Category: Americas

MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on SCOTUS Ruling Allowing for the Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela

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

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela:

“The Trump administration is cruelly moving forward with ending TPS for 350,000 Venezuelans who have fled the authoritarian Maduro regime. Venezuelans face extreme oppression, arbitrary detention, extrajudicial killings, and torture. Poverty levels are surging, and essentials like electricity, water, and medical care are scarce. The dire circumstances in Venezuela make it clear that this is exactly the type of situation that requires our government to provide TPS.

“The Administration’s move to end TPS for Venezuelans throws out people who are contributing substantially to our economy, including in Florida, which is home to the largest share of TPS holders of all 50 states, with almost 300,000 TPS holders, about 60 percent of whom are Venezuelan. Economists have warned that the Administration’s cruel moves on ending TPS for those who have committed no crimes and are here working will have enormous economic consequences, disrupt businesses, increase prices for consumers, and lead to deeper labor shortages.

“It is shameful that the Trump administration would pull the rug out from so many Venezuelans who came into the country lawfully, fleeing untold violence and devastation in their home country.“

The US Department of State has a “Do Not Travel” advisory for Venezuela due to high rates of violent crime, including homicide, as well as the presence of active terrorist groups. The Department of State withdrew all diplomatic personnel in 2019.

Issues: Immigration

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar: Republicans are throwing millions of Americans off their health insurance

Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – May 14, 2025

CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Good morning. Pleased to be joined with the Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, Ted Lieu.

This week, Republicans have laid out exactly who they are fighting for. After weeks of promises that they wouldn’t cut Medicaid, their budget contains drastic cuts that will throw millions off of health insurance. After campaigning on helping working-class Americans get ahead, their budget, once again, rewards billionaires and wealthy corporations and makes it harder for families to make ends meet. They are watching prices go up because of Trump’s reckless tariffs, and their response is to take food off of the table for women, veterans and children. The Republican budget doesn’t address the cost-of-living crisis, it makes it worse. The cost of groceries, clothing and everyday necessities are still too high, and Republicans want to add to that and make health care more expensive on top of it. This isn’t about helping people find good-paying jobs or a shot at a better life. This is simply about helping people like Elon Musk pay less in taxes.

House Democrats believe that we can shore up these basic-needs programs and help everyday Americans reach their full potential. It’s long past time that the wealthiest of Americans pay their fair share and make it easier for working families to afford basic needs like health care and housing. These devastating cuts will make Americans—particularly children—sicker, hungrier and poorer. They’re shortchanging the future just so their friends can continue to get richer. The American people cannot afford the Republican budget and House Democrats are using every tool at our disposal to stop it. I want to thank our Energy and Commerce Members who continue to meet, Ways and Means Members who continue to highlight the unfairness of this plan that Republicans are putting forward and the Agriculture Committee, who will continue to fight for nutrition programs throughout the day. Vice Chair Ted Lieu.

VICE CHAIR LIEU: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar. Omaha, Nebraska is the sixth-largest city in America led by a Republican. And last night, in a stunning upset, Democrats flipped that seat from Red to Blue. I want to congratulate Mayor-Elect John Ewing Jr., who’s going to be the new mayor of Omaha, Nebraska. We also know that voters are very angry at Republicans who continue to enable Donald Trump’s harmful policies. And the Republican mayor, in this case, aligned herself completely with Donald Trump, and the voters spoke out in Omaha, and now we have a Democratic Mayor-Elect.

I also want to talk about now the Qatari luxury palace in the sky gift to Donald Trump. There is no such thing as a free palace in the sky. What do foreign countries want when they gift massive amounts of money and other gifts to the President? Donald Trump should reject this gift of the luxury palace in the sky, Boeing 747, completely and righteously. Because we are the United States of America, we don’t need gifts from foreign countries. We can build our own very impressive Air Force One. We don’t need to fly a Qatari plane around as our Air Force One. That’s also un-American. I also want to note that new reporting came out showing that to retrofit this Qatari 747 would take perhaps up to a billion dollars, because you can’t just fly a palace in the sky from a foreign country. You have to actually make it safe and secure. You have to make this plane ready to launch nuclear weapons. You can’t have people eavesdropping on it, and so it’s going to cost way more money to do it this way. And again, people need to ask why is a foreign country trying to give this massive gift to Donald Trump? And think about the precedent it would set. Would it be okay if Brunei gifted a luxury 757 to J.D. Vance for Air Force Two? Would it be okay if Germany gave a Porsche SUV to Senator Thune as his official car? Would it be okay if Italy gave a bunch of expensive Armani suits to Speaker Johnson for his official duties? No, it wouldn’t be okay. Also, because the Constitution says you can’t do this, it requires Congressional approval for the President to accept the gift of this size. And we urge the Republicans in Congress to stand up, speak out and call for a vote if Donald Trump were to accept this essential bribe from a foreign government.

And then let me now conclude on Medicaid. We now know that the Republicans lied when they said that they weren’t going to cut Medicaid. They’re cutting Medicaid by a massive amount of money, one of the largest cuts in U.S. history. Over 13.7 million people would be kicked off Medicaid. I also note that two-thirds of nursing home patients rely on Medicaid. This is also going to close down rural hospitals. It’s going to make it so that health care for all of us becomes more expensive, because if you don’t have health care under Medicaid, you’re still going to get treated. You just walk into the emergency room, and it costs even more money for all of us. So we urge Republicans to reject this massive Medicaid cut. And I just want to say, we told you so. We told you that Republicans were going to cut Medicaid, and now we know that they are doing it. So they lied, we told the truth, again.

Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Presses Social Security Administration on Surge in Constituent Concerns About Social Security Delays
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) is pressing the Social Security Administration about a surge in constituent concerns about delays in receiving their Social Security benefits.

“Due to the haphazard actions of Elon Musk and his so-called ‘Department of Government Efficiency,’ seniors in New Hampshire are struggling with significant delays in receiving the Social Security benefits that they worked for their entire lives,” wrote Senator Hassan in her letter to Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano. “I urge you to immediately reverse Elon Musk’s slow-down in Social Security benefit payments, open an investigation into Social Security payment delays, and provide transparent answers to Congress regarding how many seniors are waiting longer than they did last year for their Social Security checks.

“My office has seen a significant increase in outreach from Granite Staters who are facing issues receiving the Social Security benefits that they have earned,” continued Senator Hassan. “Constituents have reported delays in receiving their checks or receiving a lower benefit amount than usual. Others have reported being unable to access their accounts and unable to reach anyone on the phone to get assistance… The surge in issues faced by seniors comes as the Administration has made very clear that this Administration is deliberately trying, as part of its agenda, to make it more difficult for seniors to access their earned benefits.”

Senator Hassan urged Commissioner Bisignano to explain the delays and pressed him to provide information on how many seniors have experienced delays, as well as information on what actions Elon Musk and DOGE have taken that affected systems related to the timely payment of benefits.

Senator Hassan has been speaking out against President Trump’s attacks on Social Security, including the Administration’s moves to close Littleton’s Social Security office and to fire employees across the country who help provide in-person and telephone customer service to seniors. Earlier this month, Senator Hassan participated in a town hall with Granite State seniors to hear about their concerns, particularly their concerns about Social Security. In March, she met with North Country seniors to hear their concerns and explore what can be done to avert closure of the Littleton Social Security field office. Earlier this year, Senators Hassan and Shaheen sent a letter calling on the leaders of the General Services Administration and Social Security Administration to stop any efforts to close the Littleton Social Security field office as well as stop broader attacks on Social Security.

Click here to see the full letter or see below:

Dear Commissioner Bisignano:

Due to the haphazard actions of Elon Musk and his so-called “Department of Government Efficiency,” seniors in New Hampshire are struggling with significant delays in receiving the Social Security benefits that they worked for their entire lives. I urge you to immediately reverse Elon Musk’s slow-down in Social Security benefit payments, open an investigation into Social Security payment delays, and provide transparent answers to Congress regarding how many seniors are waiting longer than they did last year for their Social Security checks.

My office has seen a significant increase in outreach from Granite Staters who are facing issues receiving the Social Security benefits that they have earned. Constituents have reported delays in receiving their checks or receiving a lower benefit amount than usual. Others have reported being unable to access their accounts and unable to reach anyone on the phone to get assistance. Most concerning is that multiple seniors have contacted my office after the Social Security Administration unilaterally suspended their benefits with little explanation and limited recourse to get assistance online or by phone. This is absolutely unacceptable.

The surge in issues faced by seniors comes as the Administration has made very clear that this Administration is deliberately trying, as part of its agenda, to make it more difficult for seniors to access their earned benefits. Elon Musk called Social Security a “Ponzi scheme” and called for cutting one-third of Social Security and Medicare. Howard Lutnick, the Commerce Department Secretary, subsequently claimed that seniors waiting for Social Security checks “wouldn’t call and complain.” According to Secretary Lutnick, only fraudsters would complain about a delayed or missing Social Security payment: “a fraudster always makes the loudest noise, screaming, yelling and complaining.”

Given the harm that Elon Musk’s actions have imposed on seniors in New Hampshire, I urge you to take immediate steps to reverse any changes at the Social Security Administration that have delayed Social Security payments to seniors and to open an investigation into the consequences of DOGE’s actions on payments to beneficiaries. Further, I ask you to answer the questions below by June 5^th.
1. How many seniors have experienced delayed Social Security payments from January 20^th, 2025, to present? Please compare this figure to the same period over each of the preceding three years.
2. What is the Social Security Administration’s on-time payment rate for Social Security retirement benefits from January 20^th, 2025, to present? Please compare this figure to the same period over each of the preceding three years.
3. What has been the typical Social Security payment delay-period experienced by a senior from January 20^th, 2025, to present, among those seniors who are not paid their benefits on time by the Social Security Administration? Please compare this figure to the same period over each of the preceding three years.
4. What actions taken by Elon Musk and DOGE have affected systems that relate to the timely payment of Social Security benefits to seniors? Please provide a comprehensive list of these actions, the dates on which the actions took place, the affected systems, and the DOGE-affiliated individuals who carried out the actions.
5. Does the Social Security Administration collect information regarding how many seniors attempt to call the Social Security Administration for assistance but cannot reach a person for assistance? If so, please provide this figure for January 20^th, 2025, to present and please compare this figure to the same period over each of the preceding three years.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter.
MIL OSI USA News –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: R&M Trading LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in R&M Refresher Instant Milk Tea Powder

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

Summary

Company Announcement Date:
May 18, 2025
FDA Publish Date:
May 19, 2025
Product Type:
Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:

Recall Reason Description
Undeclared milk

Company Name:
R&M Trading LLC
Brand Name:

Brand Name(s)
RM Refresher

Product Description:

Product Description
Instant Milk Tea Powder

Company Announcement
R&M Trading LLC of Lakewood, WA is recalling approximately 408 packages (1lb. pack per package) and 1624 packages (3/1lb. packs per package) of Instant Milk Tea powder products because they may contain undeclared milk . People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
The R&M Refresher brand Instant Milk Tea products are recalled because the ingredients statement declares Whey and Caseinate in Non-Dairy Creamer ingredients, but it does not specify milk.
The following Instant Milk Tea products are sold in 1lb. plastic pouch on Amazon website between 11/18/2024 and 05/07/2025.
No illnesses have been reported to date.

Amazon ASIN Number
Product
Expiration Date

B0D725TXQW
Brown Sugar Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (1-Pack/llb.)
12/15/2025

B0D72FQVDR
Brown Sugar Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (3-Pack/3I b.)
12/15/2025

B0D7269JC1
Honeydew Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (1-Pack/llb.)
12/15/2025

B0D726K269
Honeydew Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (3-Pack/3I b.)
12/15/2025

B0D71Y85TG
Matcha Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (1-Pack/llb.)
12/15/2025

B0D71YBV1X
Matcha Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (3-Pack/3I b.)
12/15/2025

B0D71YHZX4
Original Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (1-Pack/llb.)
12/15/2025

B0D72BLQRW
Original Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (3-Pack/3I b.)
12/15/2025

B0D72CMLBH
Taro Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (1-Pack/llb.)
12/15/2025

B0D72D6589
Taro Flavor Instant Milk Tea by RM Refresher (3-Pack/3I b.)
12/15/2025

The recall was initiated after it was discovered during an inspection conducted by the U.S. FDA Office of Global Policy and Strategy in China that products containing milk were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.
Consumers who have purchased affected products are urged not to consume the product and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with questions may contact the company at imars.yang@qq.com .
This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Company Contact Information

Product Photos

Content current as of:
05/19/2025

Regulated Product(s)

Follow FDA

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 293

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL3

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 293
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
110 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Southwest Iowa
Eastern Nebraska

* Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 110 PM until
900 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A few tornadoes possible
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will increase in coverage through the
afternoon across parts of eastern Nebraska, in a moist and
moderately unstable air mass. Large hail and damaging winds are
possible in the strongest cells, along with a few tornadoes.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 45 statute miles
north and south of a line from 45 miles west of Columbus NE to 10
miles southeast of Shenandoah IA. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 292…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 22030.

…Hart

SEL3

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 293
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
110 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Southwest Iowa
Eastern Nebraska

* Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 110 PM until
900 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
A few tornadoes possible
Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will increase in coverage through the
afternoon across parts of eastern Nebraska, in a moist and
moderately unstable air mass. Large hail and damaging winds are
possible in the strongest cells, along with a few tornadoes.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 45 statute miles
north and south of a line from 45 miles west of Columbus NE to 10
miles southeast of Shenandoah IA. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 292…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 22030.

…Hart

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW3
WW 293 TORNADO IA NE 191810Z – 200200Z
AXIS..45 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
45W OLU/COLUMBUS NE/ – 10SE SDA/SHENANDOAH IA/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 40NM N/S /7NE OBH – 38SSE OVR/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 22030.

LAT…LON 42109822 41309529 40009529 40809822

THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU3.

Watch 293 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

Mod (50%)

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

Low (20%)

Wind

Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

Mod (60%)

Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

Low (20%)

Hail

Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

Mod (60%)

Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

Mod (60%)

Combined Severe Hail/Wind

Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

High (>95%)

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: German Verdi Trade Union Stands in Solidarity with IAM Union Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico Workers Amid Stalled Contract Talks

Source: US GOIAM Union

As Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico workers continue their fight for a fair first contract, international support is growing. The German service-sector union Verdi has called on Deutsche Lufthansa AG to intervene and support its Puerto Rican subsidiary in resolving long-standing contract disputes with the IAM Union.

“Negotiations are proving very difficult, particularly with regard to overtime pay and wage increases,” said Verdi Union Vice Chair Christine Behle in a letter to Lufthansa’s leadership. “This is neither acceptable to the employees in Puerto Rico nor to Verdi. Nor does it do justice to the daily performance.”

The IAM has been in negotiations with Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico for over a year, advocating for a contract that guarantees fair pay, safer working conditions, and respect on the job for the skilled aviation maintenance workers who keep commercial aircraft flying safely.

“It is unacceptable that a German company wants to impose worse conditions for employees outside of Germany,” Behle continued in a message of encouragement to the workers in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. “We stand for good working conditions all over the world and send you our solidarity greetings.”

“These workers have been shortchanged for too long, and we’re here to make them whole,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “They’ve put in the work, kept planes flying, and met every expectation. It’s time the company steps up and delivers the respect, wages, and protections these workers have more than earned.”

The IAM Union has vowed to continue standing with its members in Puerto Rico, demanding that the company return to the bargaining table with proposals that reflect its workers’ hard work and professionalism.

“The letter from Verdi underscores a growing global concern: Lufthansa Technik’s failure to reach a fair deal with its Puerto Rican workforce not only reflects poorly on the company’s international labor practices, but also contradicts the values it claims to uphold in its home country,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Saying Goodbye to Doug Beard, CASC Senior Administrator

Source: US Geological Survey

Doug has received numerous accolades for his leadership in the federal climate space, including the 2021 Climate Adaptation Leadership Award (Federal Government category) from the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, recognizing his “outstanding efforts to increase the resilience of America’s valuable living natural resources and help sustain the many people, communities, and businesses that depend on them.” He has also been awarded many USGS and DOI recognitions, most recently the Superior Service Award of the Department of the Interior for his leadership role in producing the USGS Climate Science Plan in 2023.

He has also become an important figure on the international stage, injecting USGS science into conversations on global stewardship and biodiversity. He has organized and led multi-national meetings, such as the 2024 World Fisheries Congress, chaired and co-chaired working groups with the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), and been a frequent panelist and attendee of the annual Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

“Doug’s understated approach to navigating the complex landscape of science diplomacy is so incredibly effective,” says National CASC Research Fish Biologist Abby Lynch. “He has had an outsized influence on the development of major initiatives at national and international scales.”

There has never been a CASC network without Doug. As he moves on to his next phase, CASC staff reflect on how he has impacted their work and careers.

“Doug has been an inspiration among staff of all experience levels in our program, especially for his patience, political savvy, and charming mid-western demeanor,” says Shawn Carter, Chief Scientist of the National CASC. “His thoughtful and cool-headed leadership have garnered universal support for our program.”

“Doug has been an impactful mentor, role model, colleague, and friend. I am thankful for his guidance and support of my own career, and I hope that I can continue to apply what I’ve learned from him to support natural resources.” – Abby Lynch, Research Fish Biologist, National CASC

“Doug is an unassuming yet masterful strategist, building and positioning an innovative program that has made countless advancements in knowledge and application to challenging natural resource issues across the Nation,” says Molly Cross, Regional Administrator of the North Central CASC.

Fifteen years after that first unexpected meeting, Doug is still in a bit of disbelief how a “fish guy” like him become a foremost climate expert within the USGS and an international expert in global biodiversity issues.

“It’s been an honor to work for the American people,” he says.

Doug, we wish you all the best!

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FALQs: Government Formation in Norway

Source: US Global Legal Monitor

This blog post is part of our Frequently Asked Legal Questions series.

Earlier this year, on January 29, 2025, the Center Party announced that it would leave the two-party coalition government in Norway, prompting the question: how are governments formed in Norway? And what happens when a party leaves the government coalition?

1. How is a government formed in Norway?

Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a unicameral assembly, the Storting (Norwegian parliament), which represents the people. (Arts. 1, 49 Norwegian Constitution (Grunnloven).)

Government formation is regulated in the Norwegian Constitution. Article 12 provides that the Norwegian king heads the Council of State, made up of a prime minister and no less than seven other members. (Art. 12 Norwegian Constitution.)

In practice, a new government is formed when the sitting government resigns and the Norwegian king asks a new prime minister to form a government. As part of this process, the king consults the resigning prime minister, the president of the Norwegian parliament, and/or parliamentary leaders before selecting a new prime minister.

The prime minister does not need to have the active support of a majority of the Norwegian parliament but must not have a majority of the Norwegian parliament against him. (Negative parliamentarianism.) A formal vote is not made in favor of the prime minister, but instead a formal vote can be made to oust the prime minister. (See question 5 below.)

When the prime minister chooses his or her members of government, those members need not be members of the parliament and, if they are members of the parliament, they cannot meet or vote in parliament. (Art. 62, para. 2 Norwegian Constitution.) The prime minister can either head a single party majority or minority government or head a majority coalition or minority coalition government.

2. Are coalition governments common?

Yes, over the last 40 years, only five governments, most spanning one to two years each, have not been coalition governments while 10 governments have been coalition governments with between two and four coalition parties each. During that time, the longest coalition government was Jens Stoltenberg’s coalition government between The Norwegian Labour Party (Labour), the Center Party, and the Socialist Left Party, from 2005 to 2013, and the longest one party government was Gro Harlem Brundtland’s Labour government, from 1990 to 1996. The current Labour single party government, under Jonas Gahr Støre, is the first single party government since 2001.

3. Do coalition governments formalize their cooperation?

Yes. For example, the most recent coalition government, the Labour – Center Party coalition under Prime Minister Støre, formalized their relationship in a government agreement known as the Hurdalsplatformen (literally, the Hurdal Platform), named after where the agreement was signed.

4. Can parties leave the government coalition without causing the government to fail?

Yes, a party can leave the government without automatically causing a vote in parliament when the remaining government party or parties have enough support in parliament. Specifically, in the case of the Center Party leaving the government they announced they would not initiate a vote of no confidence procedure in the Norwegian parliament and would continue to support Støre as prime minister, but as an opposition party. Similarly, Prime Minister Støre explained that he would not step down.

The move to leave a coalition government is not without consequence, and when the Center Party announced that it was leaving the government, it also meant that a number of Norwegian ministers left their positions and had to be replaced. However, because the Labour Party still had sufficient support in parliament, the government did not need to be dissolved and no new prime minister needed to be appointed.

5. When does a government fail?

Under the Norwegian Constitution, the government, as well as its individual minister members, is subject to votes of no confidence (Mistillitsforslag). If a vote of no confidence is successful, the individual member or the whole government must leave. (Art. 15 Norwegian Constitution.) Several individual members of government coalitions have been subject to votes of no confidence. For example, the sitting prime minister’s government was subject to a proposal for a vote of no confidence against Tonje Brennan in 2024, over information that she had presented to the Norwegian parliament. That proposal was voted down 88 to 13.

In addition to votes of no confidence, the Norwegian parliament can also vote on votes of criticism (kritikkvedtakk), whereby a sitting member of government is criticized for an action or inaction. For example, in 2023, Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl survived a vote of criticism over the government’s handling of Ukraine.

An parliamentary overview of all the votes of no confidence and votes of criticism can be found here.

6. Can a snap election be called?

No, under Norwegian law, the parliament cannot be dissolved in the middle of a term. The members are elected for four years and serve for four years. (Arts. 54, 71 Norwegian Constitution.) Thus, if a government suffers a vote of no confidence a new vote must be made to elect a different prime minister or same prime minister with different coalition members. The prime minister does not need a majority to support him or her and typically relies on the silent support of members of parliament.

7. Is it common that parties leave government coalitions?

It is not uncommon for party coalitions to change during the course of a government. For example, in 2020, the Progress Party left the Conservative Party four-party-coalition government under Erna Solberg and the government coalition continued as a three party coalition between the Conservative Part, the Liberals, and the Christian Democrats.

8. When is the next election to Parliament?

Elections must be held every four years before September 30. (§ 54 Constitution.) By law, elections are held on a Monday in September. (§9-1 Valgloven.) The next parliamentary election is scheduled for September 8, 2025.

9. Additional Law Library of Congress Online resources

Norway

Government formation across the Globe

Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Matt Brass to Tour Central Education Center with British Consul General
Source: US State of Georgia

ATLANTA (May 19, 2025)—On Tuesday, May 20, Senate Rules Chairman Matt Brass (R–Newnan) will participate in a tour of the Central Education Center (CEC) with British Consul General Rachel Galloway. The tour will take place at the CEC’s headquarters, where CEO Mark Whitlock will provide an overview of workforce development supporting industries throughout the State of Georgia.

EVENT DETAILS:
- Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
- Time: 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
- Where: 160 M.L.K. Jr. Drive, Newnan, GA 30263
- This event is open to members of the media ONLY.
Biographies for British Consul General Rachel Galloway and CEC CEO Mark Whitlock can be found below.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

We kindly request that members of the media confirm their attendance in advance by contacting Jantz Womack at SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

# # # #

Sen. Matt Brass serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules. Sen. Brass represents the 6^th Senate District, which includes Coweta and Heard, as well as parts of Carroll County. He can be reached at (404) 656-0057 or by email at matt.brass@senate.ga.gov.

For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Urges Federal Court to Keep U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Civil Rights Offices Open

Source: US State of New York

EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today led a coalition of 20 other attorneys general in urging the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to maintain three offices within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that are meant to oversee the agency, protect people’s civil rights, and help noncitizens with immigration matters. In March, DHS announced plans to shut down three offices within the agency, the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman), and the Office of Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO), that were created by Congress to exercise oversight of various DHS programs. The offices’ sudden closure affects pending complaints and investigations and did not provide individuals or employers any alternative avenue for redress. Attorney General James and the coalition argue in an amicus brief that DHS‘s unilateral closure of congressionally mandated offices exceeds its statutory and constitutional authority and will harm the states’ residents and employers who interact with DHS.

“The Department of Homeland Security cannot singlehandedly shut down congressionally mandated offices that were created to ensure the agency abides by the law,” said Attorney General James. “Shutting down DHS’s civil rights office and other offices that provide immigration services is dangerous and unprecedented. I stand with my fellow attorneys general in urging the court to keep these offices open so that people can continue to get the services they need, and DHS can be held accountable if and when it violates the law.”

In March, despite congressional objection, DHS announced that it would unilaterally abolish three offices, CRCL, the CIS Ombudsman, and OIDO, through reductions-in-force. Attorney General James and the coalition write in their brief that shutting down these offices will impact residents in New York and other states who rely on these offices for various services. For example, prior to its closure, the CIS Ombudsman provided direct assistance, ranging from employment authorization to naturalization, for noncitizens and employers in tens of thousands of immigration benefits cases each year. In 2023 alone, the CIS Ombudsman received 2,757 requests from New York.

The attorneys general assert that without the services provided by the CIS Ombudsman, thousands of individuals in New York and other states will likely face denials or extreme delays in obtaining vital immigration benefits such as work and student visas, work authorizations, and green cards. Moreover, the coalition argues that the closing of the CIS Ombudsman will be costly for many states that issue grants to fund legal assistance programs to help their residents apply for T- and U-visas, asylum, or temporary protected status.

In their brief, the attorneys general warn that without the ability to make complaints to OIDO or to rely on OIDO’s site visits and unannounced facility inspections, detained individuals are likely to face unsanitary and dangerous conditions. Prior to its abrupt closure, OIDO’s case managers conducted hundreds of monthly site visits and unannounced inspections at detention facilities across the country. At site visits, case managers provided direct, face-to-face assistance to detained individuals. The inspections allowed OIDO to identify and remedy systemic conditions such as critically low medical staffing levels, leaking roofs, and mold in living areas. The OIDO also responded to thousands of complaints from detainees annually about issues related to living conditions and medical care.

Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to restore these offices to continue the services that employers and residents rely on and to continue oversight of various DHS programs.

Joining Attorney General James in filing this brief are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: 2025 REDC Initiative Launches

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council Initiative (REDC). Since 2011, the REDC has been the cornerstone of a bottom-up approach to economic development that allows the State’s 10 Regional Councils to support projects that advance strategic regional and statewide priorities. New in 2025 is the Governor’s $150 million Advancing Collaboration for High-impact Initiatives for Economic Visions & Expansion competition — ACHIEVE — aimed at empowering the REDCs to advance catalytic economic development projects backed by enhanced implementation funding to jump-start regional growth. Additionally, the Governor today announced the appointment of New York Secretary of State, Walter T. Mosley, as Chair of the REDC Initiative.

“The dedicated work of the Regional Economic Development Councils, focused on encouraging public-private partnerships, has had a transformational impact across New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “The regionally designed plans will support the goals of the new ACHIEVE competition, creating investment opportunities that will help to build a more sustainable, successful future for all New Yorkers.”

New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Over the past year, as I’ve traveled across this vast state, I’ve seen first hand the great work of the Regional Economic Development Councils and I’m honored to help lead this knowledgeable and dedicated group of individuals. Bringing together businesses and academia to collaborate has been a model for success. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued support.”

ACHIEVE Competition

The ACHIEVE competition will invite each REDC to present a transformational regional initiative, with the strongest proposals receiving up to $50 million in implementation funding to advance anchor projects. REDCs can also choose to partner on a joint multi-regional proposal for up to $75 million in funding. Regions will collaborate with local stakeholders to develop an actionable roadmap featuring high-impact, shovel-ready projects and regional partnerships to guide implementation. The ACHIEVE submissions will be presented to a Strategic Implementation Assessment Team comprised of members of the Governor’s Cabinet that identifies the winning regions for 2025.

Regional Council Capital Funds

Up to $60 million in Regional Council Capital Funds will be made available in the 2025 Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) to facilitate projects that advance each region’s strategic plan and state priorities. The $60 million available includes up to $8 million in capital funding for tourism-related projects, previously offered through the Market New York Capital Grant program, intended to support capital investments that will strengthen the State’s tourism initiatives.

Consolidated Funding Application

The CFA portal is now open for the 2025 programs here. For programs subject to the deadline, applications must be submitted by Thursday, July 31 at 4 p.m. Open enrollment programs are not subject to the July 31 deadline and will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until funds are exhausted. The 2025 REDC Guidebook, the 2025 Resources Available, and other key documents are available here.

The Regional Councils will score projects submitted through the Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), the State’s streamlined application for State resources which includes programs from numerous agencies. This year, the CFA includes grant funds and tax credits available through more than 20 programs administered by eight State agencies and authorities. Regional Councils will review projects and provide scores that reflect how well a project aligns with a region’s goals and strategies.

CFA Workshops will be held throughout the State for applicants to attend and learn about programs offered through the REDC initiative and other State programs. A full schedule of workshops can be found here.

The REDC process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. To date, through the REDC Initiative, more than $8 billion has been awarded to more than 10,000 job creation and community development projects consistent with each region’s strategic plan.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Regional Councils are vital in advancing the state’s economic priorities – especially locally, where they often create the greatest positive effect on everyday New Yorkers. This year’s round of multi-agency funding, which includes Governor Hochul’s new and innovative ACHIEVE initiative, will focus on strategic investments for high-impact projects that generate transformational growth in communities throughout New York State.”

Regional Strategic Planning Process

The 10 REDCs are guided by their regional strategic economic development plans, which emphasize each region’s unique assets and provide strategies to harness local resources to stimulate regional growth and create jobs Statewide. In 2025, each Regional Council will be tasked with creating an annual report that highlights the state of their respective region, summarizes how they are implementing the council’s strategic plans, and presents their ACHIEVE initiative proposal.

About the Regional Economic Development Councils

The Regional Economic Development Council initiative is a key component of the State’s approach to State investment and economic development. In 2011, 10 Regional Councils were established to develop long-term strategic plans for economic growth for their regions. The Councils are public-private partnerships made up of local experts and stakeholders from business, academia, local government, and non-governmental organizations. The Regional Councils have redefined the way New York invests in jobs and economic growth by putting in place a community-based, bottom-up approach and establishing a competitive process for State resources. Learn more at regionalcouncils.ny.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: 05.19.2025 Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Led Bill to Reimburse Texas for Border Security Costs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced legislation to reimburse the State of Texas for the more than $11 billion dollars Texas taxpayers spent on Operation Lone Star, Texas’ border security mission launched due to President Biden’s dereliction of duty.
Sen. Cruz said, “Texas was on the frontlines of the Biden administration’s open border crisis, and Texans were on their own dealing with the consequences. I am proud to stand with Governor Abbott and Senator Cornyn to ensure the Lone Star State is reimbursed, and I urge my colleagues to pass this bill expeditiously.”
Sen. Cornyn said, “For four years, Governor Abbott and Texas taxpayers were forced to bear the brunt of the Biden-Harris border crisis. Today, I am proud to introduce my legislation to reimburse Texas for its historic efforts to secure the southern border. My bill will ensure the Lone Star State is repaid for stepping up to protect and defend our nation’s southern border while the Biden-Harris administration abdicated its federal duty. Thanks to the strong leadership of President Trump, Secretary Kristi Noem, Border Czar Tom Homan, and Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks, our country is finally back to enforcing the immigration laws that have been on the books for years, and I will continue to work with the Trump administration to ensure Texas never again has to endure an open-border disaster like we saw under Joe Biden.”
Companion legislation is being led in the House by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas-21).
Rep. Roy said, “For four years, Texans stood in the breach of the worst border crisis in recent American history. Joe Biden and Alejandro Mayorkas’s dereliction of duty led to an invasion of lawlessness, crime, danger, and drugs, putting Texans, and every American in harms way. The states like Texas that stood on the front lines to defend our nation when the federal government would not, deserve to be reimbursed by the very federal government that should have done its job in the first place. It’s critical states like Texas have these resources to ensure adequate law enforcement funding to partner with the Trump administration to secure our border.”
BACKGROUND
The State Border Security Assistance Act would:
Create funds at the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security to reimburse states for actions they took after January 20, 2021, to secure the border;
Reimburse costs of activities such as construction of border wall, surveillance of the border, and apprehension, detention, and prosecution of individuals who illegally entered the United States;
Appropriate enough money to the funds to ensure that Texas is fully reimbursed;
And sunset the funds after the end of the Trump Administration and return any remaining money to the Treasury for debt-reduction purposes.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Holds Talks with Danish Counterpart

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

BEIJING, May 19 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks in Beijing on Monday with visiting Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen.

Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, pointed out that Denmark was one of the first Western countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China and establish diplomatic relations with it.

According to the Chinese diplomat, the two sides have always shown mutual respect and treated each other as equals, established a comprehensive strategic partnership and built high-level mutually beneficial cooperation, with green development playing a leading role.

Wang Yi stressed that the most important experience that has ensured the healthy and stable development of China-Denmark relations over the past 75 years is the firm adherence to the principle of equality of all countries regardless of their size and respect for each other’s fundamental interests.

The Chinese Foreign Minister noted that on the Greenland issue, China fully respects Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and, in turn, hopes that the Danish side will continue to support China’s legitimate position on issues related to its own sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Wang Yi expressed China’s willingness to firmly adhere to bilateral opening-up with Denmark, take green development as a key aspect to inject new impetus into practical cooperation, and continue to deepen cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, scientific research, innovation and green economy.

According to the Chinese diplomat, China is currently making efforts to expand high-level opening-up, which will create a broader development space for foreign-invested companies. The Chinese side invites Danish enterprises to invest and do business in China. “We also hope that Denmark can provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises operating in the country,” Wang Yi added.

As he recalled, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, and since the beginning of this year, Chinese-European relations have demonstrated stable and positive dynamics.

According to the head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, China wants to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the European side to jointly promote the healthy development of relations between China and the EU and hopes that Denmark will play an active role in this direction.

In addition, Wang added, China is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with European countries including Denmark to jointly safeguard the international system with the UN at its core and the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its center.

L. L. Rasmussen, for his part, stated that the Danish government and parliament firmly adhere to the one-China principle, intend to strengthen interstate contacts at a high level, expand dialogue and mutual understanding in various fields, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in the areas of investment and green transition, establish closer cultural and humanitarian exchanges in order to promote the sustainable and dynamic development of bilateral relations.

“The Danish side takes an open position towards investments by Chinese companies in Denmark, and Danish companies also expect to make long-term investments in the Chinese market,” L. L. Rasmussen emphasized.

He added that Denmark firmly supports free trade and opposes decoupling, hoping to strengthen communication and coordination with China on multilateral issues to jointly safeguard the multilateral system and international order, and maintain the momentum of globalization.

The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and other international and regional issues. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Task Force Arrests 40 in Southern West Virginia in Operation Shake Down

Source: US Marshals Service

Charleston, WV — A U.S. Marshals Southern District of West Virginia CUFFED (Cops United Felony Fugitive Enforcement Division) Task Force two-week warrant operation has resulted in 40 felony arrests.

During Operation Shake Down, conducted from May 5 -16, law enforcement officers also recovered 40 grams of methamphetamine, 1 oz of fentanyl, and five firearms.

The wanted subjects had a wide range of felony warrants to include kidnapping, sexual assault, soliciting a minor via computer, possession with intent to deliver and distribute controlled substances, armed robbery, weapons offenses, child neglect causing risk of injury, burglary, and failure to register as a sex offender.

Significant arrests include:

Christopher Spaulding, 53, of Ripley, wanted out of Jackson County for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances and felon in possession of a firearm. Spaulding was also wanted in the Southern District of West Virginia on a federal supervised release violation. Spaulding’s underlying federal conviction is felon in possession of firearms.

Kirk Donovan Thomas, 36, of Charleston, wanted for failure to register as a sex offender, has been evading apprehension since 2023 from the West Virginia State Police. Thomas was also wanted on a circuit court capias warrant out of Putnam County. Since Thomas’s arrest, the West Virginia State Police has charged Thomas with additional counts of failure to register as a sex offender in Kanawha County.

Dwayne Edward White Jr., 27, of Ripley, wanted in Jackson County for delivery of methamphetamine. White has self-proclaimed gang affiliations.

David Argueta-Marquez, 29, of Lyburn, wanted out of Harris County, Texas, for aggravated kidnapping and aggravated sexual assault of a child. Argueta-Marquez was arrested in Kimper, Kentucky, by U.S. Marshals task force members. Argueta-Marquez is also under investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s and is an alleged member of the 18th Street Gang in El Salvador.

Two individuals were also federally indicted from U.S. Marshals Service investigations.

Ronald Tinsley, 52, of Charleston, was indicted by a federal grand jury for escape. Tinsley is alleged to have escaped from Bureau of Prisons custody March 19.

Charles Clement, 42, of Hillsboro, was indicted by a federal grand jury for violations of the Adam Walsh Act. Clement, a sex offender, is alleged to having failed to register as a sex offender after moving to the state of West Virginia and establishing residency.

Both men are currently incarcerated.

“I would like to thank our partner agencies across Southern West Virginia for dedicating officers to the CUFFED Task Force,” said Michael T. Baylous, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of West Virginia. “Their commitment and dedication have allowed the CUFFED Task Force to become one of the most efficient and effective in the country at apprehending fugitives.”

U.S. Marshals task forces combine the efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the most dangerous fugitives. They also serve as the central point for agencies to share information on fugitive matters. Task force officers are state and local police officers who receive special deputations with the Marshals. While on a task force, these officers can exercise U.S. Marshals authorities, such as crossing jurisdictional lines.

Agencies involved in operation included:

U.S. Marshals CUFFED Task Force
U.S. Marshals Central Kentucky Fugitive Task Force
West Virginia State Police
Kentucky State Police
Fayette County Sheriff’s Office
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office
Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office
Logan County Sheriff’s Office
Mason County Sheriff’s Office
Mingo County Sheriff’s Office
Putnam County Sheriff’s Office
Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office
Parkersburg Police Department
Saint Albans Police Department
South Charleston Police Department

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Pass the One, Big, Beautiful Bill

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
President Donald J. Trump’s One, Big, Beautiful Bill is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make good on the promises Republicans have made — and that’s why advocacy groups and other stakeholders are coming out in droves to urge Congress to immediately pass the landmark bill.
Here’s what they’re saying about the One, Big, Beautiful Bill:
American Exploration & Production Council CEO Anne Bradbury: “On behalf of America’s leading independent producers of oil and natural gas, AXPC urges all House Republicans to pass the budget reconciliation and advance President Trump’s agenda to unleash American energy. This legislation takes decisive steps towards improving our nation’s energy landscape by repealing the Biden-era menthane tax, unlocking oil and gas development on federal lands, and alleviating regulatory pain points that have stymied the build out of American energy. Passing this bill is essential to secure America’s energy dominance through smart, durable reforms.”
NumbersUSA: “For decades Congress has promised to secure the border and failed to deliver. The House Reconciliation bill delivers on the promise of building the border wall, 10,000 ICE officers, detention beds, historic funding for Customs and Border Patrol and a tax on money illegal aliens send out of the country. The Trump Administration needs this funding to deport illegal aliens, millions of whom entered the country over the last four years. The American people voted in mess this last election to secure our borders and return law and order to our immigration system. Congress must not fail them.”
Airlines for America: “A4A strongly supports the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and applauds the inclusion of a critical investment of $12.5 billion in modernizing the Federal Aviation Administration’s air traffic facilities, systems and infrastructure. For years, A4A has been sounding the alarm about ATC staffing shortages and antiquated equipment, such as copper wires and floppy disks. Given the challenges facing the air traffic system, these funds are a vital down payment on updating the technology that guides 27,000 flights, 2.7 million passengers and 61,000 tons of cargo every day—all while driving five percent of our nation’s GDP. The legislation also makes smart, strategic investments in Customs and Border Protection personnel and training for the aviation workforce of tomorrow while supporting American energy dominance in aviation fuel production. We encourage the House to pass this legislation and deliver on the Department of Transportation’s plan to help keep our skies safe and efficient. Modernizing our National Airspace System is necessary, and passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will help ensure the United States has a world-class aviation system.”
National Federation of Independent Business SVP for Advocacy Adam Temple: “On behalf of NFIB, the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, I write in support of the Committee’s legislative proposal to comply with reconciliation instructions contained within the concurrent resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, H. Con. Res. 14. As written, this is one of the most pro-small business pieces of tax legislation in recent history.”
CTIA—The Wireless Association President and CEO Ajit Pai: “The wireless industry urges swift passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The critical spectrum and tax provisions in this legislation will allow the wireless industry to invest, create jobs, propel economic growth, and secure America’s edge in innovation.”
Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “House Republicans’ big, beautiful reconciliation bill is exactly what the country needs to jumpstart the economy and guarantee the safety and prosperity of Americans for decades to come. It helps people of all backgrounds but especially small businesses, the backbone of our economy, by making permanent and expanding the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. It increases the small business tax deduction used by 26 million entrepreneurs annually from 20% to 23% — a tax cut Job Creators Network has long been the leading voice for. The bill also restores 100% immediate expensing, allowing businesses to write off investments, expansion, and modernization. It will empower Main Street to expand, hire, raise wages, and reinvest in their communities, while also providing significant tax relief for ordinary folks. All Republicans should unite to support this historic reconciliation bill. We need Tax Cuts Now.”
Business Roundtable President & COO Kristen Silverberg: “Business Roundtable strongly supports the House budget reconciliation bill. This important legislation ensures a more competitive, pro-growth tax system, secures our borders and takes the necessary step of raising the debt ceiling. We urge members of the House Budget Committee to swiftly pass this measure.”
Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council President & CEO Karen Kerrigan: “SBE Council strongly supports the One Big, Beautiful Bill and urges every member of the U.S. House to vote in support of this economically powerful package. The One Big, Beautiful Bill provides entrepreneurs and small businesses with the tools and policy environment they need to invest in their businesses and workforce, to innovate and strengthen their firms, and to lead America’s economic resurgence.”
Associated Equipment Distributors SVP Daniel B. Fisher: “This legislation will spur economic growth and job creation, incentivize capital investment, and ensure AED members, which supply and maintain the equipment needed to build, feed and fuel America, remain competitive for years to come. We urge support for the bill and look forward to working with the entire House of Representatives to approve it as soon as possible.”
National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association Interim CEO Michele Stanley: “NSSGA appreciates that ‘The One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ includes aggregates industry priorities, such as bonus depreciation, the Research and Development Tax Credit, small business deductions, keeping the corporate tax rate at the status quo and protecting percentage depletion and estate taxes. Additionally, we appreciate the committee’s commitment to safeguarding associations’ tax-protected status. NSSGA thanks the committee for introducing this bill and encourages the Ways and Means Committee and the House of Representatives to pass this package in a timely manner.”
60 Plus Association Chairman Jim Martin: “It’s a win for seniors across the country. The President and House Republicans are providing much needed tax relief to middle and low-income seniors.”
Association of Mature American Citizens Action SVP Andrew J. Mangione, Jr.: “This bill is a win for seniors, for taxpayers, and for the future of our country. We urge swift passage and full support from lawmakers who value liberty, accountability, and the financial security of AMAC members across the country.”
RATE Coalition Executive Director Dan Combs: “This legislation is a clear step toward preserving a tax code that spurs job creation, boosts wages, and builds on the legacy created by President Trump and Congress under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Now is the time for Congress to come together, finish the work, and deliver a strong, stable economic foundation for American workers and businesses. A competitive corporate tax rate is key to keeping the U.S. ahead and a top destination for investment in the global economy. This bill goes a long way towards making that possible.”
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi: “We’ve said from the start: No Tax on Tips should include @Uber drivers & couriers. Grateful the new House Ways & Means bill does just that. Thanks to @POTUS and @RepJasonSmith for backing all tipped workers—no matter how they work. Let’s get this done!”
DoorDash CEO Tony Xu: “Thanks to @POTUS and @RepJasonSmith, millions of Dashers may soon get a tax break on their hard-earned tips. Following advocacy from 40K Dashers, including dozens in DC last week, the House’s budget bill is an important step in making #NoTaxOnTips a reality.”
Americans for Prosperity Chief Government Affairs Officer Brent Gardner: “The Republican Party has an incredible opportunity to put the country on the right track for long-term economic growth by making the Trump Tax Cuts permanent and avoiding the largest tax hike in American history. This bill is smart pro-growth policy that would provide certainty for American businesses and lead to sustained prosperity for millions of working Americans. This legislation also takes meaningful action to cut billions in special interest giveaways, reforming broken programs, and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse – ensuring that taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars are spent wisely. It’s about making government work better for the people it serves. We’re encouraged by the foundation laid in the House and stand ready to work with Senate lawmakers to get this measure across the finish line. The moment for action is now. We urge all Members to support this legislation and put our economy on the path to growth and opportunity.”
Concerned Veterans for America Executive Director John Vick: “Failing to extend President Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would impose the largest tax hike in U.S. history on American families and businesses. Congress must seize its opportunity to protect our long-term prosperity while improving the lives of middle-class Americans. The American people sent a clear message last November: they are tired of massive tax hikes, higher prices, reckless government spending, and Biden-era “Green New Deal” giveaways. Congress must answer this call by moving budget reconciliation forward. As veterans, we fought for a better future for our fellow Americans. We also understand that a strong economy is the bedrock of American strength at home and abroad. Today, CVA calls on Congress to act to protect the promise of long-term economic growth and prosperity for all Americans.”
The LIBRE Initiative Executive Director Sandra Benitez: “We commend the House Budget Committee for taking a positive step to ensure that we continue extending tax relief to middle-class families and job creators, including Latinos who cannot afford a tax hike. Now it is critical that the House of Representatives have a full House vote as quickly as possible and approve this pro-growth legislation to help unleash prosperity and opportunity for all. The LIBRE Initiative looks forward to educating and activating the Latino community on the benefits of this critical legislation.”
America First Policy Institute: “Conservatives must deliver to the American people! The One, Big, Beautiful Bill cuts taxes for ALL Americans, secures the border, stands up to the woke mob by empowering parents and protecting women and children, and much more!”
Independent Women Center for Economic Opportunity Director Patrice Onwuka: “Passing the Big, Beautiful Bill is an imperative. The stakes are high. If Congress fails to pass this bill, average Americans face a massive 22% tax increase, 40 million families will see their Child Tax Credit slashed in half, and 26 million small businesses face a 43.4% top tax rate. Republicans should not hold up tax relief for American families and small businesses to bail out high-tax blue states.”
Family Business Coalition: “Family Business Coalition supports the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ which includes tax relief that will help family businesses expand, upgrade equipment, and hire more workers. FBC urges the House to take action now to move this process forward in Congress.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on Family Doctor Day

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, has issued the following statement in recognition of Family Doctor Day:

“Today is Family Doctor Day, which gives us an opportunity to acknowledge the incredible work of family doctors who deliver personalized, comprehensive and continuous care to patients and communities in B.C.

“Family doctors are the cornerstone of our health-care system, managing many of the health concerns people experience throughout their lives. They provide holistic care rooted in strong patient relationships and are experts in treating the whole person at every stage of life.

“We know that family doctors want to spend as much time as possible with their patients and we have heard that unnecessary paperwork robs them of valuable time to do that. To address this, we are eliminating sick notes for short-term absences to cut administrative burden, make our system more efficient and free up family doctors to focus on what they do best – providing care to people in British Columbia.

“Along with eliminating unnecessary sick notes, outdated fax and paper-based processes will be replaced by digital systems, making referrals more efficient, consolidating and standardizing forms, and enhancing information-sharing among providers.

“Our government is working hard to strengthen care by hiring and training more family doctors so people can get better and faster care, close to home. With the uncertainty and chaos happening south of our border, we have an opportunity to attract the skilled health-care workers our province needs to strengthen public health care. We are ramping up our recruitment efforts in the U.S. and streamlining regulatory processes.

“Since March 2025, when we announced that we are fast-tracking credential recognition for health professionals from other countries and provinces, 573 doctors from the United States have expressed interest to come work in B.C. Building on that, we are working with health authorities, regulatory colleges and other partners to co-ordinate a marketing campaign in the states of Washington, Oregon and California.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to family doctors for their steadfast dedication, compassion and expertise in caring for individuals and families in our communities. Your efforts to support health, prevent illness and build trusted, meaningful relationships have a profound impact on countless lives each day.”

Learn More:

For information about the restriction of short-term sick notes, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025LBR0016-000336

For information about the recruitment plan to attract health-care professionals from the U.S., visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025HLTH0013-000194

MIL OSI Canada News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Role in Smuggling and Labor Trafficking Scheme, Illegally Reentering U.S.

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that APOLINAR FRANCISCO PAREDES ESPINOZA, also known as “Pancho,” 58, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 40 months of imprisonment, for illegally reentering the U.S. and his involvement in a scheme to smuggle aliens into the U.S., harbor them at Hartford area residences, force them to work, and threaten to harm them in various ways if they failed to pay exorbitant fees, interest, and other living expenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in September 2022, the FBI and Hartford Police interviewed several Mexican nationals who disclosed that they were smuggled from Mexico into the U.S. and transported to Hartford. The investigation revealed that victims typically arranged with Maria Del Carmen Sanchez Potrero and others in Connecticut and Mexico to cross the border into the U.S. in exchange for a fee of between $15,000 and $20,000 that each would need to pay once they were in the U.S. In most cases, the victims were required to turn over a property deed as collateral before leaving Mexico. They were then smuggled across the border and transported to Hartford area residences, including Sanchez’s and Paredes’ residence on Madison Street in Hartford, often at a substantial risk of bodily injury or death.

After the victims arrived in Connecticut, they were told that they would have to pay approximately $30,000, with interest, and that they would have to pay Sanchez and her co-coconspirators for rent, food, gas and utilities. Sanchez, Paredes, and their co-conspirators created false documents for the victims, including Permanent Residence cards and Social Security cards, and helped the victims find employment in the Hartford area. In addition to their own jobs, some victims were required to perform housework and yardwork, or to assist Paredes in his job responsibilities, without compensation and without having their debt reduced.

Victims were rarely provided with an accounting of their debt. If victims failed to make regular payments, or in amounts that Sanchez, Paredes, and their co-conspirators expected, they were sometimes threatened, including with threats to harm family members in Mexico, to take property in Mexico that had been secured as collateral, to reveal victims’ immigration status to U.S. authorities, and to raise their interest payments.

To date, investigators have identified 19 victims of this scheme. Multiple victims were minors, and at least two were smuggled into the U.S. unaccompanied by a relative or legal guardian.

In November 2014, Paredes was encountered in the U.S. and removed the same day via foot at Hildago, Texas. He illegally reentered the U.S. and, in December 2018, was arrested by East Hartford Police and charged with various motor vehicle offenses. He was again removed to Mexico in February 2019, and subsequently illegally reentered the U.S.

Paredes has been detained since his arrest on March 1, 2023. On November 22, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to encourage and induce, bring in, transport, and harbor aliens, and to illegal reentry of a removed alien.

Sanchez and her daughter, Porfiria Maribel Ramos Sanchez, previously pleaded guilty to related charges. On April 11, 2025, Sanchez was sentenced to 51 months of imprisonment, and on March 7, 2025, Ramos was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment.

Judge Dooley ordered Paredes to pay, jointly and severally with his codefendants, restitution of $574,608.

Paredes, Sanchez, and Ramos face immigration proceedings when they complete their prison terms.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hartford Police Department, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull and Shan Patel.

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Celebrates National Police Week

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

[embedded content]

CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s floor speech.

CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s floor speech on YouTube.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the U.S. House floor to honor the service of the nation’s law enforcement officials. To celebrate National Police Week, Rep. Mann joined his Republican colleagues in passing multiple bills, including the LEOSA Reform Act, the BELO’s Act, and H.Con.Res.30. Rep. Mann also participated in a vigil for fallen police officers in the U.S. Capitol.

Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared:

Mr. Speaker, this week the nation has come together to celebrate National Police Week—a time to honor the brave men and women who wear the badge and put their lives on the line every single day to protect our families and communities.

In the Big First and across the country, law enforcement officers run toward danger when the rest of us run away. They wake up every day with a calling to uphold the rule of law, serve their neighbors, and keep their communities safe. And yet, too often, they are met with hostility and policies from Washington that make their job harder and put their safety at risk.

Let me be clear: I unapologetically stand with the men and women in blue. I will always oppose any effort to defund, demoralize, or dismantle the law enforcement agencies that keep our streets safe. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to make our communities stronger, safer, and more secure, and we should all be grateful.

I express my deepest gratitude to the police officers, Customs and Border patrol agents, detectives, state troopers, sheriffs, investigators, correction officers, drug enforcement agents, and U.S. marshals who have dedicated their careers to serving their communities. Today and every day, we recognize your sacrifice and honor all that you do to serve our great nation.

America is grateful for all you do.

###

For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Salesman Who Defrauded Women and Older Adults Denied Bankruptcy Discharge

Source: US State of Vermont

The U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) recently obtained a judgment denying a bankruptcy discharge to a door-to-door salesman who concealed his business interests and lied in his bankruptcy case to evade his creditors, including women and older adults whom he defrauded.

On April 18, the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Oregon entered a default judgment denying a discharge to chapter 7 debtor Jason Gillis. Gillis — who sold vacuums, air filters, and related products — crafted fraudulent schemes generally targeting women he pursued as romantic partners and their elderly parents. In one such scheme, he solicited investments in his businesses but used the money primarily for personal expenses. His victims included a 79-year-old woman recovering from a stroke. In addition to running up debts using the identities of the woman and her daughter without their knowledge or consent, Gillis arranged for the older woman to take out a mortgage on her home, purportedly under duress. In total, he persuaded her to transfer more than $100,000 to a business bank account that he controlled, then diverted a significant amount of the funds to pay for personal expenses.

Gillis also used some of those funds to lease a recreational vehicle valued at about $150,000 from another woman in her seventies, whose daughter he briefly dated. After taking possession of the RV, which he then lived in, Gillis stopped making lease payments and refused to disclose the vehicle’s location.

Gillis filed a chapter 7 bankruptcy petition in August 2024 amid several lawsuits and judgments based on claims of breach of contract, fraud, and theft by deception. An investigation by the USTP’s Portland office revealed that to avoid collection efforts, Gillis concealed his interests in several businesses by transferring nominal ownership to victims while he retained full control and by forging signatures on forms filed with the Oregon Secretary of State. He also made several false statements in his bankruptcy case about his assets and financial affairs, including his multiple business interests; the transfers of nominal ownership; deposits to undisclosed financial accounts; and a wrongful death settlement related to his mother’s estate.

Gillis did not respond to or defend against the USTP’s complaint to deny his bankruptcy discharge, leading to a default judgment in the USTP’s favor. As a result, Gillis remains personally liable for his debts — including more than $1.7 million in unsecured debts listed in his bankruptcy schedules — and creditors may continue collections on claims against him.

“Bankruptcy is not a safe haven for fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Trustee Jonas V. Anderson for Region 18, which includes the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Trustee Program, as the watchdog of the bankruptcy system, is committed to rooting out deceptive schemes that harm innocent victims.”

One of the USTP’s core functions is to combat bankruptcy fraud and abuse through civil enforcement actions against debtors who engage in fraud or otherwise abuse the bankruptcy system. When circumstances warrant, the USTP takes action to deny those debtors a discharge. Generally, under the Bankruptcy Code, debtors are not entitled to a discharge if they conceal property with intent to hinder, delay or defraud a creditor or an officer of the bankruptcy estate, such as the private trustee administering the estate. The Code also prevents a discharge if the debtor knowingly and fraudulently made a false oath or account in or in connection with the bankruptcy case.

The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 89 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Israel to Take Control of Entire Gaza Strip – B. Netanyahu

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

JERUSALEM, May 19 (Xinhua) — Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday, speaking about the recently launched large-scale operation by Israeli troops.

In his video message published on the Telegram messenger, B. Netanyahu stated: “We are going to take control of the entire territory of the enclave – that is exactly what we are going to do.”

Speaking a day after announcing a partial resumption of humanitarian aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip, he stressed that Israel would allow only “minimal and basic” aid for a limited period, without specifying when deliveries would resume.

The Israeli prime minister explained that the mechanism for distributing food and medicine would be replaced “in the coming days” by a new scheme being developed jointly with the United States. The new system would include distribution points in a “sterile zone under the control of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF),” where aid would be delivered by American companies, thus excluding the Palestinian Hamas movement from accessing supplies.

“Ultimately, we will reach a situation where the entire territory will be under IDF control and all the civilian population of Gaza will be able to reach these points and receive aid, while Hamas will receive nothing,” added B. Netanyahu. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement from the leaders of Canada, the United Kingdom and France on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

“We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Yesterday’s announcement that Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into Gaza is wholly inadequate. We call on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. This must include engaging with the UN to ensure a return to delivery of aid in line with humanitarian principles. We call on Hamas to release immediately the remaining hostages they have so cruelly held since 7 October 2023.

The Israeli Government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law. We condemn the abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government, threatening that, in their despair at the destruction of Gaza, civilians will start to relocate. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law.

Israel suffered a heinous attack on October 7. We have always supported Israel’s right to defend Israelis against terrorism. But this escalation is wholly disproportionate.

We will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government pursues these egregious actions. If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further concrete actions in response.

We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. Israel must halt settlements which are illegal and undermine the viability of a Palestinian state and the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.  We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions.

We strongly support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term political solution that offer the best hope of ending the agony of the hostages and their families, alleviating the suffering of civilians in Gaza, ending Hamas’ control of Gaza and achieving a pathway to a two-state solution, consistent with the goals of the 18 June conference in New York co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. These negotiations need to succeed, and we must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve and ensure long-term stability in the region.

We will continue to work with the Palestinian Authority, regional partners, Israel and the United States to finalize consensus on arrangements for Gaza’s future, building on the Arab plan. We affirm the important role of the High-level Two-State Solution Conference at the UN in June in building international consensus around this aim. And we are committed to recognizing a Palestinian state as a contribution to achieving a two-state solution and are prepared to work with others to this end.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Joint donor statement on humanitarian aid to Gaza

Source: Government of Canada News

May 19, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom, as well as the the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, the EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management and the EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, today issued the following statement:

“Whilst we acknowledge indications of a limited restart of aid, Israel blocked humanitarian aid entering Gaza for over two months. Food, medicines and essential supplies are exhausted. The population faces starvation. Gaza’s people must receive the aid they desperately need.

“Prior to the aid block, the UN and humanitarian NGOs delivered aid into Gaza, working with great courage, at the risk of their lives and in the face of major access challenges imposed by Israel. These organisations subscribe to upholding humanitarian principles, operating independently, with neutrality, impartiality and humanity. They have the logistical capacity, expertise and operational coverage to deliver assistance across Gaza to those who need it most.

“Israel’s security cabinet has reportedly approved a new model for delivering aid into Gaza, which the UN and our humanitarian partners cannot support. They are clear that they will not participate in any arrangement that does not fully respect the humanitarian principles. Humanitarian principles matter for every conflict around the world and should be applied consistently in every warzone. The UN has raised concerns that the proposed model cannot deliver aid effectively, at the speed and scale required. It places beneficiaries and aid workers at risk, undermines the role and independence of the UN and our trusted partners, and links humanitarian aid to political and military objectives. Humanitarian aid should never be politicised, and Palestinian territory must not be reduced nor subjected to any demographic change.

“As humanitarian donors, we have two straightforward messages for the Government of Israel: allow a full resumption of aid into Gaza immediately and enable the UN and humanitarian organizations to work independently and impartially to save lives, reduce suffering and maintain dignity. We remain committed to meeting the acute needs we see in Gaza. We also reiterate our firm message that Hamas must immediately release all remaining hostages and allow humanitarian assistance to be distributed without interference. It is our firm conviction that an immediate return to a ceasefire and working towards the implementation of a two-state solution are the only way to bring peace and security to Israelis and Palestinians and ensure long-term stability for the whole region.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank

Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank.
We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Yesterday’s announcement that Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into Gaza is wholly inadequate. We call on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. This must include engaging with the UN to ensure a return to delivery of aid in line with humanitarian principles. We call on Hamas to release immediately the remaining hostages they have so cruelly held since 7 October 2023.

The Israeli Government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law. We condemn the abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government, threatening that, in their despair at the destruction of Gaza, civilians will start to relocate. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law.

Israel suffered a heinous attack on October 7. We have always supported Israel’s right to defend Israelis against terrorism. But this escalation is wholly disproportionate.

We will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government pursues these egregious actions. If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further concrete actions in response.

We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. Israel must halt settlements which are illegal and undermine the viability of a Palestinian state and the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.  We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions.

We strongly support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term political solution that offer the best hope of ending the agony of the hostages and their families, alleviating the suffering of civilians in Gaza, ending Hamas’ control of Gaza and achieving a pathway to a two-state solution, consistent with the goals of the 18 June conference in New York co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. These negotiations need to succeed, and we must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve, and ensure long-term stability in the region.

We will continue to work with the Palestinian Authority, regional partners, Israel and the United States to finalise consensus on arrangements for Gaza’s future, building on the Arab plan. We affirm the important role of the High-level Two-State Solution Conference at the UN in June in building international consensus around this aim. And we are committed to recognising a Palestinian state as a contribution to achieving a two-state solution and are prepared to work with others to this end.

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Published 19 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik Demands Transparency from Harvard Over Alarming Ties to Chinese Communist Party, Iran

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

Stefanik Demands Transparency from Harvard Over Alarming Ties to Chinese Communist Party, Iran | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Votes to Advance One Big, Beautiful Bill

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

Last night, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted to advance the full budget reconciliation bill in the House Budget Committee – which passed the committee 17 – 16. He delivered remarks in support of the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act last Friday in the Budget Committee markup.

“The bill we’re marking up here today is the culmination of years of work to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, secure our borders and rein in wasteful Washington spending,” said Rep. Estes. “It’s a bill that meets the mandate provided to this Congress by the American people last November. It’s a bill for the American people, and my friends on the left have only empty talking points to try and paint this legislation as something that it’s not.”

Watch video of Rep. Estes’ remarks
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s good to be here with you and our colleagues as we work to advance the America First policies that are embedded in this One Big, Beautiful Bill.

The bill we’re marking up here today is the culmination of years of work to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, secure our borders and rein in wasteful Washington spending.

It’s a bill that meets the mandate provided to this Congress by the American people last November. It’s a bill for the American people, and my friends on the left have only empty talking points to try and paint this legislation as something that it’s not.

Today, I want to take a brief moment and refute some of the lies with some of the facts.

First, let’s look at the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. While nearly half of my Republican and Democrat colleagues were not here in 2017, I remember the quote “crumbs” Nancy Pelosi claimed the middle class Americans would be receiving because of the Trump Tax Cuts. The reality is those “crumbs” were really thousands of dollars in lower taxes, increased wages, and stronger economic opportunities for Americans at all economic levels.

On Tax Day of this year, I wrote an op-ed about the left’s deceit on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Mr. Chairman, I’d like to submit that op-ed for the record.

In it, I said, “The New York Times noted in 2019 that most Americans received a tax cut from the 2017 tax reform but simply didn’t believe it. “Their quote was: “To a large degree, the gap between perception and reality on the tax cuts appears to flow from a sustained—and misleading—effort by liberal opponents of the law to brand it as a broad middle-class tax increase,” the paper wrote.

“And in 2021, then-House Democratic Caucus Chair Hakeem Jeffries told MSNBC, “83% of the benefits went to the wealthiest 1%, and they saddled us with approximately $2 trillion in debt to subsidize the lifestyle of the rich and shameless.”

“The statement was so bad, The Washington Post upgraded its fact check from two “Pinocchios” to three and called it a “zombie claim.” That’s because Jeffries and Democrats were relying on projections of what would happen after significant provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expired—the same provisions Republicans are trying to save and Democrats are trying to stop.”

In the op-ed, I went on to say that the flow of misinformation has convinced a broad swath of Americans that they didn’t receive a tax cut – which they did – and the same cast of deceivers is trying to dupe Americans by promoting the extension of the law as a tax giveaway for millionaires and billionaires – which it isn’t. The Joint Committee on Taxation says that Americans making between 30,000 and 80,000 dollars would pay 15 percent less in taxes in 2027 under our bill, a nearly double higher percentage than those making over 1 million dollars.

Nevertheless, we’re already seeing success in our physical and financial security.

This week we learned the annual inflation rate is the lowest it’s been since Joe Biden first took office more than four years ago. Let me clear – prices are too high, and the impact of inflation is still hurting Americans and hurting Kansans, but we’re finally turning the page.

Mr. Chairman, this bill – particularly the pro-family, pro-worker, pro-growth provisions – is critical to preventing a massive tax increase for everyday Americans, to give our economy a boost, secure our border and bend the curve on decades of Washington’s waste, fraud and abuse spending. I urge my colleagues to support this One Big, Beautiful Bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: HERO’s Mission: An Elevator Part Could Bolster Marine Energy Technologies

Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Latest HERO WEC Mission Status Update Examines How a Polyurethane Belt Could Improve Reliability of Wave Energy Converters

The HERO WEC’s original wire rope runs from the WEC to the floor, where it’s anchored beneath the large-amplitude motion platform. Photo by Taylor Mankle, NREL

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) wave-powered desalination research is charting new waters by improving the robustness, reliability, and deployability of the hydraulic and electric reverse osmosis wave energy converter—or HERO WEC.

To do this, the team will modify different components on the device and test the revised design. Researchers have already started with the winch line, swapping the original wire rope with an upgraded polyurethane flat belt, which overperformed in initial lab testing.

The HERO WEC, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO), can operate using either a hydraulic or an electrical configuration to pump seawater through an onshore reverse osmosis system and produce fresh drinking water (a process called desalination). NREL researchers began designing the HERO WEC in 2020, and after hundreds of hours of testing, which consisted of three in-lab programs and five ocean installations, the team is retiring version one and drawing on lessons learned to design version two.

But why start with the winch system? Because the research team knew it was the HERO WEC’s weakest link.

The wire rope used in the original winch system, which ran from the raft-like WEC to an anchor on the seafloor, did serve its intended purpose by acting as a mooring line to prevent the device from drifting while allowing it to move up and down with the motion of the waves. But a wire rope can only take so much force before it wears, frays, and breaks—especially as it moves through pulleys in the harsh ocean environment, where corrosion and storm resistance can be a significant challenge.

That is why the team replaced it with a polyurethane flat belt (something that is typically used for elevator pulleys). These sturdy belts are made of tiny strands of wire rope encased in polyurethane. This configuration helps evenly distribute force, alleviating stress on the belt and allowing it to withstand the large anchor loads. The polyurethane coating, a durable and affordable synthetic material that is also waterproof, helps to mitigate wear and corrosion.

The photo shows the new polyurethane belt that will replace the HERO WEC’s original wire rope. Photo by Taylor Mankle, NREL

The team tested the new belt on NREL’s large-amplitude motion platform, running it for about 30,000 wave cycles (approximately how many wave cycles it would face during a typical two- to four-week ocean deployment). Even after thousands of test cycles, the belt still showed no visible signs of wear, indicating a much longer lifespan. Based on the team’s models and motion platform data, the team predicts that this type of belt should last one or two years in the ocean before needing to be replaced

Researchers also tested the belt under a range of stressful (simulated) ocean conditions, pushing the belt to see if it would slip, fold, or wind/unwind faster than it should. They found that the belt showed no sign of slippage or tangling, confirming that the belt is a promising upgrade to the HERO WEC’s design. Because of its durability, a belt like this could significantly enhance reliability, allow for longer deployments, reduce maintenance, and ultimately increase freshwater production.

If the polyurethane belt performs well during ocean testing, these preliminary research findings will not only prove promising for NREL’s wave-powered desalination research but also advance the reliability of marine energy technologies across the board. Results from the HERO WEC belt testing are available to other researchers and developers. These initial findings could serve as a stepping stone for marine energy developers looking to both de-risk and enhance their existing WEC designs.

Because the belt has proven to be so robust, the research team is using it as a cornerstone for designing HERO WEC V2. Building on this durable winch system, researchers will now focus on other HERO WEC components to further improve its reliability.

Stay tuned for more HERO WEC design updates, test results, and project milestones.

Learn more about NREL’s research in marine energy and the HERO WEC device and its open-source data. Then, subscribe to The Current—NREL’s water power newsletter—to stay up to date on the latest research.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 875

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Mesoscale Discussion 0875
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1112 AM CDT Mon May 19 2025

Areas affected…central Oklahoma into south central Kansas

Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

Valid 191612Z – 191845Z

Probability of Watch Issuance…95 percent

SUMMARY…A few rapidly developing and intensifying supercells
appear possible as early as 1-3 PM CDT, accompanied by a risk for
large to giant hail and a strong tornado or two.

DISCUSSION…Convergence along the dryline appears at least
initially weak, and it is not clear how much this will change as it
gradually mixes eastward toward the Interstate 35 corridor through
18-20Z. However, deepening convection is evident to the south and
southeast of Chickasha OK, which appears rooted within a corridor of
stronger warm advection around the 850 mb level.

It appears that this may persist and perhaps develop northward into
early/mid afternoon, along the western periphery of a 30-40 kt
southerly 850 mb jet. At the same time, it appears that at least
modest mid-level height falls will begin to overspread the I-35
corridor, coincident with continuing insolation and warming of a
seasonably moist boundary layer. A corridor along and east of the
dryline is forecast to become characterized by large CAPE on the
order of 2000-4000+ J/kg.

As the initially elevated convection begins to acquire increasing
updraft inflow emanating from the unstable boundary-layer, and
inhibition weakens, rapid thunderstorm intensification appears
possible. In the presence of west-southwesterly deep-layer shear,
this probably will include at least a couple of evolving supercells
with potential to produce large to giant hail, along with a risk for
a strong tornado.

..Kerr/Hart.. 05/19/2025

…Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

ATTN…WFO…TSA…ICT…FWD…OUN…

LAT…LON 36709756 37379681 37459587 36529514 35419585 34209680
33899724 34159790 35359788 36709756

MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…120-150 MPH
MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…4.00+ IN

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 292 Status Reports

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 292

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL2

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 292
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1205 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Northwest Arkansas
Central and Eastern Oklahoma

* Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 1205 PM until
700 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to 4
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

SUMMARY…Multiple clusters of intense thunderstorms will develop
through the afternoon across central and eastern Oklahoma, spreading
into northwest Arkansas by early evening. Supercells capable of
strong tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds are possible.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 115 statute miles
east and west of a line from 20 miles north northeast of
Bartlesville OK to 10 miles southwest of Durant OK. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
storm motion vector 24035.

…Hart

SEL2

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 292
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1205 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Northwest Arkansas
Central and Eastern Oklahoma

* Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 1205 PM until
700 PM CDT.

* Primary threats include…
Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to 4
inches in diameter likely
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

SUMMARY…Multiple clusters of intense thunderstorms will develop
through the afternoon across central and eastern Oklahoma, spreading
into northwest Arkansas by early evening. Supercells capable of
strong tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds are possible.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 115 statute miles
east and west of a line from 20 miles north northeast of
Bartlesville OK to 10 miles southwest of Durant OK. For a complete
depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
(WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

&&

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
storm motion vector 24035.

…Hart

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW2
WW 292 TORNADO AR OK 191705Z – 200000Z
AXIS..115 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
20NNE BVO/BARTLESVILLE OK/ – 10SW DUA/DURANT OK/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 100NM E/W /33WSW OSW – 39SE ADM/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..4 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

LAT…LON 37029380 33839452 33839853 37029797

THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU2.

Watch 292 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

High (80%)

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

Mod (60%)

Wind

Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

High (70%)

Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

Low (10%)

Hail

Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

High (80%)

Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

High (80%)

Combined Severe Hail/Wind

Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

High (>95%)

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: USDA seeks feedback from producers about 2025 crops, stocks, inventories, and values

Source: US National Agricultural Statistics Service

WASHINGTON, May 19, 2025 – Over the next several weeks, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the June Agricultural Survey. The agency will contact nearly 92,000 producers across the nation to determine crop acreage and stock levels as of June 1, 2025.

“The June Agricultural Survey is one of the most important and well-known surveys NASS conducts,” said Joseph L. Parsons, USDA NASS Administrator. “When producers respond to the survey, they provide essential information that helps determine the expected acreage and supply of major commodities in the United States for the 2025 crop year. The results are used by farmers and ranchers, USDA, exporters, researchers, economists, policymakers, and others to inform a wide range of decisions.”

Producers can respond to the June Agricultural Survey online at agcounts.usda.gov, by phone, or mail. They will be asked to provide information on planted and harvested acreage, including acreage for biotech crops and grain stocks.

“NASS safeguards the privacy of respondents by keeping all individual information confidential and publishing the data in aggregate form only to ensure that no operation or producer can be identified,” said Parsons. “We recognize that this is a busy time for farmers, but the information they provide helps U.S. agriculture remain viable and capable. I urge them to respond to these surveys and thank them for their participation.”

NASS will publish the data in a series of USDA reports, including the annual Acreage and quarterly Grain Stocks reports on June 30, 2025. This data also contributes to NASS monthly and annual Crop Production reports, the annual Small Grains Summary, the annual Farms and Land in Farms report, the Land Values report, various livestock reports, including Cattle, Sheep and Goats, Hogs and Pigs, and USDA’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.

All NASS reports are available online at nass.usda.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025