NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI China: 192 migrants deported from U.S. return to Venezuela

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

    A flight carrying 192 Venezuelan migrants deported from the United States arrived Friday at the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, which serves the capital Caracas area, the Ministry of Interior, Justice and Peace reported.

    According to a press release, the flight, operated by a U.S.-registered aircraft, carried 156 men, 26 women, and 10 minors.

    The returned migrants were attended to under established medical, legal, and social protocols.

    Since February, Venezuela has been receiving two to three flights per week of individuals deported by U.S. authorities, including those relocated from Mexico and Honduras.

    So far in 2025, a total of 5,475 deported migrants have been processed under the government’s Plan Vuelta a la Patria, designed to facilitate their return, official figures indicate. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 6.4-magnitude earthquake strikes northern Chile, causes power outages

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

    An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 struck northern Chile on Friday, causing power outages in several areas but no immediate reports of casualties, local authorities said.

    According to the National Seismological Center of the University of Chile, the quake occurred at 1:15 p.m. local time (1715 GMT), 54 kilometers south of Diego de Almagro in the northern region of Atacama, about 950 kilometers north of Santiago.

    The earthquake struck at a depth of 65 kilometers and was felt in nearby towns.

    Local media reported electricity outages in affected areas, and officials said a more detailed assessment would be released later in the day.

    Chile’s Navy Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service ruled out any tsunami risk.

    The National Disaster Prevention and Response System is continuing to assess potential damage to people, infrastructure, and essential services.

    Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Chile is one of the most seismically active countries in the world. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Lauds Texas Space Provisions Included in Senate’s One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement praising the inclusion of a Cornyn-led space provision, the Mission to Modernize Astronautic Resources (MARS) for Space Act, as well as funding for National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Artemis program and resources to support the International Space Station (ISS) in the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation’s legislative text to be included in the Senate version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

    “Texas has long been a leader in space exploration and innovation, and I am glad my provision to bolster Johnson Space Center’s infrastructure has been included in the Senate’s One Big Beautiful Bill,” said Sen Cornyn. “My initiative will help ensure NASA has the research, equipment, and modernized facilities needed to send Americans to Mars and beyond, and I urge my Senate colleagues to advance this part of our One Big Beautiful Bill.”

    Background:

    Yesterday, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation released its legislative text to be included in the Senate’s version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The legislation includes the Mission to Modernize Astronautic Resources (MARS) for Space Act, which was introduced by Sen. Cornyn.

    The Mission to MARS Act, introduced by Sen. Cornyn in May, would improve and modernize JSC’s infrastructure to prepare NASA for human missions to the moon and Mars by preparing the Neutral Buoyancy Lab for commercial space station training, lunar-suited operations, and collaborations with the Department of Defense; upgrading and repairing the Astromaterials Curation and Research facility for samples from the moon and Mars; modernizing the Mission Control Center to prepare for crewed missions beyond low-Earth orbit; improving Ellington Field astronaut flight training facilities; constructing the space food systems laboratory; and refurbishing astronaut training aircraft.

    Sen. Cornyn continues to support resources for the Artemis program and the ISS to keep the United States and Texas as a world leader in human space exploration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: August Egg Company Recalls Shell Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 06, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 06, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Salmonella

    Company Name:
    August Egg Company
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Multiple brand names

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Brown cage free and brown certified organic eggs

    Company Announcement
    August Egg Company of Hilmar, CA is recalling 1,700,000 dozen brown cage free and brown certified organic eggs, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
    The eggs were distributed from February 3, 2025, through May 15, 2025, with sell by dates from March 4, 2025, to June 4, 2025, within California and Nevada. The eggs were distributed at retail locations including Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less and Ralphs.
    The eggs were also distributed from February 3, 2025, through May 6, 2025, with sell by dates from March 4, 2025, to June 19, 2025, to Walmart locations in California, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, Wyoming, New Mexico, Nebraska, Indiana and Illinois.
    The recalled eggs will have printed on the carton or package a plant code number P-6562 or CA5330 with the Julian Dates between 32 to 126. The recalled retail eggs will be in fiber or plastic cartons, with the above codes printed on one side of the carton. (See photo following for Julian date location.)

    Item Name
    Plant Number
    Carton UPC

    Clover Organic Large Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    070852010427

    First Street Cage Free Large Brown Loose 1 case=150 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    041512039638

    Nulaid Medium Brown Cage Free 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    071230021042

    Nulaid Jumbo Brown Cage Free 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    071230021011

    O Organics Cage Free Large Brown 6 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    079893401522

    O Organics Large Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    079893401508

    O Organics Large Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    079893401546

    Marketside Organic Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    681131122771

    Marketside Organic Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    681131122801

    Marketside Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    681131122764

    Marketside Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    681131122795

    Raley’s Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    046567033310

    Raley’s Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    046567040325

    Raley’s Organic Large Cage Free Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    046567028798

    Raley’s Organic Large Cage Free Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    046567040295

    Simple Truth Medium Brown Cage Free 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    011110099327

    Simple Truth Large Brown Cage Free 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    011110873743

    Sun Harvest Organic Cage Free Large Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    041512131950

    Sun Harvest Organic Cage Free Large Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    041512131950

    Sunnyside Large Brown Cage Free 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    717544211747

    Sunnyside Large Brown Cage Free 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    717544211754

    Sunnyside Organic Cage Free Large Brown 12 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    717544201441

    Sunnyside Organic Cage Free Large Brown 18 eggs
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    717544211761

    Loose Small Brown Cage Free-1 box= 6 flats (1 flat= 30 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    Loose Medium Brown Cage Free -1 box= 6 flats (1 flat= 30 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    Loose Medium Brown Organic -1 box= 6 flats (1 flat= 30 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    Loose Large Brown Organic-1 box= 6 flats (1 flat= 30 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    Loose Jumbo Brown Cage Free -1 box=5 flats(1 flat=20 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    Loose Jumbo Brown Organic -1 box=5 flats(1 flat=20 eggs)
    P-6562 or CA-5330
    NA

    This recall is associated with an ongoing outbreak investigation of Salmonella Enteritidis illnesses. Products were distributed in AZ, CA, IL, IN, NE, NM, NV, WA and WY.
    August Egg Company is not selling fresh shell eggs at this time. Our firm has voluntarily been diverting eggs to an egg-breaking plant for over 30 days, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any potential foodborne pathogens.
    Consumers who may have eggs produced in this plant, as identified by the plant code on one side of the egg carton, should return it to their place of purchase for a full refund. Further questions may be directed to the company at 1-800-710-2554, between 9am and 5pm PT.
    ######
    Additional Comments from August Egg Company:
    “August Egg Company of Hilmar, CA is voluntarily recalling 1,700,000 dozen shell eggs processed at our California plant and sold to various grocery customers. This recall has been initiated due to possible Salmonella enteritidis contamination, which poses a health risk. With that in mind, we believe it is appropriate out of an abundance of caution to conduct this voluntary recall, as consumers may still have these eggs in their homes.
    “It is important to know that when our processing plant identified this concern, we immediately began diverting all eggs from the plant to an egg-breaking facility, which pasteurizes the eggs and kills any pathogens.
    “August Egg Company’s internal food safety team also is conducting its own stringent review to identify what measures can be established to prevent this situation from recurring. We are committed to addressing this matter fully and to implementing all necessary corrective actions to ensure this does not happen again.”

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Customer Service
    800-710-2554

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: MAGA Minute, June 6, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    THE TRUMP EFFECT IS REAL

    139K Jobs
    $2.8T Deficit Cut via Tariffs
    Trade Deficit Halved
    FOP Backs Trump’s Bill
    Egg Prices Down 61%
    ICE’s Largest Operation
    Army Hits Goal
    13M Acres for Drilling
    Calls with Putin & Xi
    $9.4B DOGE Cuts Proposed

    Watch Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s MAGA Minute!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndbLXKxwzmQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Return to the United States

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

    June 06, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump Administration has returned Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States to face trial, after wrongfully deporting him to El Salvador.

    In a statement Rep. Frost says:

    “The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear — everyone in this country is entitled to due process. Kilmar Abrego Garcia was denied that right when the Trump Administration unlawfully deported him, stripping him of the chance to defend himself in court.

    “When I traveled to El Salvador, I did so to stand up for the basic rights and civil liberties that every person in our country should be guaranteed — regardless of citizenship or immigration status. These rights are not conditional. They are not optional. And they are not subject to the whims of any president, past or present.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Tim Scott Statement on Senate Republicans Meeting with President Donald Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — Yesterday, at the conclusion of the meeting of Senate Republicans with President Trump, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement:
    “One thing was clear from the discussion: Senate Republicans and President Trump are united and dedicated to delivering on the promises made to the American people,” said Senator Scott. “We are working diligently to ensure we pass legislation that will lead to a stronger and more prosperous America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Tim Scott Introduces Legislation to Enhance Employer-Provided Healthcare Options

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) introduced the Employee Access to Worksite Health Services Act to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability for American workers. 

    The bill would address an existing provision in the Internal Revenue Code Section 223 that unintentionally disincentivizes employer-sponsored health clinics. Specifically, the bill ensures that employees who utilize services provided through worksite health clinics will not be deemed ineligible to contribute pretax dollars to their HSAs. Additionally, the bill broadens the scope of services offered through these clinics to ensure compliance and expand healthcare options for employees.

    “Empowering employers to provide accessible and comprehensive health services directly at the worksite is a win for workers and businesses alike,” said Senator Scott.“This legislation takes important steps to remove barriers that limit innovative healthcare solutions and supports healthier, more productive communities.”

    The proposed legislation is expected to have a transformative impact on health access, benefiting employees in numerous municipalities and companies across the manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, and food processing sectors. 

    “The Corporate Health Care Coalition (CHCC) supports the Employee Access to Worksite Health Clinics Act, which amends the tax code to encourage employees to access the care they need when they need it at worksite health clinics without added costs. CHCC member companies strive to provide innovative health care solutions for their employees, and worksite health clinics are one of many tools employers use to promote employee wellness by increasing access to preventive and primary care services at the worksite. Worksite health clinics are critical to ensuring a healthy workforce, and CHCC applauds Senator Tim Scott for introducing this important legislation to improve access to health care for millions of employees nationwide,” said Kate Hull, Executive Director, Corporate Health Care Coalition.

    “Employers recognize the immense value and cost savings of providing primary care to their employees. Many make this care as accessible as possible for their workforce through near- or on-site clinics that deliver affordable primary and preventive care that is responsive to employee needs. PBGH supports the reintroduction of legislation by Senator Scott that would parallel this commitment, allowing employees with HSAs to receive high-value primary care from these clinics,” said Elizabeth Mitchell, President and CEO, Purchaser Business Group on Health. 

    Full text of the bill can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $18.9 million in Hurricanes Laura, Ida, wildfire aid and generator funding for Louisiana

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $18,901,177 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for Louisiana.

    “In the face of hurricanes and wildfires, Louisiana communities prove time and time again that they are the toughest and hardest working out there. This $18.9 million will help our state with the heavy costs of emergency response, mitigation efforts and crucial repairs and replacements,” said Kennedy. 

    The FEMA aid will fund the following:

    • $4,478,132 to the Office of Risk Management for the installation of five permanent generators.
    • $3,486,987 to the St. Nicholas Center for Children in Lake Charles, La. to replace its main building due to Hurricane Laura damage.
    • $3,436,062 to the city of Sulphur, La. to repair its wastewater treatment plant generator system and transfer switch due to Hurricane Laura damage.
    • $2,712,733 to the South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association to replace its Houma, La. office building due to severe Hurricane Ida damage. 
    • $1,323,641 to the South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association for the digitization of Hurricane Ida-damaged documents and additional costs.
    • $1,129,735 to the New Providence Baptist Church for repairs to its main building due to Hurricane Laura damage.
    • $1,068,910 to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety for fire suppression operations taken during the Tiger Island Fire.
    • $1,041,070 to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport for repairs to its east terminal facilities, concourse B and its east terminal-adjacent rental car center due to Hurricane Ida damage. 
    • $223,907 to the Office of Risk Management for management costs associated with generator installation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister McGuinty concludes productive first visit to Europe for Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting and NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 6, 2025 – Brussels, Belgium – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, concluded a productive visit to Brussels, Belgium, where he participated in the 28th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting and a meeting of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers. This visit marks Minister McGuinty’s first trip to Europe since he was appointed Minister of National Defence.

    During the UDCG meeting, the Minister announced that Canada is providing over $35 million in military assistance to Ukraine, including:

    • $30 million for Coyote and Bison armoured vehicles, accompanied by new equipment and ammunition supplied by Canadian companies.  This donation complements Canada’s previous donation of 64 Coyote armoured vehicles that arrived in Ukraine in December 2024.
    • $5 million for electronic warfare anti-jammer kits from Canada’s defence industry.

    This military assistance is from existing funds identified in Budget 2024 funding in support of the Canada-Ukraine Strategic Security Partnership

    Minister McGuinty also shared with partners updates on advanced pilot training for Ukrainian pilots underway in Canada. Canada has taken over leadership of the fighter-lead-in-training (FLIT) element of the UDCG Air Force Capability Coalition (AFCC). This $389 million investment over five years includes F-16 pilot training for Ukrainian personnel, critical airfield equipment, and other support to Ukrainian air bases and fleets—all provided by Canadian industry.

    On June 5, Minister McGuinty participated in a meeting of NATO Defence Ministers ahead of the NATO Leaders’ Summit in the Netherlands. This meeting reaffirmed Allies’ commitment to NATO and discussed common defence priorities, including strengthening the Alliance’s deterrence and defence efforts and supporting Ukraine. During the meeting, the Minister reinforced Canada’s commitment to accelerating defence spending and working with NATO Allies and international partners to meet shared security commitments.

    While in Brussels, Minister McGuinty met with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte. He also held a number of productive bilateral engagements with Ministers from France, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Latvia, and Ukraine, as well as representatives from the European Union. Minister McGuinty participated in a 3+3 dialogue with Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and Finland. The Minister discussed with his counterparts how Canada can deepen its defence relations and work more closely on the Alliance’s deterrence and defence posture, and support Ukraine.

    During the NATO meeting, Canada signed an agreement to join the NATO Flight Training Europe initiative (NFTE) which is a network of campuses that offer pilot and aircrew training. Participation will allow the RCAF to leverage allied training capacity, providing opportunity to augment RCAF aircrew training when needed. Participation will also offer the opportunity for the RCAF to provide any excess training to allies. Canada’s participation will enhance allied training efforts increasing NATO’s deterrence.

    During this important moment for Euro-Atlantic security, Canada continues to work closely with NATO Allies and international partners. The coordination between Allies ensures the Alliance remains innovative, flexible, and adaptable in the face of current and future security threats.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Church & Dwight Co., Inc. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs Due to Microbial Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 06, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 06, 2025
    Product Type:
    Drugs
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Microbial contamination

    Company Name:
    Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Zicam® and Orajel™

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Nasal AllClear Swabs, Baby Teething Swabs

    Company Announcement
    Church & Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level. The products are being recalled due to potential microbial contamination identified as fungi in cotton swab components. Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries. The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. To date, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported. 
    The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.
    Recalled Product Information

    Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, with UPC 732216301205, all lots: A zinc-free, homeopathic cold remedy swab designed to shorten the duration of the common cold.
    Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, with UPC 732216301656, all lots: A nasal cleansing swab product (discontinued in December 2024).
    Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs, with UPC 310310400002, all lots: Pre-moistened swabs designed to soothe teething discomfort in infants and toddlers.

    What Consumers Should Do
    Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should stop using the product immediately. Please visit www.churchdwightrecall.com or call its Consumer Relations team at (800) 981-4710 for a full refund. Any additional questions can also be directed to its Consumer Relations team Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm ET.
    Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax. 
    Complete and submit the report Online
    Regular Mail or Fax: Download form or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
    This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
    This recall is limited exclusively to Zicam and Orajel swab products. All other Zicam and Orajel products, including Zicam RapidMelts, are not affected by this recall. 
    About Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
    Church & Dwight Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of consumer household and personal care products. For more information, visit www.churchdwight.com.
    Media Contact:Keith Walshkeith.walsh@edelman.com

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Consumer Relations Team
    (800) 981-4710

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    06/06/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Glenn Ivey Provides Statement on Return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to United States

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) provided the following statement on the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States.:

    “President Trump and his Administration defied the Supreme Court and misled the American people for months, saying they could not bring Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States under any circumstances, knowing that they had the power to do so all along. I went to El Salvador and advocated for Kilmar’s return because he was entitled to due process under our constitution. Kilmar will now get his day in court. I hope he receives the fair trial that he is guaranteed. “

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MYTHBUSTER: There’s No “Pork” in the One Big Beautiful Bill — Only Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    class=”wp-block-heading”>“I’ve heard there’s ‘pork’ in the One Big Beautiful Bill.”
    You heard wrong — and nobody puts it better than White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, who confronted that lie head-on during an interview with Charlie Kirk.
    “There’s no pork in the bill. The bill has been public for weeks. Every single provision is just one campaign pledge, one promise, one campaign vow after another. The ONLY new spending in the bill is to secure the homeland of the United States and save American sovereignty — fully paid for, by the way, by increased visa fees on foreigners. […]
    The 2017 Trump Tax Cuts were rightly hailed as one of the conservative movement’s great victories. How much greater would we say that victory was if it also included full funding for the border wall? What if it also included full funding for deportation? What if it also defunded transgender surgeries nationwide? What if it also had the first-ever endowment tax on America’s corrupt institutions of higher learning? What if that bill also had No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, No Tax on Social Security? What if that bill also created the strongest framework for energy deregulation in American history? What if that bill also created the first-ever system for the Department of Defense to be involved in the defense of our southern border? In other words, one policy went after another — plus the tax cuts. Nothing like this has ever been done before in the history of the conservative movement. This bill is electric. […]
    A rational person should be able to say, ‘Wow, it is amazing this bill accomplishes the full tax agenda, the full border agenda, the full immigration agenda, the full energy agenda, large portions of the trans and de-woke-ifying agenda, large portions of the higher ed agenda, also cancels the Green New Deal, also cancels the student loan bailout, also has the largest welfare reform in history. You can acknowledge all that — and then if you want to be an even greater fiscal hawk, say, ‘But I’d like to cut more!’ But to pretend this bill includes pork — there’s no pork in the bill. It’s been public for weeks, and the only provisions you will find in the bill are campaign promises.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Statement Condemning Trump Admin’s ICE Raids Across Los Angeles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
    LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, issued the following statement after the Trump Administration’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a series of sudden immigration raids across Los Angeles, stoking fear and chaos throughout the region:
    “The ICE raids across Los Angeles today are a continuation of a disturbing pattern of extreme and cruel immigration enforcement operations across the country. These indiscriminate raids prove once again that the Trump administration cares about nothing but instilling harm and fear in our communities to drive immigrants into the shadows. It will not work. This fearmongering is not going to change the fact that immigrants are valued members of our communities who contribute to our society and economy, and my office will demand accountability for today’s actions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Statement on Bipartisan Push to Protect Job Corps

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
     Friday, June 6, 2025

    Fernanda Nunez-Cazares, District Press Secretary
    fernanda.nunez-cazares@mail.house.gov
    Cell: (619) 209-1834

    Matthew Landini, DC Press Secretary
    matt@mail.house.gov
    Cell: (216) 952-8227

    Rep. Cuellar Statement on Bipartisan Push to Protect Job Corps
     Strongly Opposes Disruption to Laredo Center

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), joined with House colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Department of Labor to reverse its decision to pause operations at contract-operated Job Corps Centers, including the nationally recognized Laredo Job Corps Center.

    “I joined with my Democrat and Republican colleagues in sending a strong, bipartisan message to the Department of Labor: Congress created the Job Corps program, Congress funds it, and Congress must be involved in any decision about its future,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This is not a decision for the Department to make unilaterally.”

    Despite Congress appropriating nearly $1.8 billion for Job Corps in FY2024, and continuing that funding through FY2025, the Department of Labor recently announced a phased pause in operations at contract-operated centers, effective June 30, 2025. This action would displace nearly 20,000 young people across the country who rely on Job Corps for housing, high school completion, workforce credentials, and pathways into higher education, apprenticeships, and military service.

    In Laredo, the impact would be immediate and severe. Nearly 200 students would be sent home at the beginning of the summer, cutting them off from vital support systems and career training programs. The Laredo Job Corps Center serves approximately 220 students on an 18-acre campus near the Rio Grande and employs nearly 200 staff. The center is a cornerstone of opportunity in the region, offering comprehensive training, dormitory housing, a full-service cafeteria, counseling, medical care, and access to community college classes.

    “Job Corps provides career training in high-demand fields like skilled trades, health care, protective services, and accounting,” Rep. Cuellar continued. “For many young people in our community, this program is the bridge to a better future. Cutting them off at the start of summer, right when they need stability and support the most, is plain wrong.

    “Apprenticeships are important, but they are not a substitute for what Job Corps already delivers. Rather than eliminate Job Corps, we should strengthen it with better oversight and the resources it needs to thrive. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’m committed to fighting for this life-changing program and the young people it serves.”

    To read the full letter, click HERE.

    ###

    PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA
     Viernes, 6 de Junio de 2025

    Fernanda Nunez-Cazares, Secretaria de Prensa del Distrito
    fernanda.nunez-cazares@mail.house.gov
    Cell: (619) 209-1834

    Matthew Landini, Secretario de Prensa de DC
    matt@mail.house.gov
    Cell: (216) 952-8227

    Declaración del Representante Cuellar sobre el esfuerzo bipartidista para proteger a Job Corps
     Se opone firmemente a la interrupción del Centro de Laredo

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hoy, el congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), se unió a sus colegas de la Cámara de Representantes para enviar una carta bipartidista urgiendo al Departamento de Trabajo de los Estados Unidos a revertir su decisión de detener las operaciones en los Centros Job Corps operados por contrato, incluyendo el nacionalmente reconocido Centro Job Corps de Laredo.

    “Me uní con mis colegas demócratas y republicanos para enviar un mensaje fuerte y bipartidista al Departamento de Trabajo: El Congreso creó el programa Job Corps, el Congreso lo financia, y el Congreso debe participar en cualquier decisión sobre su futuro,” dijo el Congresista Cuellar. “Esta no es una decisión que el Departamento deba tomar unilateralmente.”

    Aunque el Congreso asignó casi 1.800 millones de dólares para Job Corps en el año fiscal 2024, y continuó esa financiación hasta el año fiscal 2025, el Departamento de Trabajo anunció recientemente una pausa gradual en las operaciones de los centros operados por contrato, a partir del 30 de junio de 2025. Esta medida desplazaría a casi 20.000 jóvenes de todo el país que dependen de Job Corps para obtener vivienda, terminar la escuela secundaria, obtener credenciales laborales y acceder a la educación superior, el aprendizaje y el servicio militar.

    En Laredo, el impacto sería inmediato y grave. Casi 200 estudiantes serían enviados a casa al principio del verano, lo que les impediría acceder a sistemas de apoyo vitales y a programas de formación profesional. El Centro Job Corps de Laredo atiende a unos 220 estudiantes en un campus de 18 acres cerca del Río Grande y emplea a casi 200 trabajadores. El centro es una piedra angular de las oportunidades en la región, ya que ofrece formación integral, alojamiento en dormitorios, una cafetería con todos los servicios, asesoramiento, atención médica y acceso a clases en colegios comunitarios.

    “Job Corps ofrece formación profesional en campos de gran demanda como los oficios cualificados, la atención sanitaria, los servicios de protección y la contabilidad,” continuó el Congresista Cuéllar. “Para muchos jóvenes de nuestra comunidad, este programa es el puente para un futuro mejor. Cortarlos al comienzo del verano, justo cuando más necesitan estabilidad y apoyo, es un error.

    “Los programas de aprendizaje son importantes, pero no sustituyen a lo que ya ofrece Job Corps. En lugar de eliminar Job Corps, deberíamos fortalecerlo con una mejor supervisión y los recursos que necesita para prosperar. Como miembro del Comité de Apropiaciones, me comprometo a luchar por este programa que cambia vidas y por los jóvenes a los que sirve.”

    Para leer la carta completa, haga clic AQUÍ.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Gaggles with the Press on Air Force One, June 6, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Air Force One

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRkGiKk3Wxs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Joins IAM District 751 for Grand Opening of New Machinists Institute & Union Hall in Everett

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.06.25
    Cantwell Joins IAM District 751 for Grand Opening of New Machinists Institute & Union Hall in Everett
    New institute can train 700 new machinists per year, helping the PNW continue to lead the world in plane manufacturing
    EVERETT, WA – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined the members of IAM District 751 in Everett to celebrate the ribbon cutting of a new Machinists Institute to help train and skill the next generation of plane manufacturers.
    “By 2030, we may have a shortfall of over 2 million machinists. Can you imagine? America’s competitiveness is at stake,” Sen. Cantwell said. “751 is answering the call, not just with this new facility, but in integrating the Machinists Institute to train, and skill, and attract people […] That is why this building and the Machinists Institute — with a training capacity of over 700 machinists, to be trained right here — is such a great facility.”
    Photos of the event are HERE; a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s full remarks is HERE.
    The new building opening today stands in the same location across the street from the Boeing Everett Plant as the former Everett Union Hall, which was demolished in 2021.
    The new building includes a larger union meeting room with triple the previous hall’s capacity, administrative offices, and an educational facility run by the Machinists Institute. The Machinists Institute facility will provide continuing education and industry certifications to members, and will offer students Heavy Equipment Apprenticeships or pre-apprenticeship training — helping IAM 751 attract more members and increasing the union’s capacity to serve them.
    The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is one of the largest labor unions in North America, with 600,000 active and retired members. IAM District 751 is the Washington contingent with over 33,000 members, most of whom are machinists at the Boeing Company.
    In October 2024, IAM District 751 members at Boeing went on strike for 53 days to secure a new contract with 38% general wage increases over the next four years, lower health insurance premiums, a commitment to build the next Boeing plane in Washington, and improved benefits. During the strike, Sen. Cantwell attended a rally on the picket line in Everett to show solidarity with the machinists.
    In her historic 2024 bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Sen. Cantwell expanded funding and assistance under the FAA Aviation Workforce Development Grant Program, securing $60 million per year through FY 2028 to grow the aviation workforce pipeline. Sen. Cantwell secured a new subprogram dedicated to recruiting and training the next generation of aviation manufacturing workers. Local aviation workforce training programs operated by IAM 751’s Machinist Institute and the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) are directly eligible for funding awards.  As a whole, the grant program makes investments in the education and recruitment of pilots, unmanned aircraft systems operators, maintenance technicians, aerospace engineers, and aircraft manufacturing technical workers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEW DATA: Over 300,000 Washingtonians Would Lose Health Coverage If Trump’s Budget Bill Passes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    06.06.25

    NEW DATA: Over 300,000 Washingtonians Would Lose Health Coverage If Trump’s Budget Bill Passes

    Central and Eastern WA hit the hardest; The U.S. House of Representatives passed the “Big, Beautiful” bill 215-214 in May; legislation now being considered in the Senate

    EDMONDS, WA – Data released by the Joint Economic Committee minority staff breaks down, by state and congressional district, how many Americans would lose health care coverage losses due to President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ proposed cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, announced today.

    In total, 16 million Americans – including 306,312 Washingtonians –  will lose the health care coverage they need to get regular check-ups, behavioral health care, family planning services, long-term care, urgent care, and more if the Republican bill passes the U.S. Senate and is signed into law.

    Congressional District

    Est. # of People Losing Affordable Care Act Coverage

    Est. # of People Losing Medicaid Coverage

    Est. Total # of People Losing Health Coverage

    WA-01

    11,500

    11,638

    23,138

    WA-02

    13,500

    20,155

    33,655

    WA-03

    10,000

    21,654

    31,654

    WA-04

    8,400

    31,693

    40,093

    WA-05

    11,500

    24,934

    36,434

    WA-06

    10,000

    20,288

    30,288

    WA-07

    13,500

    10,458

    23,958

    WA-08

    10,000

    13,572

    23,572

    WA-09

    11,500

    22,069

    33,569

    WA-10

    8,400

    21,589

    29,989

    According to the analysis, Washington’s Fifth Congressional District, covering Eastern Washington, would see the most people lose health insurance under the Republican plan of any district in the state. More than 40,000 Eastern Washingtonians in the Fifth District alone won’t be able to get affordable health care if the Republican plan passes.

    Washington’s Fourth Congressional District, covering most of Central Washington, would see the second-most people lose health insurance under the Republican plan of any district in the state. More than 35,000 Eastern Washingtonians in the Fourth District alone won’t be able to get affordable health care if the Republican plan passes.

    People without health insurance tend to wait until their health problem is an emergency before seeking care in local hospitals. This leads to more crowded emergency rooms for everyone.

    And hospitals must factor the uncompensated cost of additional uninsured patients into already strained finances – finances which are especially strained at rural hospitals like those in the Fourth and Fifth Districts.

    The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) published its updated analysis, available here, after House Republicans passed their budget reconciliation bill with over $700 billion in cuts and significant changes to Medicaid. The Committee fact sheet, available here, provides updated estimates for all 50 states and D.C. of the estimated number of people losing their health insurance. The Committee data broken down by Congressional District is available here. Totals by congressional district and by state are slightly different due to rounding.

    Medicaid, known as Apple Health in Washington state, covers over 1.9 million Washingtonians. Sen. Cantwell has held events across the state to hear about the impact of the proposed cuts on Washingtonians and released three reports detailing the cuts’ significant negative impacts.  On May 2, Sen. Cantwell released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Washington state’s highly-ranked long-term care system for seniors and people with disabilities. In February, she released a snapshot report that demonstrated how cuts would harm health care access in Washington state, and she followed up with a report in March that dove into impacts on the Puget Sound region.

    Highlights of those snapshot reports include:

    • In Washington state, WA-04 (Central Washington) and WA-05 (Eastern Washington) have the highest proportions of adults and total population on Medicaid (Apple Health). In District 4, 70% of children are on Medicaid.
    • In the Puget Sound region, children in Seattle’s blue-collar strongholds would feel the deepest pain from Medicaid cuts. More than half of children in Burien, SeaTac, Kent, Federal Way, Auburn, Renton, and Rainier Valley depend on Medicaid.
    • In an exclusive survey of 68 WA nursing homes, 67 of 68 would cut services if Medicaid were cut by 5% or more, and 65% would consider closing.

    Sen. Cantwell also toured the state to hear from folks who would be directly impacted by cuts to Medicare. Doctors, patients, and health care providers in Seattle, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and Wenatchee warned that such cuts would devastate Washington state’s health care system and limit access to lifesaving care.

    On May 21, Sen. Cantwell joined Washington state health care professionals for a virtual press conference to highlight statewide alarm and opposition to proposed Medicaid cuts. That same day, 23 Republican members of the Washington state legislature sent a letter to the entire Washington state federal Congressional delegation, urging the delegation to “protect Medicaid funding for Washington State.”

    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to defend Medicaid from cuts is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Californians pay Trump’s bills

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 6, 2025

    In case you missed it, California is the biggest “donor state” in the country — providing around $83 billion more to the federal government than it receives from the federal government — nearly three times as much as the next biggest “donor state.”

    As a recent Bloomberg column stated: “It should go without saying California is critical to US economic dominance globally, accounting for more than 14% of US’s $28 trillion of GDP as measured by the World Bank and more than 50% greater than the next largest state by the size of its economy — Texas.”

    Early this year, Paul Krugman, the 2008 Nobel Laureate in economics, wrote that California is “an economic and technological powerhouse” that “is literally subsidizing the rest of the United States, red states in particular, through the federal budget.” Without California, “America would be a lot poorer and weaker than it is.”

    And according to most recent data (2022), California contributes nearly $700 billion to the federal government. Simply put, as California goes — so goes the country.

    Key economic data

    California is the world’s 4th largest economy, with an increasing state population — multiple years in a row — and recent record-high tourism spending. And for the second year in a row, leads the nation in Fortune 500 company headquarters.

    California is number 1 in the nation for new business starts, access to venture capital funding, manufacturing, high-tech, and agriculture.

    • California is the leading agricultural producer in the country and is also the center for manufacturing output in the United States, with over 36,000 manufacturing firms employing over 1.1 million Californians. 

    • The Golden State’s manufacturing firms have created new industries and supplied the world with manufactured goods spanning aerospace, computers and electronics, and, most recently, zero-emission vehicles.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 6, 2025

    News LOS ANGELES – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement in response to widespread immigration raids by federal agents: Continued chaotic federal sweeps, across California, to meet an arbitrary arrest quota are as reckless as they are cruel. …

    Jun 6, 2025

    News Reduce the Risk campaign educates people about the 9 protection orders available What you need to know: Governor Newsom announced a comprehensive campaign to engage youth and community leaders on the available protection orders to keep Californians safer from gun…

    Jun 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the Golden State Literacy Plan — a step-by-step strategy to improve student reading achievement across California, building on existing efforts and proposing bold new investments. The Golden State…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: District of Arizona Charges 199 Individuals with Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from May 31, 2025, through June 6, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 199 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 74 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 104 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 18 cases against 20 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona. Protecting law enforcement officers is a key part of border vigilance, and federal prosecutors also charged one individual for assaulting a Border Patrol Agent.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    Recent matters of interest include:

    United States v. Norberto Rueda-Mancinas:  On May 31, 2025, a Border Patrol agent encountered Norberto Rueda-Mancinas walking about three miles southeast of San Miguel, Arizona. When Rueda saw the agent, he tried to run. After a short chase, the agent caught up to Rueda, and Rueda threw his backpack at the agent, hitting him in the head and causing the agent’s night vision goggles to cut his face. The backpack was loaded with food and water and weighed approximately 10 pounds. Rueda was arrested and determined to be a citizen of Mexico, illegally present in the United States. He had been previously removed from the United States on April 11, 2025. Rueda was charged with Assaulting a Federal Officer and Illegal Reentry. [Case Number: MJ-25-00620]

    United States v. Fabian Ramirez-Childs and United States v. Pena-Losada: On May 31, 2025, Border Patrol agents received an alert for a vehicle that was reportedly loaded with suspected illegal aliens. Agents located the vehicle and initiated a stop. As the vehicle yielded, the passenger door opened and two subjects exited and ran into the desert. The driver then sped away, leading agents on a chase for approximately two miles before yielding. The driver was identified as Fabian Ramirez-Childs, a U.S. citizen. The passenger who had remained in the vehicle was determined to be a citizen of Bangladesh, illegally present in the United States. Agents tracked and located the two subjects that had run from the vehicle, and both were determined to be Mexican citizens who were illegally present in the United States. The driver, Ramirez-Childs, was charged with Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit. [Case Number: MJ-25-00623]

    United States v. Cesar Ivan Bencomo Varela: In 2021, Cesar Ivan Bencomo Varela submitted an application for a U.S. Passport at the U.S. Post Office in Show Low, Arizona. In his application, Bencomo Varela claimed to be “Joseph David Olivas,” a United States citizen. Bencomo signed the application packet, swearing under oath that the information on the application was true, and that the photograph attached to the passport application was a true likeness of him. An investigation revealed that Bencomo Varela had been using the Olivas identity since 2015 to obtain employment in the United States. On June 3, 2025, Bencomo Varela was indicted on one count of False Statement in Application or Use of Passport and one count of aggravated identity theft. [Case Number: CR-25-08098]

    United States v. Blanca Esthela Favela-Coronel: On June 3, 2025, Blanca Esthela Favela-Coronel was charged by criminal complaint with Reentry of a Removed Alien. Blanca Esthela Favela-Coronel had been previously removed from the United States in 2014 after being convicted of two counts of felony Attempted Sale of Dangerous Drugs (Methamphetamine) in the Superior Court of Arizona, Coconino County. Favela-Coronel was sentenced to two years of incarceration on each count, to be served concurrently with one another. [Case Number: 25-08325MJ]

    Criminal complaints and indictments are simply methods by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-090_June 6 Immigration Enforcement

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Every Hostage Must Be Released

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigoot: Earlier today, Israeli forces recovered the remains of Judy Weinstein and Gad Haggai in Gaza, who were kidnapped and brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists on October 7th. We are acutely aware of the anguish 56 families continue to endure, including those of Americans Omer Neutra and Itay Chen. Every single hostage must be released immediately.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
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    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlTZsNwcfWs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CWA Condemns NTIA Changes to BEAD Funding Policies

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union released the following statement in response to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) policy change to the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program:

     

    Today, the NTIA has put the interests of a few billionaires and satellite companies ahead of millions of Americans in rural communities and thousands of workers. Commerce Secretary Lutnick’s attack on approved broadband projects undermines the bipartisan work of the U.S. Congress and the state governments that have invested significant resources in carefully developing programs to bring high-quality broadband and good jobs that meet the needs of their unique communities. 

     

    CWA members know that fiber is the best broadband technology of today and tomorrow. A high quality fiber network is the financially responsible choice compared to expensive and unreliable satellite service or fixed wireless. The NTIA’s policy change confuses upfront costs with long-term value.

     

    In well-considered plans, state broadband boards have addressed the need to develop the workforce to build and maintain network infrastructure, supported by labor standards and training. The NTIA’s elimination of requirements for fair labor practices and workforce development plans will hinder states’ ability to appropriately manage local workforce needs, or to create the good jobs that would have attracted and retained a well-trained workforce.

     

    The bipartisan infrastructure bill made a commitment to rural communities to close the digital divide with high-quality networks and good jobs. Secretary Lutnick has betrayed this promise, and undermined the work and hopes of so many rural residents, workers, and state governments.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Cracks Down on EBT Fraud

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), David Valadao (CA-22), and Addison McDowell (NC-06) to introduce the Stopping Klepto-card and Identity Misuse Act (SKIM) Act, which would crack down on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) theft, fraud, and waste. This essential lifeline program, designed to support our nation’s most vulnerable, has been overtaken by bad actors who relentlessly exploit and drain its resources from those it is meant to serve. 

    The EBT system, which is administered by state agencies under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, delivers government assistance such as SNAP and TANF through a debit-style card. These cards have increasingly become ripe targets for fraud. According to the California Department of Social Services, over $439 million in EBT benefits have been stolen since 2021 – rising from under $100,000 a month to over $10 million – proving that current penalties do not deter criminals.  

    The SKIM Act aims to address this rampant fraud by directing the U.S. Attorney General to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts against access device fraud, increase prison sentences for those using fake cards or ID-making tools, and require comprehensive best practices to help identify and prevent future fraud. 

    “Scammers exploiting the EBT system are the worst kind of evil, not only wasting taxpayer dollars but stealing vital benefits meant to help our most vulnerable,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The SKIM Act toughens penalties and strengthens law enforcement coordination to crack down on these bad actors, save taxpayer dollars, and ensure public assistance goes to those who actually need it.” 

    “Criminals who steal from children, families, and the elderly must be held accountable, and we must protect taxpayers from those who commit public assistance fraud,” said Congressman Fong. “After more than $2 million in EBT benefits were recently stolen from my district’s most vulnerable residents, I was determined to take action to safeguard the people who rely on these critical benefits, and crack down on those who would rob them.” 

    “SNAP is a critical lifeline that helps low-income families put food on their tables,” said Congressman Valadao. “Unfortunately, criminals exploit weaknesses in the EBT system by using skimming devices at grocery stores and gas pumps to steal benefits from those who need them most. It’s unacceptable, and I’m proud to work with Congressman Fong to hold these criminals accountable.” 

    “If you’re skimming cards, you’re stealing, plain and simple,” said Congressman McDowell. “But if you’re skimming EBT, you’re not just taking money, you’re taking food out of a child’s mouth. This bill cracks down hard on criminals. We’re raising penalties and demanding real accountability from the DOJ. No more looking the other way. I’m proud to stand with Congressman Vince Fong on the SKIM Act.”  

    For more information, please read the full bill text here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fighting for a Livable Future: Markey, Labor Leaders, Workers Speak Out Against Republican Efforts to Cut Clean Energy and Climate Investments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Watch: Markey, labor leaders, workers slam clean energy investment cuts

    Markey joined by labor leaders, workers in Dorchester at IBEW Local 103
    Boston (June 6, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee, today hosted a press conference at IBEW Local 103 with labor union leaders and workers to highlight how Congressional Republicans’ proposed budget reconciliation cuts to climate and clean energy investments from the Inflation Reduction Act would hurt workers in Massachusetts.
    The Congressional Budget Office estimates the House-passed Republican bill would cut more than $500 billion in investments for environment, energy, and climate, which could lead to 830,000 jobs lost by 2030 and shrink the national economy by $1.1 trillion over the next decade.
    “In Massachusetts, we have over 115,000 workers in the clean energy sector. Thousands of union jobs will be at risk. Trump and Republicans are selling out the livelihoods of working people and the future of our children, all to pay for tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. The Trump agenda is clear: steal from the workers to give to the wealthy. But if Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans think that union workers are going to roll over as their jobs, families, and livelihoods are threatened—they have another thing coming,” said Senator Markey. “Together, we are going to make clear how Republicans are hurting people in their own states; slow and stop this bill—defending our jobs, our future, and our way of life; and put Republicans on the record. The fight ahead of us is hard, but the harder the fight, the more important it is that we take it on. We fight until we win. For every worker. For every American. For a livable future.”
    “We need more energy, and we need more jobs in Massachusetts, plain and simple. Working families shouldn’t have to purchase energy from billionaire oil tycoons and foreign governments or let them set the price of our energy bills. We can generate massive amounts of energy right here in Massachusetts and we can create thousands of union jobs for Massachusetts residents while we do it. Over the last few years, thousands of our neighbors and our friends have been put to work on electric grid upgrades, battery storage facilities, and manufacturing plants. They’re building our clean energy future and we’re all benefiting: the family that these workers support, the homes, the schools, the businesses that need a reliable supply of energy, and every one of us that will live on a cleaner, safer planet because of it.” said Chrissy Lynch, President, Massachusetts AFL-CIO.
    “Repealing clean energy tax credits is a union job killer. These tax credits help level the playing field, they drive investment, and they put IBW electricians, laborers, ironworkers, and pipe fitters to work building America’s energy future. If you take those tax credits away, you’re not just pulling funding: you’re pulling paychecks from working families, you’re pulling apprentices out of training facilities, you’re pulling opportunity straight out of our communities. Every solar panel installed, every wind turbine wired, every EV charger connected, that’s a job with wages, healthcare, and a pension that stands for dignity for the American worker. You don’t kill that kind of progress: you build on it.” said Lou Antonellis, Business Manager/Financial Secretary, IBEW Local 103.
    “Hundreds of thousands of lives will be affected if these tax credits are repealed. Our members are the ones out here in the freezing cold and the blazing heat; laying foundations, wiring schools, setting steel, climbing wind turbines, and putting up solar panels. I’m here today representing those skilled union workers who build the schools our kids learn in, the bridges we drive on, and because of smart, clean energy investments, the solar and wind farms that will power our future. With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, we saw national investment in clean energy that wasn’t about corporate tax breaks. It was about people. It meant workers having access to construction projects that benefit communities and families and taking part in building a clean economy. But now the Republican Reconciliation package threatens to undo all of that. said Chaton Green, Business Agent, Greater Boston Building Trades Union.
    “We need long-term, sustained investment in renewable energy to ensure this work continues well beyond the current round of offshore wind projects. Major solar and hydroelectric projects must also move forward to deliver clean power to our communities and meaningful, local jobs to our members. These are more than just jobs—they’re life-changing careers, especially for people who have historically been left out of economic opportunity. This is exactly the kind of progress we need to protect and expand for the future,”said Andy Benedetto, Business Representative, Local 1121 Millwrights. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 2: Alberta wildfire update (June 6, 4 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Treasury targets network trafficking cocaine to the US and Europe following ICE HSI New York investigation with law enforcement partners

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — On June 5, following an investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations’ New York field office and law enforcement partners, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned four Guyanese nationals and two Colombian nationals responsible for trafficking tons of cocaine from South America to the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean.

    These sanctions target drug traffickers utilizing boats and narco-subs to traffic ton-quantities of cocaine, along with an alleged corrupt Guyanese law enforcement official. The sanctions also target individuals who are operating covert airstrips to traffic drugs via aircraft.

    For decades, reported corrupt actors have used Guyana as a transshipment point for the movement of drugs from South America to the United States, with Mexican drug cartels also maintaining a presence in the region. International cocaine trafficking remains a serious threat to the United States, as the substantial profits generated from these sales continue to fund and strengthen cartel operations.

    The June 5 action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 14059, which targets the proliferation of illicit drugs and their means of production. ICE HSI New York and OFAC carried out this investigation in coordination with ICE HSI Bogota, the Drug Enforcement Administration Guyana Country Office, DEA New York, Customs and Border Protection Office of Intelligence New York, Internal Revenue Service New York and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, with assistance from NYPD Intelligence Bureau, CBP New York and the New York National Guard Counterdrug Task Force.

    According to the investigation:

    Guyana’s proximity to the Caribbean, as well as alleged corruption along its ports and borders, allows aircraft and maritime vessels, also known as narco-submarines, to transit through its waters undetected. Drug traffickers exploit the rivers and jungles of South America by transporting large quantities of cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela through Guyana and Suriname.

    In the last few years, Guyana has been the focus of major U.S. law enforcement operations in partnership with Guyanese authorities, resulting in multi-ton seizures of cocaine. In March 2025, a cargo vessel originating in Guyana was discovered by police in the waters of Trinidad and Tobago with approximately 182 kilograms of cocaine.

    On Feb. 20, the State Department identified the Sinaloa Cartel as a foreign terrorist organization and as a specially designated global terrorist.

    On March 21, 2024, U.S. and Guyanese law enforcement seized 2,370 kilograms of cocaine in a self-propelled semi-submersible approximately 150 miles off the coast of Guyana.

    In August 2024, Guyanese authorities, with support from DEA and DSS, discovered 4.4 tons of cocaine in a clandestine airfield in the northwest region of Guyana known as Barima-Waini, or Region One.

    More information, including the full press release announcing these OFAC sanctions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sanders Announces Capture of Inmate Grant Hardin

    Source: US State of Arkansas

    LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders released the following statement today on the capture of inmate Grant Hardin:

    “Thanks to the great work of local, state and federal law enforcement Arkansans can breathe a sigh of relief and I can confirm that violent criminal Grant Hardin is back in custody. I am grateful for all law enforcement who contributed to his capture and give special thanks to the Trump administration and Secretary Kristi Noem, who sent a team from Border Patrol that was instrumental in tracking and apprehending Hardin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Court Allows Trump Administration to Proceed with Efforts to Destroy Institute of Museum and Library Services as Case Continues

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    American Library Association and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Warn of Grave Threats Nationwide


    Washington, D.C.     – A federal judge has declined to block the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The ruling, issued today in ALA v. Sonderling, will allow the administration’s cuts at the independent agency while the case proceeds. The case was brought by Democracy Forward and Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP on behalf of the American Library Association (ALA) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

    On May 6, a federal district court in Rhode Island issued a preliminary injunction in a separate case, prohibiting the agency from shutting down while that case is pending. That decision remains in effect.

    “ALA is disappointed that the court did not grant our motion for preliminary injunction. The extent to which some libraries have already cancelled services and programming – and even lost staff in some cases – is evidence of the importance of IMLS. ALA will not rest until libraries in every state receive the funding promised and IMLS is back in full force to meet the information needs of all Americans,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl.

    “Our fight to protect our nation’s libraries and museums will continue,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “This administration cannot ignore the separation of powers and dismantle agencies established by Congress at will. After we obtained an initial temporary restraining order, another federal court in a case brought by state attorneys general has agreed with our position and blocked the gutting of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. So, while we disagree with today’s decision, the fight is not yet lost. We will regroup and continue moving this case forward.”

    “Museums and libraries are vital for people and communities across our nation. Attacking those who ensure the continuity of their services is an attack on access to information and the truth itself. Democracy Forward is committed to working to protect these important institutions in our country. We will explore all legal avenues available to us as we continue this case,” said Robin Thurston, Legal Director at Democracy Forward.

    With today’s ruling, the IMLS – a non-partisan and independent agency dedicated to supporting and funding museums and libraries and the crucial community services they provide in every state across the country – may face devastating cuts to grants and services that will make it impossible to operate as required by Congress. The case will now proceed on the merits in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

    IMLS was first created and funded by Congress in 1996 and charged with supporting America’s libraries and museums. The agency has had bipartisan support throughout its history, having been reauthorized under the Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama, and Trump administrations. IMLS is bound by laws requiring that the agency conduct certain activities to support libraries and report on important issues to Congress. The complaint explains that cutting programs at IMLS will violate the law by eliminating programs Congress has provided funding for and directed IMLS to undertake.

    This case continues Democracy Forward’s record of working with communities, parents, and libraries to defend the freedom to read. That work has previously included efforts in Arkansas, where Democracy Forward represented a coalition of librarians, booksellers, and readers who successfully prevented portions of an Arkansas law that threatens to criminalize librarians and booksellers from taking effect is asking a court to permanently stop the law from being enforced; Florida, where Democracy Forward represented the Florida Education Association, Florida Freedom to Read Project, and Families for Strong Public Schools to challenge the DeSantis administration’s actions that shutter classroom libraries and undermine public education in Florida; and in Alabama, where Democracy Forward is representing a group of Alabama families and librarians with a broad array of political and religious backgrounds in a suit to stop policies approved by the library board that threaten to keep constitutionally protected books like To Kill a Mockingbird off of public library shelves.

    The Democracy Forward legal team leading the matter are counsel Rachel Fried, Orlando Economos, Kayla Kaufmann, Robin Thurston and Skye Perryman. 

    Read the full complaint here and today’s order here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supreme Court Allows DOGE’s Unlawful Seizure of Americans’ Social Security Data as Challenge Continues

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    Washington, D.C. – The United States Supreme Court has stayed a preliminary injunction in AFSCME v. SSA, which had prevented the Trump administration from granting staff at the so-called “Department of Governmental Efficiency” (DOGE) unprecedented and dangerous access to the sensitive, personal data of millions at the Social Security Administration. An appeals court previously declined to stay the injunction, which recognized that DOGE’s operatives’ unprecedented access to private Social Security data, ranging from immigration records to health and financial information, violates critical privacy protections and will cause irreparable harm.

    This decision overturns a first of its kind order issued by a lower court that required Elon Musk and DOGE to “disgorge” and “delete” any personal data.

    Democracy Forward represents the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees; the American Federation of Teachers; and the Alliance for Retired Americans in this case. The coalition issued the following statement:

    “This is a sad day for our democracy and a scary day for millions of people. This ruling will enable President Trump and DOGE’s affiliates to steal Americans’ private and personal data. Elon Musk may have left Washington, D.C., but his impact continues to harm millions of people. We will continue to use every legal tool at our disposal to keep unelected bureaucrats from misusing the public’s most sensitive data as this case moves forward.”

    The case will now proceed on the merits in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.

    Democracy Forward’s legal team in this matter includes Anne Swift, Mark Samburg, Emma Leibowitz, and Robin Thurston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 379

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 379
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern New Mexico
    The Oklahoma Panhandle
    West/Northwest Texas and the Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 455 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely pose a threat for
    very large to potentially giant hail this afternoon and evening as
    they move generally east-southeastward. The largest hailstones may
    reach up to 3-4 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes will also be
    possible with any sustained supercells, mainly this evening as the
    low-level jet strengthens. Scattered severe/damaging winds with peak
    gusts up to 60-75 mph may become an increasing concern later this
    evening if thunderstorms can congeal into one or more bowing
    clusters.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles west northwest of Guymon OK to
    50 miles southeast of Hobbs NM. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 376…WW 378…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 28025.

    …Gleason

    SEL9

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 379
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    455 PM CDT Fri Jun 6 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern New Mexico
    The Oklahoma Panhandle
    West/Northwest Texas and the Texas Panhandle

    * Effective this Friday afternoon and evening from 455 PM until
    1100 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 75
    mph possible

    SUMMARY…Multiple intense supercells will likely pose a threat for
    very large to potentially giant hail this afternoon and evening as
    they move generally east-southeastward. The largest hailstones may
    reach up to 3-4 inches in diameter. A few tornadoes will also be
    possible with any sustained supercells, mainly this evening as the
    low-level jet strengthens. Scattered severe/damaging winds with peak
    gusts up to 60-75 mph may become an increasing concern later this
    evening if thunderstorms can congeal into one or more bowing
    clusters.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 85 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 50 miles west northwest of Guymon OK to
    50 miles southeast of Hobbs NM. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU9).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 376…WW 378…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 65 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 600. Mean
    storm motion vector 28025.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW9
    WW 379 TORNADO NM OK TX 062155Z – 070400Z
    AXIS..85 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    50WNW GUY/GUYMON OK/ – 50SE HOB/HOBBS NM/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 75NM E/W /63ESE TBE – 24WNW MAF/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..4 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..65 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 600. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 28025.

    LAT…LON 36930080 32160116 32160407 36930388

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU9.

    Watch 379 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Mod (30%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (40%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    High (70%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –