule was part of California and the Biden administration’s continued effort to ban gas-powered vehicles and mandate more expensive zero-emission vehicles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Peters Secures Army Corps Commitment to Prioritize Timely Completion of Soo Locks Construction

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – During a hearing in the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) secured a commitment from key U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) officials to prioritize the timely completion of the ongoing Soo Locks construction project. In his questioning, Peters emphasized the importance of this critical project for U.S. economic and national security.  

    “To put things into perspective, just a six-month unscheduled outage at the Soo would result in an estimated 11 million jobs lost and a $1.1 trillion hit to the economy. I think that’s a classic definition of critical infrastructure,” said Senator Peters during the hearing. “The bottom line is, we need a second Poe-sized lock to alleviate this risk, and I’ve been leading the charge with a lot of my colleagues for quite some time.” 

    In response, Mr. D. Lee Forsgren, Acting Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Army (Civil Works) said, “As you so articulately laid out, it is the backbone of the economy of this country, and we cannot afford as a nation to let that happen. I commit we will be looking at ways forward to enhance that system.” 

    To watch the full video of Senator Peters’ questioning, click here.

    Peters also applauded the $264 million included in the 2025 Army Corps Work Plan and Budget Request, which he recently led the bipartisan Michigan delegation in advocating for. This funding would allow the USACE to award the final remaining contracts needed to finish the project at their current cost.  

    “It was great to see the funding in the work plan allowing us to hit those final three options,” said Lt. Gen. William H. Graham, Jr., Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “We’re never going to get better prices than what we had locked in to finish those last three options up at the Soo. I’m heading up there in a few weeks to make sure that there are no surprises up there and that the team on the ground has everything they need to continue to deliver, and I think we’re on track for 2030, which is exciting.” 

    Peters has prioritized securing the funding necessary to build a new Poe-sized Lock at the Soo Locks. In 2024, he toured the ongoing construction project after helping to secure $257.4 million for the project in government funding legislation. In January 2022, Peters helped to secure $479 million for modernizing the Soo Locks through the bipartisan infrastructure law. In December 2022, he helped pass the bipartisan Water Resources and Development Act as part of the annual national defense bill, including needed funding flexibility for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to keep the New Lock at the Soo project on schedule. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, King Announce USS Gravely to Visit Eastport for Fourth of July Celebrationbl

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that Eastport will receive a port visit during the city’s 2025 Fourth of July celebration. The U.S. Navy has committed to sending the guided missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG-107), which has a crew complement of approximately 330 sailors.

    USS Gravely is a battle-tested warship and recently saw action in the Red Sea.

    “We are grateful to the U.S. Navy for honoring the State of Maine with this port visit during Eastport’s Fourth of July celebration,” said Senators Collins and King. “The arrival of the USS Gravely will give Mainers a special opportunity to meet the sailors bravely serving our country. It’s an honor to welcome these servicemembers to our state as we mark Independence Day, and we thank the Navy for making this visit possible.”

    The Eastport Fourth of July parade and festival is the largest in the state and draws thousands of Maine people every year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Senate Speech, Warren Condemns Assault of Senator Alex Padilla: “Trump is Making This Nation Look More and More Like a Fascist State”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 12, 2025

    Warren calls on Republicans to join Democrats in demanding investigation into the incident

    “If this is how federal agents treat a United States senator who peacefully asks questions of this administration, then we all have to ask: how far will they go? How violent will they get?” 

    Video of Floor Speech (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. — Following the violent assault on U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) spoke out on the Senate Floor.

    “This is a horrifying moment in our nation’s history,” said Senator Warren. 

    During Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press conference, Senator Padilla identified himself, saying, “I am Senator Padilla. I have questions for the Secretary.” In response, he was shoved to the ground and eventually pinned down and handcuffed. 

    Senator Warren called out ICE’s recent excessive use of force and aggressive detention tactics, saying “what happened to Senator Padilla, today, is happening every day all across this country, every day. DHS agents are throwing people to the ground and violently handcuffing them while they are not resisting, detaining them for exercising their First Amendment rights of free speech.” 

    “Every day Donald Trump is making this nation look more and more like a fascist state,” Senator Warren continued. 

    Senator Warren called for Republicans to join Democrats in demanding a bipartisan investigation into the incident. 

    Transcript: Floor Speech on Assault on Senator Alex Padilla
    U.S. Senate Floor
    June 12, 2025

    As Delivered

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: This a horrifying moment in our nation’s history. Today, United States Senator Alex Padilla was violently removed from a public briefing for asking questions on behalf of the people he represents. People in California who deserve answers about the brutal crackdown on protesters. 

    I’ve watched the video, as many of you have as well. Let me just describe what it shows. 

    Officers pushed Senator Padilla backwards out of the room as he said the words, “I am Senator Padilla. I have questions for the Secretary.” He was then shoved to the ground. When the Senator complied with the officers and went on his knees, he was forcibly pinned onto his stomach. He was ordered to put his hands behind his back. He can be heard on the video saying he is trying to comply with their orders. Officers then put handcuffs on the senator while he was lying on the ground. His staff was then told to stop recording the handcuffing. 

    He was put in handcuffs for asking a simple question. 

    He was put in handcuffs for doing his job as a United States Senator. 

    He was put in handcuffs for standing up for the Constitution of the United States. 

    He was put in handcuffs for representing the people of California. 

    Now, if you’re not yet convinced that President Trump and his administration are trying to suppress free speech, then just watch the video. Watch the video. 

    If you are not yet convinced that President Trump and his administration are trying to undermine the foundations of our democracy. Watch the video. 

    If you are not yet convinced that President Trump and his administration are hell bent on punishing people with differing opinions than those of the President, then watch the video. 

    And here is the really chilling part. 

    Make no mistake, what happened to Senator Padilla, today, is happening every day all across this country, every day. 

    DHS agents are throwing people to the ground and violently handcuffing them while they are not resisting, detaining them for exercising their First Amendment rights of free speech. 

    Every day Donald Trump is making this nation look more and more like a fascist state. 

    If this is how federal agents treat a United States senator who peacefully asks questions of this administration, then we all have to ask: How far will they go? How violent will they get? 

    I know my Republican colleagues can see what happened today was wrong. But will any Republican senator speak up for our democracy? 

    They know Senator Padilla’s character. 

    They know that Senator Padilla is a kind man. A man who is concerned for his children. A man who is concerned for his home. A man who has dedicated his life to public service. A man who is a patriot. 

    Where are our Republican colleagues? 

    Where is the Republican Senate? 

    Where are you? Stand up and speak out. 

    This is a continuation of what we’ve been seeing, intimidate every other check on presidential power in this country. 

    Fire the civil service. 

    Get rid of those people. 

    Threaten to imprison judges. 

    Criminally charge House members who try to visit an ICE facility. 

    Arrest senators who ask questions. 

    This is not a drill. This is an assault on our democracy. 

    I am calling on my Republican colleagues to join us in demanding a bipartisan investigation into this incident. 

    What happened at this press conference was disgraceful. It was un-American. And every member of the United States Senate should condemn it and condemn it now. 

    Mr. President, I yield the floor. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Grills Treasury Secretary Bessent on Trump’s Trade War: “Vermonters call it pretty painful as a way to run their business.” 

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today grilled Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on the Trump Administration’s reckless trade policies, which are raising costs for Vermont businesses, manufacturers, farmers, and families. Senator Welch pressed Secretary Bessent on how President Trump’s unpredictable economic policies have wrought instability for Vermonters in every corner of the Green Mountain State. 
    Senator Welch asked Secretary Bessent: “Let me ask you this: predictability. The Trump tariff timelines—February 1: Executive Order, 10% on China, 25% on Mexico, and Canada. February 3: 30-day pause on 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada. February 10: 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum. March 4: an additional 10% on China, 25% on Mexico, and Canada. This goes on and on—22 different tariffs. And it looks like the President wakes up, kind of checks his mood, and changes the tariff regime. 
    “I’ve talked to manufacturers where they’ve had products coming to a port, and if they arrive Monday, they’re cool. If they arrive on Wednesday, it’s going to cost them another $75,000. Just in terms of implementation, 22 different tariffs over the course of a few months.” 
    Secretary Bessent responded: “I’m just saying, Senator, if you’re familiar with game theory, it’s called ‘strategic uncertainty,’ and it’s also called ‘negotiations.’ Thirteen days ago, on a Friday, President Trump threatened the E.U. with 50% tariffs. The E.U. was not negotiating in good faith. Within ten hours, we had calls from five European leaders and a call with Ursula Vanderlinden. So, you may call this a flip-flop, I call this a negotiating strategy, and this is the way negotiating strategies works.” 
    Senator Welch: “Vermonters call it pretty painful as a way to run their business.” 
    Watch the full exchange between Senator Welch and Secretary Bessent below: 

    Senator Welch opposed Secretary Bessent’s nomination. In his confirmation hearing, Senator Welch pushed Bessent to avoid protectionist trade policies. The Trump Administration has since imposed sweeping global tariffs and waged an all-out trade war with our closest trade allies, including Canada, Mexico, and the EU. 
    Senator Welch has been a leading voice in pushing back against the Trump Administration’s deeply misguided and disastrous economic policies. Senator Welch has blasted Trump’s tariffs and trade war and shared stories from constituents about how President Trump’s economic policies have impacted their businesses, farms, and communities. This week, Senator Welch welcomed Steve Wright, President and General Manager of Jay Peak Resort to the Senate for a forum on the impact of tariffs and President Trump’s trade war, highlighting the detrimental impact the Trump Administration’s rhetoric toward Canada has had on businesses in Vermont. 
    Senator Welch is a cosponsor of a bipartisan resolution to repeal the tariffs on Canada, a bipartisan bill to restore congressional tariff authority, a bill to restrict the Executive Branch’s authority to impose tariffs through the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, and a bill to exempt small businesses from the April 2nd global tariff Executive Order. Senator Welch also led a bipartisan resolution to end President Trump’s ruinous global tariffs.      
    Last month, Senator Welch joined a bipartisan delegation and traveled to Ottawa to meet with Canadian dignitaries, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, to discuss bipartisan support for a U.S.-Canada partnership and their commitment to a strong trading relationship between the United States and Canada. The Senator has hosted roundtables in Stowe, Newport, St. Albans, Manchester, and virtually to hear concerns and first-hand stories from Vermont and Canadian leaders impacted by the trade war.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: REPORT: Failure to Pass One Big Beautiful Bill Will Kill 1.1+ Million Manufacturing Jobs

    Source: US Whitehouse

    More than 1.1 million jobs in the manufacturing sector and nearly six million jobs overall will be lost if Congress fails to extend the Trump Tax Cuts in President Donald J. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, according to a new report — negative effects on small businesses that are swift, severe, and completely avoidable.

    Here are some key takeaways from the report:

    • “More than 96% of businesses in America are organized as pass-throughs, meaning that they pay tax at individual income tax rates. Tax reform created a 20% deduction to allow these small businesses to compete on a level playing field with their peers organized as corporations … The pass-through deduction will expire completely at the end of 2025. A recent NAM survey found that 93% of pass-through manufacturers reported that the loss of this deduction will harm their ability to grow, create jobs and invest in their business.”
    • “The combination of the reduction in the top rate and the 20% passthrough deduction resulted in significant tax savings for these small businesses—enabling them to invest in new equipment, machinery, facilities and job creation. More than 74% of manufacturers have fewer than 20 employees, so it is crucial to the sector that Congress preserve tax reform’s competitive tax rates for small businesses.”
    • “If Congress does not act, accelerated depreciation will be entirely absent from the U.S. tax code for the first time in decades—limiting manufacturers’ ability to invest in the equipment and machinery they need to drive economic growth and job creation and making it more costly for businesses to invest in the U.S.”
    • “More than 90% of businesses in America are family-owned. In the manufacturing industry, family-owned businesses are a critical part of the manufacturing supply chain and pillars of their local communities … The estate tax exemption threshold is scheduled to be reduced by half at the end of 2025, subjecting more family business assets to taxation and threatening the viability of these businesses when the owner passes away. Congress should protect family-owned manufacturers by preserving the increased exemption threshold.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: National Coordinators advance work on Icebreaker Collaboration Effort 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Representatives from Canada, Finland and the United States met to discuss the next steps in the collaboration to build Arctic and polar icebreakers

    June 12, 2025  – Ottawa, Ontario                     

    The National Coordinators of the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact) and other officials from the governments of Canada, Finland and the United States (U.S.) have successfully concluded a 2-day meeting to discuss their shared commitment to strengthening Arctic presence and icebreaking capabilities through the ICE Pact.

    During the discussions, delegates from Canada, Finland and the U.S. successfully advanced deliverables under the ICE Pact workplan by focusing on the 4 areas of work: technical expertise and information exchange, workforce development, relations with allies and industry, and research and development.

    The 3 countries each presented their initial review and analysis of their Request for Information, which collected industry views and recommendations within their respective markets. This will help in engaging with interested shipyards and supply chains, and in laying the groundwork for future involvement with the private sector. 

    The delegates also participated in a panel discussion and roundtable with Canadian industry, academia and think tank representatives, hosted by the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. The event was an important forum to discuss the purpose and potential of the ICE Pact and identify opportunities for industrial collaboration. Participants shared valuable insights into the national perspectives on the ICE Pact and Arctic collaboration, promoting trilateral cooperation and strengthening stakeholder support for ICE Pact activities.

    The 3 partner countries concluded a successful meeting with a strong commitment to continue the ICE Pact work. They agreed to meet again in-person in fall 2025. The U.S. will host the next meeting.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Vote to End Washington D.C.’s Sanctuary City Status

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    House Republicans Vote to End Washington D.C.’s Sanctuary City Status

    Washington, June 12, 2025

    WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2056, legislation requiring the District of Columbia to comply with federal immigration laws and end its status as a sanctuary city:

    “The inexcusable violence in Los Angeles is the latest example of what happens when cities put left-wing political agendas ahead of public safety. For years, D.C. leaders have followed the lead of sanctuary states like California and New York, choosing to shield illegal aliens from federal law instead of protecting American citizens.

    “Today, House Republicans voted to end D.C.’s sanctuary status and restore the rule of law in our nation’s capital. While Democrats continue to make clear they are the party that supports violent illegal aliens, MS-13 gang members, and property-destroying protests, Republicans are proud to stand with the overwhelming majority of Americans who support safe communities.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Approve Rescissions Package to Eliminate $9.4 Billion in Wasteful Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — Speaker Johnson released the following statement after House Republicans approved the Trump Administration’s rescissions request to cut $9.4 billion in wasteful spending identified by DOGE.

    “Under President Trump’s leadership, your taxpayer dollars are no longer being wasted. Instead, they are being directed toward priorities that truly benefit the American people.

    “Today’s House passage of this initial rescissions package marks a critical step toward a more responsible and transparent government that puts the interests of the American taxpayers first.

    “Thanks to DOGE’s work, this package eliminates $9.4 billion in unnecessary and wasteful spending at the State Department, USAID, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which funds politically biased media outlets like NPR and PBS. It is just one of the ways Republicans are codifying DOGE’s findings and putting taxpayer dollars to better use.

    “We had hoped our Democrat colleagues would join us in this effort to ensure every dollar spent by the federal government is used efficiently and effectively. Rather than expressing concern over the misuse and misspending of funds, Democrats have instead chosen to oppose these reforms simply because Republicans are leading the charge. While they defend the failed, toxic status quo, Republicans will continue to deliver real accountability and restore fiscal discipline.”

    Background:

    • The Trump Administration’s initial rescissions package totals $9.4 billion in wasteful and unnecessary spending identified by DOGE.
    • This package will codify DOGE cuts which include $8.3 billion in wasteful foreign aid spending and a $1.1 billion recission of federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which provides funds to NPR and PBS.

    Process:

    • Under the Impoundment Control Act (ICA), the Administration may transmit a request to Congress to rescind previously appropriated funds through a rescissions package. Such a package only requires a simple majority vote in the Senate to be enacted.
    • Transmittal of a package triggers a 45-day clock, during which funds in accounts included in the rescissions package are withheld from obligation pending congressional action.   
    • House Republicans voted to advance the rescissions package today and it has been sent to the Senate for consideration.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schweikert Reintroduces Forgotten Funds Act to Rescind Unused Federal Spending and Reduce Deficit

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ) reintroduced the Forgotten Funds Act, H.R.3785, legislation to rescind the available  unobligated discretionary balances in Executive Branch agencies.

    The bill targets a persistent issue across federal agencies: billions in taxpayer dollars are appropriated each year but never obligated, meaning the funds were not committed by contract or other legally binding agreements. According to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), federal agencies as of April 2025 had $1.42 trillion in available, unobligated discretionary funds, nearly triple the amount on record in FY2011 when Rep. Schweikert first introduced the bill, $703 billion.

    “We’re borrowing over $6 billion every day while over $1.4 trillion in borrowed federal funds sits idle. This is indefensible,” said Rep. David Schweikert. “The Forgotten Funds Act is about basic fiscal discipline. Untouched funding should be returned to the Treasury, not sitting in an account we’re paying interest on.”

    The bill specifically targets funds: available as of the current period, including those accumulated from previous years; unobligated, which means they have not been committed for a specific purpose; and discretionary, which exclude mandatory trust fund balances among others. Each year, Congress increases program funding, even while agencies fail to spend what they’ve already been given—creating a pattern of excess, inefficiency, and debt accumulation.

    “We’re on track to borrow $22 trillion over the next decade,” Rep. David Schweikert continued “Interest payments alone could consume 30% of all U.S. tax receipts within nine years. Every tenth of a percentage point increase in interest rates adds $300 billion in costs. If we don’t rein in reckless fiscal habits now, the bond markets will do it for us.”

    The Forgotten Funds Act is part of Rep. Schweikert’s broader efforts to curb government excess, reform federal budgeting, and safeguard America’s fiscal future.

    You can read the full bill text HERE.

    Back to News

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Delivers Opening Statement at Legislative Hearing on GOP College Sports Bill

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), a former Division I volleyball player, delivered the following opening statement at the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s hearing on partisan legislation that would roll back the rights of college athletes and hand massive giveaways to the NCAA and powerful conferences.
    “The SCORE Act uses the approval of the House settlement as justification to slam the door on future progress for college athletes. Proponents claim the system is broken, but the fact that three separate antitrust cases are being settled proves otherwise. We have a system where the NCAA, conferences, and their member institutions set rules. Athletes can challenge them. And if the rules are unfair, courts can intervene, or a deal can be struck. This bill rewrites that process to guarantee the people in power always win, and the athletes who fuel this multibillion-dollar industry always lose,” Congresswoman Trahan said.
    CLICK HERE or the image below to watch Trahan’s opening statement. A transcript is embedded below.

    —————————————-
    Congresswoman Lori Trahan
    Remarks as Delivered
    House Energy and Commerce Hearing on “Winning Off the Field: Legislative Proposal to Stabilize NIL and College Athletics”
    June 12, 2025
    I’m deeply disappointed for the second year in a row, Republicans on this Committee are advancing a partisan college sports bill that protects the power brokers of college athletics at the expense of the athletes themselves. This legislation was crafted behind closed doors, with no input from Democratic members of the Energy and Commerce Committee, the Judiciary Committee, or the Education and Workforce Committee.
    In fact, we didn’t see a draft of the bill until late last week – not because our Republican colleagues shared it with us, but because lobbyists and members of the media got it first. I’m a former D1 athlete, and I’m deeply, I care deeply about the future of college sports. So that when I asked the Chairman about the rumored hearing today, he said he’d be happy to discuss the proposal with me beforehand. Sadly, that meeting never happened.
    What makes this all the more frustrating is that there is bipartisan agreement on serious problems in college sports that deserve congressional action. International athletes are being denied the same NIL rights as their teammates. Women are being left out of roster spots due to Title IX loopholes.
    We could be working together on solutions. Instead, the SCORE Act uses the approval of the House settlement as justification to slam the door on future progress for college athletes.
    Proponents claim the system is broken, but the fact that three separate antitrust cases are being settled proves otherwise. We have a system where the NCAA, conferences, and their member institutions set rules. Athletes can challenge them. And if the rules are unfair, courts can intervene, or a deal can be struck.
    This bill rewrites that process to guarantee the people in power always win, and the athletes who fuel this multibillion-dollar industry always lose.
    I oppose the legislation as written, and I look forward to hearing from our witnesses, and I yield to Congresswoman Clark.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Washington Post Op-Ed, Pressley & Hamilton Reject “Trump Accounts,” Urge Congress to Embrace Baby Bonds to Close Wealth Gap

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    “Trump accounts fall drastically short of addressing the real hurdles Americans face.”

    “In a just nation, everyone should have the economic power and financial opportunity to build wealth and live the productive life they choose. That’s what baby bonds offer: real solutions to wealth inequality and real investments that can transform the future for millions of children.”

    WASHINGTON – In an op-ed published in the Washington Post, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and economist Darrick Hamilton discussed the regressive, ineffective “Trump Accounts” provision of Republicans’ reconciliation bill, outlined how Trump Accounts fall short of what is needed to close the wealth gap in America, and urged Congress to embrace Baby Bonds to advance economic justice.

    For over six years, Rep. Pressley and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), in partnership with Mr. Hamilton, have championed Baby Bonds, bicameral legislation to close the racial wealth gap, disrupt cycles of intergenerational poverty, and make economic opportunity a birthright for every child.

    The full text of the op-ed is available below and can be read on the Washington Post website here.

    Washington Post Op-Ed: ‘Trump accounts’ will save kids? Republicans can’t be serious.
    By Rep. Ayanna Pressley and Darrick Hamilton
    June 11, 2025

    In the United States, the wealthiest nation in the world, a child born into poverty is unlikely to ever climb out of it. Wealth inequality in this country has reached historic highs, with the top 10 percent of households holding 67 percent of the nation’s wealth, while the bottom 50 percent holds just 2.5 percent. This means that millions of children grow up lacking basic economic security.

    Now as much as ever, we need real investment in our children.

    The Republican reconciliation bill that recently passed the House does nothing to address our glaring wealth inequality. Not only does it slash Medicaid, food assistance and other essential programs for the more than 30 percent of Americans who can’t put together $400 for an emergency expense, but also tucked into this harmful bill are provisions that claim Americans can build wealth through “Trump accounts.” Under the GOP proposal, every child born in the next four years would receive a one-time $1,000 government contribution into a tax-free investment account, to which families may contribute up to $5,000 annually.

    But this is not a serious solution.

    Trump accounts fall drastically short of addressing the real hurdles Americans face. These accounts are built on the presumption that individuals lack the incentive to save. In fact, what they lack is disposable income. Anyone can lawfully open a savings account for their child, such as a 529 account for college, but most are not positioned to take advantage of such accounts. A 2016 Federal Reserve Bank study found that just 2.5 percent of all families had a 529 savings account — and among households in the bottom half of the income distribution, that number dropped to only 0.3 percent. Most are not positioned to take advantage of new savings accounts. And by restricting eligibility to children born in the next four years, the proposal makes clear it was never intended to truly confront generational poverty and the wealth gap.

    Trump accounts are structured to benefit primarily more affluent families — those who already have money to invest. For those struggling to put food on the table or afford a doctor’s visit, the choice isn’t between consumption and investment — it’s between groceries and medicine. Though many Americans could use real support — such as extra cash when a new baby arrives — the Republican bill moving through the Senate threatens to slash essential programs, leaving families worse off. And ironically, it contains no provision to protect low-income recipients from the “benefit cliff” — the asset limits that could disqualify them from essential services such as housing or income support once they reach adulthood.

    Contrast this with the legislative vision we’ve championed for more than six years: baby bonds.

    Known in Congress as the American Opportunity Accounts Act, the legislation to create baby bonds is rooted in the principle that every child, no matter their race, family income or birth circumstances, deserves a fair shot at building wealth and securing their future.

    Here’s how it works: Every child receives $1,000 at birth. But unlike Trump accounts, baby bonds don’t stop there. Children would continueto receive additional deposits from the government every year, progressivelyscaled to family income. These funds would grow over time in safe, federally managed investment accounts. At age 18, young adults could access their accounts to pay for allowable expenses, including homeownership, higher education or starting a business — the kind of human and financial capital investments that change life trajectories. Building wealth from birth this way is cost-effective — supercharging dollars through years of interest — and also disrupts the cycle of intergenerational poverty.

    Baby bonds also tackle the root problem of asset inequality — something the regressive tax structure of the Trump accounts does not fix. Rather than simply encouraging investment by those who already have the money, baby bonds seek to ensure that everyone has a meaningful stake in the economy and an opportunity to build financial stability and wealth.

    Baby bonds wouldn’t replace private investment — they would complement it by providing every young person with a baseline of security. They would create a public foundation of capital while still allowing private investment and individual agency. In doing so, they don’t displace the market but expand the pool of those who can benefit from it.

    There is also a deeper issue at play. Trump accounts amount to a government subsidy for asset managers — another tax-advantaged inflow into the financial services industry. In effect, they are a backdoor giveaway to Wall Street, wrapped in the rhetoric of economic populism.

    Our country has a long history of wealth-building programs that expanded opportunity — from the Homestead Act to the GI Bill, which led to the greatest expansion of the middle class in U.S. history. But too often, those benefits were not accessible to all Americans, especially Black Americans and Native Americans, from whom much of the land seeded in the Homestead Act was taken, often violently. We now have the chance to design a 21st-century wealth-building initiative that is inclusive, equitable and grounded in sound economic theory and evidence.

    We vehemently oppose the Republican budget reconciliation bill and urge the Senate to halt this attack on Medicaid, food assistance and more. In a just nation, everyone should have the economic power and financial opportunity to build wealth and live the productive life they choose. That’s what baby bonds offer: real solutions to wealth inequality and real investments that can transform the future for millions of children.

    Darrick Hamilton is chief economist at the AFL-CIO and director of the Institute on Race, Power and Political Economy at the New School. Ayanna Pressley, a Democrat, represents Massachusetts’s 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation nets 10-year sentence for leader of drug trafficking organization

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — A Massachusetts man was sentenced June 2 in federal court in Boston after a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation into his role leading a large-scale drug trafficking organization found he distributed fentanyl sourced from Latin America.

    Jonathan Melendez Decatro, aka “Jacha,” 32, of Braintree, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release. In January 2025, Melendez Decatro pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. Melendez Decatro was indicted in June 2023.  

    In 2019, Melendez Decatro was identified as the leader of a large-scale DTO operating in the Brockton area, who sourced narcotics directly from Colombia, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. On two dates in 2021, packages intended for Melendez Decatro were intercepted by law enforcement and each found to contain a kilogram of cocaine. Additionally, on several dates in the spring of 2023, Melendez Decatro conspired with an individual who resided in the Dominican Republic to distribute 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl to another individual in Braintree. It was later determined that the purity of the fentanyl ranged from 54% to 79% and also contained xylazine. During of search of Melendez Decatro’s residence, over $11,000 in drug proceeds and clothing worn during the fentanyl transactions were recovered.

    The investigation was led by the ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England Strike Force with the Massachusetts State Police, the FBI Boston Division, and the DEA New England Field Division. Valuable assistance was provided by DEA Bogota, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Brockton Police.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lynn Woman Sentenced to More Than One Year in Prison for Coercing and Enticing Two Victims to Engage In Prostitution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Lynn woman was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for sex trafficking.

    Latasha Anderson, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to 20 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In March 2025, Latasha Anderson pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement. Latasha Anderson was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2023, along with her co-defendants Jermall Anderson and Jennifer Fortier.

    From 2012 through 2016, Latasha Anderson, along with her co-conspirators and at the direction of Jermall Anderson, used threats and the giving and withholding of heroin and cocaine to force two different victims to prostitute on their behalf. Jermall Anderson’s wide-ranging sex trafficking operation targeted vulnerable victims, specifically those struggling with drug addiction, homelessness and lack of economic resources and coerced them into providing commercial sex for the defendants’ benefit. Latasha Anderson coerced and enticed these victims to engage in prostitution throughout New England, New York and New Jersey.  

    In March 2025, Jermall Anderson was sentenced to 15 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In March 2025, Fortier was sentenced to 58 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

    Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the HSI Office in New Haven, Conn., the Lynn and Tewksbury Police Departments (Mass.) and the Hampden (Conn.) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Hassink of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Atrium Mortgage Investment Corporation Announces $30 Million Public Offering of Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

    TORONTO, June 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Atrium Mortgage Investment Corporation (TSX:AI, AI.DB.D, AI.DB.F and AI.DB.G) (“Atrium”) announced today that it has entered into an agreement with a syndicate of underwriters bookrun by TD Securities Inc. and RBC Capital Markets, pursuant to which the underwriters will purchase $30 million aggregate principal amount of 6.00% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures of Atrium due September 30, 2032 at a price of $1,000 per debenture. Atrium has also granted to the underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase up to an additional $4,500,000 aggregate principal amount of debentures at the same price, exercisable in whole or in part at any time for a period of up to 30 days following closing of the offering, to cover over-allotments. If the over-allotment option is exercised in full, the gross proceeds of the offering will total $34,500,000.

    Atrium will use the net proceeds of the offering to repay existing indebtedness under its revolving operating credit facility, which will then be available to be drawn, as required, for general corporate purposes, particularly funding future mortgage loan opportunities.

    The offering of debentures is expected to close on or about June 30, 2025 and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

    The debentures will mature on September 30, 2032 and will accrue interest at the rate of 6.00% per annum payable semi-annually in arrears on March 31 and September 30 in each year, commencing March 31, 2026. At the holder’s option, the debentures may be converted into common shares of Atrium at any time prior to the close of business on the earlier of the business day immediately preceding the maturity date and the business day immediately preceding the date fixed for redemption of the debentures. The conversion price will be $13.65 for each common share, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.

    The debentures will be direct, unsecured obligations of Atrium, subordinated to other senior indebtedness of Atrium, ranking pari-passu to Atrium’s existing 5.50% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures due December 31, 2025, 5.00% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures due December 31, 2028, and 5.10% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures due March 31, 2029.

    The debentures will not be redeemable before September 30, 2028. On and after September 30, 2028 and prior to September 30, 2030, the debentures may be redeemed, in whole or in part, from time to time at Atrium’s option at par plus accrued and unpaid interest, provided that the weighted average trading price of the common shares of Atrium on the Toronto Stock Exchange during the 20 consecutive trading days ending on the fifth trading day preceding the date on which notice of the redemption is given is not less than 125% of the conversion price. On and after September 30, 2030, Atrium may, at its option, redeem the debentures, in whole or in part, from time to time at par plus accrued and unpaid interest.

    Subject to specified conditions, Atrium will have the right to repay the outstanding principal amount of the debentures, on maturity or redemption, through the issuance of its common shares. Atrium will also have the option to satisfy its obligation to pay interest through the issuance and sale of its common shares.

    On or before June 18, 2025, the Company will file with the securities commissions or other similar regulatory authorities in each of the provinces of Canada (excluding Quebec), a preliminary short form prospectus relating to the issuance of the debentures. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The securities being offered have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States unless an exemption from registration is available. This news release is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of Atrium in any jurisdiction.

    About Atrium

    Canada’s Premier Non-Bank Lender™

    Atrium is a non-bank provider of residential and commercial mortgages that lends in major urban centres in Canada where the stability and liquidity of real estate are high. Atrium’s objectives are to provide its shareholders with stable and secure dividends and preserve shareholders’ equity by lending within conservative risk parameters.

    Atrium is a Mortgage Investment Corporation (MIC) as defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada), so is not taxed on income provided that its taxable income is paid to its shareholders in the form of dividends within 90 days after December 31 each year. Such dividends are generally treated by shareholders as interest income, so that each shareholder is in the same position as if the mortgage investments made by the company had been made directly by the shareholder. For further information, please refer to regulatory filings available at www.sedarplus.ca or Atrium’s website at www.atriummic.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements. Much of this information can be identified by words such as “expect to,” “expected,” “will,” “estimated” or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events and includes the expected use of proceeds and the expected closing date of the offering. Atrium believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon.

    Forward-looking statements are based on current information and expectations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated. These risks include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the ability to satisfy regulatory, stock exchange and commercial closing conditions of the offering, the uncertainty associated with accessing capital markets and the risks related to Atrium’s business, including those identified in Atrium’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024 under the heading “Risk Factors” (a copy of which may be obtained at www.sedarplus.ca). Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and are subject to change. All forward-looking statements in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Except as required by applicable law, Atrium undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    For further information, please contact

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Alsobrooks Urge Army to Take Action to Keep Outdoor Recreation Sites Open

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the first day of summer approaches, recreation sites across the country managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) face reduced hours or full closures due to a U.S. Department of Defense hiring freeze. The freeze was signed on February 28 and restricts the Army Corps from hiring the seasonal staff needed to safely manage boat ramps, campgrounds, and swimming areas. The Army Corps has requested Secretary Driscoll use his waiver authority to allow seasonal hires. Without it, Army Corps recreation sites will be closed or have reduced access at the time they are used the most. 

    U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, sent a letter to Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll and Commanding General of the Army Corps Lt. Gen. William H. “Butch” Graham highlighting the need for immediate action to address the staffing shortfalls. Specifically, it urges the Army to approve a waiver request from the Army Corps allowing it to bring on seasonal workers. Under current policy, the Secretary of Defense has authorized Service Secretaries to grant waivers for positions essential to public safety.

    “Every year, outdoor recreation contributes more than $1 trillion to the economy and supports over 5 million jobs,” the senators wrote. “Limiting access to Army Corps recreation sites hampers this economic engine and has adverse impacts on communities who depend on the reliable summer influx of visitors. However, this is about much more than merely the economic implications. Outdoor recreation is a way for people to engage with nature, spend quality-time with family, and boost their physical and mental health.”

    If the waiver authority is not utilized, several Army Corps managed recreation areas in North Dakota will be partially or fully closed for the summer season due to staffing shortages. This includes the East Totten Trail and Wolf Creek at Lake Sakakawea, Beaver Creek and Hazelton at Lake Oahe, and East Astabulta Crossing, Eggerts Landing, and West Ashtabula Crossing at Lake Asthabula.

    Click here for the letter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Leader Schumer, Wyden, Merkley Release Data Detailing Hundreds of Rural Hospitals Across U.S. at Risk Due to Republican Health Care Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Over 300 Rural Hospitals at Disproportionate Risk of Closure, Conversion, or Service Reductions
    Lawmakers Also Provided Data to President Trump, Leader Thune, and Speaker Johnson in Letter
    Letter and Data | Sheps Response
    Washington (June 12, 2025) – Following House Republicans’ passage of a bill that would impose the largest cuts to health care in U.S. history, slashing funding for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act by more than $1 trillion and triggering more than $500 billion in Medicare cuts, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y), Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Budget Committee, released detailed data from the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill concluding that Republican health care cuts could place over 300 rural hospitals across the U.S. at disproportionate risk of closure, conversion, or service reductions. The data is based on financial indicators including: share of Medicaid patients served, previous years of negative total margins, and data modeling on future financial distress.
    The lawmakers also sent the data in a letter to President Trump, Leader John Thune, and Speaker Mike Johnson, writing, “Addressing the crisis in rural health care access is a national, bipartisan priority, and it should be bipartisan to not worsen that crisis. However, if your party passes these health care cuts into law, Americans in rural communities across the country risk losing health care services and jobs supported by their local hospitals. We urge you to read the attached report and reconsider your position. It is not too late to stop these cuts. Billionaire tax breaks are not worth the cost to American lives and livelihoods.”
    The response from the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill states, “Substantial cuts to Medicaid or Medicare payments could increase the number of unprofitable rural hospitals and elevate their risk of financial distress. In response, hospitals may be forced to reduce service lines, convert to a different type of health care facility, or close altogether.” The data shows the following regarding at-risk rural hospitals:
    Over 338 rural hospitals are at particular risk of closure, conversion, or service reduction from substantial health care cuts because the hospitals either take a high relative share of Medicaid patients, or have experienced 3 years of negative total margins, or both. This includes 33 hospitals in Louisiana, 35 hospitals in Kentucky, and 21 hospitals in Oklahoma.
    In Alaska, 4 rural hospitals – more than 40 percent of rural hospitals with available data – serve high concentrations of Medicaid patients.
    In West Virginia, nearly a quarter of rural hospitals are serving high concentrations of Medicaid patients, and 15 percent of rural hospitals are at the highest relative risk of financial distress.
    In Alabama, 8 rural hospitals – nearly 20 percent of rural hospitals with available data – are in the highest relative risk category of financial distress.
    In Tennessee, 9 rural hospitals – or 18 percent of rural hospitals in the state with available data – have experienced 3 years of negative total margins, and 9 rural hospitals are at highest relative risk of financial distress.
    In the face of these Republican cuts, a majority of adults living in rural areas are concerned that health care cuts will “negatively impact hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care providers in [their] community.” Rural hospitals are struggling; in 2023, there were 50 fewer rural hospitals than in 2017, and a lack of health care access in rural America is contributing to worse health outcomes. Faced with additional cuts to their revenue, many rural hospitals may be forced to stop providing certain services, including obstetric, mental health, and emergency room care, convert to clinics or standalone emergency centers, or close altogether. Rural hospitals are often the largest employers in rural communities, and when a rural hospital closes or scales back their services, communities are not only forced to grapple with losing access to health care, but also with job loss and the resulting financial insecurity.
    “If Republicans plan to pass drastic cuts to Medicaid and Medicare and effectively repeal the Affordable Care Act, communities should know exactly what they stand to lose,” said Senator Markey. “These health care cuts won’t just kick millions off their insurance. These cuts will plunge hospitals across the country into financial chaos, and as this data demonstrates, hundreds of rural hospitals across the country may be forced to stop providing care, limit their services, or close altogether. If hospitals close, many rural communities will lose the biggest employer they have. Seniors, the disabled, and pregnant people will have to travel farther to access care. Families will lose access to care. People will die. The more information we have about this bill, the worse it seems. No life or job is worth a yes vote on this big billionaire bill. We must make sure every American can see how Republicans are willing to pay for billionaire tax breaks with people’s lives, and we must defeat this ugly bill.”
    “As this report proves, the Republicans’ ‘Big, Ugly Betrayal’ is a matter of life and death for millions of Americans. The cruel and far-reaching cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act are putting hundreds of rural hospitals at risk of closure, limiting services, or mass layoffs,” said Leader Schumer. “Rural Americans already face more obstacles to getting healthcare and many are the lifeblood and major employers of their communities, all of which Republicans are risking to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.”
    “As I hold town hall meetings in each of Oregon’s 36 counties, I frequently hear about struggles folks have in accessing health care in their communities. This isn’t a red state or blue state issue. Medicaid helps every state – especially rural communities,” said Senator Merkley. “More than 300 rural hospitals will be at risk of shutting down – in Oregon and across the country – if Republicans betray middle class families and make these drastic cuts to Medicaid, all so that billionaires can pay less in taxes. This is the Republican plan: families lose, and billionaires win.”
    The lawmakers sent a letter to the Sheps Center director on June 4, 2025, requesting the Center’s expert analysis of how this bill will impact rural hospitals and the communities they serve, particularly inquiring about which rural hospitals in the country treat the highest share of Medicaid recipients; how many rural hospitals are currently in financial distress or at risk of closure; and if the health care cuts in the House-passed budget reconciliation bill were to become law, would the rural hospitals with the highest share of Medicaid recipients or that are currently in financial distress face risk of closure or have to reduce services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New investigations begin for long-term solution on Taylor Bridge

    As part of the development of a long-term solution for the future of Taylor Bridge on Highway 97, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit is conducting geotechnical investigations on the north and south banks of Peace River near the bridge.

    The work involves drilling cylindrical, steel piles into the ground and installing specialized monitoring instrumentation to gather critical geotechnical data. This information will inform the engineering requirements for the load capacity of future piles.

    The contract for the delivery of pile-load tests is awarded to Hanna Infrastructure Ltd. at $3.6 million. Equipment is mobilizing to the sites, with the pile-load tests to be completed by August 2025.

    Minimal traffic impacts are expected during the work. Some visual and noise impacts can be expected, with works occurring during daylight hours.

    Taylor Bridge serves approximately 7,500 crossings of Peace River every day, with 30% being commercial-vehicle traffic. The bridge is an important connection in the provincial and national economies, with 20% of the province’s over-weight and over-width traffic travelling through the Peace region. The bridge is maintained for safety with ongoing maintenance throughout the year.

    Learn More:

    Updates about the project are available here: https://gov.bc.ca/taylorbridgecrossing

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Celebrates Signing of Resolutions to Repeal California’s Extreme Vehicle Mandates Into Law

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) joined President Trump at the White House for the signing of three Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions that block California’s sweeping vehicle emissions mandates from taking effect nationwide. The signing marks the successful conclusion of a major legislative effort backed by LaMalfa in the House.

    “I was honored to be at the White House today as President Trump signed these critical resolutions I helped lead into law,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “California’s extreme vehicle mandates would have made it harder and more expensive for Americans to buy the cars and trucks they need, whether they live in California or not. These rules were designed to go national and force consumers, truckers, and most industries into costly electric vehicles with fewer options. These new laws are a major win for anyone who relies on a vehicle to get to work, run a business, or support their family.  With his signature President Trump permanently stopped some of California’s most ridiculous rules.”

    Congressman LaMalfa co-led the resolutions with Representatives John Joyce (R-PA), John James (R-MI), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA). The Senate passed the resolutions earlier this month, sending them to the president’s desk.

    Background

    Under the Clean Air Act, states are generally prohibited from setting their own tailpipe emission standards for cars and trucks. However, California has a unique exemption, which allows the state to establish its own emissions regulations if it submits a waiver to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and receives approval. Once granted, these California standards can also be adopted by other states. Currently, about a dozen states follow California’s emissions policies, effectively turning the state’s regulations into a nationwide mandate.

    The Biden administration approved several controversial waivers requested by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), allowing the state to impose extreme emissions rules that impact car and truck costs and availability across the country. These include:

    • Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC2) – Approved in December 2024, this regulation mandates that 35% of new car sales be zero-emission by 2026, increasing to 100% by 2035. At least 12 states have already adopted ACC2. Failure to meet this goal means a maximum penalty of up to $25,000 per non-compliant gas-powered vehicle sold to consumers.
    • Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) – Approved in March 2023, this regulation forces truck manufacturers and retailers to meet strict zero-emission quotas by 2035, including 55% of Class 2B-3 truck sales, 75% of Class 4-8 straight truck sales, and 40% of truck tractor sales. At least 11 states have adopted ACT.
    • Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions Rule – Approved in December 2024, this regulation imposes aggressive emissions reductions on medium- and heavy-duty truck and other engines, requiring NOx emissions to be cut by 75% below current standards for Model Year 2024-2026 compared to 2010 levels and particulate matter emissions to be cut by 50%.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

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    MIL OSI USA News –