NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission recognizes five leaders for improving educational outcomes for West Virginia students – West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    Chancellor: Each of these awardees represents the very best of WV’s education system

    Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Higher Education Action and Impact Awards, honoring exceptional individuals, schools, and programs that have significantly advanced student success and postsecondary preparation throughout the state.

    “Each of these awardees represents the very best of West Virginia’s education system,” said Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker, West Virginia’s Chancellor of Higher Education. “Their innovation, compassion, and dedication are creating pathways for students to achieve their goals and strengthen our state’s future. We are thrilled to recognize their achievements at this year’s Student Success Summit.”

    This year’s honorees demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving educational outcomes for West Virginia students. Click here for more information about the West Virginia Higher Education Action and Impact Award.

    Dr. Corley Dennison – Dan Crockett Higher Education Action and Impact Award

    Dr. Dennison is recognized for his longstanding leadership in strengthening higher education in West Virginia. His efforts have included statewide reforms in developmental education, expansion of dual enrollment opportunities, and championing Open Educational Resources that have saved students millions of dollars in college text books and class materials. As Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, Interim President at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College, and a faculty member at Marshall University, Dr. Dennison has consistently prioritized student achievement and academic excellence.

    Buffalo Middle School – Exemplary Middle School Award

    Buffalo Middle School, led by Principal Elizabeth Ryder, has been honored for its outstanding work in helping students envision their futures beyond high school. Through Career Exploration Day, financial literacy simulations, academic enrichment activities, and strong participation in the Heart of Appalachia Talent Search (HATS) Program, the school promotes a robust postsecondary culture that helps students build confidence and career readiness.

    Musselman High School – Exemplary High School Award

    Musselman High School’s strong academic performance and college-going culture earned it recognition as this year’s Exemplary High School. With a graduation rate exceeding 97%, the school combines rigorous coursework, AP and dual credit offerings, and thriving Career and Technical Education programs with personalized counseling and planning. Programs like College 101, SAT prep courses, and scholarship workshops are preparing students for successful transitions after graduation.

    Jamison Lewis – Student Action and Impact Award

    Student leader Jamison Lewis has made a lasting mark at Marshall University through his leadership and initiative. His work on projects such as the Shark Tank Innovation Challenge and TEDxMarshallU and his charitable work with the Marshall Thrift Store highlight his creative approach to improving student life and career readiness. His involvement in campus planning and events has positively shaped the student experience for his peers.

    WVU REACH Program – Institutional Action and Impact Award

    The REACH Program at West Virginia University is honored for its effective support of student success. By offering services such as success coaching, academic assistance, leadership training, and campus engagement opportunities, REACH has helped improve student retention and graduation rates. The program models how institutions can create supportive environments that help students stay on track and achieve their goals.

    This year, awardees were recognized at the 2025 West Virginia Student Success Summit in Charleston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Pushes to Safeguard American Innovation From China

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – After releasing a bombshell report detailing how critical technology is vulnerable to espionage by the Chinese Communist Party, Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) detailed why Congress must pass her INNOVATE Act to protect and advance American innovation.
    Ernst laid out how her bill to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs would cut red tape, ensure that funding goes to truly small businesses and startups, and strengthen protections against China’s attempts to steal taxpayer-funded intellectual property.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remark here.
    Ernst’s full remarks:
    “Today’s hearing comes at a pivotal moment.
    “America has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation.
    “Nonetheless, our adversaries — especially China — are working overtime to undermine us.
    “Over the past 100 years, the United States of America has catalyzed the world’s most consequential technology breakthroughs.
    “From putting mankind on the moon, to unlocking a whole new digital frontier, Americans didn’t just invent. We built.
    “We turned those big dreams into real-world breakthroughs, securing a long and prosperous period of economic might and global leadership.
    “But after a century of wins, we cannot become complacent.
    “Over the past 20 years, those in power in Washington have looked the other way as China initiated a comprehensive industrial espionage strategy.
    “They’re not hiding it either. The Chinese Communist Party, through its Made in China 2025 plan, has made crystal clear its goal to eliminate U.S. technological leadership in critical industries.
    “We need to be more clear-eyed, folks. China desires nothing more than to surpass the United States technologically and militarily.
    “They want to impose their authoritarian ideology on the world and destroy the West.
    “If we want any shot at preserving America’s leadership and warfighting capabilities, we have to lock down our innovation pipeline.
    “The truth is, America has left its door wide open, effectively inviting our adversaries to take advantage.
    “As a result, sensitive industries have become vulnerable to exploitation, allowing countries like China to use well-known techniques— including talent recruitment programs— to steal our innovations.
    “The CCP forces innovators across our vibrant startup economy to hand over trade secrets and intellectual property as a cost of doing business.
    “They invest in American firms, not to help, but to scheme, snoop, and steal.
    “The United States Trade Representative and FBI estimate intellectual property theft by China costs our economy between $225-600 billion per year.
    “The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are no exception.
    “In 2021, the Pentagon first sounded the alarm, revealing the pervasive exploitation of the SBIR program by foreign bad actors and recommended a foreign ties due diligence review process for applicants.
    “That’s why, through the SBIR STTR Extension Act of 2022, I fought to establish a framework to identify the extent of foreign risk, vet each company coming through the doors, and stop awarding awards to malicious actors.
    “It was a strong start, but it isn’t enough. Congress must take further action to secure the critical technologies being cultivated in these programs.
    “In fact, my recent report on this subject showed that 64 percent of applications flagged for foreign risk were still eligible to receive taxpayer dollars. That’s unacceptable. I ask unanimous consent to enter this report into the record.
    “We cannot afford to keep investing taxpayer dollars to develop and deploy our best homegrown technologies, while failing to safeguard them against theft by our adversaries.
    “This is why earlier this year I introduced the INNOVATE Act.
    “It would tighten our defenses, standardizing foreign ties due diligence in SBIR across participating agencies and giving agencies more muscle to claw back award dollars when our national security is threatened. It’s just common sense.
    “Let me be clear, this is only a first step. The disturbing reality is that China is already conducting economic warfare in our homeland by targeting our farmland and critical infrastructure.
    “If we want to win the next century and beyond, we must protect our innovators, our intellectual property, and the technologies that will shape our future.
    “I am looking forward to hearing from our expert witnesses today on the scale of these threats and response measures for Congress to consider.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Chairs CECC Hearing on Chinese Transnational Repression & Political Warfare

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan

    07.23.25

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), the new chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), today chaired a hearing on the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) disturbing campaign of transnational political warfare and repression against the people and leaders of Taiwan, and partners of and advocates for Taiwan, including American citizens and others living lawfully in the United States.

    “This is transnational repression. It is a coordinated strategy to isolate Taiwan, dominate the global narrative through fear and coercion, and again, not only against Taiwanese citizens, but other citizens, including our own citizens,” said Sen Sullivan. “These threats are multifaceted—AI-generated disinformation; the extraterritorial application of PRC laws; of course, diplomatic pressure on Taiwan’s allies; the public intimidation of democratically elected leaders…Every day, the CCP grows bolder and more aggressive in its threats against Taiwan, the United States and our allies in the Indo-Pacific. We need to call that out, have open hearings like this, and push back against this transnational repression.”

    [embedded content]

    Click here to watch the full hearing.

    The commission heard testimony from Fan Yun, a member of the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan; Rear Admiral Mike Studeman, U.S. Navy (Ret.), former commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence; Peter Mattis, president of the Jamestown Foundation; and Audrye Wong, the Jeane Kirkpatrick Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and assistant professor of political science and international relations at the University of Southern California.

    Sen. Sullivan has long been a leading advocate in the Senate for Taiwan, introducing his comprehensive Sanctions Targeting Aggressors of Neighboring Democracies (STAND) with Taiwan Act in the last two Congresses aimed at deterring a Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military invasion of Taiwan that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) dictatorship has threatened for years. Sullivan is expected to reintroduce the legislation in the fall with a strong, bipartisan slate of cosponsors. Sen. Sullivan was announced as the chairman of the CECC for the 119th Congress on July 14, 2025, serving alongside Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), the CECC co-chair.

    Below is a full transcript of Sen. Sullivan’s introductory remarks.

    Today’s hearing comes at a pivotal moment. For 75 years, the People’s Republic of China has vowed to bring Taiwan under its control. We have our own Taiwan Relations Act. We have our “One China” policy. However, in recent years, that pressure—not just, by the way, with regard to Taiwanese, but other people, including American citizens—has intensified and globalized with Beijing not only targeting Taiwan across the strait, it’s projecting intimidation across borders, institutions, using political transnational repression as tools of coercion among people across the globe.

    The title of this hearing rhymes with major legislation of mine, the STAND with Taiwan Act. That bill, which I’ve introduced in the last two Congresses and will soon be introducing again, has great bipartisan support. Senators Graham, Duckworth and Coons are the top co-sponsors. I would encourage strong bipartisan support with my colleagues here. What that would do is, if there is a military invasion of Taiwan by the Communist Party and the PLA of China, this would trigger punishing, comprehensive sanctions on the Chinese economy and particularly leaders of the Chinese Communist Party—punishing—economic, trade, financial, energy. We all want deterrence in the Taiwan Strait. I think the threat of these massive sanctions might be critical in terms of deterring a cross-Strait invasion of Taiwan by the PLA.

    We also need to deal with the here and now of Chinese coercion abroad. Again, this hearing is going to focus on the coercion of Taiwanese citizens. But I want to make sure, and I certainly will be asking questions in my Q-and-A with the witnesses of repression of others—people from Hong Kong, American citizens, which is really unacceptable when that happens by the Chinese Communist Party. They’re good at coercing their own citizens, but they’re not going to, with this Congress, be allowed to coerce Americans or those who are our allies.

    These threats are multifaceted—AI-generated disinformation; the extraterritorial application of PRC laws; of course, diplomatic pressure on Taiwan’s allies; the public intimidation of democratically elected leaders. By the way, that’s something the Chinese Communist Party would never do. They never stand for election themselves. They fear their own people because they know they probably wouldn’t get elected if they had to stand for elections. So that makes them nervous when there are people who actually stand for elections, like we do, and go before the people.

    The PRC is also attempting to rewrite international norms, distorting UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, and pressuring countries to embrace Beijing’s view that all necessary measures it might use to achieve unification with regard to Taiwan.

    Most disturbingly, the PRC has labeled Taiwan’s vice president, who I know well and is a good friend of mine, and other officials as “obstinate Taiwan independence diehards,” threatening them with life imprisonment or worse. It has declared any Taiwanese citizen, including those living abroad, can be punished under PRC law.

    In a closed-door meeting earlier this year, senior CCP official Wang Huning reportedly called for a global expansion of these intimidation tactics. According to credible reporting, Wang instructed embassies and security services—hopefully they’re not doing it here in America, but they probably are—to implement “proactive intimidation against so-called radical Taiwanese independence advocates worldwide, including in the United States of America.

    These are not abstract threats last year, Czech intelligence uncovered a planned “kinetic operation” by the PRC to intimidate then Vice President-elect Bi-khim on her visit there. Again, she’s a friend of mine—a great person. The PRC is also harassing international media outlets for interviewing Taiwanese leaders. Individuals around the world who criticize Beijing’s Taiwan policy have been doxed and placed under surveillance. This is transnational repression. It is a coordinated strategy to isolate Taiwan, dominate the global narrative through fear and coercion, and again, not only against Taiwanese citizens, but other citizens, including our own citizens.

    Every day, the CCP grows bolder and more aggressive in its threats against Taiwan, the United States and our allies in the Indo-Pacific. We need to call that out, have open hearings like this, and push back against this transnational repression.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor applauds President Trump’s ‘AI Action Plan’ to achieve global dominance in artificial intelligence

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling today praised the release of President Trump’s artificial intelligence policy strategy, “Winning the Race: America’s AI Action Plan.”Developed in response to the President’s January Executive Order “Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence,” the AI Action Plan sets a clear policy roadmap of the specific actions needed to help the U.S. achieve global AI dominance. The plan illustrates how American workers will be central to the Trump Administration’s AI policy and includes two areas outlining the Labor Department’s integral role in creating a future-ready workforce: “Empower American Workers in the Age of AI” and “Train a Skilled Workforce for AI Infrastructure.”“Since day one, President Trump has made it his top priority to put American Workers First by expanding opportunity and ensuring all are prepared for the challenges of the future,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “By boosting AI literacy and investing in skills training, we’re equipping hardworking Americans with the tools they need to lead and succeed in this new era. The Department of Labor is proud to help deliver on the President’s vision for global AI dominance by building a stronger, more resilient American workforce.”“The AI Action Plan demonstrates President Trump’s bold leadership in driving forward a worker-centric AI strategy that will create a new era of economic prosperity for American workers,” said Deputy Secretary Sonderling. “The Department of Labor looks forward to executing the critical AI Action Plan efforts that will support our workforce, including expanding AI literacy nationwide, creating a new hub to analyze AI’s impact on the labor market, and piloting innovative models to help workers succeed in an AI-driven economy.”The “Empower American Workers in the Age of AI” initiative includes proposed actions for the Department of Labor, in collaboration with other federal agencies, to:Prioritize AI skills development as a core objective of education and workforce funding streams, including career and technical education, apprenticeships, and other federally supported skills initiatives.Establish the AI Workforce Research Hub to lead a sustained federal effort to evaluate AI’s impact on the labor market and the American worker, including recurring analysis, scenario planning, and actionable insights for workforce and education policy.Study AI’s impact on the labor market by providing the AI Workforce Research Hub with analysis to support tracking of AI adoption, job creation, displacement, and wage effects.Fund rapid retraining for individuals impacted by AI-related job displacement, as well as issue guidance clarifying how funds can be used to proactively upskill workers at risk of future displacement.Pilot new approaches to meet workforce challenges created by AI, which may include areas such as rapid retraining models to respond to labor market shifts and new models to support pathways into entry-level roles.The “Train a Skilled Workforce for AI Infrastructure” initiative includes proposed actions for the Department of Labor, in collaboration with other federal agencies, to:Create a national initiative identifying high-priority occupations critical to AI infrastructure.Partner with state and local governments and workforce system stakeholders to support the creation of industry-driven training programs for priority AI infrastructure occupations.Partner with education and workforce system stakeholders to expand early career exposure programs and pre-apprenticeship opportunities for middle and high school students in AI infrastructure occupations.Expand Registered Apprenticeships for occupations critical to AI infrastructure.Learn more about President Trump’s AI Action Plan. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Commission’s Status Report in the Climate-Related Disclosure Rules Litigation

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    On April 24, 2025—three months ago—the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit directed the Commission to provide a status update in the ongoing litigation concerning the Climate-Related Disclosure Rules, which the Commission adopted in March of 2024.[1]

    The Court “directed” the Commission to advise whether it “intends to review or reconsider the [R]ules at issue in this case.”[2] And, if the Commission has determined to take no action, the Court ordered the Commission to explain whether it “will adhere to the [R]ules if the petitions for review are denied and, if not, why it will not review or reconsider the [R]ules at this time.”[3]

    The Court’s directive was straightforward; our answer is not.

    The Commission’s Status Report, filed today, states plainly enough that it has no intention of revisiting the Rules at this time.[4] That, however, is where our responsiveness ends.[5] The Status Report goes on to argue that we cannot expound on what the Commission’s future plans might be in the event the rulemaking petitions are denied, because we would be “prejudging” those policy decisions.[6] And, the Status Report explains, any future rulemaking should benefit from a court ruling on our statutory authority.[7]

    We also weigh in on a number of questions that the Court did not ask of us – for example, we opine that there are “no obstacle[s]” to reaching the merits of the case and that a “live controversy” remains.[8]

    This purported response is wholly unresponsive.

    The Court asked us in no uncertain terms “will [the Commission] adhere to the [R]ules if the petitions for review are denied[?]” We did not—but should have—answered that question. The unspoken truth under this Commission is that the answer is “no.” Three of the four current Commissioners have been vocal critics of the Rules.[9] They have also withdrawn the Commission from the defense of the Rules in litigation.[10] The Commission simply does not want to say what we all know to be true by now—it has no intention of allowing the Climate-Related Disclosure Rules to go into effect.

    Once we acknowledge this answer, the rest of the Commission’s arguments fall away. There are no prejudgment issues, because there is nothing to prejudge. And, we do not need the Court to rule on our statutory authority for the Commission to engage in rulemaking. If there is future rulemaking in this space—whether to rescind the Rules or otherwise – that rulemaking may present different legal issues. Whatever those issues may be, and whomever those aggrieved parties may be, they are not now before the Court. Federal courts are not in the business of giving advisory opinions to agencies.

    What is crystal clear, however, is that this Commission is seeking to avoid its legal obligations under the guise of conserving “Commission time and resources.” No matter what, this comes at the expense of judicial resources. As I wrote previously in connection with the Commission’s decision to stop defending these Rules,[11] the Administrative Procedure Act governs the process by which we make and repeal rules. It includes a prescriptive framework for promulgation and rescission. If this Commission wants to rescind, repeal or modify the Rules, which were promulgated by-the-book, then it must do the statutorily-required work. It cannot take the easy way out. It must engage in notice-and-comment rulemaking, with the benefit of economic analysis and a public, transparent process, even if inconvenient or if the Commission has other, more pressing priorities.[12] Indeed, other Commissioners have acknowledged that doing the work required to rescind the rule would be a difficult lift.[13] So, instead, we once again ask the Court to do the work for us. By asking the Court to carry water that we should shoulder ourselves, we do a grave disservice to our already taxed judicial system. This is not good governance.

    The Commission has effectively ignored the Court’s order and thrown the ball back at the Court. The Court should decline to play these games.

    [2] Status Update Order.

    [4] Status Report of the Securities and Exchange Commission in Response to the Court’s April 24, 2025 Order, State of Iowa v. Securities and Exchange Commission, 24-cv-1522 (8th Cir. July 23, 2025) (“Status Report”) at 2 (“The Commission does not intend to review or reconsider the Rules at this time.”).

    [5] These viewpoints do not reflect upon the efforts of the staff in our Office of the General Counsel.

    [6] Status Report at 2.

    [7] Id. at 2, 4, 5.

    [8] Id. at 2, 3.

    [10] See Status Report filed by SEC, State of Iowa v. Securities and Exchange Commission, 24-cv-1522 (8th Cir. Mar. 27, 2025); SEC Press Release No. 2025-58, SEC Votes to End Defense of Climate Disclosure Rules (Mar. 27, 2025) (According to then-Acting Chair Uyeda, “The goal of today’s Commission action and notification to the court is to cease the Commission’s involvement in the defense of the costly and unnecessarily intrusive climate change disclosure rules.”).

    [12] Commissioner Mark T. Uyeda, Remarks at the “SEC Speaks” Conference 2025 (May 19, 2025) (“For the Commission to rescind the climate-related disclosure rule—and address the countless factual findings discussed in that 885-page release—would place a significant strain on the Commission’s resources. This effort would be a difficult lift, and it would potentially take away staff resources needed to advance the regulatory regime with respect to crypto and capital formation.”).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Scott, Crapo, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Improve IRS Accountability

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and their Republican colleagues, reintroduced the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act to modify rules for imposing tax penalties on Americans. This bill would require a supervisor or higher-level official to approve or deny penalties during the pre-assessment process. Establishing a supervisor sign-off requirement will improve transparency and accountability at the IRS to make sure that taxpayers are not given improper or automated penalties.

    “IRS agents should seek proper approval before issuing penalties to American taxpayers,” said Sen. Scott. “I’m reintroducing the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act to implement reforms that put the taxpayer first and supports good governance. This bill ensures no penalty can be imposed without written approval from a supervisor, bringing greater transparency and accountability to the process. American taxpayers deserve a fair system that protects their rights—not one that punishes them without oversight.”

    “Senator Scott deserves the gratitude of millions of Americans for reintroducing legislation to strengthen this vital taxpayer safeguard against unauthorized penalties. Congress affirmed the IRS’s penalty authority must be balanced with the rights of taxpayers in the bipartisan IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998. That provision has come under attack in recent years, endangering the hard-won protections that Americans depend upon in legitimate disputes with the IRS. The IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act gives hope to taxpayers who follow the rules that the IRS will do the same. We are proud to support Senator Scott’s bill. Lawmakers in both parties should do so too,” said Pete Sepp, president of the National Taxpayers Union.

    “Democrats super-sized the IRS to ramp up audits on small businesses and households. They attempted to strip away section 6751(b) of the tax code, a provision that prevents IRS agents from supervisor shopping for a rubber stamp to shake down taxpayers. Scott’s bill ensures the IRS can’t intimidate taxpayers into settling by threatening unjust penalties. Taxpayers need more protection from the IRS, not less. Every lawmaker should support Sen. Scott’s bill and I applaud his leadership,” said Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform.

    In addition to U.S. Senators Scott and Crapo, the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act is cosponsored by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Jim Risch (R-Idaho).

    Full text of the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds $25 Million Grant for Dorchester County Corridor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) issued the following statement on the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant that he advocated for review and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) approved. This nearly $25 million grant for U.S. Highway 78 Phase 3A was the only grant awarded in South Carolina in Round 2 of 2025 BUILD grant funds.

    “This BUILD grant is a vital investment in the safety of Dorchester’s residents and its future, and I look forward to seeing the development of this project that will improve safety for residents and overall corridor efficiency,” said Senator Scott. “The U.S. Highway 78 corridor has been a transportation priority for South Carolina for years, and this funding will deliver real, day-to-day improvements for the community.”

    Sen. Scott wrote a letter to the DOT in support of the BUILD grant to address safety concerns and congestions levels along the corridor in Dorchester County.

    This infrastructure investment is designed to improve traffic flow, expand transportation options, and enhance overall mobility and connectivity throughout the corridor, delivering substantial benefits to residents and commuters.

    Background:

    The U.S. 78 Phase 3A project will transform a critical transportation corridor by widening the highway from west of Orangeburg Road to North Maple Street in Dorchester County, South Carolina. The expansion will convert the existing two-lane roadway into a five-lane configuration featuring:

    • 12-foot-wide travel lanes 
    • 15-foot-wide center turn lane 
    • Approximately 3.39 miles of new sidewalks 
    • Approximately 4.9 miles of bicycle lanes 
    • Approximately 0.41 miles of multi-use path 
    • Upgraded intersections with dedicated turn lanes and concrete medians 
    • Replacement of the Rumphs Hill Creek culvert 
    • Installation of curb and gutter systems along the corridor 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Fights for National Lab Science Funding, Presses Trump Administration to Protect America’s Scientific Innovation and Reverse Course on Cuts to Research and Development Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Co-Chair of the Senate National Labs Caucus, called on President Trump to reverse course on proposed reductions in the Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget to research and development programs within the Department of Energy (DOE), including cuts to programs at National Laboratories. In the letter to President Trump, Senator Luján highlights the successful economic impacts by these DOE research and development programs, including our National Laboratories’ critical role in driving global scientific leadership.

    Senator Luján wrote, “These proposed changes jeopardize not only our nation’s economic competitiveness but also our national security, energy independence, and capacity for innovation. Slashes to these programs undermine the core principles and opportunities that America promises its citizens: through bold investment in knowledge and innovation, we build a stronger, safer, and more just future.”

    “Without adequate support, the United States risks ceding leadership in emerging industries to nations with more consistent and centralized science investment strategies. Slashing funding to these programs is not fiscal responsibility – it is strategic negligence,” continued Senator Luján.

    “As a proud and steadfast champion of the groundbreaking innovation coming out of the national labs in my state, I’m constantly reminded of their extraordinary contributions,” concluded Senator Luján.

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

    Dear President Trump:

    I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed reductions in the Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget to research and development programs within the Department of Energy (DOE), including significant cuts to the Office of Science, the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), and the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA–E). These proposed changes jeopardize not only our nation’s economic competitiveness but also our national security, energy independence, and capacity for innovation. Slashes to these programs undermine the core principles and opportunities that America promises its citizens: through bold investment in knowledge and innovation, we build a stronger, safer, and more just future.

    The national laboratories are not just the Department of Energy’s research hubs; they are engines of economic empowerment. These nearly 80,000 scientists, engineers, and staff are at the forefront of pioneering technologies in advanced energy systems, life-saving medical isotopes, next-generation manufacturing, and national defense. The proposed 14% reduction to the Office of Science and 74% cut to EERE will have an immediate and destabilizing impact – threatening the continuation of critical research programs, leading to the loss of thousands of skilled jobs. Investments in science ARE investments in American leadership.

    Specifically, EERE has been responsible for more than $624 billion in net economic benefits, heavily contributing to U.S. energy bill reductions of over $800 billion since 1980. These cuts will impede 100s of ongoing lab-based projects in clean energy, grid modernization, and industrial decarbonization, while endangering 1,000s of jobs across multiple national laboratories, and undermine a network that has historically returned over $10 in economic output for every dollar of federal R&D investment. We don’t just silence the potential for future discoveries that could deliver heat and power to every corner of the country, we squander the ingenuity of the very Americans who have the knowledge and drive to make it happen.

    Similarly, proposed budget reductions would scale back fellowships, internships, and research grants that support tens of thousands of graduate and postdoctoral researchers. Around half of STEM graduate students rely on federal support to complete their training. The elimination of these opportunities would be devastating to early-career researchers and erode our long-term competitiveness, particularly in fields like quantum, biotechnology, and energy.

    For decades, DOE’s national laboratories have played a critical role in translating federal research into commercial success. The DOE national labs outperform other agencies in innovation productivity, producing 3.5x more patents per dollar and 1.4x higher licensing rate per patent than the federal agency average. Every year the labs execute 1000s of partnership agreements, including 100s of agreements to commercialize technology. These efforts are part of a larger ecosystem that has enabled the United States to maintain global leadership in critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced computing, and energy efficiency. This innovation culture, rooted in federally funded basic and applied science, has given the United States a durable advantage over strategic competitors, including China, whose state-led investments are rapidly closing the gap.

    Programs like ARPA-E, which the budget proposes to cut by 57%, have been instrumental in maintaining this leadership. The agency has funded over 1,000 high-risk projects, resulted in over 700 patents, and attracted over $12 billion in follow-on private investment. Reducing federal investments in ARPA-E and DOE lab commercialization programs could shift the global balance of innovation. Without adequate support, the United States risks ceding leadership in emerging industries to nations with more consistent and centralized science investment strategies. Slashing funding to these programs is not fiscal responsibility – it is strategic negligence.

    The United States did not become a global leader in science and technology by retreating from bold investment. We became that leader by making deliberate, courageous decisions to fund basic and applied research, to believe in our academic institutions, and to empower our national laboratories as centers of excellence. At a time when other nations are dramatically increasing their R&D investments, it would be short-sighted and strategically dangerous for the United States to step back.

    As a proud and steadfast champion of the groundbreaking innovation coming out of the national labs in my state, I’m constantly reminded of their extraordinary contributions. At Sandia National Laboratories, researchers invented clean rooms, a technology essential to manufacturing microchips that power high performance computing and artificial intelligence, while also revolutionizing hospital operating room safety. Sandia isn’t just refining the economics of LED light bulbs, they’re re-engineering light itself to promote human health and increase agricultural yields. At Los Alamos, during the Human Genome Project, scientists developed GenBank, the genetic sequence database that has become indispensable to modern drug discovery and our understanding of disease. Los Alamos also remains one of the nation’s only sources of critical medical isotopes used in targeted cancer therapies – treatments that can destroy breast cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Slashing funding to these transformative institutions isn’t just short-sighted – it’s an assault on the standard of living, health, and opportunity for every American.

    America’s scientific capacity is one of its most valuable assets. We must treat it accordingly – with care, with vision, and with the full weight of federal support. I respectfully urge you to reconsider these reductions and restore full funding for DOE research and innovation programs – including ARPA-E, EERE, the Office of Science, the associated workforce, and their commercialization initiatives.

    Thank you for your consideration and commitment to the future of American science, security, and prosperity.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DelBene, Clarke Introduce Bill to Boost Smart City Tech

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

    Today, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Yvette Clarke (NY-09) introduced the Smart Cities and Communities Act, legislation that would expand smart city technologies and improve federal coordination of these programs.

    Smart technologies help improve community safety, mobility, and resilience against natural disasters, while also expanding communication and public services in large cities and small towns alike. These innovations help cities cut costs, alleviate traffic congestion, reduce air pollution, and lower energy use, all while generating economic growth and expanding opportunities for communities of all sizes.

    With an estimated $1.4 trillion expected to be invested globally in smart technology over the next five years, U.S. cities must catch up. Research shows that every dollar spent on government technology can save nearly $4. Despite these clear benefits, the U.S. is currently lagging in smart city development.

    This technology is already making an impact in cities across the nation, including Washington. In Redmond, it is being deployed to improve traffic flow and management. This system helps detect pedestrians in crosswalks, adjusts light timings for safer crossing, and modifies traffic signals based on real-time volumes to reduce congestion and make our intersections safer and less stressful for roadway users. In Bellevue, the city has a Smart Mobility Plan to help the city plan for shared-use mobility, autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and data management.

    The Smart Cities and Communities Act would:

    • Enhance federal coordination of smart city programs, including improved reporting and demonstration of the value and utility of smart city systems.
    • Provide assistance and resources to local governments interested in implementing smart city technologies, making them more accessible in suburban and rural areas.
    • Develop a skilled domestic workforce to support smart cities.
    • Improve the quality and performance of smart city technologies while assessing and enhancing cybersecurity and privacy protections. 
    • Foster international collaboration and trade in smart city technologies.

    “Investing in smart city technology will propel our nation into a bright future, powered by more livable communities,” said DelBene. “The Smart Cities and Communities Act allows local governments to equip themselves with the cutting-edge tools to increase connectivity and develop green infrastructure. This important development will strengthen the middle class by generating good jobs and cutting pollution, ensuring the United States maintains its position as a global leader in innovation.”

    “Ensuring our communities are equipped with the smart city technologies they need to be cleaner, safer, and more resilient to the changing climate must be among Congress’ highest priorities,” said Clarke. “In the face of the worsening climate crisis, we have a responsibility to provide every American with equitable access to the innovations that will protect them from whatever an uncertain future might bring. I am proud to stand alongside my colleague, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, to introduce this forward-looking legislation that will position the United States as a leader in the global movement towards climate resilience and facilitate the critical upgrades our communities are depending on Congress to deliver.”

    “BSA commends Representatives DelBene and Clarke for reintroducing the Smart Cities and Communities Act, which recognizes the potential of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to transform local communities. By encouraging adoption of and investments in AI-driven solutions, and supporting robust AI training and data utilization, this legislation will help communities realize smart city benefits that are efficient, cost-effective, and enhance public services,” said Craig Albright, SVP of US Government Relations, Business Software Alliance.

    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HHS, FDA and USDA Address the Health Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 23, 2025

    Under the leadership of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture are accelerating federal efforts to address the growing concerns around ultra-processed foods and the current epidemic of diet-related chronic disease that is plaguing America. The agencies are announcing a joint Request for Information (RFI) to gather information and data to help establish a federally recognized uniform definition for ultra-processed foods—a critical step in providing increased transparency to consumers about the foods they eat.
    “Ultra-processed foods are driving our chronic disease epidemic,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We must act boldly to eliminate the root causes of chronic illness and improve the health of our food supply. Defining ultra-processed foods with a clear, uniform standard will empower us even more to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Currently, there is no single authoritative definition for ultra-processed foods for the U.S. food supply. Creating a uniform federal definition will serve as a key deliverable on the heels of the recently published Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, which recognizes that the overconsumption of ultra-processed foods is one of the driving factors of the childhood chronic disease crisis.
    “President Trump has made it a priority to improve health outcomes for American families and communities. And this Request for Information is yet another step in seeking commonsense ways to foster improved and more informed consumer choice. A unified, widely understood definition for ultra processed foods is long overdue and I look forward to continued partnership with Secretary Kennedy to Make America Healthy Again. As this process unfolds, I will make certain the great men and women of the agriculture value chain are part of the conversation,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.
    “I am delighted to lead this critical effort at the FDA,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “The threats posed to our health by foods often considered ultra-processed are clear and convincing, making it imperative that we work in lockstep with our federal partners to advance, for the first time ever, a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods.”
    It is estimated that approximately 70% of packaged products in the U.S. food supply are foods often considered ultra-processed, and that children get over 60% of their calories from such foods. Dozens of scientific studies have found links between the consumption of foods often considered ultra-processed with numerous adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity and neurological disorders. Helping to address overconsumption of ultra-processed foods is a key element to Make America Healthy Again.
    A uniform definition of ultra-processed foods will allow for consistency in research and policy to pave the way for addressing health concerns associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods. The RFI will be publicly available in the federal register on July 24 and seeks information on what factors and criteria should be included in a definition of ultra-processed foods.
    Alongside developing a uniform definition, the FDA and National Institutes of Health are investing in high-quality research to help answer remaining questions about the health impacts of ultra-processed foods through its recently announced Nutrition Regulatory Science Program. The Department will also continue to pursue developing and implementing other key policies and programs that seek to, collectively, dramatically reduce chronic disease and help ensure a healthy future for our nation.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Commencement of Appointment Process for Five Public Company Accounting Oversight Board Seats

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    On behalf of the Securities and Exchange Commission, I am soliciting candidates for all five Board positions, including the Chairperson, of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (the “PCAOB” or “Board”). The PCAOB was established by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Act”) and oversees the audits of the financial statements of public companies, brokers, and dealers through registration, standard setting, inspection, and disciplinary programs. Under the Act, the Securities and Exchange Commission selects members and the Chairperson of the Board.

    The Act requires that PCAOB Board members be “appointed from among prominent individuals of integrity and reputation who have a demonstrated commitment to the interests of investors and the public, and an understanding of the responsibilities for and nature of the financial disclosures required of issuers under the securities laws and the obligations of accountants with respect to the preparation and issuance of audit reports with respect to such disclosures.”

    Each Board seat is associated with a set five-year term; any nominee selected by the Commission to fill a seat will serve for the remainder of the term associated with that seat. If eligible, the Commission may reappoint such person to a second, full term. Any Board member, including the Chairperson, may be appointed to any seat. The Chairperson’s seat may be filled by either a CPA or a non-CPA, though any member who is a CPA is eligible to serve as Chairperson only if that individual has not been a practicing CPA for five years preceding possible appointment as Chairperson.

    The five seats have terms that expire on the following dates:

    1. October 24, 2026.
    2. October 24, 2027.
    3. October 24, 2028.
    4. October 24, 2029.
    5. October 24, 2030.[1]

    I strongly encourage applications from candidates interested in furthering the public interest through the efficient stewardship of PCAOB resources.  PCAOB Board members play an important role in serving the public interest by helping to protect the integrity of public markets in a manner that minimizes unnecessary costs for the public companies, brokers, and dealers who ultimately fund the PCAOB’s budget. In that regard, I note that over the last several years, the PCAOB’s annual budget has increased at a rate significantly faster than that of the Commission. This increase took place over a period in which the Board’s mission did not change materially. Under the Act, the Board’s budget is subject to Commission approval. The Commission’s review of the PCAOB’s annual budget is an important element of the Commission’s oversight of the Board, and I expect that an evaluation of Board member compensation will be among the items the Commission considers in connection with its review of the Board’s 2026 budget.

    The PCAOB Board member selection process is administered by the SEC’s Office of the Chief Accountant. Individuals who meet the statutory criteria and are interested in being considered for a position as Board member of the PCAOB should submit (1) a cover letter, discussing the statutory qualifications summarized above and described more completely in the Act; and (2) a current résumé or curriculum vitae to Boardrecommendations@sec.gov, on or by August 25, 2025.

    [1] The candidate selected for this seat will be appointed to serve two consecutive terms, with the first expiring on October 24, 2025 and the second expiring on October 24, 2030.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Introduces Bill to Rename Fort Madison Post Office in Honor of Martin L. Graber

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) introduced legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office located at 1019 Avenue H in Fort Madison, Iowa, as the “Martin L. Graber Post Office.” The bill honors the life and legacy of the late Iowa State Representative Martin Graber, a dedicated public servant, 32-year Iowa Army National Guard veteran, and beloved leader in southeast Iowa.

    Joining Miller-Meeks in leading this bill are Iowa Representatives Ashley Hinson (IA-02) and Randy Feenstra (IA-04).

    “Martin Graber embodied the very best of Iowa: faith, family, and service. He was a patriot, a leader, and a constant source of strength for Fort Madison and all of southeast Iowa,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “Naming this post office in his honor ensures his legacy of service and sacrifice lives on. I’m deeply proud to lead this effort to recognize a man who gave so much to his community and his country.”

    “I am so proud to support legislation renaming the Fort Madison Post Office after the late Iowa State Representative Martin Graber,” said Rep. Ashley Hinson. “His life epitomized patriotism, courage, and self-sacrifice, and I am grateful for his dedicated service to Iowans for so many years. This landmark will forever be remembered in his name and is a testament to his legacy.”

    “I’m proud to join my colleagues in the Iowa delegation to rename the Fort Madison Post Office in memory of Martin Graber. As a member of the Iowa legislature, he served the families, farmers, and entrepreneurs of Lee County with class and integrity, and as a Brigadier General in the Iowa National Guard, he sacrificed for our state and country,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Renaming the Fort Madison Post Office is a small gesture that honors his life of service and commemorates his commitment to Southeast Iowa.”

    Read the bill text HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 23rd, 2025 N.M. Delegation Announces President’s Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County, Maintains Push for Major Disaster Declaration for Chaves, Otero, & Valencia Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) released the following joint statement, welcoming President Donald Trump’s granting of a Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County, while renewing their call for President Trump to grant a Major Disaster Declaration for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G in the wake of severe flooding that took the lives of three people and damaged homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.

    “The loss of life and devastation in Ruidoso as a result of this catastrophic flooding is horrific and heartbreaking. After seeing the destruction firsthand and hearing from families who have lost everything, our thoughts remain with those mourning loved ones and the hundreds of New Mexicans forced to flee their homes or watch their businesses be destroyed. We are deeply grateful to the first responders, local leaders, medical providers, and rescue teams working tirelessly to help their communities recover.

    “This Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County will unlock funding needed for disaster response, and we will continue to push President Trump to grant the State’s Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize additional Public Assistance to make sure that all New Mexicans impacted by this disaster are provided with the federal support necessary to rebuild.”

    On July 10, the N.M. Delegation welcomed an emergency declaration for Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia Counties. The emergency declaration opened up access to specific FEMA funds for immediate disaster response, including support for search and rescue and incident management efforts. An emergency declaration does not preclude a subsequent Major Disaster Declaration. Therefore, the N.M. Delegation pushed President Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    Through a Major Disaster Declaration request, the State of New Mexico has requested Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State also requested Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

    The N.M. Delegation will continue to push President Trump to authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G and approve a Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    Additionally, on July 15, the N.M. Delegation called on the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Director David Richardson to disburse critical and overdue funds that would provide immediate assistance in response to the catastrophic flash flooding in and around Ruidoso.

    In a letter to OMB Director Vought and FEMA Acting Director Richardson, the Delegation urged OMB to release reimbursement funds from a project undertaken in the wake of last year’s South Fork and Salt Fires — currently stalled in “Large Project Review” — so they can be redirected to Lincoln County after recent severe flooding. The project in question was completed last year, has been fully reviewed by FEMA, and has an estimated cost of $7.7 million. These funds could be deployed immediately to assist Lincoln County and impacted residents as they continue to assess and respond to the recent severe flooding. But with no timeline provided to Lincoln County or the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for completing the “Large Project Review” by the Administration, the Delegations is demanding answers. Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Market Competition for Prescription Drugs, Lower Prices for Consumers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined three Senate colleagues to reintroduce the Short on Competition Act to increase competition in the pharmaceutical industry and lower prices for consumers. The legislation is led by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) and sponsored by Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Grassley is the current chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the former chairman and a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee.

    The bipartisan legislation would allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services to grant expedited reviews and inspections, as well as temporary importation, when there is a prescription drug shortage or if there is likely to be a shortage. The secretary can also take these actions when there are fewer than five competitors in a market for prescription drugs that have been approved for at least 10 years.

    “Iowans are fed up with the high price of prescription drugs, and a driver of those costs is lack of competition. Time and again, we see that limited options in the marketplace lead to higher prices for patients. Our bill will bring more options to the market, giving consumers relief through alternatives to a single high-priced drug,” Grassley said.

    “If drug companies know new competitors can quickly enter the market, maybe they’ll think twice before raising prices in the first place. More competition in the marketplace will lead to more affordable prescription drugs for American consumers,” Klobuchar said. “This bipartisan legislation will help lower drug prices by prioritizing approvals and safely allowing temporary drug importation of products to address markets that lack competition.”

    “Big Pharma monopolies are keeping lifesaving drugs out of reach for too many Americans,” Lee said. “Cutting red tape for manufacturers will allow new competitors into the health care market – bringing drug prices down and quality up. The Short on Competition Act will give Americans more options for the medicine they need, protecting them from drug shortages and lowering their costs.”

    “American families should be able to afford life-saving medication. However, many medications, despite having been on the market for decades, are unaffordable. It is time that Big Pharma is held accountable for its abusive price gouging tactics,” Durbin said. “I am joining my colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Short on Competition Act to combat Big Pharma’s price gouging and lower prescription drug costs for Americans. Drug costs are a problem; this bill is a solution.”

    Background:

    Grassley has long championed efforts to reduce the cost of prescription drugs. Three pieces of legislation authored and coauthored by Grassley have been signed into law to combat anticompetitive practices and stop drug makers from reaping profits at the expense of taxpayers and consumers. Grassley has also led in-depth congressional investigations to expose those responsible for prescription drug price gouging.

    Other actions include:

    • May 2025: Grassley chaired a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing focused on the impacts of Pharmacy Benefit Managers’ (PBMs) increasing role in the drug supply chain and the needs of rural pharmacies.
    • April 2025: The Senate Judiciary Committee — which Grassley currently chairs — passed six Grassley-led bills to boost competition in the pharmaceutical industry and improve patients’ access to more affordable prescription drugs.
    • January 2025: Grassley welcomed the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) second interim staff report on PBMs and urged congressional and executive branch action.
    • July 2024: Grassley welcomed the FTC’s interim staff report on PBMs and urged congressional and executive branch action.
    • January 2024: Grassley sent a letter urging the FTC to complete its investigation into the health care industry’s most powerful prescription drug middlemen.
    • November 2023: The Finance Committee adopted a Grassley-led provision to strengthen oversight of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and hold PBMs accountable.
    • July 2023: The Finance Committee adopted several Grassley-led PBM accountability provisions. 
    • March 2023: The Senate Commerce Committee passed a Grassley-backed bill to hold PBMs accountable for unfair practices driving up costs for consumers.
    • February 2023: The Senate Judiciary Committee passed five Grassley-led bills to boost pharmaceutical industry competition and improve patients’ access to affordable prescription drugs.
    • October 2022: Grassley led a bipartisan letter urging the FTC to complete its investigation into PBMs to shine light on drug pricing practices.
    • January 2021: Grassley and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) released a two-year bipartisan investigation into insulin price gouging.
    • August 2018: Grassley requested the FTC assess pharmaceutical supply chain intermediaries.

    Learn more about Grassley’s persistent efforts to lower prescription drug costs HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Fetterman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Art Market Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) today introduced the Art Market Integrity Act. The bipartisan legislation would require art dealers and auction houses to comply with existing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations.

    “For decades, criminal enterprises have used America’s multibillion-dollar art industry as a personal piggy bank for money laundering schemes, terrorist financing and other nefarious activities. By requiring our nation’s art market to comply with existing anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws, this bipartisan legislation would keep art, and millions of dollars, out of the wrong hands,” Grassley said.

    “Art should be for art-lovers, not terrorists and criminals,” Fetterman said. “For too long, loopholes have allowed Russian criminal kingpins to evade sanctions and terrorists like Hezbollah to funnel money through art deals. I’m grateful to Senators Grassley, Whitehouse, and McCormick for working across the aisle to require art dealers and auction houses to perform basic due diligence. This needs to stop now.”

    The Art Market Integrity Act would:

    • Require art dealers and auction houses to maintain records and report on high-value art market transactions, exempting artists and businesses with under $50,000 in annual art transactions;
    • Align the United States with international standards adopted by the United Kingdom, European Union, Switzerland and China; and
    • Protect the United States’ national security, economic integrity and multibillion-dollar art market from criminals, terrorists, cartels and other bad actors.

    Grassley and Fetterman are joined by Sens. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).

    Download the full bill text HERE.

    Background:

    The United States’ art industry is valued at around $25 billion and is the largest of its kind globally. Despite this, our art market is not currently bound by the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards set by the Bank Secrecy Act.

    In 2024, the Treasury Department identified America’s art market as being particularly susceptible to money laundering and sanctions evasion. High-profile cases have further highlighted the urgent need for art market reform, including the indictment of Hezbollah financier, Nazem Ahmad, who used art to evade terrorism-related sanctions to the tune of $160 million.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Lee, Durbin, Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Competition and Lower Prescription Drug Prices for Consumers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mike Lee (R-UT) reintroduced legislation to increase competition in the pharmaceutical industry and lower prices for consumers. They were joined by the Ranking Member and Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).

    The bipartisan Short on Competition Act would allow the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to grant expedited reviews and inspections, and temporary importation when there is, or is likely to be, a prescription drug shortage or when there are fewer than five competitors in a market for prescription drugs that have been approved for at least 10 years.

    “If drug companies know new competitors can quickly enter the market, maybe they’ll think twice before raising prices in the first place. More competition in the marketplace will lead to more affordable prescription drugs for American consumers,” said Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation will help lower drug prices by prioritizing approvals and safely allowing temporary drug importation of products to address markets that lack competition.”

    “Big Pharma monopolies are keeping lifesaving drugs out of reach for too many Americans,” said Lee. “Cutting red tape for manufacturers will allow new competitors into the health care market – bringing drug prices down and quality up. The Short on Competition Act will give Americans more options for the medicine they need, protecting them from drug shortages and lowering their costs.”

    “American families should be able to afford life-saving medication. However, many medications, despite having been on the market for decades, are unaffordable. It is time that Big Pharma is held accountable for its abusive price gouging tactics,” said Durbin. “I am joining my colleagues in reintroducing the bipartisan Short on Competition Act to combat Big Pharma’s price gouging and lower prescription drug costs for Americans. Drug costs are a problem; this bill is a solution.”

    “Iowans are fed up with the high price of prescription drugs, and a driver of those costs is lack of competition. Time and again, we see that limited options in the marketplace lead to higher prices for patients. Our bill will bring more options to the market, giving consumers relief through alternatives to a single high-priced drug,” said Grassley.

    Klobuchar has long championed efforts to make prescription drugs more affordable.

    Provisions from Klobuchar’s bill to empower Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices and unleash the power of Medicare’s 53 million seniors to help lower drug prices for all Americans was signed into law in August 2022 as part of a larger health care savings package. In March, Klobuchar and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Lower Drug Costs for Families Act, legislation to lower prices by extending the drug inflation rebates enacted as part of the 2022 drug pricing law, and further protecting consumers from price-gouging by pharmaceutical companies.

    In April, two of Klobuchar and Senator Chuck Grassley’s (R-IA) bipartisan bills to promote competition and reduce drug prices – the Preserving Access to Affordable Generics and Biosimilars Act and the Stop STALLING Act – passed the Senate Judiciary Committee. Together these bills would save taxpayers $1.9 billion over 10 years.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Grassley Ask For Unanimous Consent To Pass Their Bill To Crack Down On Pharmaceutical Advertisements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    July 23, 2025

    The Senators’ bill would force Big Pharma to disclose prices when advertising prescription drugs, the UC request was blocked by a Senate Republican

    WASHINGTON – Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass their bipartisan Drug-price Transparency for Consumers (DTC) Act, a bipartisan bill that would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs in order to empower patients and reduce Americans’ colossal spending on medications. The United States is one of only two industrialized countries in the world that allow drug advertising. Despite prior support for the measure from the Trump Administration, the request was blocked by a Senate Republican.

     

    “You know the ads with the catchy jingle and flashy images of patients rock climbing, golfing, dancing, [or] parading? Big Pharma spends more than $6 billion a year to flood the airwaves with ads for the latest wonder-drug. Why? Why would they spend this much money to advertise [these drugs]? They [Big Pharma] spend such astronomical sums to promote their drugs because it increases their profit margins. Big Pharma thinks that if they hit you hard enough and often enough ad on TV, not only will you be able to pronounce but [you’ll also be able to] spell Xarelto. You’ll also [be able to] tell your doctor ‘that is my favorite blood thinner, I’ve seen that ad over and over again.’ Don’t take my word for it. The American Medical Association said ‘direct-to-consumer advertising inflates demand for new and expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be appropriate,’” Durbin said.

     

    “When President Biden announced the 15 drugs that Medicare will negotiate for discounts, most Americans knew the names, maybe even knew the jingle: Ozempic, Trelegy, Ibrance, and Otezla. Sound familiar? Pharma spent hundreds of millions of dollars each year for you to ‘ask your doctor’ about these drugs. The result? Medicare spent $22 billion last year alone on these four heavily advertised medications,” said Durbin.

     

    Last week, Durbin released a report about a new telehealth-advertising scheme launched by Pfizer and Eli Lilly. The report revealed relationships between drug companies seeking to sell their medications, and the telehealth companies hand-picked by these pharmaceutical giants, appear intended to steer patients toward particular medications. As the pharmaceutical industry floods the airwaves with commercials to increase demand for high-cost medications, these new telehealth platforms appear intended to churn out prescriptions to patients with just a few clicks online.

     

    Durbin continued, “With online promotions and new websites, Pharma is urging patients to ‘click here’ to speak with a doctor. But those telehealth doctors are handpicked, they’ve been recruited, and paid for by the drug companies. Pharma is funneling patients to their chosen health care providers, to influence prescriptions for costly drugs. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest and inappropriate prescribing of drugs. All of this is a result of Pharma’s rampant advertising spree.”

     

    Since 2017, Durbin has worked with Grassley to introduce bipartisan legislation to crack down on DTC advertisements. One-third of all commercials displayed on TV are of drugs from prescription drug companies. In 2023, Illinois company AbbVie spent $315 million on TV ads for Rinvoq, an eczema and arthritis drug. Nowhere in the commercial do they disclose it’s more than $6,100 per month.

     

    Durbin continued, “It’s time to end Big Pharma’s secrecy. If they are going to advertise a drug, they also need to [mention] to the American public how much it costs. It’s basic. No gimmicks, no tricks. Just the truth by advertising [what]… the drug companies publish as the official price.”

     

    Durbin continued, “Our common sense plan to require price disclosures in direct-to-consumer drug ads has already passed the Senate once before, in 2018… we knew that 88 percent of Americans support what we’re doing: disclosure of price. In fact, because of our work on this measure, Donald Trump made a statement: ‘Big announcement today: Drug companies have to come clean about their prices in TV ads. Historic transparency for American patients is here. If drug companies are ashamed of those prices—lower them!’”

    “Big Pharma hates being honest with patients about the price of their drugs. They fear it’s going to cut into their profits. Patients, American citizens, and others deserve lower drug prices. The Trump Administration has called on Congress to rein in these deceptive drug advertisements. But Big Pharma is looking for one Senator to come down and object to the passage of this common sense bill. I hope we can pass it right now to deliver real relief at the pharmacy counter,” Durbin concluded.

     

    The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has found that prescription drugs advertised directly to consumers accounted for 58 percent of Medicare’s spending on drugs between 2016 and 2018, while a 2023 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that two-thirds of advertised drugs offered “low therapeutic value.” By requiring direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertisements forprescription drugs to include a disclosure of the list price, patients can make informed choices when inundated with drug commercials and pharmaceutical companies may reconsider their pricing and advertising tactics. In recent years, the pharmaceutical industry has sued to keep the prices of their drugs out of their TV advertisements.

     

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

     

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

     

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Meets With New Bureau Of Prisons Leadership

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    July 23, 2025

    Billy Marshall and Joshua Smith were recently sworn in as BOP Director and Deputy Director

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement after meeting with Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Billy Marshall III and Deputy Director Joshua Smith:

     

    “It was my pleasure to welcome Director Marshall and Deputy Director Smith to my office to talk about reforms I’ve long sought at the Bureau of Prisons under both Democratic and Republican Administrations.

    “I shared my concerns about the significant challenges facing the Bureau, including the impacts of understaffing, the health and welfare of employees and incarcerated people, and facility safety and infrastructure, especially given the Administration’s ill-fated ambition to waste scarce resources to reopen Alcatraz. Additionally, I asked to ensure my bipartisan First Step Act continues to be thoroughly implemented, so its proven successes continue to build over time.

    “We must equip our federal prison system to be safe, secure, and effective and ensure incarcerated people’s successful reentry to society.”

    A photo of the meeting is available here.

     

    During his tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin prioritized oversight of BOP and established a new Committee practice of holding annual BOP oversight hearings. In April 2021, the Committee held a BOP oversight hearing with then-Director Carvajal to address chronic understaffing issues and other concerns. Later, Durbin called for a new, reform-minded BOP Director after an Associated Press report that found that BOP is a “hotbed of abuse, graft and corruption, and has turned a blind eye to employees accused of misconduct.” Then-Director Carvajal’s resignation was announced less than two months later.

     

    In September 2022, the Committee held its second BOP oversight hearing under Durbin, which was BOP Director Peters’ first time testifying before Congress since taking over as head of the Bureau. At that hearing, Durbin pressed Director Peters about abuse in federal prisons. In September 2023, Durbin held his third BOP oversight hearing.

     

    In February 2024, Durbin convened a hearing entitled “Examining and Preventing Deaths of Incarcerated Individuals in Federal Prisons” at which Director Peters and DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz testified regarding issues related to the operation and management of BOP, including staffing shortages, that contributed to deaths in custody.

     

    Then, Durbin urged BOP to send a special pay rate request to OPM—and urged it approve it—to address barriers to BOP’s recruitment and retention of critical employees and improve safety and security at BOP facilities.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Allen Introduces Bill Preserving Consumer Choice

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

    Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) introduced the Don’t Mess with My Home Appliances Act. Following the Biden-Harris Administration’s four-year assault on consumer choice, this legislation implements necessary reforms to the Energy Policy Conservation Act (EPCA) to prevent future administrations from prioritizing a radical rush-to-green agenda over the affordability and availability of reliable household appliances that Americans rely on every day.

    Following the bill’s introduction, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

    “Under the guise of energy efficiency, the Biden-Harris Administration waged a four-year war on domestic energy and consumer choice, and it was American families that paid the price. From gas stoves, refrigerators, and freezers, to washers, dryers, dish washers, and air conditioners—no household appliance was off limits in their pursuit of a radical rush-to-green agenda. We cannot allow that to happen again,” said Congressman Allen.

    “The Don’t Mess with My Home Appliances Act is a necessary measure to prevent future administrations from issuing burdensome standards on household appliances that would drive up costs and reduce availability. I am grateful for Chairman Guthrie’s and Chairman Latta’s support as we preserve consumer choice and ensure the federal government does not tilt the scales on what appliances Americans should buy.” 

    “Families should have the freedom to choose what home appliances they buy and use. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, heavy-handed mandates created unworkable regulations that led to higher prices,” said Chairman Guthrie. “The Don’t Mess with My Home Appliances Act would reform the Department of Energy’s energy efficiency standards process to protect consumer choice and ensure American companies can continue to innovate. Thank you to Congressman Allen for leading this important legislation that stands up for working Americans.” 

    “American families should have the right to choose the appliances that work best for their homes and needs. This commonsense bill puts consumers first by restoring flexibility, encouraging innovation, and ensuring there are not one-size-fits-all federal regulations. I thank Congressman Allen for his leadership on this effort to protect American families and businesses,” said Rep. Bob Latta, Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

    BACKGROUND: Enacted in 1975, the EPCA provides specific criteria the Department of Energy (DOE) must follow in order to propose a new appliance efficiency standard. The DOE may only propose a new standard if it results in a significant conservation of energy, is technologically feasible, and economically justified. The Biden-Harris Administration consistently ignored these critical consumer protections by proposing and finalizing standards that violate the statute. The Don’t Mess with my Home Appliances Act would prevent future abuses by:

    • Eliminating unnecessary and duplicative rulemaking requirements 
    • Authorizing the Secretary of Energy to amend or revoke a standard if it increases costs for consumers, does not result in significant energy or water savings, is not technologically feasible, or results in the unavailability of product 
    • Protecting affordability by requiring the DOE to consider the cost to low-income households and the full-life cycle cost of appliances when determining if the new standard is economically justified 
    • Establishing minimum thresholds for energy or water savings that must be achieved before imposing new standards 
    • Prohibiting the Secretary of Energy from banning products based on the type of fuel that product uses (no natural gas bans) 

    Full bill text can be viewed HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: International Court of Justice climate ruling a powerful tool for holding countries to account – Oxfam

    Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

    The International Court of Justice has ruled that governments must phase out fossil fuels, rapidly reduce emissions, provide remedy to those facing climate damages, and provide climate finance to developing countries.
    Oxfam climate change policy lead Nafkote Dabi said:
    “Oxfam is proud to have supported young climate defenders from the Pacific and elsewhere who bravely took their fight for justice from a classroom in Vanuatu to the world’s highest court. They won the world a tremendous victory today.
    This ruling elevates national climate commitments everywhere by confirming that countries must reduce emissions enough to protect the universal rights to life, food, health and a clean environment. All countries, particularly rich ones, now have to cut their emissions faster and phase out fossil fuels. Rich countries have to increase their financing to Global South countries to help them reduce emissions and protect their people from past and future harm. This is not a wish-list – it is international law.
    We now have a powerful tool for holding countries to account for their obligations, especially in protecting the world’s most marginalised people and future generations of humanity. The ICJ rejected arguments by the likes of the US and UK that governments are bound only by climate treaties such as the Paris Agreement and did not have stronger obligations under international law. This ruling will inject new impetus into negotiations at the COP30 Summit in Brazil this November.”
    Oxfam Aotearoa climate justice lead Nick Henry said:
    “Today’s ruling is a stunning rebuke to the rich countries, including New Zealand, who are failing to stop harm to our climate. It is a victory for a people-powered campaign started by Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change, gaining support from Pacific leaders and allies around the world.
    The New Zealand government provided early support to the campaign and co-sponsored the UN resolution that referred the case to the ICJ. But in its submissions to the court, New Zealand argued that human rights law is not relevant to climate change and that governments don’t have climate obligations beyond the existing Paris Agreement.
    The world’s highest court has rejected the New Zealand government’s arguments and ruled that the international treaties on human rights and the environment create binding obligations to prevent harm to the climate.
    This means that New Zealand must do more to reduce emissions and increase funding for climate action in the Pacific.”
    Notes:
    Oxfam has been supporting the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change’s lawsuit since 2022, joining in advocacy for the UN General Assembly to refer the case to the Court. Oxfam provided a written statement to the ICJ in March 2024 on human rights obligations beyond borders and what this means for climate action. Oxfam also contributed to an expert legal opinion that was referenced in several State submissions, the Maastricht Principles on the Human Rights of Future Generations.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Lawler Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on State Department Bureau of Counterterrorism

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Michael Lawler delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing on the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism FY26 Budget Posture.

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    The subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa will come to order. The purpose of this hearing is to assess the budgetary posture and strategic direction of the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism for fiscal year 2026. I now recognize myself for an opening statement.

    Today we convene to duck conduct oversight of the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism and review its budgetary posture and strategic priorities for fiscal year 2026. I want to thank our witness acting coordinator for Counterterrorism, Gregory LoGerfo, for appearing before us today. The Bureau of Counterterrorism is a vital arm of America’s national security strategy. It plays a leading role in coordinating US counter-terrorism policy, engaging foreign partners to disrupt threats before they reach our shores, and supporting global efforts to confront terrorism in all its forms. From its role in special operations to diplomatic engagement to training programs, the bureau is on the front lines of protecting the American people. As terrorism threats are becoming more diffused, adaptive, and globally networked, we must ensure the Bureau is equipped to respond with agility, efficiency, and strategic foresight.

    In the Middle East, this means confronting the malign influence of Iran backed proxy groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, while sustaining pressure on Isis whose presence in the region remains a serious concern. And it is with this background that we examine the Bureau of Counter Terrorism’s budget. During this hearing today, we will assess how the Bureau is delivering measurable security dividends for US taxpayers through its foreign assistance programming, particularly through its anti-terrorism assistance and the worldwide security program. We will also explore the extent to which the bureau’s budget requests will enable personnel to adapt to new geopolitical threats while maintaining coordination across the inter-agency and international partners. We must also consider whether the state department’s reorganization has impacted outcomes and how the bureau is responding to its expanded scope. We must determine if the State Department has the tools, authorities, and structure to preserve its capacity to respond to regional complexities. Finally, I want to emphasize that the effective counter-terrorism policy demands a strong partnership between Congress and the department that is granted in transparency, oversight, and shared strategic vision.

    As we move toward reauthorization and review of the department’s fiscal year 2026 plan, this subcommittee is committed to ensuring that the Bureau of Counterterrorism has the resources and guidance it needs to remain a global leader in combating our world’s most dangerous threats. Mr. LoGerfo, we look forward to your testimony and to a robust discussion of how we can work together to safeguard the United States and our allies in an increasingly complex threat environment.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deadline Approaches to Register for 2025 Governor’s Summit

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Registrations should be submitted online at govsummit.nebraska.gov by Thursday, July 31st.

    “Our state’s incredible economy is driven by two main engines—agriculture and manufacturing,” said Gov. Pillen. “In Nebraska, we grow things and make things that are in demand worldwide, and we do it better than any place else in the world. At this summer’s Summit, we’ll explore how to generate even more value by uniting our strengths in ag and manufacturing to lead the nation’s new bioeconomy.”

    This year’s Governor’s Summit takes place August 13-14 in Kearney. It will feature breakout tracks on workforce development, manufacturing, and the bioeconomy. Husker football coach Matt Rhule will give the keynote address on Thursday morning, August 14th.

    A complete rundown of activities and breakout sessions can be found on the website (govsummit.nebraska.gov).

    In conjunction with the main conference, the State is hosting the inaugural Governor’s Youth Summit on August 14th in Kearney. The experience is designed for high school students and recent graduates, providing them with direct access to career opportunities in Nebraska. During the event, student attendees will connect one-on-one with businesses and colleges to learn about internships, scholarships, and other career pathways. More information about the Youth Summit is available at govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth.

    For an agenda and registration information for the 2025 Governor’s Summit, go to govsummit.nebraska.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Formation of Strike Force to Assess Evidence Publicized by ODNI

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice announced the formation of a Strike Force to assess the evidence publicized by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and investigate potential next legal steps which might stem from DNI Gabbard’s disclosures.

    This Department takes alleged weaponization of the intelligence community with the utmost seriousness.

    Upon the formation of the Strike Force, Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated:

    “The Department of Justice is proud to work with my friend Director Gabbard and we are grateful for her partnership in delivering accountability for the American people. We will investigate these troubling disclosures fully and leave no stone unturned to deliver justice.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Honors U.S. Coast Guard Hero Scott Ruskan on House Floor

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    Contact: Riley Pingree

    (July 23, 2025) WASHINGTON, D.C. —Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) took to the House floor to recognize the heroic actions of U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer and Rescue Swimmer Scott Ruskan, a native of Oxford, New Jersey in Warren County.

    Petty Officer Ruskan demonstrated extraordinary bravery during the recent catastrophic flooding in Central Texas. As the only triage coordinator on the scene, he and his crew rescued 165 children and adults from rising floodwaters. This life-saving effort was Petty Officer Ruskan’s very first rescue mission since completing his rescue swimmer training. 

    “Scott Ruskan is a true American hero,” said Congressman Kean. “Not only did he answer the call to serve by enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard, but he displayed incredible courage by risking his life to save others during a time of crisis. I am deeply grateful to Petty Officer Ruskan and to all the first responders and volunteers who put their lives on the line to protect their fellow Americans. We thank you for your service and sacrifice.” 

    You can watch Congressman Kean’s floor speech HERE. 

    Congressman Kean also had the opportunity to meet with Petty Officer Ruskan during a reception on Capitol Hill yesterday, held in his honor for his heroic efforts.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Honors U.S. Coast Guard Hero Scott Ruskan on House Floor

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    Contact: Riley Pingree

    (July 23, 2025) WASHINGTON, D.C. —Yesterday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) took to the House floor to recognize the heroic actions of U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer and Rescue Swimmer Scott Ruskan, a native of Oxford, New Jersey in Warren County.

    Petty Officer Ruskan demonstrated extraordinary bravery during the recent catastrophic flooding in Central Texas. As the only triage coordinator on the scene, he and his crew rescued 165 children and adults from rising floodwaters. This life-saving effort was Petty Officer Ruskan’s very first rescue mission since completing his rescue swimmer training. 

    “Scott Ruskan is a true American hero,” said Congressman Kean. “Not only did he answer the call to serve by enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard, but he displayed incredible courage by risking his life to save others during a time of crisis. I am deeply grateful to Petty Officer Ruskan and to all the first responders and volunteers who put their lives on the line to protect their fellow Americans. We thank you for your service and sacrifice.” 

    You can watch Congressman Kean’s floor speech HERE. 

    Congressman Kean also had the opportunity to meet with Petty Officer Ruskan during a reception on Capitol Hill yesterday, held in his honor for his heroic efforts.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Statement on Largest Seizure of Fentanyl in South Carolina History

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after the U.S. Attorney for South Carolina Bryan Stirling announced what is believed to be the largest seizure of fentanyl in South Carolina history. The drug bust, part of the Department of Justice’s nationwide Operation Take Back America, resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of 156 pounds of fentanyl and 44 pounds of methamphetamine.
    “Well done to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, South Carolina’s U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling, and everyone else involved in this historic drug bust.
    “The fentanyl seized in this investigation, equivalent to 36 million lethal doses, is believed by investigators to have originated in Mexico. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and the historic investment in border security he just signed into law, the days of fentanyl pouring across our border and into our communities unfettered are over.
    “What a difference six months can make. South Carolina is being kept safe under the leadership of President Trump.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 07.23.2025 Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Rep. Jackson Introduce Bill Honoring Mayor Jerry H. Hodge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13) introduced a bill to rename the U.S. Post Office in Amarillo, Texas, as the Mayor Jerry H. Hodge Post Office Building to honor the life and legacy of Mayor Jerry Hodge.
    Sen. Cruz said, “Mayor Hodge was a pillar of the Amarillo community and a true servant leader to the Panhandle. He transformed a local pharmacy into a national enterprise, served his community as the youngest mayor of Amarillo’s history, and was instrumental in establishing the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine. I am proud to introduce legislation to name the Amarillo post office in honor of his legacy.”
    Sen. Cornyn said, “From helping to establish several institutions of higher education in Amarillo to leading the effort to bring a minor league baseball team to the city, Mayor Jerry Hodge was a cornerstone of the Amarillo community. I am proud to join Senator Cruz and Congressman Jackson in introducing legislation to rename Amarillo’s downtown post office after Mayor Hodge, which will ensure that future generations of Texans in the Panhandle can learn about his contributions and help preserve his life and legacy.”
    Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13).
    Rep. Jackson said, “Jerry Hodge’s impact on Amarillo extended far beyond his titles. He was the youngest mayor in the city’s history, a successful businessman, and a proud rancher. Jerry’s personality was larger than life, and he worked tirelessly each day to make life better for the people of the Texas Panhandle. I’m proud to have called him a friend and am honored to introduce this piece of legislation to recognize his enduring legacy.”
    Read the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch to Host 2025 Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference in September 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    RANDOLPH, VT – On Saturday, September 27, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) will host this year’s annual Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference (WEOC) to bring Vermonters together to learn, network, and build economic opportunity. The conference will include interactive workshops on growing economic opportunity, cultivating new audiences, and improving skills.    
    The Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference was created by Senator Patrick Leahy and his wife Marcelle and has been a Vermont tradition for decades. Senator Welch and his wife, Margaret Cheney, are pleased to continue this tradition of bringing Vermonters together to learn, network, and build economic opportunity for Vermonters.  This event is held in partnership with the Vermont Women’s Fund and the Vermont Community Foundation.  
    The full schedule of events and keynote speaker will be announced in the coming weeks. 
    To receive updates on the conference details, registration, and other information, fill out the form here.  
    Logistical details follow: 
    Event: The 2025 Women’s Economic Opportunity Conference, hosted by Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Margaret Cheney 
    Who: Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.); additional guests and speakers to be announced 
    Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025  
    Location: Vermont State University-Randolph, 124 Admin Dr, Randolph Center, VT 05061  
    Questions and Accommodations: Please email weoc@welch.senate.gov or call 802-863-2525 with any questions 
    Media RSVP: Media are asked to RSVP to Elisabeth_St.Onge@welch.senate.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts on the Senate Floor: Iran Doesn’t Need More Time – It Needs More Pressure.  The E3 Should Snapback As Soon As Possible.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, in a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) urged European allies to reject Iran’s threats and delaying tactics during upcoming talks on the Iranian nuclear program. The speech was given in support of a resolution, cosponsored by 19 other Senators, that calls for the E3 (United Kingdom, France, and Germany) to trigger the snapback of UN sanctions against Iran as soon as possible.
    Watch the video here
    “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” said Ricketts.  “This has been a red-line for decades, going back to President Clinton.  And the reason is because the results would be catastrophic.”
    “Iran is as weak now as it has ever been since the 1980s, and probably weaker,” said Ricketts.  “[Trump’s] strikes have delayed Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon by a few years.  But in order to seize this moment, the U.S. and our allies must impose maximum pressure to the highest extent possible to force Iran to agree to permanently and verifiably end its nuclear program, including its capacity to enrich uranium.”
    “Our European allies have said they are prepared to trigger snapback by the end of August if no firm, tangible, and verifiable nuclear commitments from Iran are in place,” said Ricketts.  “This is being done in close coordination with the Trump administration, which continues to pursue diplomatic talks with Iran.  I commend our allies for setting a deadline.  However, this path is under a timeline that leaves little room for error.  Unsurprisingly, the Iranian regime is resorting to its longstanding playbook to delay, to delay, to delay and prevent snapback from happening.  Later this week, the Iranians are scheduled to meet with the E3 in Istanbul.  There are rumors that discussions could center on what conditions the E3 would postpone snapback.  But I stand today to urge our European friends to hold the line and not bend to Iranian threats or be fooled by Iranian assurances.”
    “A window now exists to completely change the trajectory of the Middle East for the better,” concluded Ricketts.  “But that window will close unless we convince Iran that its nuclear weapons program will never be tolerated, period.  That’s why this resolution urges the E3 to snapback sanctions as soon as possible.  We must not let Iran off the hook.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Wildfire Update – July 23

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 23, 2025

    As of 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 23, there are 50 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, four are categorized as contained, 14 are not contained, 14 are ongoing assessments and 18 are listed as protecting values. 

    Eleven communities are currently under an evacuation order: Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge, La Plonge Reserve, Northern Village of Beauval, Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay, Patuanak/English River First Nation, Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Northern Village of Pinehouse, Canoe Lake Cree First Nation/Canoe Narrows, Île-à-la-Crosse, Resort Subdivision of Cole Bay and Resort Subdivision of Little Amyot Lake. 

    A full list of evacuated communities can be found on the Active Evacuations webpage. 

    Any evacuees should register through the Sask Evac Web Application and then call 1-855-559-5502 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to have their needs assessed for additional assistance. Individuals who need help registering through the application can call the 855 Line for assistance. 

    Evacuees supported by the Canadian Red Cross should call 1-800-863-6582. 

    Due to the wildfire conditions continuing to impact communities and individuals in northern Saskatchewan, Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod sent a letter to the Federal Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Public Safety Eleanor Olszewski requesting the following resources to assist in the wildfire response efforts:  

    1. Type 3 fire personnel, up to 300, that could be utilized for wildfire mop up operations. Logistical support, lodging, food and transportation may be required for the deployed type 3 personnel. 
    2. Medium and intermediate helicopters for bucketing and crew movement. 
    3. Value Protection kits – sprinkler and hoses for structure protection in various communities.  
    4. Water tenders / water haulers for assisting with wildfire mop up and fire mitigation in various communities. 

    The latest wildfire information, an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips can be found at saskpublicsafety.ca. 

    For more information, review the current fire bans and restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites. 

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –