NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fifteen Charged with Drug Conspiracy and Weapons Charges

    Source: US State of California

    A 29-count indictment was unsealed today charging 12 men and 3 women for their roles in a drug trafficking organization and related gun offenses.

    According to court documents, the defendants were part of a drug trafficking organization that distributed methamphetamine, powder cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, Xanax, psylocibin mushrooms, and marijuana. Six of the defendants face additional charges for gun crimes relating to their alleged drug trafficking. The defendants are alleged to have used several drug houses and a food truck to store illegal drugs and conduct drug transactions. As alleged, in one notable instance in June of 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents seized 29 kilograms of methamphetamine that one defendant was attempting to transport into the United States.

    “As alleged, this drug trafficking organization imported methamphetamine directly from Mexico and used the U.S. mail, a taco truck, and homes in different Houston neighborhoods to distribute and sell methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Several of the defendants are also alleged to have used firearms in furtherance of their narcotics trafficking and illegally possessed firearms despite having previously been convicted of felonies. The Criminal Division, along with our federal, state, and local partners, will continue to work tirelessly to combat the scourge of drug trafficking in communities.”

    “The defendants are alleged to have engaged in a multi-drug narcotics distribution ring, and, as often seen in the drug trade, are also alleged to have used illegal firearms to facilitate their enterprise,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas. “Some of the charges indicate methamphetamine was alleged to have been sourced from Mexico, and thus this investigation highlights why this office’s enforcement efforts on the border are so critical. The Southern District of Texas will do everything it can to prevent narcotics from entering our country and will be relentless in apprehending those that would distribute drugs in our communities.”

    “For years, the transnational criminal organization allegedly operated by these gang members has brazenly flooded our local communities with deadly narcotics,” said Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz of Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Houston. “Working in conjunction with the Houston Police Department (HPD) and our Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) partners, we were able to expose and dismantle their drug trafficking scheme, eliminating a significant contributor to violent crime in the area and saving an untold number of Houstonians from becoming addicted.”

    James Michael Brewer, also known as Creeper, 33; Jonathan Alvarado, also known as Joker, 28; Hector Luis Lopez, also known as Capulito, 23; Alfredo Gomez, also known as Fredo, 26; and Victor Norris Ellison, 35, all of Houston, have been indicted on drug trafficking and firearm charges. If convicted, they each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    The following defendants, all of Houston unless otherwise noted, have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. If convicted, they each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    • Jose Francisco Garcia-Martinez, also known as Paco, 29, a Mexican national;
    • Enzo Xavier Dominguez, also known as Smiley, 32;
    • Alexis Delgado, also known as Chino, 28;
    • Jose Eduardo Morales, also known as Primo, 22;
    • William Alexander Lazo, also known as Miclo, 21;
    • Kylie Rae Alvarado, 24;
    • Ruby Mata, 31;
    • Mexi Dyan Garcia, also known as Mexi, 31; and
    • Jesus Gomez-Rodriguez, also known as Jr., 33.

    Marcos Rene Simaj-Guch, also known as Taco Man, 41, a Mexican national, is charged with drug trafficking. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison.

    ICE-HSI and HPD conducted the investigation with the assistance of the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Texas Board of Criminal Justice Office of the Inspector General.

    Trial Attorneys Ralph Paradiso and Amanda Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Rodriguez for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Houston, Texas. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas have partnered, along with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes committed by gang members and associates through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute the violent offenders and prevent further violence.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhoods.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Sentenced for 20-Year Scheme to Evade Employment Taxes

    Source: US State of California

    Defendant Caused Approximately $60M in Loss to United States Which He Used to Fund a Lavish Lifestyle

    A California man was sentenced today to 96 months in prison and ordered to pay $38 million in restitution for a decades-long scheme to evade employment taxes.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: for more than 20 years, Luis E. Perez was the owner and primary decision-maker for more than a dozen labor staffing companies including Check Mate Inc., BaronHR LLC, BaronHR West Inc., and Fortress Holding Group LLC. Typically, a labor staffing company helps connect job candidates with client-companies looking for temporary employees. The staffing company also usually remains responsible for paying the temporary employees’ wages and complying with associated reporting and tax obligations. Specifically, the companies were responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare, and income taxes from employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the IRS each quarter. They were also responsible for paying their own Social Security and Medicare taxes. The timely payment of these taxes is critical to the functioning of the U.S. government, because, for example, they are the primary source of funding for Social Security and Medicare. The federal income taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages also account for a significant portion of all federal income taxes collected each year.

    For nearly as long as Perez was in business, he was noncompliant with his tax obligations. Starting as early as 2001, Perez began not paying over the full amount of taxes withheld from employees’ wages or the full amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes his companies owed. In June 2007, Perez personally owed the IRS taxes related to Check Mate Inc., which the IRS was attempting to collect. By 2017, Perez’s outstanding tax liability had ballooned to nearly $30 million. Between 2007 and 2017, Perez tried to hinder IRS collection efforts in a number of ways. He used BaronHR and Fortress Holding Group’s bank accounts to make personal purchases, such as several luxury items, including automobiles and a boat. He titled the items in the names of several nominees to conceal his ownership from the IRS and to prevent the IRS from seizing them. In addition, he opened a credit card in the name of a nominee and used the card to make personal purchases. He then paid the bills for that credit card from those same business bank accounts. Perez also funneled money from BaronHR and Fortress Holding Group to a nominee, but then used the funds for himself. To further impede IRS collection efforts, Perez lied to IRS revenue officers and submitted false forms to the IRS about his income.

    Perez’s misconduct continued even after he was charged for tax offenses in February 2018. From January 2018 through June 2019, he reported that BaronHR West had paid total wages of approximately $54 million and paid approximately $7 million in total taxes on these wages to the IRS. In fact, BaronHR West paid approximately $185 million in total wages and was required but did not pay approximately $37 million in total taxes to the IRS. Similarly, during the first quarter of 2022, BaronHR West paid about $30 million in wages and was obligated to pay nearly $6 million in taxes. The company paid only $76,000.

    In total, Perez caused a tax loss to the IRS of approximately $60 million.

    Instead of paying his tax obligations, Perez used the money to fund a lavish lifestyle for himself, including multiple large residences, courtside seats to the Los Angeles Lakers, a private jet, a yacht, and dozens of luxury automobiles, including Bentleys and Lamborghinis.

    In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Court Judge Kenly Kiya Kato for the Central District of California ordered Perez to serve three years of supervised release and pay $38,052,767 in restitution to the IRS.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Bilal A. Essayli for the Central District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Robert Kemins of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brett A. Sagel and James C. Hughes for the Central District of California prosecuted the case

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Clear Blue Technologies International to provide Corporate Update and Report Q1 2025 Financial Results and Host Conference Call on Thursday, May 29th, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clear Blue Technologies International Inc. (TSXV: CBLU) the Smart Off-Grid™ Company, today announces that it will provide a corporate update and also report financial results for its first quarter 2025 on Wednesday May 28, 2025, after the market closes.

    Welcome to Clear Blue 2.0!

    Clear Blue has successfully completed its financial restructuring and is now positioned to move forward and execute on the opportunity ahead. The Company has been very busy. Clear Blue will host a conference call on Thursday May 29th, at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time, to review the financial restructuring, the Company’s 2024 results, and to provide an update on its 2025 outlook and growth plan going forward. Those interested can register at:

    Registration Link

    https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_06KGLRU8Tf6oobFxiB1LtQ

    About Clear Blue Technologies International

    Clear Blue Technologies International, the Smart Off-Grid™ company, was founded on a vision of delivering clean, managed, “wireless power” to meet the global need for reliable, low-cost, solar and hybrid power for lighting, telecom, security, Internet of Things devices, and other mission-critical systems. Today, Clear Blue has thousands of systems under management across 37 countries, including the U.S. and Canada. (TSXV: CBLU) (FRA: 0YA) (OTCQB: CBUTF)

    Legal Disclaimer:

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For more information, contact:

    Miriam Tuerk, Co-Founder and CEO
    +1 416 433 3952
    miriam@clearbluetechnologies.com
    www.clearbluetechnologies.com/en/investors

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Acceleware Ltd. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Acceleware® Ltd. (“Acceleware” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: AXE), an advanced electromagnetic (“EM”) heating company with highly scalable solutions for large industrial applications, today announced its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (all figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted). The Company’s products are branded EM Powered Heat and provide a pathway to economically electrify and decarbonize industrial heating processes previously considered difficult to abate. EM Powered Heat technology is powered by the Company’s proprietary Clean Tech Inverter (“CTI”) for applications including enhanced oil recovery (“RF XL”), mining and mineral processing, carbon capture, cement and concrete, and agri-food. In addition to EM Powered Heat, the Company also provides specialized scientific high-performance (“HPC”) software. This news release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s unaudited interim condensed financial statements and the accompanying notes for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) thereto, together with the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, notes and MD&A thereto, all of which are available on Acceleware’s website at www.acceleware.com or on www.sedarplus.ca.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    Financial highlights:

      Three Months Ended
        March 31, 2025     March 31, 2024  
    Revenue $ 431,226   $ 43,594  
    Comprehensive loss $ (382,195 ) $ (969,971 )
    R&D expenditures $ 420,829   $ 501,115  
                 

    Acceleware is piloting RF XL at its commercial-scale RF XL pilot project at Marwayne, Alberta (the “RF XL Pilot”). The RF XL Pilot successfully demonstrated the potential of the technology in an operational environment. RF XL is the first application of the Company’s patent-protected CTI. Functionality of the CTI has been proven through scaled field tests conducted in 2019 and 2020, and over six months of operation at the RF XL Pilot. Please refer to the RF XL PILOT UPDATE section below for more information, and to the MD&A for a complete RF XL Pilot update.

    Based on positive results to date, Acceleware remains confident that RF XL will become viable as a critical technology in the effort to reduce production costs and decarbonize heavy oil and oil sands production. In 2024, the Company’s operations team continued data analysis, “history-matching” simulations and other analyses of operational data from tests in 2022. The analysis provides evidence that the operation of the RF XL Pilot resulted in sustained heating of the formation around the heating well prior to the pause in operations for maintenance and inspection. In particular, the Company successfully injected RF power into the heating well for over 200 days — a significant milestone and something that has never been achieved before. Also of note is that the CTI successfully operated for seven consecutive months at a variety of power levels and operating conditions during this time.

    In the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company continued to work on the next iteration of the RF XL subsurface system to more concretely address technical issues that were illuminated during the first phase of heating at the RF XL Pilot. These iterations are also expected to significantly reduce the complexity of the subsurface structure, while reducing manufacturing and deployment costs once commercialized. This redesign work is now complete and ready for manufacturing and deployment. The Company is seeking funding for a second phase of heating at the RF XL Pilot incorporating the new subsurface design and existing surface facilities including the CTI. During 2024 the Company confirmed that the expected cost to redeploy the upgraded design at Marwayne would be approximately $5 million including contingency. Also in 2024, the Company announced that it had secured a total of up to $1.3 million in non-dilutive funding from the Clean Resource Innovation Network (“CRIN”) for the next phase of the RF XL Pilot, contingent on the Company sourcing the remaining $3.7 million. The Company has identified several industry and government potential funders and has discussed the project with them. The purpose of the second phase of heating at the RF XL Pilot is to enable higher power to be distributed into the reservoir for a sustained period, resulting in higher reservoir temperatures and oil production, to advance the potential commercial viability of RF XL technology.

    In addition to development work, and with results gained from RF XL deployment in Marwayne to date, Management has also initiated a strategic review of the commercialization plan for RF XL. The process involved analyzing various heavy oil and bitumen reservoirs in western Canada, with the goal of identifying the optimal resources for the demonstration of commercial viability of RF XL. These reservoirs included not only the vast McMurray oil sands, but also heavy oil plays including the Clearwater in north-central Alberta, the Bluesky in west-central Alberta, and the Mannville Stack in eastern Alberta and western Saskatchewan. The review process has led Management to conclude that heavy oil plays offer the greatest near-term potential for commercializing RF XL, due to lower initial capital per well, ability to scale from one heating well to many, lower operating cost to effectively decrease viscosity, and the potential for significant incremental production and ultimate recovery to make uneconomic resources economic. Once proven in heavy oil, Management believes the oil sands will offer significant market expansion potential.

    In Q1 2025 Acceleware’s board of directors approved an initiative proposed by Management to investigate (in parallel with continued effort to progress a second phase of heating at Marwayne) the opportunity for Acceleware, as an operator, to acquire rights to a suitable heavy oil property, and thereafter apply RF XL as a secondary recovery method to improve the property’s production, cashflow, ultimate recovery and asset valuation. Under this scenario, Acceleware would benefit from the valuation enhancement brought about by RF XL. Management has commenced its investigation pursuant to this initiative as of the date of this news release. In the three months ended March 31, 2025 the Company’s subsurface team refined its reservoir selection criteria and identified several promising locations for a commercial demonstration of RF XL.

    As of the date of this news release, the Company completed additional IMII-funded testing of a 100kg per hour prototype potash dryer with further promising results. IMII and its participating members had requested additional testing under various scenarios before considering the Company’s Phase 3 proposal for the design, construction and testing of a new, larger-scale prototype. Acceleware expects to learn if IMII and its members will sanction a Phase 3 project later this year. IMII’s minerals industry members include BHP, Cameco Corporation, Fission Uranium Corp., The Mosaic Company and Nutrien Ltd.

    During the three months ended March 31, 2025, Acceleware continued to invest in developing and protecting new intellectual property with the number of patents issued, allowed, applied for, or in development totalling 62. The Company has 28 patents granted or allowed to protect various proprietary technologies and 34 patent applications pending or under development. The Company uses an integrated strategy for IP protection involving a combination of patenting and trade secrets, working closely with the patent offices and intellectual property advisors.

    RF XL PILOT UPDATE
    Acceleware plans to initiate a second phase of heating after completing a proposed significant subsurface design upgrade to address the moisture ingress issue. Prior to the next phase of heating, all RF XL subsurface components will be removed, and substantially upgraded, and then redeployed. This plan was developed in consultation with industry partners and service providers and among the alternatives examined, it is expected to have the highest probability of achieving higher power injected into the reservoir for a sustained period. The subsurface design was further refined in Q1 2025 to more completely address the moisture ingress issue, to increase simplicity and to reduce costs for the commercial product. The refined design is not expected to materially impact the estimated cost for the second phase of heating at the RF XL Pilot. An estimated additional $5 million of funding is required to complete the redeployment including contingency, and Acceleware is actively working to raise these funds. Acceleware has secured $1.3 million partial funding for the redeployment conditional on securing the balance of the funds from industry partners or other sources. The final timing and cost of the redeployment and subsequent heating is uncertain and remains primarily dependent on financing, partner investment, the time required to source the remaining financing, and the successful deployment of repairs and components.

    Total direct funding received for the first phase of the RF XL Pilot was $24.4 million and included $5.9 million from Alberta Innovates, $5.5 million from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (“SDTC”), $5.0 million from Emissions Reduction Alberta (“ERA”), $3.0 million from CRIN and $5.0 million in aggregate from three oil sands operators. See discussion below in Financial Summary. In exchange for funding, the oil sands operators received exclusive access to detailed technical data and test results, prioritized rights to host a subsequent test, preferred pricing on pre-commercial products and preferred access to RF XL products. These major oil sands producers represent well over one million barrels of oil sands and heavy oil production per day.

    QUARTER IN REVIEW
    Revenue of $431 thousand was recorded in the three months ended March 31, 2025 (“Q1 2025”) compared to $44 thousand in the three months ended March 31, 2024 (“Q1 2024”) and $1.9 million in the previous quarter ended December 31, 2024 (“Q4 2024”). Revenue in Q4 2024 was substantially associated with deferred revenue recognized relating to a contract with one oil sands producer for the RF XL Pilot.

    Total comprehensive loss for Q1 2025 was $383 thousand compared to a comprehensive loss of $1.0 million for Q1 2024 and comprehensive income of $0.9 million for Q4 2024. The reduction in comprehensive loss in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024 was due to higher revenue and a significant reduction in R&D and G&A expenses. Comprehensive income in Q4 2024 was higher due to revenue related to the RF XL Pilot. Finance expense includes interest expense on convertible debentures and notes payable which are funding the Company’s working capital. Comprehensive income in all periods was impacted by changes in value of the derivative financial instruments embedded within the convertible debenture. The changes in derivative value are driven primarily by the fluctuation in the Company’s share price.

    R&D expenses incurred in Q1 2025 were $421 thousand compared to $501 thousand in Q1 2024 and $581 thousand in Q4 2024. R&D spending in Q1 2025 and Q4 2024 was related to the IMII dryer for potash ore and included lab engineering, designing and testing, data analysis, and partner consultations, and to further engineering on the next iteration of the RF XL Pilot. R&D spending in Q1 2024 was related to the RF XL Pilot. There was $nil government assistance received in Q1 2025, Q4 2024 and Q1 2024.

    G&A expenses incurred in Q1 2025 were $253 thousand compared to $452 thousand in Q1 2024 and $315 thousand in Q4 2024. There were lower non-cash payroll related costs incurred in Q1 2025 due to the timing of option grants and lower professional fees as the Company continues to prioritize cost control given uncertain economic conditions.

    As at December 31, 2024, Acceleware had negative working capital of $3.6 million (December 31, 2024 – negative working capital of $3.4 million) including cash and cash equivalents of $211 thousand (December 31, 2024 – $272 thousand). The increase in negative working capital is attributable to the decrease in cash as well as an increase in short term notes payable, and an increase in deferred management compensation.

    In the interests of matching cash requirements with a combination of cash generated from operations, external funding, and capital raising activities, the Company actively manages its cash flow and investments in new products. Acceleware intends to maximize cash generated from operations through several initiatives which include continuing to focus on higher gross margin software products that are marketed through a combination of direct and reseller models; minimizing operating expenses where possible; and limiting capital expenditures. As the Company continues to develop its RF Heating technology, new R&D investments will be financed through a combination of internal cash flow from the HPC business, project funding agreements, government assistance and external financing, when available.

    ABOUT ACCELEWARE:
    Acceleware is an innovator of clean-tech decarbonization technologies comprised of two business units: Radio Frequency Heating Technology and Seismic Imaging Software.  

    Acceleware is piloting RF XL, its patented low-cost, low-carbon production technology for heavy oil and oil sands that is materially different from any heavy oil recovery technique used today. Acceleware’s vision is that electrification of heavy oil and oil sands production can be made possible through RF XL, supporting a transition to much cleaner energy production that can quickly bend the emissions curve downward. With clean electricity, Acceleware’s RF XL technology could eliminate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with heavy oil and oil sands production. RF XL uses no water, requires no solvent, has a small physical footprint, can be redeployed from site to site, and can be applied to a multitude of reservoir types. Acceleware is also actively developing partnerships for RF heating of other industrial applications using the Company’s proprietary CTI.

    Acceleware and Saa Dene Group (co-founded by Jim Boucher) have created Acceleware | Kisâstwêw to raise the profile, adoption, and value of Acceleware technologies. The shared vision of the partnership is to improve the environmental and economic performance of the energy sector by supporting ideals that are important to Indigenous peoples, including respect for land, water, and clean air.

    The Company’s seismic imaging software solutions are state-of-the-art for high fidelity imaging, providing the most accurate and advanced imaging available for oil exploration in complex geologies. Acceleware is a public company listed on Canada’s TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol “AXE”.

    NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND OTHER ADVISORIES
    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information generally means information about an issuer’s business, capital, or operations that are prospective in nature, and includes disclosure about the issuer’s prospective financial performance or financial position. 

    The forward-looking information in this press release can be identified by terms such as “believes”, “estimates”, “plans”, “potential”, and “will”, and includes information about, the expected commercialization of RF XL, the expected cost of the RF XL Pilot, the timing of the execution of the RF XL Pilot and the redeployment, expected financing required for the RF XL Pilot redeployment, the anticipated economic and societal benefits of the RF XL technology, and the future development plans related to potash ore drying prototypes. Acceleware assumes that current cost estimates are accurate, current timelines will not be delayed by either internal or external causes, that research and development effort including the commercial-scale test plans will result in commercial-ready products, and that future capital raising efforts will be successful.  

    Actual results may vary from the forward-looking information in this press release due to certain material risk factors. These risk factors are described in detail in Acceleware’s continuous disclosure documents, which are filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 

    Acceleware assumes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information in this press release, unless it is required to do so under Canadian securities legislation. 

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described in this release in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. 

    DISCLAIMER

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For more information:
    Geoff Clark
    Tel: +1 (403) 249-9099
    geoff.clark@acceleware.com

    Acceleware Ltd.
    435 10th Avenue SE
    Calgary, AB, T2G 0W3
    Canada
    Tel: +1 (403) 249-9099
    www.acceleware.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: POTUS at the MAHA Commission Meeting

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

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2zuDtyye9k

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Vows Action as Make America Healthy Again Report Reveals Childhood Health Crisis

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

    “I created the Presidential Commission to Make America Healthy Again, and today, the Commission officially delivers its first report on childhood health…. Something’s wrong, and we will not stop until we defeat the chronic disease epidemic in America.” –President Donald J. Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVG62r5rIkw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Ernst Releases Alarming Report on Tech Vulnerable to China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released a report revealing that billions of dollars in sensitive American intellectual property are vulnerable to China, because the lack of a consistent due diligence standard in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs has left loopholes for America’s adversaries to exploit.
    To safeguard the technology that supports our national security, Chair Ernst is fighting to pass her INNOVATE Act and asked Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to investigate and potentially halt all funding to six companies mentioned in the report with troubling ties to China that received nearly $180 million from 2023 to 2024 in SBIR-STTR funding after a due diligence vetting system had been implemented by the agency.
    Here is some of the coverage of Ernst’s groundbreaking report:
    Bloomberg | Senator Flags China Ties in Program to Aid Defense Startups
    “The findings from Senator Joni Ernst add fuel to her campaign to overhaul the programs, which have awarded more than $75 billion since the first one began in 1982.”
    Politico | GOP report finds small business innovation grants still carry foreign risk
    “Senate Small Business Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released a report Wednesday that found that small business innovation program grant applicants flagged for foreign risk still received federal funding.”
    National Review | Small Business Grants Across Federal Government Vulnerable to Chinese Influence, Report Finds
    “Seeking to combat the problem, Ernst’s INNOVATE Act would clearly define “foreign risk” for due diligence reviews across agencies. The legislation would also create eligibility rules for applicants with foreign ties and codifies collaborations between agencies and the intelligence community on foreign risk reviews.”
    Politico Morning Defense | Red SBIR?
    “Congress previously rewrote SBIR and STTR rules to prevent funds from flowing to China after DOD discovered in 2021 that some SBIR awards had gone to companies linked to the Chinese military. The continued exploitation of the program, however, suggests that DOD may need to take further steps.”
    Federal News Network | SBIR/STTR awards remain vulnerable to foreign influence
    “Ernst’s investigation comes as Congress must reauthorize the SBIR/STTR programs. The 2022 update expires on Sept. 30. Ernst’s Innovate Act would extend the programs another three years to 2028 and continue to press agencies to address concerns over SBIR mills and foreign influence on awards.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer Appointed as Co-Chair of Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Established in 1959, the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group is tasked with promoting better understanding and cooperation between Canadian parliamentarians and U.S. members of Congress. The association is comprised of nearly 90 members and serves as a forum to discuss key bilateral and multilateral issues impacting both countries.

    U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) is the newest member of the group. Cramer’sappointment as co-chair of the Senate delegation is a continuation of his efforts to support the American-Canadian relationship. In June 2023, Cramer joined U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) in launching and co-chairing the bipartisan, bicameral American-Canadian Economy and Security Caucus to strengthen ties with Canada. Cramer was previously a member of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group from 2013 to 2019 when he was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and served as co-chair of the House Northern Border Caucus.

    “The Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group is a strategic venue for legislators in Washington and Ottawa to engage on the shared issues our nations face,” said Cramer. “Just like iron sharpens iron, the alliance between Canada and the United States is dependent on open, honest dialogue on what binds us together and where improvements are needed. I’m honored to be appointed as co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group and look forward to strengthening our alliance and working on resolving mutual concerns.”

    The association holds a meeting each year, alternating between Canada and the United States to address priorities and policy differences on issues such as trade, energy, infrastructure, and defense. During the event, attendees seek to identify shared values and find possible solutions to a variety of concerns to both countries. As a newly appointed member of the association, Cramer will travel to Canada today to meet with Canadian leadership.   

    In March 2024, on behalf of North Dakota, Cramer received the Embassy of Canada’s Maple Leaf Award from Ambassador Kirsten Hillman and Consul General Beth Richardson. North Dakota sells more exports to Canada than to all other nations in the world combined, and this award recognizes the incredible volume of trade between the two countries.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Improve Veterans Access to Timely, Local Health Care

    US Senate News:

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

    Legislation streamlines health care access and creates new pathway for rural veterans within 35 miles of a Critical Access Hospital

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Many of America’s veterans live in rural or highly rural areas and face major challenges to accessing quality and timely health care. To improve access to local rural care options, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT), members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, introduced the Critical Access for Veterans Care Act. The bill would create a new option for veterans living in rural America, allowing them to seek health care services at their local rural hospital or clinic under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Program.

    Specifically, the legislation would amend the VA MISSION Act of 2018 to create a new category under which care is required to be furnished through community providers, specifically for care sought by a rural veteran residing with 35 miles of the Critical Access Hospital or Rural Health Clinic.

    While communities may lack a VA Medical Center or Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), they are often served by Critical Access Hospitals or Rural Health Clinics. Critical Access Hospital is a designation given to eligible rural hospitals by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). As defined by federal statute, they are the sole provider within 35 miles, must have 25 or less inpatient beds, and provide 24/7 emergency care services. They are often the only available care in rural communities, but due to community care restrictions veterans can only access them with prior authorization from the VA. There are 37 Critical Access Hospitals across North Dakota, five of which also have a VA CBOC. The Critical Access for Veterans Care Act would expand immediate access in the 32 other communities, as well as the few areas already served by a CBOC.

    “Many of our nation’s veterans live in rural areas and face significant barriers to getting the care they need,” said Cramer. “As a country, we have prioritized the preservation of Critical Access Hospitals to ensure rural America has readily available care. This designation has been a lifeline for so many, yet veterans in these communities do not have the same open access as their neighbors. Our bill removes the unnecessary roadblocks, allowing veterans to freely pursue care at their local hospital or clinics already serving those communities.”

    “As a combat veteran myself, putting America’s veterans first is at the center of my mission, and that means increasing access to the best care, people, and facilities available for our veterans,” said Sheehy. “For too long, the status quo has failed veterans, especially in rural communities, leaving them without timely access to the high-quality care they have rightly earned. In Congress, it’s our duty to ensure our veterans have the support they need to achieve the same American Dream they fought to defend, and the Critical Access for Veterans Care Act helps accomplish that mission.”

    Additionally, the legislation:

    • Prohibits VA from employing tactics like prior authorization, referrals, or other box checking activities which delay care and create unnecessary hurdles for veterans.
    • Updates the payment methodology to match the cost-based reimbursement currently used in Medicare to ensure Critical Access Hospitals are not reimbursed less to treat veterans than other patients.
    • Allows referrals originating from the Critical Access Hospital or Rural Health Clinic to other providers within the same community.

    The Critical Access for Veterans Care Act is supported by several groups in North Dakota, including Unity Medical Center in Grafton and First Care Health Center in Park River. The bill is also endorsed by America’s Warrior Partnership and the National Rural Health Association.

    “The Critical Access for Veterans Care Act is a necessary step toward ensuring rural veterans can receive timely, high-quality care close to home,” said Alan Morgan, CEO of National Rural Health Association. “By removing unnecessary prior authorization requirements and aligning VA reimbursement with Medicare’s cost-based rates for rural providers, this legislation supports rural providers and expands access to essential health services for veterans who need them most. We commend Senator Cramer and Senator Sheehy for championing this bill and urge Congress to advance this life-improving policy without delay.”

    “America’s Warrior Partnership strongly supports the Critical Access for Veterans Care Act and thanks Senator Cramer for its introduction,” said Jim Lorraine, President of America’s Warrior Partnership. “This essential legislation expands veterans’ access to local and timely healthcare, removing prior authorization hurdles for care delivered at critical access hospitals and affiliated rural clinics under the Veterans Community Care Program. America’s Warrior Partnership recognizes this bill as a meaningful step toward enhancing quality of life, continuity of care, health outcomes, and local community-based care for our nation’s veterans.”

    “I am very encouraged by the effort and direction being taken by Senator Cramer and others as they work to improve healthcare access opportunities for the nearly 3.0 million veterans residing in the rural areas of the United States,” said Alan O’Neil, CEO, Unity Medical Center in Grafton, N.D. “This bill will not only help the veterans, but will also improve utilization of the 1300 plus Critical Access Hospitals in the rural areas of the United States. Thank you for your support of our Rural Veterans and Rural Hospitals!”

    “Thank you Senator Cramer for your commitment to improving healthcare access for rural veterans,” said Marcus Lewis, CEO, First Care Health Center in Park River N.D. “Like many, I was hopeful when the Veteran’s Choice Program was introduced in 2013. Unfortunately, that hope gave way to frustration as I encountered delays, denials, and a confusing credentialing process that has too often left me—and countless other veterans—without timely or effective care. That’s why this bill is so critical. It acknowledges the unique challenges rural veterans face and offers a real pathway to timely, local, and reliable care.”

    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pocan, Bipartisan Colleagues Relaunch Biofuels Caucus, Announce New Co-Chairs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Pocan (2nd District of Wisconsin)

    Washington, DC —Today, Congressional Biofuels Caucus Co-chairs Mark Pocan (D-WI), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), and Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) released the following statements celebrating the launch of the caucus for the 119th Congress and welcoming new Co-chairs Hinson, Fedorchak, and Budzinski. 

    “I am glad to join my colleagues in the Congressional Biofuels Caucus,” said Co-chair Pocan. “Corn growers in Wisconsin deserve to have an even playing field in the market dominated by the oil and gas industry. This Caucus will showcase how biofuels can help us reach our emissions reduction goals while investing in rural jobs and infrastructure.” 

    “American biofuel producers have an untapped ability to power the future of liquid fuels, whether ethanol blends, biodiesel, or sustainable aviation fuel,” said Co-chair Smith. “Advancing sound policy can unlock billions of dollars in savings at the pump and hundreds of thousands of added jobs for the American people. I thank Co-chairs Craig and Pocan and congratulate Co-chairs Hinson, Fedorchak, and Budzinski for joining me to strengthen this bipartisan caucus and continue working to inform our colleagues in the House of the value of biofuels for American energy abundance.” 

    “Increasing the production and availability of homegrown biofuels is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to the all-of-the-above energy policy we need to stay ahead,” said Co-chair Craig. “I’m proud to be relaunching the Biofuels Caucus alongside my bipartisan colleagues this Congress so we can continue our work to lower prices at the pump, create opportunities for local producers and strengthen our energy security.” 

    “Biofuels are key to Iowa’s economy and key to American energy dominance,” said Co-chair Hinson. “Since coming to Congress, I have worked tirelessly to expand access to Iowa biofuels and support Iowa’s biofuels producers by fighting to secure permanent year-round E15, increase biofuels blending targets, and replace foreign energy with homegrown biofuels. I’m honored to co-lead the biofuels caucus and will continue working with President Trump and other caucus members to increase domestic energy production and support Iowa agriculture.” 

    “Biofuels are a growing part of America’s energy strategy and another way North Dakota is helping fuel the world,” said Co-chair Fedorchak. “It’s an honor to serve as a co-chair of this bipartisan caucus to advance policies that will help expand domestic energy production, empower rural America, and deliver practical solutions for North Dakotans.” 

    “I came to Congress to be a strong voice for the people of Central and Southern Illinois—especially our hardworking farmers. Few issues are more critical to their success than strengthening the biofuels industry and expanding market opportunities,” said Co-chair Budzinski. “That’s why promoting the use of homegrown, sustainable biofuels has been a central focus of my work in Congress, and I’m looking forward to continuing that commitment as co-chair of this bipartisan caucus.

    The Congressional Biofuels Caucus advocates for policies which reflect the capacity of American biofuels producers to meet the demand for reliable and affordable liquid fuels while growing rural economies, high-paying jobs, and value-added markets for agricultural commodities. The caucus recognizes biofuels are key to American energy independence and responsible stewardship of our resources. 

    Additional members of the caucus include: Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Jim Baird (R-IN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Andre Carson (D-IN), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), James Comer (R-KY), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sam Graves (R-MO), Don Bacon (R-NE), Mike Bost (R-IL), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Marianette Miller Meeks (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Mike Flood (R-NE), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Mark Alford (R-MO), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Brian Jack (R-GA), and Mark Messmer (R-IN). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pocan Slams “Big, Beautiful Bill for Billionaires”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Pocan (2nd District of Wisconsin)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mark Pocan (WI-02) released the following statement after voting against House Republicans’ budget bill:

    “While most Americans were asleep, House Republicans voted to rip healthcare away from 13.7 million people on Medicaid, cut $500 billion from Medicare, and take food away from hungry people—all to give a tax break to their billionaire buddies, like Donald Trump & Elon Musk. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, this will add trillions to the national debt, shutter hospitals, and leave farmers out to dry.”

    “From forcing debate and procedural votes in the dark of night, the entire process has been an attempt to keep this from the public. Even Republican leadership told their members not to hold town halls, they know just how unpopular this bill is with the American public. It must not be allowed to become law and must be stopped by the Senate.”

    Additional background information:

    • CBO confirmed the Republican bill would take from the poorest Americans to hand even more tax breaks to the wealthiest.
    • CBO also found the bill could trigger over $500 billion in automatic cuts to Medicare, under the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) law—cuts that many Republicans would be happy to see happen behind closed doors.
    • District-level information on the consequences of the Republican budget bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Huffman Statement on Capital Jewish Museum Shooting and Antisemitism

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

    May 22, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02) released the following statement in response to the deadly act of violence at the Capital Jewish Museum: 

    “The deadly display of antisemitic violence that transpired outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. last night is appalling. In what the FBI believes may be a targeted attack, two young members of the Jewish community were senselessly murdered. As we await additional details, one thing remains clear: antisemitism has no place in our country, and we need to take action to put an end to this vile hate as violence worsens both at home and around the globe. 

    “In the days since the October 7th attack, we’ve seen an undeniable rise in antisemitism and hate crimes. Antisemitism, along with Islamophobia and other forms of ethno-religious hatred, have festered far too long in the United States. We cannot allow violent extremists – or their enablers – to sow hatred and threaten our communities. I condemn these tragic murders and all other antisemitic hate crimes unequivocally and unconditionally. We must also reaffirm our commitment to confronting and eliminating all ethno-religious hatred and political violence once and for all. 

    “I send my deepest condolences to the loved ones of the Israeli embassy staff who were murdered last night, and my thoughts and sympathies are with the victims and all those affected by this tragic attack. I will continue fighting back unequivocally against ethno-religious hate and political violence in all its forms and locations.”

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Potential Effects on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program of Reconciliation Recommendations Pursuant to H. Con. Res. 14

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    A letter to the Honorable Amy Klobuchar and the Honorable Angie Craig concerning Potential Effects on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program of Reconciliation Recommendations Pursuant to H. Con. Res. 14, as Ordered Reported by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 12, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Big Y Foods Recalls Made-To-Order Subs, Wraps and Paninis Sold in Massachusetts and Connecticut Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    May 22, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    May 22, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Salmonella

    Company Name:
    Big Y Foods
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Big Y Foods

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Made-to-order subs, wraps and paninis

    Company Announcement
    Big Y Foods of Springfield, MA is voluntarily recalling some Made-To-Order Subs, Wraps and Paninis sold between 5/20 and 5/21 in some Massachusetts and Connecticut retail stores (listed below), because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
    This recall includes any Made-To-Order Small Sub, Large Sub, 30” Super Sub, Wrap or Panini purchased on 5/20 or 5/21 sold in the following Big Y Stores:

    Address

    City 

    State

    Zip

    1090 St. James Avenue

    Springfield

    MA

    01104

    79 Stonington Rd.

    Mystic

    CT

    06355

    136 North King Street Rt. 5

    Northampton

    MA

    01060

    10 College Highway Rt. 10

    Southampton

    MA

    01073

    802 Williams Street

    Longmeadow

    MA

    01106

    441 N Main St.

    E. Longmeadow

    MA

    01028

    772 North Main St.

    West Hartford

    CT

    06117

    148 West St.

    Ware

    MA

    01082

    200 West St.

    Pittsfield

    MA

    01201

    45 Veterans Memorial Drive

    North Adams

    MA

    01247

    224 Salem Turnpike

    Norwich

    CT

    06360

    141B Storrs Road

    Mansfield

    CT

    06250

    1040 Elm Street

    Rocky Hill

    CT

    06067

    234 Tolland Turnpike

    Manchester

    CT

    06040

    175 University Drive

    Amherst

    MA

    01002

    65 Palomba Drive

    Enfield

    CT

    06082

    1 Kent Road

    New Milford

    CT

    06776

    22 Spencer Plan Rd.

    Old Saybrook

    CT

    06475

    995 Poquonnock Road

    Groton

    CT

    06340

    237 Mohawk Trail, Route 2

    Greenfield

    MA

    01301

    300 Cooley Street

    Springfield

    MA

    01128

    135 West Rd.

    Elington

    CT

    06029

    355 Hawley Lane

    Stratford

    CT

    06614

    2035 Boston Rd.

    Wilbraham

    MA

    01095

    405 Bridgeport Ave.

    Shelton

    CT

    06484

    1313 Hopmeadow St.

    Slimsbury

    CT

    06070

    7 East Hampton Rd. Route 66

    Marlborough

    CT

    06447

    23 Killingworth Turnpike

    Clinton

    CT

    06413

    150 Boston Post Rd.

    Milford

    CT

    06460

    434 Walpole St.

    Norwood

    MA

    02062

    Big Y Foods was notified by Smartcuts that the sliced cucumber distributed to Big Y Foods was impacted by the ongoing Bedner Growers Inc. Cucumber Outbreak investigation. The Smartcuts sliced cucumber is provided as an ingredient option for customers to order when ordering a sub, wrap, or panini at the sandwich service line within the retail Kitchen Department. Big Y Foods ceased operation in all stores listed above, discarded product within the sub, wrap, and panini service line, then thoroughly cleaned and sanitized the service line.
    All Made-To-Order subs, wraps and paninis were produced within the Kitchen Department upon customer request. The subs, wraps and paninis impacted by the cucumber recall were provided for sale to consumers May 20, 2025, and May 21, 2025. These subs, wraps and paninis were not prepackaged for customer self-service.
    No illnesses have been reported to date.
    Consumers who have purchased Made-To-Order subs, wraps and paninis are urged to return the product or show a receipt to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Big Y Foods at wecare@bigy.com, call Big Y Foods at 1-800-828-2688 select Option #7, Monday through Friday from 7am – 4pm, or contact the Smartcuts company at 1-860-525-3237 Monday through Friday from 8am – 5pm.
    Link to FDA Outbreak Advisory

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Big Y Foods, Smartcuts
    1-800-828-2688 select Option #7, 1-860-525-3237
    wecare@bigy.com

    Media:
    Aimee Diliberto, Big Y Foods
    1-800-828-2688

    Content current as of:
    05/22/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Resolves Technical Issues with Comment Portal

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    CFTC Resolves Technical Issues with Comment Portal | CFTC

    /PressRoom/PressReleases/9079-25
    Skip to main content

    May 22, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today resolved a technical issue with its online comment submission portal and extended a deadline for comment submissions. The public can submit comments on 24/7 trading and perpetual contracts in derivatives markets until Friday, May 23, 2025.
    Comments on 24/7 trading can be submitted through the CFTC’s online portal. Alternatively, commenters may email a PDF of their comments along with their name and organization to [email protected].
    Comments on perpetual contracts in derivatives markets can be submitted through the CFTC’s online portal. Alternatively, commenters may email a PDF of their comments along with their name and organization to [email protected].
    Those who have previously submitted comments on these matters are encouraged to visit the respective comment portals to confirm their submissions and resubmit comments if necessary.

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Capito Resolution to End California’s EV Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, issued the following statement after the Senate passed her joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal California’s EV mandate through their “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulation that prohibits the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035. Chairman Capito introduced the CRA last month, and pledged to end the EV mandate in December 2024.
    “Today, the Senate voted to end California’s EV mandate and send my joint resolution of disapproval under the CRA to President Trump’s desk. The Biden administration and Congressional Democrats tried to block the will of the American people from this attempt by extreme unelected California and Biden EPA bureaucrats to ban gas-powered cars throughout the country, but Congress has now spoken and soundly rejected this rule. The impact of the California’s waiver would have been felt across the country, harming multiple sectors of our economy and costing hundreds of thousands of jobs in the process. I’m proud to have led this effort to protect American workers and consumers from this radical and drastic policy,” Chairman Capito said.
    Yesterday, Chairman Capito spoke on the Senate floor outlining the importance of ending California’s EV mandate, and the Congressional Review Act process she led to repeal California’s waiver. The Chairman’s full floor speech is available here.
    TIMELINE OF SENATOR CAPITO’S EFFORTS:
    February 28, 2024: Senator Capito joined Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.-05), Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), and Rep. John Joyce (R-Pa.-13), in a bicameral letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan warning of the legal and economic consequences of granting a Clean Air Act waiver request from the state of California, which would enable the state to require 35 percent of automobile sales to be zero-emission vehicles in model year 2026, and finally, 100 percent of them by 2035.
    December 18, 2024: Senator Capito pledged to work to reverse the Biden administration’s lame duck action of approving California’s waiver to implement its “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulation.
    April 4, 2025: Senator Capito joined Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to introduce joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to repeal California’s EV waivers that prohibit the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035 and set unrealistic and stringent requirements for heavy-duty trucks and heavy-duty diesel engines.
    May 1, 2025: Senator Capito applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to repeal California’s EV waivers.
    May 21, 2025: Senator Capito spoke on the Senate floor outlining the importance of ending California’s EV mandate, and the Congressional Review Act process she led to repeal California’s waiver. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Opening Statement at Hearing to Review Labor Budget Request

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    [embedded content]

    Click here or on the image above to watch Chairman Capito’s opening remarks from the hearing. 

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), chaired a hearing with U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to consider the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request.  

    Below is the opening statement of Chairman Capito as prepared for delivery: 

    “Good morning. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer, thank you for being here today to testify to the President’s fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Department of Labor. 

    “I am pleased to be joined by Senator Baldwin, the ranking member of the subcommittee. I am also happy to have the chair of the full committee, Senator Susan Collins, with us today. Thank you, Senator Collins, for your strong leadership and your tireless efforts to get us back to regular order. 

    “Following four years of reckless spending under the Biden administration, President Trump is taking steps to rein in our bloated bureaucracy and ensure that taxpayer dollars are being well spent. 

    “The department’s request proposes to reduce funding for the agency by $4.6 billion, a decrease of nearly 35%. We look forward to hearing your testimony and discussing in greater detail your priorities, new proposals, and programs you think we should consider scaling back.  

    “This month, we continued to receive good news about the strength of the American economy. Our economy has added jobs every month since President Trump took office and the unemployment rate remained steady this past month at 4.2%. However, millions of Americans are still underemployed or have stopped looking for work altogether.

    “We need to make sure that Americans have access to training programs – especially those that provide on-the-job training and those focused on in-demand jobs, which in West Virginia includes important industries like coal mining and healthcare. I’d like to see the department take innovative approaches to expand apprenticeship opportunities to new programs and fields as a lot of worthy apprenticeship opportunities don’t fit the current registered apprenticeship model. I’m interested in hearing more about how the Make America Skilled Again grant program will increase flexibility and improve outcomes for workers looking to upskill and advance in their careers. 

    “I’ve also been a long-time champion of expanding and strengthening the early childhood education workforce through apprenticeships. Giving our educators a clear pathway to successful careers opens the door to higher quality and better coverage of care, helping both families and childcare workers in West Virginia. 

    “Having a highly-skilled workforce is critical, but it is only half of the equation. We must also continue advancing common-sense solutions to create an economic environment where businesses can thrive and create good, well-paying jobs. I have been pleased to see this administration take steps to rein in unnecessary regulatory burdens that make it harder for businesses to create jobs.

    “Earlier this month, the Department of Labor announced it will no longer enforce the Biden administration’s misguided independent contractor rule, which jeopardized the ability of as many as 70 million freelancers, rideshare drivers, and other independent workers to earn a living in a way that best fits their needs and schedules.  

    “This rule would take away the freedom for West Virginia real estate agents, truck drivers, freelance writers, and other self-employed workers to choose their own hours and work around other life priorities — like going back to school or raising children.

    “I hope to see this administration continue to remove bureaucratic red tape to allow companies to expand their workforce, grow their businesses, and show their employees how much they’re valued in a growing economy. 

    “However, to be clear, not all regulations are bad. It is important to have appropriate protections in place to keep hard-working West Virginians, including our miners, safe. West Virginia is the second largest producer of coal in the country. For generations, coal miners in West Virginia have helped keep the lights on across the country. But doing so has sometimes come at a great price. In the last couple decades, West Virginia has experienced major mining tragedies at the Upper Big Branch Mine and Sago Mine, which claimed 29 and 12 lives, respectively.

    “I hope to hear more about the administration’s plans to ensure our workplaces are safe so that our workers are able to return home to their loved ones at the end of each day.  

    “Secretary Chavez-DeRemer, as the Fiscal Year 26 appropriations process moves forward, I know we will continue to work together to identify priorities and find common ground on how best to responsibly allocate taxpayers’ resources. Thank you again for being here today.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Questions Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer During Appropriations Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    [embedded content]
    Click here or the image above to watch Senator Capito’s questions.
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), questioned U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer during a hearing to consider the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. 
    HIGHLIGHTS:
    ON WEST VIRGINIA HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS:
    SENATOR CAPITO: “Madam Secretary, we’ve talked about this issue, but it’s about the West Virginia Department of Transportation and the Davis-Bacon wage determinations for highway construction. They’re just unworkable…The Biden wage determinations left out key job classifications that are commonly used on highway projects. It’s been very frustrating. The absence of these classifications has required West Virginia DOT to go through a complicated administrative process with DOL to determine proper wages…We’re missing the construction season here…there has been significant delays in not only advertising, but also in awarding construction projects…So will you commit to continue working with me to resolve this issue, to ensure that West Virginia’s highway construction projects can begin without undue burden?” 
    ON WEST VIRGINIA’S MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION OFFICES: 
    SENATOR CAPITO: “Let’s talk about MSHA. I mentioned it in my opening statements, obviously it’s important to a state like West Virginia, the health and safety of our nation’s miners. I’m really concerned because I’m hearing from my constituents that MSHA offices in West Virginia are closing. I’m worried that will reduce the number of mine inspections, which are essential to ensuring that the coal that powers our nation is mined safely and the workers return home to their families. West Virginia’s know far too well the importance of keeping our miners safe on the job.” 
    SECRETARY CHAVEZ-DEREMER: “My goal as the agency head is to make sure every worker is protected. As far as it relates to the MSHA offices, we’re working with GSA, that is under GSA’s purview, I’m working with them and advocating for those leases to stay open.” 
    ON THE IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: 
    SENATOR CAPITO: “What has worked in some instances in West Virginia has been a public-private partnership with workforce programs. Where students who are maybe a junior or senior, maybe they’re career and technical, maybe they’re in regular high school, or are unsure as to what direction they want to go. I’ll use Toyota as an example. They work with the local community college to do a blended work study program that at the end, really can result in a full-time job, a life job at with a great company, Toyota.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton Introduces Bill to Incentivize Domestic Production of Lifesaving Medicines

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    May 22, 2025

    Cotton Introduces Bill to Incentivize Domestic Production of Lifesaving Medicines

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Producing Incentives for Long-term production of Lifesaving Supply of medicine (PILLS) Act, legislation that would incentivize domestic manufacturing of lifesaving medicines.

    “America’s overreliance on foreign-made medicines is a national security issue with the potential to impact nearly every household in our country. This bill will ensure that our supply chains for lifesaving drugs remains stable while promoting President Trump’s made in America agenda,” said Senator Cotton.

    Full text of the bill may be found here.

    The PILLS Act would establish the following:

    • A production-based tax credit (PBTC) of 35% for final manufacturers of APIs and finished drug products and 30% for all other components.
    • A proportional domestic content bonus tax credit of up to 20% for 100% domestic content in the drug’s constituent materials.
    • Optional election of an investment tax credit equal to 25% of the qualified investment to offset costs of creating new production capacity (in lieu of PBTC).
    • Disallowance of tax credits to any entity which, at any time during the taxable year, was a foreign entity of concern.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smith, Bipartisan Colleagues Relaunch Biofuels Caucus, Announce New Co-Chairs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

    Washington, DC —Today Congressional Biofuels Caucus Co-chairs Adrian Smith (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), and Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) released the following statements celebrating the launch of the caucus for the 119th Congress and welcoming new Co-chairs Hinson, Fedorchak, and Budzinski.

    “American biofuel producers have an untapped ability to power the future of liquid fuels, whether ethanol blends, biodiesel, or sustainable aviation fuel,” said Co-chair Smith. “Advancing sound policy can unlock billions of dollars in savings at the pump and hundreds of thousands of added jobs for the American people. I thank Co-chairs Craig and Pocan and congratulate Co-chairs Hinson, Fedorchak, and Budzinski for joining me to strengthen this bipartisan caucus and continue working to inform our colleagues in the House of the value of biofuels for American energy abundance.”

    “Increasing the production and availability of homegrown biofuels is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to the all-of-the-above energy policy we need to stay ahead,” said Co-chair Craig. “I’m proud to be relaunching the Biofuels Caucus alongside my bipartisan colleagues this Congress so we can continue our work to lower prices at the pump, create opportunities for local producers and strengthen our energy security.”

    “Biofuels are key to Iowa’s economy and key to American energy dominance,” said Co-chair Hinson. “Since coming to Congress, I have worked tirelessly to expand access to Iowa biofuels and support Iowa’s biofuels producers by fighting to secure permanent year-round E15, increase biofuels blending targets, and replace foreign energy with homegrown biofuels. I’m honored to co-lead the biofuels caucus and will continue working with President Trump and other caucus members to increase domestic energy production and support Iowa agriculture.”

    “I am glad to join my colleagues in the Congressional Biofuels Caucus,” said Co-chair Pocan. “Corn growers in Wisconsin deserve to have an even playing field in the market dominated by the oil and gas industry. This Caucus will showcase how biofuels can help us reach our emissions reduction goals while investing in rural jobs and infrastructure.”

    “Biofuels are a growing part of America’s energy strategy and another way North Dakota is helping fuel the world,” said Co-chair Fedorchak. “It’s an honor to serve as a co-chair of this bipartisan caucus to advance policies that will help expand domestic energy production, empower rural America, and deliver practical solutions for North Dakotans.”

    “I came to Congress to be a strong voice for the people of Central and Southern Illinois—especially our hardworking farmers. Few issues are more critical to their success than strengthening the biofuels industry and expanding market opportunities,” said Co-chair Budzinski. “That’s why promoting the use of homegrown, sustainable biofuels has been a central focus of my work in Congress, and I’m looking forward to continuing that commitment as co-chair of this bipartisan caucus.

    The Congressional Biofuels Caucus advocates for policies which reflect the capacity of American biofuels producers to meet the demand for reliable and affordable liquid fuels while growing rural economies, high-paying jobs, and value-added markets for agricultural commodities. The caucus recognizes biofuels are key to American energy independence and responsible stewardship of our resources.

    Additional members of the caucus include: Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Jim Baird (R-IN), Scott Peters (D-CA), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Andre Carson (D-IN), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), James Comer (R-KY), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Sam Graves (R-MO), Don Bacon (R-NE), Mike Bost (R-IL), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Marianette Miller Meeks (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Mike Flood (R-NE), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Mark Alford (R-MO), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Brian Jack (R-GA), and Mark Messmer (R-IN).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF RECONCILIATION BILL

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

    PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF RECONCILIATION BILL

    Washington, D.C., May 22, 2025

    For Immediate Release                                          Contact: Tionee Scotland 

    May 22, 2025                                                           202-808-6129 

    PRESS RELEASE 

    PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF RECONCILIATION BILL 

    Washington, DC – Early this morning, the House of Representatives passed the Republican reconciliation package (H.R. 1) with a vote of 215-214-1. Every Democrat in the House voted no.  

    The 2 Republicans who voted against the bill, Congressman Thomas Massie (KY-4) and Congressman Warren Davidson (OH-8), opposed the legislation as they wanted to see further federal funding cuts. They held out hoping for full dismantlement.  

    This bill includes the largest cuts to healthcare in American history. This loss of funding – nearly one trillion dollars – will eliminate healthcare coverage for at least 13.7 million Americans and make it harder for people to access vital medical services. In Medicaid alone, funding is cut by more than $730 billion, which will leave 7.6 million people uninsured. The Virgin Islands presently has 21,000 Medicaid enrollees presently, many of whom will be impacted through loss of service or disenrollment.  

    Medicare funding was cut by more than $500 billion and vital programs, including the Social Services Block Grant – which provides more than $4.2 million to the Virgin Islands – are eliminated until 2034. With 20,000 Medicare enrollees in the U.S. Virgin Islands, services are sure to be impacted.  Federal funding for the Virgin Islands’ Meals on Wheels Program and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has also been eliminated until 2034. 

    Republicans’ reconciliation bill will make everyday life more expensive for Americans and removes programs which gave opportunities and support for a better life. It is estimated that more than 4 million students will see a reduction, or elimination, of their Pell Grants. The requirements for ‘full-time’ students are increased from 12 to 15 credits, which will decrease the maximum award for any student taking 12 credits by $1,479. In addition, students that are enrolled less than half-time will no longer receive Pell aid.  

    This bill harms efforts to lower energy costs, increase clean energy manufacturing and jobs, and eliminate economic assistance for communities on the frontline of the climate crisis. Unobligated funds will be rescinded from Inflation Reduction Act programs including Environmental Justice Block Grants, State-Based Home Energy Efficiency Contractor Training Grants, and the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.  One of these programs already in place in the Virgin Islands is the Solar for All Program, which provided $62.5 million for homes and businesses. 

    Republicans voted to cut $35 billion in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which includes children, working families, seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. This includes a $1 million cut to the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT program), which gives food assistance to children when they cannot rely on school lunches. This will impact the more than 15,000 Virgin Islands residents who rely upon SNAP for access to nutritious food for their wellbeing. The $35 billion cut includes a $1 billion decrease in funding for the Nutrition Assistance Program in Puerto Rico despite tremendous efforts and advocacy from their lobbyists, led by Republican Governor, Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon and Congressman Pablo Hernandez. 

    The reconciliation bill does not provide the increased rum cover over rate. Rum cover over is the rebate of federal excise taxes on distilled spirits produced in or imported into the rest of the United States from the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Despite Congresswoman Plaskett’s success in securing a Republican lead for the rum cover over legislation (H.R. 1378), Congressman Ron Estes (KS-4), and the support of 24 of her colleagues – 16 Republicans and 8 Democrats – the extension for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands was not included in the bill.  

    It is unfortunate that at the last minute while trying to find additional funds, the Republicans attempted to remove duty drawback – an export-promotion program that American alcohol and tobacco companies rely upon for a refund of duties paid at the time of import when similar goods are exported.  That program saves the alcohol industry alone approximately $30 billion.  Because of that concern, the full push of the rum industry was not present for rum cover over as the industry prioritized its efforts on safeguarding duty drawback which represented direct dollars to their industry. It’s also important to recognize that many discretionary provisions that made it into the bill were included to secure the necessary votes to advance the legislation – which ultimately was not the case with the provision for an increased rum cover over rate.  

    During the 18-hour markup in the Ways and Means Committee for the tax provisions of the reconciliation bill, Congresswoman Plaskett offered an amendment to increase the rate of the rum cover offer, to publicly demonstrate the bipartisan support for this provision. Both Democrats and Republicans emphasize the importance of the increased rum cover over rate.  The Ways and Means Chairman, Jason Smith, publicly stated that he would work to advance this, and the Committee is expected to craft a bipartisan tax bill this summer. “I will continue to work with my colleagues, Democrats and Republicans, to secure the increased rum cover over rate of $13.25, both retroactively and with an extension, for the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.” 

    While Congresswoman Plaskett cannot support the bill in its entirety, Plaskett’s legislation, the Restore Economic Vitality and Investment in the Virgin Islands (REVIVE VI) Act is included in the Republicans’ bill – one of only four Democrat Ways and Means provisions. REVIVE VI fixes an unintentional consequence of the Global Intangible Low Tax Income (GILTI) regime which, as a practical matter, inadvertently overrode the U.S. Virgin Islands’ economic development program that was previously authorized by Congress. This provision restores the Virgin Islands’ right to have an economic development program which will benefit our economy and workforce.  

    The U.S. Senate is anticipated to draft an entirely different bill that proposes fewer cuts to critical programs. Then, the Senate bill and House bill will likely be negotiated on a version that can be passed in both chambers of Congress and then be signed by the President.  

    Congresswoman Plaskett shared, “This bill is a wholesale betrayal of the working class and the future of America. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office found that the bottom 10%–working- and middle-class Americans will be 4% poorer in household wealth under this bill, with most of the benefits going to the top 10% of Americans. Not only does the bill make the largest healthcare cut in our nation’s history, it also makes the largest cuts to food assistance, energy projects and Pell grants. All to give additional money to the wealthiest Americans – an average of $278,000 per year, $762 per day, to the top 0.1% of Americans. This bill is cruel, shameful, unfair and unamerican.”  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Celebrates Approval of Gubernatorial Appointees

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Celebrates Approval of Gubernatorial Appointees

     

    LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen is celebrating the approval of three gubernatorial appointees to two executive code agencies. Today, Jesse Bradley, Matt Manning and Bryan Waugh were each confirmed on unanimous votes by the Legislature to fill roles on the Department of Water, Energy and Environment (DWEE) and the Nebraska State Patrol.

    Colonel Waugh is the 19th superintendent of law enforcement and public safety for the state. His duties with the Patrol will begin on June 2.

    Positions filled by Jesse Bradley and Matt Manning were created with the merger of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE) through LB317, introduced on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Tom Brandt. Bradley has been serving as interim director for both agencies. Manning will become the state’s new chief water officer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: RCF Opportunities Fund II L.P. Files Early Warning Report Regarding Common Shares of Defense Metals Corp.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RCF Opportunities Fund II L.P. (“RCF”) reports that it has filed an early warning report under National Instrument 62-103 – The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues in respect of the common shares (the “Common Shares”) in the capital of Defense Metals Corp. (the “Company”).

    On May 21, 2025, the Company issued an aggregate of 32,277,963 Common Shares to holders of secured convertible notes of the Company (the “Convertible Notes”), upon automatic conversion of the Convertible Notes at a price of C$0.125 per Common Share, and in full satisfaction of the accrued interest on the Convertible Notes (the “Conversion Issuance”). Of this amount, the Company issued an aggregate of 4,080,012 Common Shares to RCF upon the conversion of RCF’s C$500,000 Convertible Note, and in full satisfaction of the accrued interest thereon.

    On the same day, RCF subscribed for 1,720,370 units (the “Units”) of the Company at C$0.15 per Unit, for total proceeds of C$258,055.50, issued pursuant to a concurrent brokered and non-brokered private placement of the Company (the “Private Placement”, and together with the Conversion Issuance, the “Transactions”). The Company issued an aggregate of 36,841,068 Common Shares under the Private Placement. Each Unit is comprised of one Common Share and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant entitles RCF to acquire one additional Common Share at a price of C$0.20 per Common Share, at any time on or before May 21, 2028.

    As a result of the issuances of Common Shares under the Transactions, RCF’s beneficial ownership in respect of the Common Shares, being the securities subject to the most recent report required to be filed by RCF in respect of the Company under National Instrument 62-104 – Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids and National Instrument 62-103 – The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues (“NI 62-103”), fell below 10% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares.

    Immediately prior to the Transactions, RCF owned and controlled a total of 25,871,008 Common Shares, representing approximately 9.13% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. Assuming the conversion in whole of its Convertible Note, RCF would have come to own an aggregate of 29,871,008 Common Shares, representing approximately 11.27% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis.

    As a result of and immediately following the Transactions, RCF held 31,671,390 Common Shares, representing approximately 9.58% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. Assuming the exercise of the Warrants, RCF would come to own 32,531,575 Common Shares, representing approximately 9.81% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis.

    As RCF no longer holds 10% or more of the issued and outstanding Common Shares, RCF will no longer file early warning reports in respect of its ownership of Common Shares unless and until such time as RCF’s aggregate shareholdings exceed 10% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted or partially-diluted basis.

    RCF acquired the Common Shares and Warrants in accordance with RCF’s investment policy to generate proceeds from its investment in the Company. RCF may from time to time acquire additional securities of the Company, dispose of some or all of the existing or additional securities or may continue to hold its securities in the Company.

    The Company’s head office is located at Suite 1020 – 800 West Pender Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6C 2V6.

    To obtain a copy of the early warning report filed under applicable Canadian securities laws in connection with the transactions hereunder, please see the Company’s profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About RCF Opportunities Fund II L.P.

    RCF is a private investment fund existing under the laws of the Cayman Islands. RCF is ultimately controlled by RCF Management LLC. For further information and to obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact:

    RCF Opportunities Fund II L.P.
    1400 Wewatta Street, Suite 850
    Denver, Colorado, 80202
    Telephone: (720) 946-1444
    Attn: Mason Hills

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace USA slams PepsiCo for ditching reuse target 

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    WASHINGTON, DC (May 22, 2025) – In response to PepsiCo’s announcement that it will abandon its goal to deliver 20% of its beverages in reusable containers by 2030, Greenpeace USA Senior Oceans Campaigner Lisa Ramsden, said: “PepsiCo is the latest corporate polluter to abandon its reuse targets, a move that will undoubtedly force more plastic pollution into our environment and burden our bodies with more toxic microplastics. We clearly can’t trust corporations like PepsiCo to do what’s best for people and the planet, and this exemplifies why voluntary commitments by corporations have never been enough. We need a strong and binding Global Plastics Treaty that caps plastic production and ends single-use plastics.”

    PepsiCo’s decision follows its rival Coca-Cola’s similar abandonment of its reuse goal in  December 2024 and Coke’s recent announcement of plans to ramp up plastic production in response to the Trump Administration’s tariffs on aluminum. Both companies are among the world’s top global plastic polluters. 

    Plastics are not just a pollution problem; they are a public health crisis. Over 3,200 chemicals in plastics have been linked to a host of serious health conditions, including cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive problems, metabolic changes, obesity, premature births, neurological disorders, and learning disabilities. Toxic chemicals in plastic already cost Americans nearly $250 billion in healthcare expenses each year. 

    PepsiCo’s announcement comes as the ‘Make America Healthy Again’ report, released today, finds that Americans are exposed to these chemicals through many routes, including food and beverage packaging. Microplastics have been found in human breast milk, brain, lung, and heart tissue.

    Contact: Tanya Brooks, Senior Communications Specialist at Greenpeace USA , [email protected]   

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: On MSNBC, Rosen Discusses Her Successful Passage of Her Bipartisan Bill to Eliminate Taxes on Tips

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Last night, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined The Weeknight on MSNBC to discuss how she was able to pass her bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act in the Senate. The bill, which Senator Rosen passed by unanimous consent, would exempt American workers’ tipped wages from federal income tax. It now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives to be considered. Nevada has the highest concentration of tipped workers in the nation, and the bipartisan No Tax on Tips Act would allow workers to keep their tips without having to pay federal income tax on them. This bipartisan legislation also includes guardrails to ensure that it benefits workers who need it most, not CEOs and the ultra-wealthy.
    MSNBC: Rosen Discusses Senate Passage of Her Bipartisan No Tax On Tips Act
    HOST: I did want to give you the shout-out on the tax on tips bill that you called up yesterday. And it passed.
    ROSEN:  Yes. Yes, it did.
    HOST:  Tell us, what magic did you bring to that?
    ROSEN:  Well, I want to tell you, my motto is, agree where you can, fight where you must.
    And so this is a great bill for Nevada, because 25 percent of our workforce is in hospitality. 
    You may not know this, but I put myself through school as a waitress. I worked as a member of the Culinary Union. And even after I got my first job as a computer programmer, I continued to wait tables because I didn’t make enough money. So I know what it means to live on tips.
    [The] Average Nevadan makes about 40 grand a year. Our bill, the bill in the Senate, is a stronger bill with guardrails, so those who need to not pay taxes on their tips are really the tip workers, not some CEO or billionaire like Elon Musk and the entire Cabinet, so they can declare their salary as a tip.
    So, this bill is a stronger, better bill. It should stand on its own. I’m going to challenge the House to pass it, because in that reckless reconciliation bill that they have been working on since 1:00 a.m., the middle of the night, they have a different bill for tax on tips. It doesn’t have the guardrails. And so I urge them to pass this one and get it over the finish line.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Celebrates Removal of Destructive Amodei Lands Proposal From Extreme House Budget Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement applauding the news that Congressman Mark Amodei’s (R-NV-02) hastily-drafted and misguided proposal to sell off public lands in Nevada was removed from the House Republicans’ extreme budget reconciliation package that they passed this morning. 
    “It’s great news for Nevada that Congressman Amodei’s flawed, hastily-drafted proposal to sell our state’s public lands has been removed from the extreme House Republican budget that passed today. This proposal would have led to Nevada losing out on the opportunity for hundreds of millions of dollars in funding so that it could instead pay for more tax cuts for billionaires,” said Senator Rosen. “I’ll keep working in the Senate to make sure my Washoe and Pershing County Lands Bills, which have been endorsed by a wide range of stakeholders in Nevada, are passed.”
    The flawed amendment proposed by Congressman Amodei would have sold off nearly 16,000 acres of public lands in Washoe County and hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands in Pershing County to pay for Congressional Republicans’ budget reconciliation proposal. It would have abandoned key provisions in the Truckee Meadows Public Lands Management Act, also known as the Washoe County Lands Bill, and directed funds from public land sales in Nevada to the U.S. Treasury, instead of keeping the funding in Nevada. It also ignored the balance struck in the Pershing County Economic Development and Conservation Act.
    Senator Rosen’s Washoe County Lands Bill would: 
    Permanently protect a million acres of public lands, which Congressman Amodei cut in his proposal.
    Promote sustainable growth and economic development by directing over 15,200 acres of public lands to be made eligible for sale, all of which must be assessed for its suitability for new affordable housing. An additional 33 acres are set aside to only be sold for affordable housing. Any land sold for affordable housing would have to be sold at less than fair market value.
    Support local Tribal communities by expanding land held in trust by more than 8,400 acres for the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, 11,300 acres for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, and over 1,000 acres for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, none of which was in the Amodei proposal.
    Provide local governments over 3,700 acres for public purposes such as parks, water treatment facilities, fire stations, and schools, all of which was excluded from the Amodei proposal. Land is specifically conveyed to Washoe County, the City of Reno, the City of Sparks, the Incline Village General Improvement District, the Gerlach General Improvement District, the State of Nevada, the Truckee River Flood Management Authority, the Washoe County School District, and the University of Nevada, Reno.
    Keep proceeds from land sales in Nevada for priorities like education and restoration around the Truckee River.
    For years, Senator Rosen has worked closely with a wide range of stakeholders across Washoe County to develop this comprehensive legislation. In 2023, she unveiled a working draft of the bill and collected feedback from hundreds of Nevadans during a public comment period, which she then incorporated into this legislation, which was previously introduced last year with the support of local government officials, conservation advocates, and business leaders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Senator Rosen Secures Air Force Commitment to Address Long-Overdue Veteran Benefits Issue for Toxic Exposures at Nevada Test and Training Range

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Watch Senator Rosen’s Exchange HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Senator Jacky Rosen (NV) secured a commitment from senior Air Force officials to take action to address critical gaps in care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxins and radiation at classified locations, including six in Nevada alone that the Department of Energy recognizes as exposure zones. Senator Rosen highlighted how servicemembers have been denied care because the Pentagon has neglected to similarly recognize their contaminated worksites as exposure zones, despite decades of nuclear testing and documented hazards.
    Earlier this week, Senator Rosen also urged immediate action in a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and top Pentagon officials imploring them to investigate the matter and ensure veterans receive the care they deserve. This follows an exchange she had on this topic with General Dan Caine in his nomination hearing earlier this year to be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
    “Several constituents have brought to my attention that they were exposed to radiation and toxic substances– including emissions from burn pits used to dispose of debris from developmental aircraft– while stationed at NTTR [Nevada Test and Training Range],” wrote Senator Rosen in the letter. “However, because of the classified nature of their assignments, they cannot substantiate their presence or exposure.”
    “I urge the Department to conduct a comprehensive review to determine whether veterans who served at classified or data-masked locations have portions of their medical records similarly classified or otherwise inaccessible to the VA,” she continued. “If such restrictions exist, I request that the Department develop a secure and efficient process– coordinated with the VA– to ensure that relevant health information can be shared for the purposes of care and benefits adjudication, while still protecting the sensitive nature of the veteran’s service. No veteran should be denied care because their records are locked behind classification barriers.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Below is the transcript of Senator Rosen’s exchange with the Secretary of the Air Force during the hearing: 
    Senator Rosen: I have heard from constituents who served at such locations within the Nevada Test and Training Range, who believe they were exposed to radiation from our days of conducting explosive nuclear weapons testing, and to toxins from burn pits which disposed of classified waste. However, [the Department of Defense] does not classify the range as a place where exposure occurred – despite the Department of Energy providing a presumption of exposure for their personnel who served at these exact same locations within the range, such as the Tonopah Test Range. And, because their service records are Data Masked, these veterans can’t even prove to the VA that they were ever stationed there. Imagine that?
    All of this has prevented them from being able to receive the veterans’ benefits they deserve. Secretary Meink and General Allvin … will you work with me and this committee to ensure that the Department of the Air Force both provides a presumption of exposure at relevant Air Force locations, where the Department of Energy has done so for their personnel, and ensure that those who served—or are currently serving—at these sites receive sufficient documentation to support health-related claims, all while protecting the classified nature of their service? 
    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink: Yes, Senator, we take the health of our workforce seriously and we need to deal with this issue. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rosen, Rick Scott Pass Their Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month Unanimously in Senate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    In Remarks, Rosen Calls Out Heinous Murder of Israeli Embassy Employees at Jewish Museum Event
    Video can be found HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Rick Scott (R-FL) took to the Senate floor to condemn last night’s antisemitic attack in Washington, DC and pass their bipartisan resolution recognizing May as Jewish Heritage American Month. The resolution celebrates the many contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States and calls on elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders to condemn and combat any and all acts of antisemitism. 
    “Like so many other Jews in America and around the world, I woke up this morning heartbroken by the news of yet another unspeakable act of antisemitic violence that occurred late last night. This shooting was antisemitism — plain and simple,” said Senator Rosen. “We cannot be silent. There is a desperate need to confront dangerous and growing antisemitism in our country and around the world, and to show that bigoted efforts to intimidate us will not work. That’s why I’m proud to have passed my bipartisan resolution with Senator Rick Scott to recognize and celebrate Jewish Americans and their accomplishments, and to encourage greater understanding. Together, we’ll continue working to build a more inclusive and welcoming America, where Jewish Americans can freely and proudly express their faith and identity.”
    “I am proud to once again recognize Jewish American Heritage Month with the unanimous passage of our bipartisan resolution honoring the profound contributions of Jewish Americans to our nation’s history, culture, and success,” said Senator Rick Scott. “As we continue to see a disturbing rise in antisemitism following Hamas terrorists’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, and in the wake of the tragic killing of two staff members from the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night, this resolution reaffirms America’s strong and united commitment to stand with Jewish Americans and against hatred in all forms. In Florida, we are blessed to have incredible Jewish communities that enrich every part of our state. I am as committed as ever to working with leaders at the local, state, and federal levels to ensure these communities are safe, supported, and empowered to live freely and pursue the American Dream.”
    For years, Senator Rosen has worked across party lines to combat antisemitism and prevent efforts to do so from becoming politicized. In February, Rosen introduced the bipartisan Antisemitism Awareness Act, which directs the Department of Education to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating antisemitic acts on college campuses. Earlier this year, Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen Holocaust education. Last year, Rosen’s bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Never Again Education Act became law. Rosen helped launch the first-ever Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism with Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and led the push to create the first-ever national strategy to counter antisemitism. Senator Rosen also helped introduce a bipartisan resolution denouncing antisemitism at institutions of higher education, which passed the Senate unanimously.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “We Will Not Forget:” Padilla Sends Strong Warning as Republicans Go Nuclear to Revoke California Clean Air Waivers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    “We Will Not Forget:” Padilla Sends Strong Warning as Republicans Go Nuclear to Revoke California Clean Air Waivers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, blasted Republicans for their shortsighted revocation of California’s clean air waivers by overruling the nonpartisan Senate Parliamentarian’s decision and going nuclear on the Senate rulebook. Republicans defied their own promises and broke 30 years of precedent by moving forward with their cynical repeal of California’s Clean Air Act waivers with a 50-vote threshold under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), bypassing the filibuster and its 60-vote requirement by overruling the Senate Parliamentarian.
    Over the last few weeks, Padilla has spoken on the Senate floor repeatedly to sound the alarm on Senate Republicans’ revocations of these critical waivers.
    “Over the last 24 hours, Trump and radical Republicans have gone nuclear on the Senate rulebook, stopping at nothing to attack California for protecting the health of my constituents, for having the audacity to lead the clean energy economy. California became the fourth-largest economy in the world by leaning in to the clean energy transition, and we’ve proved that what’s good for the planet and our air is good for business. By denying California the ability to control our own toxic air and greenhouse gas emissions, Republicans are threatening the public health, environment, and economy for millions of my constituents and people around the country. And let me be clear: California has not and cannot force our emission standards on any other state in the nation.
    “It’s not just why Republicans are undermining California’s climate leadership. It’s how they did it. Republicans are effectively saying that whenever the Parliamentarian rules against them, they can simply disregard her to bypass the filibuster and pass legislation on a simple majority vote. So no, this isn’t some one-off change to the rules — this is throwing out the rulebook entirely — all to please Donald Trump and the Big Oil lobby. If they can ignore the Parliamentarian here, then why not on an upcoming tax bill, or to gut health care, or to revoke lifesaving vaccine approvals?
    “Republicans have crossed the red line and gone nuclear. As the saying goes, ‘what goes around comes around.’ And it won’t be long before Democrats are back in the driver’s seat again. When that happens, all bets will be off. Every agency action that Democrats don’t like — whether it’s a rule or not — will be fair game, from mining permits and fossil fuel projects to foreign affairs and tax policies.
    “We will not forget what happened here. History won’t forget. And California will not forget.”
    Senator Padilla has been a leading voice in pushing back against Republican attacks on California’s Clean Air Act waivers. Earlier this week, Padilla placed a hold on the four pending Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) nominees until Republicans stop their reckless attempts to overturn California’s clean air waivers. Padilla, along with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) also led Democratic Ranking Members in strongly warning Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) of the dangerous and irreparable consequences if Senate Republicans overrule the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision on California’s waivers.
    Last month, Padilla, Whitehouse, and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) welcomed the Senate Parliamentarian’s decision that the waivers are not subject to the CRA. Padilla also joined Whitehouse and Schiff in blasting Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s weaponization of the EPA after the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) similar finding. Padilla and Schiff previously slammed the Trump Administration’s intent to roll back dozens of the EPA’s regulations that protect California’s air and water.
    Throughout the past several weeks, Padilla has made clear that these reckless revocations of California’s clean air waivers will lead to disastrous public health, environmental, and economic impacts for millions of Californians and people across the country. Inaction against the climate crisis costs Americans an average of $2,500 a year in medical bills and over $820 billion in total, according to estimates by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
    Padilla has consistently stressed the extreme consequences of Republicans ignoring the Parliamentarian, effectively blowing up the filibuster. While he and other Democrats supported lowering the threshold to pass a bill in 2022, Republicans defended the filibuster relentlessly — a dramatic contrast from their revocation of California’s waivers under a simple majority vote.
    Now that they’ve taken the nuclear option, the Trump Administration could make a series of dangerous moves in bogging down Congress with reviews from the past 30 years on items including vaccine approvals, broadcast licenses, merger approvals, and more, enabling President Trump’s political retribution. Padilla has warned multiple times that a future Democratic administration could come after Republican oil and gas priorities, including mining permits, fossil fuel projects, foreign policy, tax policies, and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) disruptions.
    In case you missed it, Senators Schumer, Whitehouse, Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Schiff, and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) also all came out strongly against Republicans’ reckless effort and warned of the consequences of setting this new precedent.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on DHS Order Blocking International Students at Harvard

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

    SEATTLE, WA — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, released the following statement regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) announcement that they are revoking Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, ending international students’ ability to study at the school.

    “This is a remarkably dangerous and unlawful action from the Trump Administration. The decision to revoke Harvard’s SEVP certification is solely to settle a score and shut down any dissent, not to protect our national security. This decision will now throw thousands of students’ lives into limbo as they face an uncertain future in a foreign land that had previously welcomed them and their talents. As a foreign student myself when I first came to America, I can only imagine the sacrifices, the planning and the investment that has already gone into the decision to come here — to revoke these visas now is outrageous. 

    “And to attempt to deny the ability of Harvard to take any foreign students is both unlawful and deeply detrimental to our country’s own ability to innovate and attract talent from all over the world.  For generations, this country’s universities have been the bedrock of learning, and a thriving place for free speech, learning and growth. Trump is now turning them into places of fear, uncertainty, and chaos.

    “This action simply deters talent from coming to the United States, and is nothing more than a wannabe dictator trying to bully people into silence. It will weaken our educational institutions and our ability to innovate and hurt America and Americans.”

    As the Trump Administration continues to target immigrant students, Jayapal has been a vocal leader in the effort to protect them. She led a group of 142 Members of Congress in demanding answers regarding the termination of students’ legal status at schools across the country earlier this month.  

    Issues: Arts & Education, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –