NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Honors Fallen Police Officers from NY-24 During National Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) shared remarks on the House floor during National Police Week to honor the lives of two fallen police officers from New York’s 24th Congressional District, Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Cailee Campbell of the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office.

    Sergeant Sanfratello served his beloved community as a police officer for 32 years, was twice recognized as officer of the year, and was heavily involved with the New York State Sheriffs Association, Stop DWI, and Shop with a Cop. He was tragically killed while responding to a call in the early hours of March 10, 2024.  

    Deputy Campbell began her career in law enforcement with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections officer before attending the Syracuse Police Academy. In April 2023, she joined the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol deputy. On September 25, 2024, she was tragically struck in a T-bone collision and later succumbed to her injuries.

    “During National Police Week, we solemnly honor the memory of Sergeant Sanfratello and Deputy Campbell, who gave their lives in service to our community. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we remain forever indebted to them. On behalf of the people of New York’s 24th Congressional District, we offer our deepest gratitude and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

    Watch Rep Tenney’s remarks honoring Sergeant Sanfratello here and her remarks honoring Deputy Campbell here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Unleash Military on Enemy Drones in U.S.

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), alongside Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) in the House, and Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) in the Senate, introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to unleash the U.S. military on enemy drones within the U.S. The Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act would allow more military bases to become a “covered facility” to gain the authority to shoot down unauthorized drones that hover in their airspace.

    Read more about this legislation in Fox News here.

    “Unauthorized drone activity near and over U.S. military installations has become a persistent and growing national security concern. In the past year alone, there were more than 350 drone detections at 100 different military installations,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This is why I am proud to help lead the bipartisan COUNTER Act, which gives our armed forces the clear authority they need to take down hostile drones and defend our most sensitive installations. As a fighter pilot with hundreds of hours in combat experience, I know firsthand how critical airspace security is — and how urgent this action has become.”

    “In recent years, there has been a disturbing increase in threats posed to U.S. military bases by unmanned aircraft systems, including from systems controlled by foreign adversaries. Despite this, our armed forces continue to tell us that they lack the authority to protect the skies over some of our most sensitive military installations,” said Rep. Houlahan. “Today’s introduction of the bipartisan COUNTER Act marks the next step towards delivering the expanded authorities our military needs to address the threats of unmanned aircraft systems and keep these facilities safe.”

    “Leaving American military facilities vulnerable to drone incursions puts our service members, the general public, and our national security at risk. Our bill will expand the Department of Defense’s authority to neutralize unauthorized drones,” said Senator Cotton. 

    “As commercial drones become more commonplace, we must ensure that they are not being used to share sensitive information with our adversaries, to conduct attacks against our service members, or otherwise pose a threat to our national security. This legislation will enable DoD to more effectively mitigate threats from drones and allow for better interagency cooperation to keep Americans safe. I am proud to be introducing this important piece of bipartisan legislation, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get it passed,” said Senator Gillibrand. 

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Cautions Parents About Online Sextortion Network Targeting Children

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Cautions Parents About Online Sextortion Network Targeting Children

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador issued a public warning today to Idaho families about a dangerous online sextortion scheme run by a transnational criminal network known as “764.” The organization is actively targeting children in Idaho and across the country through gaming platforms and messaging apps, including Discord, Telegram, and Roblox.
    This criminal network manipulates and blackmails children—typically between the ages of 9 and 17—into sharing explicit images or engaging in self-harming behavior. The perpetrators then use those images or actions as leverage in ongoing threats and extortion. The tactics often lead to victims suffering in silence, as the perpetrators exploit feelings of fear, shame, and isolation to keep their victims from seeking help.
    “The criminals behind this network are targeting children across the globe with calculated cruelty,” said Attorney General Labrador. “My office will use every tool at our disposal to expose these predators and protect Idaho families. Parents need to know this threat is real, it’s growing, and it thrives on silence. Awareness is the first line of defense.”
    The network’s name, “764,” originates from a Texas zip code where the earliest cases were identified in 2021. As of May 2025, the FBI has over 250 open investigations tied to this group. In April alone, the Idaho ICAC Task Force received 15 separate reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding suspected sextortion activity occurring within the state.
    Attorney General Labrador and the Idaho ICAC Task Force urges the public to report suspected online exploitation to local law enforcement, the ICAC Unit at 208-947-8700, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 or www.cybertipline.com. For more information or to access resources, visit ICACIdaho.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson fights back federal proposal to strip states of authority over AIRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – Today, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from across the country in opposing a sweeping federal proposal that would bar states from being able to enforce any state laws or regulations addressing artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision-making systems for the next ten years.

    “AI brings real promise, but also real danger, and South Carolina has been doing the hard work to protect our citizens,” said Attorney General Wilson. “Now, instead of stepping up with real solutions, Congress wants to tie our hands and push a one-size-fits-all mandate from Washington without a clear direction. That’s not leadership, that’s federal overreach. We’re ready to work together, but not if it means being told to sit on the sidelines while our people are put at risk.”

    The proposal, recently added to a federal budget reconciliation bill, would impose an unprecedented moratorium on state level AI oversight. This moratorium comes on the heels of Congress failing to pass any meaningful federal regulatory framework.

    In the letter sent to Congressional leaders including Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Attorney General Wilson and attorneys general argue that this proposed measure would not only halt state progress in protecting consumers but also roll back critical already existing safeguards in place across the country.

    Under Attorney General Wilson’s leadership, South Carolina has been at the forefront of addressing emerging technology issues, from online privacy, artificial intelligence, and deceptive social media practices. The state has taken proactive steps to understand and mitigate the risks posed by AI. Notably, Attorney General Wilson played a key role in the recent passage of S.28 by the State Legislature, a landmark law that closes a dangerous loophole by criminalizing the possession and distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse material.

    The letter highlights that state attorneys general are often the first line of defense for consumers, and in the absence of any clear action by Congress or the federal government, ensuring responsible AI use for their citizens is even more important.

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Agencies Conduct Joint Operation in Southern Indiana

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    More Than 20 Violent Illegal Immigrants Arrested

    INDIANAPOLIS, IN—A coordinated, multi-agency law enforcement operation conducted from April 29 to May 1, resulted in the arrest of 23 individuals in the Evansville and Bloomington areas, as part of an ongoing initiative to combat criminal activity and enhance public safety.

    The successful three-day operation was led by a coalition of federal partners, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO).

    Of the 23 individuals taken into custody:

    • 18 had prior criminal arrests or convictions, including:
      • 10 individuals with one or more operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses
      • 10 individuals involved in crimes that resulted in injury to others
      • 3 individuals connected to drug possession and trafficking

    Additionally, four individuals were arrested on federal warrants, including one subject previously convicted of cocaine trafficking.

    Those included:

    • Martin Cortez-Lopez, 36, who was arrested as he left court in Bloomington, Indiana.
      • Criminal History: 2007 – Disorderly intoxication and resisting law enforcement with violence / 2010 – Possession of cocaine and failure to appear for resisting officer with violence / 2024 – Possession of cocaine x2 and operating while intoxicated/endangerment.
      • Previously removed 2011
    • Amin Reynosa-Diaz, 29, arrested in Evansville, Indiana. Reynosa-Diaz was located at a construction site and taken into custody.
      • Criminal History: 2020 – Driving while intoxicated / 2024 – Domestic violence.
      • Previously removed 2019
    • Jaime Ortiz-Guzman, 46, arrested in Bloomington, Indiana.
      • Criminal History: 1999 – Federal Arrest, fraud, imposter, false documents / 2006 – Battery / 2008 – Operating while intoxicated and operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license / 2024 – Operating while intoxicated and driving without a license.
      • Previously removed felon
    • Jonathan Regules-Hernandez, 44, arrested in Bloomington, Indiana, after a short foot pursuit.
      • Criminal History: 2000 – Larceny and possession of stolen goods / 2004 – Maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place with controlled substances and trafficking in cocaine / 2005 – Breaking and entering with the intent to commit felony and larceny after breaking and entering / 2007 – Alien removal under section 212 and 237 / 2025 – Operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license.
      • Previously removed felon

    This operation underscores the effectiveness of interagency collaboration in addressing public safety threats. By combining investigative resources, intelligence sharing, and enforcement capabilities, federal agencies are better equipped to identify, locate, and apprehend individuals who pose risks to the community or have violated federal laws, including immigration statutes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Efforts with EPA Administrator to Provide Regulatory Certainty, Respect Private Property Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    05.15.25
    Senator Stresses Importance of Improving Grid Reliability & Affordability, Rescinding Overreach by Biden Administration
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week urged Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin to provide regulatory certainty to the nation’s energy producers and ensure the federal government respects private property rights. In particular, Hoeven highlighted the importance of:
    Improving the reliability and affordability of the electrical grid.
    Hoeven pointed to reports from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) showing that the loss of baseload power, including from the premature retirement of coal-fired electric plants, has undermined grid reliability.
    The senator urged Zeldin to follow through on rolling back regulatory overreach from the Biden administration, including reining in Biden-era rules like the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) and Clean Power Plan 2.0 rules.

    Restoring the traditional definition of “waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) to protect both private property rights and the role of states in managing the water within their borders.
    The expanded WOTUS definition, advanced by both the Obama and Biden administrations, sought to reach beyond the federal regulatory authority established under the Clean Water Act.
    These rules would have imposed unworkable mandates, burdensome new permitting requirements and compliance costs on landowners, energy and agriculture producers and other industries.
    Accordingly, Hoeven worked to protect against the implementation of the expansive WOTUS rules advanced by both the Obama and Biden administrations.
    The senator is supporting the Trump administration in providing regulatory certainty and bringing the WOTUS rule into compliance with the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA.

    “The Biden administration imposed a regulatory blizzard on this nation, overreaching its legal authority to advance rules that punished our coal, oil and gas producers and created new burdens impacting a wide range of industries,” said Hoeven. “As a result, we saw the premature retirement of baseload, coal-fired power plants, which are critical to the reliable operation of the electrical grid. This undermined our energy security and is absolutely the wrong approach for our nation. Instead, we need to empower technological innovation, like we’re doing with CCUS in North Dakota. At the same time, we will continue working with Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration to roll back President Biden’s harmful policies, provide regulatory certainty and ensure the federal government respects private property rights. That’s how we can make the U.S. energy dominant while improving environmental stewardship.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Transportation Secretary Discuss North Dakota’s Role in Meeting the Nation’s Aviation Needs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    05.16.25
    Senator Invites Secretary Duffy to North Dakota to See Grand Sky, Learn about Counter-Drone Efforts Firsthand
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week discussed with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, North Dakota’s role in meeting key priorities to ensure safe and efficient air travel in the U.S. airspace. Hoeven outlined the work of the University of North Dakota (UND) and his efforts to leverage the school’s expertise in order to:
    Help meet the nation’s need for air traffic controllers (ATC).
    Hoeven worked with UND and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to secure the school’s role in the Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
    Under this initiative, UND graduates are immediately eligible for hire and to begin localized training at an air traffic facility, bypassing the FAA Academy in Oklahoma.
    Now, Hoeven is sponsoring the ATC Workforce Development Act to strengthen the Enhanced AT-CTI program and further improve controller recruitment and retention.
    Secretary Duffy agreed to work with Hoeven on expanding capacity for ATC training and expressed support for the bill.

    Ensure the U.S. has enough qualified pilots to meet future demand.
    Hoeven highlighted UND’s Vets2Wings program, which expands flight training for veterans and helps cover costs not included under the GI Bill or the Department of Defense’s Federal Tuition Assistance Program.
    Hoeven initially secured $2.5 million to establish the program and then passed his American Aviator Act to authorize the program at the FAA through Fiscal Year (FY) 2028.
    The senator stated that initiatives like this help address the need for commercial airline pilots and requested that the secretary work with him on making the program permanent.

    In addition, Hoeven invited Secretary Duffy to visit North Dakota and learn firsthand about the state’s counter-drone efforts at Grand Sky and the Northern Plains Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Test Site. Hoeven stressed the need to finish linking the FAA’s unfiltered radar data feed with the test site to empower this work, which is needed to protect against the malicious use of UAS.
    “North Dakota is home to the largest flight school in the country and plays a growing role in ATC training with the Enhanced AT-CTI Program at UND. Considering the challenges faced by our aviation industry, it is critical that we work to remove bottlenecks in training for air traffic controllers. That’s exactly what we’ve worked to do at UND, and our ATC Workforce Development Act will take these efforts even further,” said Hoeven. “Our state is also leading the way in developing counter-drone technologies, an increasingly important national security priority. The FAA’s radar data feed will enhance our test site’s ability to identify potentially threatening systems, a critical part of keeping the national airspace secure from dangerous UAS. I appreciate Secretary Duffy’s willingness to help complete the process of sharing the unfiltered radar data, as well as his agreement to visit North Dakota and learn more about the important work we’re doing at UND, Grand Sky and the test site.”
    Advancing Counter-Drone Technologies
                Hoeven is working to realize new opportunities in the Grand Forks region for developing counter-drone technologies to protect against emerging threats resulting from the misuse of UAS. To this end, Hoeven continues his efforts to:
    Increase the size and scope of Project ULTRA to support counter-UAS technology development.
    By increasing the project’s contract ceiling, it can serve as a bridge between an existing DoD contracting vehicle and new counter-UAS capabilities being developed in the private sector.

    Secure access for the Northern Plains UAS Test Site to the FAA unfiltered radar data feed, which is currently in process.
    Once completed, it will use the feed to enhance efforts to detect, identify and track malicious UAS.
    Between Project ULTRA and the FAA radar data, Grand Forks will be uniquely positioned to develop methods for protecting domestic U.S. military bases against potential UAS threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Coons, Shaheen, Reed, Warner, Kelly, Himes, Krishnamoorthi statement on Trump’s Middle East AI giveaway

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), as well as Congressmen Jim Himes (D-Conn.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s artificial intelligence deals that were announced with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia this week:
    “Democrats and Republicans have long agreed that American companies must remain the undisputed leader in AI, a rapidly developing technology critical to the future of everything from our national security to manufacturing, finance to health care. We have worked hard to ensure the most powerful AI systems are built here, and we have fought to restrict the most sophisticated chips from reaching China – or those who would grant remote access to China – given Beijing’s use of AI to strengthen its military, crack down on domestic dissent, and compete with the U.S.
    “President Trump announced deals to export very large volumes of advanced AI chips to the UAE and Saudi Arabia without credible security assurances to prevent U.S. adversaries from accessing those chips. These deals pose a significant threat to U.S. national security and fundamentally undermine bipartisan efforts to ensure the United States remains the global leader in AI. Rather than putting America first, this deal puts the Gulf first.
    “The volume of AI chips Trump is offering for export would deprive American AI developers of highly sought-after chips needed here and slow the U.S. AI buildout. Under this deal, data centers and AI systems that would otherwise be built in America will be built in the Middle East – at the exact time that President Trump says he wants to bring jobs and key industries back home. This deal would incentivize U.S. firms to build the factories of the future overseas, creating significant vulnerabilities in our AI supply chain. If our leading AI firms offshore their frontier computing infrastructure to the Middle East, we could become as reliant on the Middle East for AI as we are on Taiwan for advanced semiconductors – and as we used to be on the Middle East for oil. We should not foster new dependencies on foreign countries for this premier technology.
    “Additionally, these deals will provide our highest end chips to G42, a company with a well-documented history of cooperation with the People’s Republic of China. We applaud the administration’s efforts to limit exports of advanced AI chips to China, including recent actions to further restrict exports of Nvidia chips. However, these efforts will be for nothing if G42 or other companies with ties to China are given large quantities of our most advanced chips. 
    “Proponents of the deal argue that China will fill the gap if we do not sell substantial quantities of advanced chips to these countries. This is false. China cannot and will not because China makes fewer chips as a nation than these deals offer, and each is inferior to their U.S.-designed equivalent. This is thanks to the bipartisan efforts under both the Trump and Biden administrations to cut off China’s access to advanced chip manufacturing equipment. These efforts have worked, and we should double down on this success rather than squander the leverage we have won.
    “If this deal succeeds, the offshoring of frontier American AI will be recorded as an historic American blunder. People around the world deserve to enjoy the benefits we will reap from AI. However, AI chips must only be exported to trusted companies, in reasonable numbers, and in concert with credible security standards and assurances. We welcome the opportunity to work with the administration to meet these objectives and urge our colleagues in Congress to do the same.”
    Senator Coons is Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. Senator Shaheen is Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senator Reed is Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Senator Warner is Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Senator Kelly is a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Congressman Himes is Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee. Congressman Krishnamoorthi is Ranking Member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Leads Amicus Brief Opposing UnitedHealth Efforts to Scam Taxpayers through Medicare Advantage

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

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) is leading dozens of Members in filing an amicus brief in United States of America v. UnitedHealth Group, Inc. et al, a case alleging that UnitedHealth uses inaccurate diagnosis codes to inflate payments through Medicare Advantage (MA), essentially embezzling from taxpayers. The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) estimates that MA plans through insurers like UnitedHealth will be overpaid by $1.2 trillion between 2025-2034 without intervention. 

    “Medicare DisAdvantage, as I like to call it, was initially created as a way to save taxpayer dollars, but in reality, it does the exact opposite. It costs more and consistently has worse patient outcomes,” said Jayapal. “Today, this program is simply a cash cow for big insurance corporations at the cost of seniors and people with disabilities. UnitedHealth must answer to a jury, to the allegations that its network of MA plans intentionally ‘upcoded’ to increase the payments it received from Medicare — taxpayer dollars that did not go to provide healthcare to patients, but rather to pad UnitedHealth’s profits. Americans deserve to know if Medicare funds have been—and could continue to be—abused.”

    The private insurance companies running MA plans mislead the public by claiming their plans save money and improve care. However, private insurers in MA overcharged CMS by at least $83 billion in 2024 without any improvements to the quality of care for patients. These overpayments to private insurers threaten the stability of the entire Medicare program for the 65 million Americans who rely on it. UnitedHealth is the nation’s largest insurer of MA plans, with 28 percent of the market share nationally and $400 billion in revenue last year. 

    “The MA Program was supposed to decrease costs and increase access to healthcare for elderly and disabled Americans, while simultaneously adding efficiency to the healthcare system. Corporate health insurers like United have guaranteed MA’s failure by wringing the program dry with their insatiable appetite for profit,” reads the brief.

    When a patient receives treatment through a third-party MA insurer, like UnitedHealth, they are assigned a “sickness score” that determines the payments to the insurer from the Traditional Medicare fund. Those sickness scores are driven by the post hoc diagnoses of United’s coders, and this case states that UnitedHealth knew that $2.1 billion in payments were due to incorrect diagnoses, yet did nothing to correct the error and instead took the money at a time when Americans are paying nearly $26,000 per family in premiums per year, while the largest US insurer made $14 billion in annual profits. And just this week, the Wall Street Journal reported that UnitedHealth is under investigation by the Department of Justice for possible criminal Medicare fraud.

    Jayapal has been a leader in the efforts to rein in MA and protect patients, having led efforts to urge both the Trump and Biden Administrations to enact reforms. 

    The brief was signed by Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Greg Casar (TX-35), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Greg Landsman (OH-01), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Mark Takano (CA-39), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Derek Tran (CA-45), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

    The full text of the brief can be read here. 

    Issues: Health Care

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1578, Veterans Claims Education Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1578 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to inform veterans and their survivors about accredited individuals and organizations that may be able to help them with claims for VA benefits. The bill also would extend the reduction of pension payments for veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effect of H.R. 1578 is shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1578
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    *

    1

    *

    *

    1

    -16

    *

    *

    1

    2

    -12

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    *

    1

    *

    *

    1

    -16

    *

    *

    1

    2

    -12
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    1

    4

    1

    *

    1

    1

    *

    1

    1

    1

    *

    8

    11

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    3

    3

    *

    1

    1

    *

    1

    1

    1

    *

    8

    11

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1578 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for affected programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 would require VA to provide additional information about VA-accredited individuals and organizations. Specifically, VA must:

    • Maintain an online tool that allows people claiming VA benefits to search for accredited representatives that may assist with those claims;
    • Notify applicants for VA benefits about VA-accredited representation if the claimant’s initial application does not indicate they have such representation; and
    • On each web page of the department through which an individual may file a benefits claim, provide information about limitations on fees that potential representatives may charge applicants.

    The department maintains a web portal through which claimants can search for accredited representation for benefit claims. Thus, that requirement would have no budgetary effect. Using information from the department, CBO estimates that VA would require additional information technology (IT) resources to notify claimants of available representation and to update each affected website with information on fee limitations. On the basis of that information, CBO estimates that upgrades and maintenance to the IT system would cost $15 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards. Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. Thus, in addition to increasing spending subject to appropriation, enacting section 2 would increase amounts paid from the TEF, which are classified as direct spending.

    CBO projects that the proportion of costs paid by the TEF will grow over time based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO expects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act. CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $11 million and direct spending by $4 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, CBO estimates that enacting the bill would affect direct spending by reducing pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. In total, the bill would decrease net direct spending by $12 million over the 2025‑2035 period

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 3 would extend that reduction for four months, through March 31, 2032. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 3 would reduce net direct spending by $16 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1578 would not increase net direct spending by more than $2.5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1578 would not increase on‑budget deficits by more than $5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Federal Costs: Logan Smith

    Mandates: Lucy Marret

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1969, No Wrong Door for Veterans Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1969 would extend the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through fiscal year 2026 and authorize appropriations for that purpose. The bill also would clarify that VA may provide adaptive prosthetic devices for sports and recreational activities as a medical service. Finally, the bill would extend a temporary limitation on certain pension payments through January 2033.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effects of H.R. 1969 are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R.1969
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    10

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -16

    0

    0

    10

    -46

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    9

    1

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -16

    0

    0

    10

    -46
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    0

    43

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    43

    43

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    39

    4

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    43

    43

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1969 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for affected programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 of the bill would reauthorize the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program through fiscal year 2026 and authorize the appropriation of $53 million for that year. The program makes grants to community organizations that provide suicide prevention services to at-risk veterans.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards.

    Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. CBO estimates that 19 percent of such additional funding would come from the TEF in 2026. That percentage is based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO projects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act. CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $43 million and direct spending by $10 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, CBO estimates that enacting the bill would affect direct spending by reducing pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. In total, the bill would decrease net direct spending by $46 million over the 2025‑2035 period

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 4 would extend that reduction for 14 months, through January 31, 2033. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 4 would reduce net direct spending by $56 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    The discussion above in “Provisions That Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending” describes the authorization of appropriations for suicide prevention grants. That authorization would increase spending subject to appropriation by $43 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Section 3 would clarify that adaptive prostheses and terminal devices for sports and other recreational activities are included in the definition of medical services furnished to veterans. VA currently provides those types of adaptive devices; thus, CBO estimates that implementing section 3 would not affect the federal budget.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1969 would not increase net direct spending or on‑budget deficits in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Estimate Prepared By

    Federal Costs:

    Noah Callahan (for veterans health care) 
    Logan Smith (for pensions)

    Mandates: Brandon Lever

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald 
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Seeks Public Input on Improving Technology to Empower Medicare Beneficiaries

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is taking bold steps to modernize the nation’s digital health ecosystem with a focus on empowering Medicare beneficiaries through greater access to innovative health technologies. The agency, in partnership with the Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy/Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ASTP/ONC), is seeking public input on how best to advance a seamless, secure, and patient-centered digital health infrastructure. The goal is to unlock the power of modern technology to help seniors and their families take control of their health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and access care more efficiently.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Trump Leadership: If You Want Welfare and Can Work, You Must

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    As Originally Published in the New York Times Opinion by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Mehmet Oz, Brooke Rollins, & Scott Turner

    America’s welfare programs were created with a noble purpose: to help those who needed them most — our seniors, individuals with disabilities, pregnant women and low-income families with children. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Advance Partisan Legislation to Rip Health Care from Millions of Americans

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, House Democratic Policy and Communications Committee Co-Chair Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement after Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced their partisan reconciliation package, which will cut Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act and result in at least 13.7 million Americans losing health coverage, to the House floor:
    “Over the past 26 hours, House Republicans have rejected every single Democratic amendment – amendments that would have protected Americans’ health care, lowered out-of-pocket costs for working families, kept pollution out of our children’s schools, and so much more. Instead, every Republican member of this Committee voted to preserve a cruel and reckless bill that will rip health coverage away from millions of Americans.”
    “Republican members like Nick Begich (AK-AL) and Rob Bresnahan (PA-08) now face a clear choice. One in three Alaskans rely on Medicaid. One in four people in Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District depend on it too. Will they stand with their constituents and reject a proposal that threatens their health care and makes their bills more expensive? Or will they fall in line behind Donald Trump’s promise to slash taxes for the billionaires like Elon Musk who bankrolled his campaign?”
    “This bill isn’t just bad policy – it’s a betrayal of the people we were sent here to represent. I’ll keep fighting alongside my Democratic colleagues to stop it and to protect every American’s right to access affordable, quality health care.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC Announces Retirement of Arthur J. Murton, Deputy to the Chairman for Financial Stability and Director of Division of Complex Institutions Supervision and Resolution

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    WASHINGTON – The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced the retirement of Arthur J. (Art) Murton, Deputy to the Chairman for Financial Stability and Director of the Division of Complex Institution Supervision and Resolution (CISR) on May 31, 2025, following a distinguished 39-year career at the agency.

    The FDIC Board of Directors appointed Mr. Murton as Deputy to the Chairman for Financial Stability in October 2019. In that role, he advised FDIC Chairmen and Board members on key policy issues affecting the FDIC and the banking system. Mr. Murton was also named Director of CISR in October 2023, where he oversaw the FDIC’s responsibilities related to systemically important financial institutions and insured depository institutions with assets above $100 billion. Mr. Murton held several other leadership roles at the agency over his career, including as Director of the Division of Insurance, the Division of Insurance and Research, and the Office of Complex Financial Institutions. 

    “Art’s experience and depth of knowledge have helped navigate the FDIC through critical times in our agency’s history,” said Travis Hill, FDIC Acting Chairman. “He is also a valued colleague who has mentored and helped further the careers of those who have worked with him. We are grateful for his dedication and exemplary service to the FDIC.”

    Mr. Murton joined the FDIC in January 1986 as a financial economist in the former Division of Research and Statistics. His time at the agency spanned the banking crises of the 1980s, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the regional bank failures in the spring of 2023. In each of these, Mr. Murton played a significant role in handling bank failures and in maintaining the liquidity and solvency of the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF). Additionally, during the global financial crisis, he led the design and implementation of the Temporary Liquidity Guaranty Program. 

    Mr. Murton also helped shape the reforms that followed these crises. For example, following the 1980s, the FDIC established a risk-based premium system to maintain the adequacy of the DIF. Following the 2008 crisis, the FDIC began requiring the largest banks to develop resolution plans and establishing tools to resolve the largest financial firms in an orderly way without taxpayer funds. Mr. Murton was instrumental in the implementation of these and other reforms.

    Mr. Murton also helped to establish the International Association of Deposit Insurers and was the FDIC’s first representative to that group. He has also worked extensively with the Financial Stability Board and has helped the FDIC develop strong bilateral relationships with key resolution authorities around the world.

    Mr. Murton holds a Bachelor of Economics degree from Duke University, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Virginia.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supporting Indigenous Peoples Across the State

    Source: US State of New York

    ew York Governor Kathy Hochul and Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca announced today plans for Governor Hochul to visit Seneca Nation Territory to apologize on behalf of New York State’s role in the Thomas Indian School atrocities. The Seneca Nation is set to welcome Governor Hochul to its Cattaraugus Territory on Tuesday, May 20, when Governor Hochul will issue a long-awaited official apology to the Seneca people, as well as all former students and their descendants from various Indigenous Nations, for the State of New York’s role in the operation of the Thomas Indian School. Governor Hochul’s visit is believed to be the first time a sitting Governor has officially visited Seneca Nation Territory.

    “No words or actions will ever be able to undo the pain and suffering of the Seneca people and other Indigenous peoples across the State, but by visiting the Seneca Nation and the site of the Thomas Indian School we will mark a new day in our relations,” Governor Hochul said. “As we prepare to officially recognize the horrifying shortcomings of our past, I thank President Seneca for his advocacy on behalf of the Seneca people and his invitation to the Cattaraugus Territory, and I look forward to further strengthening the relationship between the Seneca people and the State of New York.”

    Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca said, “The severity of the wounds inflicted on our children warrants the historical significance of our Nation welcoming Governor Hochul to the Cattaraugus Territory. The atrocities that our children suffered at the Thomas Indian School have remained hidden in the shadows for far too long. At long last, our people will hear, directly from the Governor, the words we have waited lifetimes for the State of New York to say — ‘We’re sorry.’”

    Originally established by Presbyterian missionaries on the Cattaraugus Territory in 1855, Thomas Indian School was owned and operated by the State of New York from 1875 until it closed in 1957. Thomas Indian School, and other residential boarding schools across the United States and Canada, operated under the government’s policy of forced assimilation of Native children. Thousands of children from various Indigenous Nations were separated from their families and forced to attend the school. They were stripped of the traditional language and culture, and suffered abuse, violence, hatred, and sometimes death, at the hands of school officials. Thousands of children are known to have died at the residential boarding schools. It is believed that the deaths of hundreds — if not thousands — more were never documented.

    The devastating impacts the boarding schools had on Native American families and communities, including the decimation of family structures and traditional language, are still keenly felt today.

    “I know the pain and the trauma because I have seen it and felt it in my own family, just as countless families have borne that pain and carried it every day for generations,” Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca — whose father attended Thomas Indian School, and whose grandmother was removed from her family at age 11 and forced to attend Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania — said. “The Governor’s visit will be an important moment on our road to healing. In coming to our territory and apologizing to our people, the Governor can give voice to the children whose youth and innocence were stolen from them.”

    Governor Hochul’s planned visit will fulfill a pledge she made to President Seneca during a visit Nation leaders made to Albany earlier this year. It is also another example of Governor Hochul’s commitment to supporting and strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples across the state. As part of this commitment, Governor Hochul has:

    • Convened leaders from the Indigenous Nations across New York State for a historic summit at the New York State Capitol in Albany.
    • Appointed Elizabeth Rule as the State’s First Deputy Secretary for Indigenous Nations.
    • Proposed to strengthen the stability of Indigenous Families by directing Deputy Secretary Rule to advance, in consultation with Nation leadership and stakeholders, strategies to strengthen the objectives of the Indian Child Welfare Act, underscoring New York’s commitment to redressing injustices inflicted upon Indigenous communities.
    • Ensured dental care access for Indigenous Nations including $2.5 million in funding for Indigenous Nations dental health care, with the aim of addressing gaps in access.
    • Responded to offensive representations by commencing a comprehensive review of artistic representation of Indigenous peoples in the Capitol, with invited participation from representatives from each of the nine Indigenous Nations to ensure that all New Yorkers are welcomed in the State Capitol.

    The announced visit and apology comes as the New York State Senate unanimously approved a resolution earlier this week acknowledging the State’s role in the operation of Thomas Indian School and the horrors that occurred there. President Seneca and other Nation officials and citizens were present when the resolution was read on the Senate floor and approved.

    This visit will be open to invited guests of the Seneca Nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maintaining Safer Roadways

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Police, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and other State and local law enforcement agencies, issued more than 3,300 tickets during the first-ever “Operation Plate Check.” A special enforcement effort that took place from Saturday, April 26 through Saturday, May 3, this operation sought to identify vehicles on New York State roadways with fictitious license plates and fake “temp tags” in response to an increase in the use of fraudulent plates.

    “The safety of New Yorkers is my top priority, and this enforcement campaign reinforces ongoing efforts to crack down on individuals who are using fake and defaced plates to avoid paying tolls or detection by law enforcement,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to the efforts of the New York State Police and our partners in local law enforcement, we are sending a clear message to drivers: if you attempt to alter your license plate to avoid traffic cameras and toll readers, you will be caught.”

    Over the last few years, law enforcement has observed an increase in the use of fraudulent plates, in addition to operators who are deliberately covering, obstructing and defacing license plates to avoid traffic enforcement cameras, license plate readers and tolls.

    Over the course of this campaign, a total of 3,308 tickets were issued for license plate violations and 83 tickets were issued for suspended registrations. In addition to the tickets that were issued, “Operation Plate Check” resulted in the recovery of 14 stolen vehicles.

    NYS Police Troop T, which patrols the New York State Thruway, issued a campaign high of 664 tickets for license plate violations.

    New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “I want to commend the work that our members, and our law enforcement partners put into this campaign. The use of fraudulent and obstructed or defaced plates undermines public safety and we will continue our efforts to hold those who are trying to cheat the system accountable for their actions.”

    New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “The collaborative effort to crack down on forged and altered license plates – often called “ghost plates” – has been an important one to protect the safety of New York’s roads and everyone who uses them. Not only does it help catch those who commit crimes in vehicles with those improper plates, it makes sure the people who try to avoid the tolls that help to maintain New York’s roads are held responsible for paying their fair share. I commend the efforts of our DMV team and all of our law enforcement partners in taking this operation to areas around the state, and look forward to the results we will see during future campaigns.”

    New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Thruway Authority takes toll evasion very seriously, and we fully support the efforts of our partners at New York State Police Troop T in “Operation Plate Check” targeting license plate violations. Motorists who deliberately alter license plates or use fraudulent plates to avoid paying tolls are breaking the law- and New York State Police will catch them. We thank our transportation partners for their support and participation in this and future enforcement campaigns.”

    In 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Bridges and Tunnels and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) launched a multi-agency City and State-led task force dedicated to removing “ghost cars” — cars that are virtually untraceable by traffic cameras and toll readers because of their forged or altered license plates — from New York City streets. Since March 11, 2024, the task force conducted 82 toll enforcement operations, resulting in 1,055 arrests, more than 46,000 summonses and 4,525 interdicted vehicles for suspended registrations and fraudulent, obstructed or altered license plates.

    NYS State Police and NYSDMV were assisted with “Operation Plate Check” by the MTA Police, the TBTA Police, the NYPD, the Taxi and Limousine Commission Police, New York State Park Police, Buffalo PD, Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, Cheektowaga PD, Rochester PD, Syracuse PD, Onondaga Sheriff’s Office, Utica PD, Rome PD, Orangetown PD, Haverstraw PD, Spring Valley PD, and the Rockland County Intelligence Center.

    The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles would like to encourage motorists with peeling and damaged license plates to visit the DMV website to learn more about replacing those plates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP work with partner agencies and launch new Community Response Teams to target illegal drug crimes

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 10, 2025, the Alberta RCMP met with partners in law enforcement, health, and government to discuss concerns around the use of illegal opioids, including fentanyl, across the province. Targeting drug and fentanyl related crimes is part of the Alberta RCMP’s Data 2 Action (D2A) current focus.

    D2A is an Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy that turns data and intelligence into actionable tasks focused on the four pillars of policing: targeted prevention, apprehension, suppression and offender management. The framework is designed to bring RCMP resources and supports alongside external partners across the province to tackle crime. D2A builds its intelligence by looking at where crime is being committed, what type of crime is impacting an area, and who is responsible for the most crime. By working together with local partners, and specialized agencies, the RCMP is able to develop strategies and coordinate resources to respond to the specific needs of communities.

    As part of this new focus, the Alberta RCMP will be working with agencies from across Alberta including ALERT, Edmonton Police Services, Calgary Police Services, Canada Border Services Agency, Alberta Crown Prosecution Services, Alberta Probation, Alberta Sheriffs, Alberta Association of Community, Peace Officers, Canada Post, Criminal Intelligence Service Alberta, Recovery Alberta, the Canadian Center of Recovery Excellence, and the Government of Alberta.

    “The Alberta RCMP is committed to doing all that we can to reduce the risk of opioids in our communities, but it isn’t just a police problem,” says Supt. Mike McCauley, Officer in Charge of the Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy. “Working with our partner agencies, we can develop a fulsome approach to address the underlying issues that lead to crime and the use of illegal fentanyl in our communities.”

    Some of the initial steps that the RCMP has taken to address the concerns of fentanyl in include establishing a new Community Response Team, which is a quick response crime reduction team designed to be able to swiftly tackle a variety of issues in support of detachments and districts. Community Response Teams combine focused outreach with targeted enforcement to improve safety, reduce victimization and address social determinants contributing to the root causes of crime. They work with frontline members and local partners in the community to address the driving causes of crime in a comprehensive, data driven, and targeted approach. Their support reduces drug related crime, enhances public safety, and engages support to create wrap around services and programs.

    Between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28, 2025, there were 87 occurrences in which fentanyl was seized in Alberta RMCP jurisdiction. Approximately 1.4 kilograms of solid fentanyl and over 600 tablets were seized. In 36 of the 87 occurrences where fentanyl was seized, weapons were also seized ranging from knives and brass knuckles to rifles, shotguns, and 3D printed gun parts. While the most instances of fentanyl seizures were in larger communities such as Grande Prairie and Red Deer, there were seizures made in 34 detachments areas across the province.

    “The misery that is caused to the people of Alberta due to illegal drugs and related crimes cannot be understated,” says S/Sgt. Luke Halvorson in Charge of Community Safety. “The Alberta RCMP is committed to using every resource available, whether it’s at the detachment level or involves specializes supports like our Community Response Teams, to target the root causes of crime and to meet the danger that Fentanyl and the illegal drug trade causes to the well-being of our community.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Crypto Casinos USA: JACKBIT Is Ranked #1 Top Bitcoin Online Casino With Exclusive Bonuses & Fast Payouts!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    JERSEY CITY, N.J., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The crypto casino industry is booming, gaining massive traction in the global gaming scene with its promise of secure, anonymous, and swift transactions. As players across the USA embrace this trend, the demand for the best crypto casinos USA skyrockets.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO GET 30% RAKEBACK AND 100 WAGER-FREE FREE SPINS AT JACKBIT!

    After extensive testing of numerous platforms for their bonuses, game variety, and payout speeds, we’ve discovered JACKBIT, the ultimate choice among the best crypto casinos USA. Its jaw-dropping game library and lightning-fast withdrawals left us in awe, making it a standout in crypto gambling sites for thrilling rewards.

    Overview Of JACKBIT, The Best Crypto Casino USA

    • Game Library: Over 7,000 titles from premier providers.
    • Top Bonus: 100 wager-free spins for new players.
    • Payments: Supports crypto and fiat with instant withdrawals.
    • Security: Licensed, SSL-encrypted, provably fair games.
    • Support: 24/7 live chat and email assistance.
    • Mobile: Fully optimized for seamless play on all devices.

    Why JACKBIT Is The Best Crypto Casino USA?

    JACKBIT has carved its name as the top crypto casino in the realm of the best crypto casinos in USA by blending innovative features with player-centric services. Here’s why it outshines others in crypto gambling sites and earns its spot as the best Bitcoin casino.

    1. Massive Game Selection:

    As a leader in the best crypto casinos in the USA, JACKBIT offers an impressive catalog of over 7,000 games, ensuring something for every player.

    From adrenaline-pumping slots like Starburst to immersive live dealer tables and timeless classics like poker, the variety is unparalleled. Powered by elite providers like NetEnt and Playtech, JACKBIT delivers a captivating experience, making it a top Bitcoin casino for endless fun in crypto gambling sites.

    2. Lucrative Bonuses and Promotions:

    JACKBIT sets itself apart among the best crypto casinos USA with transparent, high-value bonuses. Its wager-free spins and cashback offers provide genuine rewards, unlike many platforms with hidden terms. This makes it the best BTC casino for players seeking real value in the new crypto casino landscape.

    3. Ironclad Security:

    Security is a cornerstone at JACKBIT, a trusted name among the best crypto casinos USA. With a reputable gaming license and cutting-edge SSL encryption, it safeguards all transactions and data. Provably fair games ensure transparency, positioning JACKBIT as the best no KYC casino for secure, anonymous play in crypto gambling sites.

    4. Blazing-Fast Withdrawals:

    JACKBIT is renowned as the fastest payout platform in the best crypto casinos in USA, especially for crypto users. Withdrawals via Bitcoin, Litecoin, or Ripple are processed instantly, letting players enjoy their winnings without delay. Even fiat withdrawals are quick, often completed within 1-2 days, making it a top crypto casino for seamless cashouts.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO PLAY AT JACKBIT AND ENJOY LIGHTNING-QUICK WITHDRAWALS TODAY!

    5. Stellar Customer Support:

    Exceptional support is a hallmark of the best crypto casinos USA, and JACKBIT delivers 24/7 live chat and email services. Its responsive team ensures quick resolutions, enhancing the player experience and solidifying its status as the best Bitcoin casino for user satisfaction.

    6. Mobile Gaming Excellence:

    In 2025, mobile gaming is non-negotiable, and JACKBIT shines as a top crypto casino with a fully optimized platform. Whether on iOS or Android, players enjoy flawless access to slots, table games, and live dealer options, making it a standout in the best crypto casinos USA for on-the-go play.

    7. Flexible Payment Options:

    JACKBIT supports a wide array of payment methods, from cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Dogecoin to fiat options like Visa and Skrill. This versatility caters to a global audience, reinforcing its reputation as the best no KYC casino.

    8. Player Recognition:

    With a stellar 4.9/5 rating and a strong reputation in the gaming community, JACKBIT stands out among the best crypto casinos USA. Its commitment to quality and player satisfaction reinforces its position as a trusted destination for Bitcoin casino enthusiasts.

    Bonuses And Promotions

    JACKBIT’s welcome package is a game-changer among the best crypto casinos USA.

    Welcome Bonuses

    • 100 wager-free spins on select slots for new players.
    • 30% rakeback on initial deposits.
    • 100% no-risk esports bet for sports enthusiasts.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO CLAIM 30% RAKEBACK AND 100 FREE SPINS WITH NO WAGERING AT JACKBIT!

    Additional Promotions

    • Weekly Sports Tournament: Prize pools up to $15,000.
    • Sports Betting Boosts: Place three bets, and get one free.
    • JACKBIT Tournament: Daily 1000 free spins and weekly $10000
    • Event Cashback: Special cashback for major events
    • Drops & Wins: Prize pool of € 2,000,000
    • Social Media Bonuses

    How To Join JACKBIT?

    Joining the best crypto casinos USA is quick and easy with JACKBIT. To get started, take these actions:

    1. Visit the Website: Click here to go to JACKBIT’s homepage. Ensure a secure connection for safety. Even for beginners, navigating is a breeze because to the user-friendly structure.
    2. Sign Up: Click “Sign Up” and enter your email, password, and preferred currency (crypto or fiat). Use a strong password for added security. The process takes under a minute.
    3. Verify Email: Check your inbox for a verification link and activate your account. Look in spam if needed. This step keeps your account secure and ready for play.
    4. Deposit Funds: Head to the cashier and choose a payment method like Bitcoin or MasterCard. The clear interface guides you through each step, showing available currencies.
    5. Claim Bonus: Activate your welcome bonus during the deposit. Check the promotions page for the latest offers, which are automatically applied if eligible.
    6. Play: Explore the massive game library, from slots to live dealer games. Use the search feature to find favorites or filter by provider for a tailored experience.

    Pros And Cons Of JACKBIT

    Pros Cons
    Over 7,000 games from elite providers Limited Fiat options in certain regions
    Generous 100 wager-free spins welcome bonus Some promotions require high wagering
    Instant crypto withdrawals  
    Supports crypto and fiat payments  
    24/7 responsive support  
    Mobile-optimized platform  
    Provably fair games  
    No KYC for crypto users  

    Selection Criteria For The Best Crypto Casino USA

    To name JACKBIT the leader in the best crypto casinos USA, we evaluated it on the following:

    • License and Security: Verified reputable licensing and SSL encryption. This guarantees both player safety and adherence to industry requirements. JACKBIT’s robust security measures set a high benchmark for trust.
    • Bonuses: Analyzed generosity and fairness of offers. We checked for transparent terms and player-friendly conditions. JACKBIT’s wager-free spins stood out for their value.
    • Game Variety: Confirmed diverse, high-quality titles. The extensive library caters to all preferences, from slots to live games. Partnerships with top providers ensure engaging gameplay.
    • Providers: Checked partnerships with trusted developers. Only platforms with reputable software providers were considered. JACKBIT’s collaboration with NetEnt and Playtech guarantees reliability.
    • Payments: Ensured fast, versatile options. We tested transaction speeds and method availability. JACKBIT’s instant crypto withdrawals excelled in efficiency.
    • Support: Tested responsiveness and availability. Quick resolution of queries is critical for player satisfaction. JACKBIT’s 24/7 support proved consistently reliable.

    JACKBIT excelled in every category, earning its title as the best Bitcoin casino.

    License And Security

    JACKBIT operates under a respected gaming license, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Advanced SSL encryption protects all transactions, and provably fair games guarantee fairness. Its no-KYC policy for crypto users makes it the best no KYC casino in the best crypto casinos USA.

    Regular audits by independent bodies verify platform integrity. Players can game with confidence, knowing their data is secure. This commitment to trust solidifies JACKBIT’s reputation as a leader in crypto gambling sites.

    Top Casino Games At JACKBIT

    JACKBIT’s library of over 7,000 titles cements its place among the best crypto casinos.

    Best Real Money Slots:

    • Starburst: Vibrant slot with expanding wilds. Its engaging visuals and frequent payouts keep players hooked. Perfect for both new and seasoned slot enthusiasts.
    • Book of Dead: High-volatility adventure slot. Offers thrilling bonus rounds with expanding symbols. Ideal for players chasing big wins in the best BTC casino.
    • Gonzo’s Quest: Avalanche reels for big wins. Features cascading wins and increasing multipliers. A fan favorite for its innovative gameplay mechanics.

    These slots deliver thrilling gameplay and real cash opportunities in the best BTC casino.

    Table Games:

    • European Blackjack: Classic card game with strategic depth. Offers favorable odds for skilled players. A staple for table game fans in crypto gambling sites.
    • Classic Roulette: Iconic game with multiple betting options. Its simple yet exciting gameplay appeals to all. Perfect for quick, thrilling sessions.
    • Baccarat Pro: Elegant game with straightforward rules. Popular among high rollers for its low house edge. Ensures fast-paced fun in the best crypto casinos.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO JOIN JACKBIT AND PLAY YOUR FAVORITE CASINO GAMES ALL IN ONE PLACE!

    Live Dealer Games:

    Enjoy live poker, blackjack, and roulette with professional dealers for an immersive experience. Real-time streaming brings the casino to you. Interactive features enhance engagement in the top crypto casino.

    Progressive Jackpots:

    Chase massive payouts with titles like Divine Fortune and Mega Moolah. These games offer life-changing prize pools. Regular jackpot triggers keep the excitement high in the best Bitcoin casino.

    Specialty Games:

    Explore scratch cards, virtual racing, or bingo for unique entertainment. These games offer a welcome diversion from more conventional choices. Ideal for casual players seeking variety in the new crypto casino.

    Secure Payment Methods

    JACKBIT supports secure payment options for the best crypto casinos USA. Players can choose from a variety of cryptocurrencies and fiat methods, ensuring flexibility and convenience. All transactions are protected with advanced encryption for peace of mind.

    Crypto Payment Methods:

    • Bitcoin
    • Litecoin
    • Ripple
    • Dogecoin

    Fiat Payment Methods:

    • MasterCard
    • Visa
    • Skrill
    • Neteller
    • Bank Transfer

    All transactions are SSL-encrypted, making JACKBIT the fastest payout platform in the best crypto casinos USA.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO PLAY AT JACKBIT AND DEPOSIT INSTANTLY WITH CRYPTO OR FIAT !

    Responsible Gambling And Mobile Gaming

    Responsible Gambling

    JACKBIT promotes safe play with tools like:

    • Deposit Limits: Set daily or weekly caps to manage spending. Customize via support. This helps players maintain control over their budget. You can adjust limits anytime to suit your needs.
    • Loss Limits: Restrict losses to the game responsibly. Adjust in account settings. This feature prevents overspending during gaming sessions. It encourages mindful play and financial awareness.
    • Wager Limits: Control betting amounts for mindful play. Easily tweak as needed. This tool helps avoid impulsive bets. Players can set limits to align with their gaming goals.
    • Session Limits: Set playtime boundaries for healthy habits. Track sessions effortlessly. This promotes regular breaks to avoid fatigue. You can configure reminders to stay on track.
    • Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently suspend your account. Contact support for assistance. This option supports players needing a break from gaming. It’s a proactive step for responsible gambling.

    Support resources for problem gambling are available, reinforcing JACKBIT’s role as a trusted top crypto casino.

    Mobile Gaming

    JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized platform ensures seamless play on smartphones and tablets without an app. Access the full game library, bonuses, and account features, making it a leader in the best crypto casinos USA for mobile players.

    ✅CLICK HERE TO PLAY AT JACKBIT AND WIN BIG TODAY!

    Conclusive Thoughts On JACKBIT, The Best Crypto Casino USA

    JACKBIT will be the pinnacle of the best crypto casinos USA in 2025, offering a colossal game library, generous bonuses, robust security, and instant withdrawals. Its mobile compatibility, diverse payment options, and 24/7 support make it the best BTC casino for all players. Whether you’re spinning slots or betting on live dealer games, JACKBIT delivers unmatched entertainment on crypto gambling sites.

    Its commitment to responsible gambling and provably fair games builds trust worldwide. Sign up today to discover why JACKBIT is the best crypto casino.

    FAQs About Best Crypto Casinos USA

    1. What makes JACKBIT stand out among the best crypto casinos USA?

    JACKBIT’s instant crypto withdrawals and a vast game library make it the top choice. Its generous bonuses add extra value.

    2. Is JACKBIT secure for crypto gambling sites?

    Yes, JACKBIT uses SSL encryption and provably fair games, ensuring safety in the best crypto casinos USA.

    3. What bonuses are available at JACKBIT in the best crypto casinos USA?

    JACKBIT offers 100 wager-free spins and a 30% rakeback for new players.

    4. Can I play JACKBIT games on mobile in the best crypto casinos USA?

    JACKBIT’s mobile platform provides seamless access to all games, perfect for on-the-go play.

    5. What payment methods does JACKBIT support in the best crypto casinos USA?

    JACKBIT accepts Bitcoin, Ripple, Visa, Skrill, and more for fast, secure transactions.

    6. How fast are withdrawals at JACKBIT in the best crypto casinos USA?

    Crypto withdrawals are instant, while fiat takes 1-2 days, making it a top crypto casino.

    Email: support@JACKBITcasino.com

    Disclaimer

    This article is not intended to be financial or legal advice; rather, it is pure informational. Gambling carries risks and may be addictive; please play responsibly. Check if internet gambling is permitted in your area. Information is accurate as of May 2025, but terms may change; check JACKBIT for updates.

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The content is based on research and user reviews, with no warranties as to accuracy or completeness. Users must verify information before acting.

    Online gambling involves risks and is not suitable for everyone. Confirm you meet the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We do not promote gambling; participation is at your own risk. JACKBIT is a third-party platform, and we are not liable for losses or disputes.

    This article may contain affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content, but our reviews remain unbiased. Always conduct your own research before signing up.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19b8f353-0d81-4efc-8fbf-3390c1d4dd46

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c27a570-535f-4000-9eb6-fbee92fa98cb

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f3c9c490-9c2d-40a5-93b3-d938f2f0c022

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Canada: JACKBIT Voted #1 As The Top Canadian Online Casino for Gamblers!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In the fast-evolving world of online gambling, online casinos have become a top choice for Canadian players seeking secure, fast, and private gaming experiences. With the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the best online casinos in Canada are reshaping how players engage with real-money gaming.

    <<>>

    These platforms offer cutting-edge technology, generous bonuses, and a wide variety of games to provide unmatched entertainment. Among them, JACKBIT stands out as the top online casino Canada trusts in 2025, thanks to its player-focused approach and innovative features.

    For online casino enthusiasts, bonuses are a highly much wanted -after feature, offering a risk-free way to explore real-money gaming. These bonuses appeal especially to players eager to test a casino’s platform without spending their own money.

    Recognizing this demand, JACKBIT has elevated its offerings in 2025 by providing tailored bonuses for both newcomers and seasoned users. Setting a new industry standard with instant rewards and access to top-tier slots and table games, JACKBIT has become the best online casino Canada loves.

    How to Get Started with JACKBIT

    Joining JACKBIT is simple and tailored for Canadians eager to explore the best online casinos Canada has to offer:

    1. Visit the official JACKBIT website.
    2. Click “Sign Up” in the top-right corner.
    3. Enter basic details (email, password, preferred currency).
    4. Choose a payment method (crypto or fiat) and deposit.
    5. Claim your 30% Rakeback and 100 free spins.
    6. Start playing over 7,000 games or explore the sportsbook.

    This streamlined process makes JACKBIT the most accessible new online casino for Canadian players.

    Why JACKBIT Stands Out as the Best Online Casino Canada

    JACKBIT has earned the title of the best online casino in Canada for 2025 after a thorough evaluation by iGaming experts. This online casino Canada platform excels in delivering a seamless, secure, and rewarding experience, making it the top choice for players across the country.

    With over 7,000 games, a no-KYC policy, and a robust sportsbook, JACKBIT caters to every type of player, from casual gamers to high rollers.

    A Comprehensive Review Focused on Players

    The review process, which named JACKBIT the best online casino Canada offers, was centered on player needs. Experts evaluated key areas to ensure the platform delivers exceptional value:

    • Licensing and Regulation
    • Game Variety and Quality
    • Bonuses and Promotions
    • Payment Flexibility and Speed
    • Security and Fair Play
    • Mobile Gaming Experience
    • Customer Support Quality
    • Sportsbook Features
    • Responsible Gambling Tools
    • No-KYC Benefits

    JACKBIT outperformed its competitors in every category, proving why it’s the best online casino for Canadian players in 2025. Let’s explore each area to understand what makes this new online casino so special.

    Licensing: A Foundation of Trust

    JACKBIT operates under a Curacao Gaming License, a respected credential in the world of online casinos Canada. This license ensures adherence to strict fair play and security standards, with regular audits to maintain compliance.

    While some players may prefer licenses from Malta or Ontario’s iGaming authority, Curacao’s framework allows JACKBIT to serve a global audience, including Canadians, with transparency and reliability.

    • Global Reach: The Curacao license enables JACKBIT to welcome players from diverse regions, making it a versatile choice for Canadians.
    • Player Confidence: Regular audits ensure gameplay and funds are protected, allowing players to focus on the fun.
    • Balanced Regulation: Curacao offers flexibility while maintaining oversight, ideal for casino -focused platforms.

    For those searching for the best online casino in Canada, JACKBIT’s licensing provides a secure and trustworthy foundation.

    Game Variety: Endless Entertainment

    With over 7,000 games from 85 top providers like NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, Microgaming, and Pragmatic Play, JACKBIT’s game library is a key reason it’s hailed as the best online casino in Canada. The platform offers something for every player, ensuring endless entertainment.

    • Slots: Over 5,000 titles, including classic fruit machines, modern video slots like Gold Party, and 180+ Megaways games. Progressive jackpots like Mega Moolah offer life-changing payouts.
      • Why It’s Great: Diverse themes and massive jackpots keep every spin exciting.
    • Table Games: A wide selection of blackjack (Power Blackjack, Infinite Blackjack), roulette (European, Lightning), poker (Texas Hold’em), baccarat, and craps.
      • Why It’s Great: Multiple variants and strategic depth appeal to both casual and skilled players.
    • Live Dealer Games: Powered by Evolution Gaming, the live section includes Live Blackjack, Live Roulette, Live Baccarat, and game shows like Dream Catcher and Crazy Time.
      • Why It’s Great: Real-time interaction with dealers brings the casino floor to your screen.
    • Sportsbook: Covering 140+ sports with 82,000+ live monthly events and 4,500+ betting types, including hockey, basketball, and e-sports.
      • Why It’s Great: A strong focus on hockey resonates with Canadian fans, while live betting keeps the action intense.
    • Specialty Games: Casual options like bingo (Shamrock Bingo), scratch cards, and friendly mini-games like Aviator and Plinko.
      • Why It’s Great: Perfect for quick, low-stakes fun.
    • Virtual Sports: 24/7 betting on simulated events like virtual football, horse racing, and greyhound racing.
      • Why It’s Great: Realistic graphics and non-stop action keep the excitement going.

    This vast selection ensures JACKBIT remains a top Canadian online casino for players seeking variety and quality.

    <<>>

    Bonuses and Promotions: Rewards That Pack a Punch

    JACKBIT’s generous promotions are a major reason it’s ranked as the best online casino Canada offers in 2025. New players start with a 30% Rakeback and 100 wager-free spins, with ongoing offers that keep the excitement alive:

    • Weekly Giveaways: $10,000 prize pools and 1000 free spins.
      • Why It’s Great: Frequent rewards keep players engaged without extra deposits.
    • VIP Rakeback: Up to 30%, scaling with loyalty tiers.
      • Why It’s Great: Rewards dedication with bigger cashback.
    • Pragmatic Drops & Wins: A €2,000,000 prize pool across multiple games.
      • Why It’s Great: Offers a shot at life-changing wins.
    • Social Media Bonuses: Engage on Twitter and Telegram for extra rewards.
      • Why It’s Great: Simple tasks like retweeting unlock bonuses.
    • Tournaments: Regular slot and table game events with cash prizes.
      • Why It’s Great: Adds a competitive edge for all skill levels.

    These high-value bonuses make JACKBIT a standout among online casinos Canada, ensuring players get more bang for their buck.

    <<>>

    Payment Flexibility: Fast and Secure Transactions

    As an instant payout casino, JACKBIT supports over 17 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, Solana, and Dogecoin. Crypto transactions are instant and fee-free, offering unmatched convenience. Traditional options include:

    • Visa and MasterCard: Instant deposits, withdrawals in 1-3 days.
    • Google Pay and Apple Pay: Instant mobile deposits.
    • Bank Transfers: Withdrawals in 3-5 days.

    With high withdrawal limits (up to $30,000 weekly) and robust SSL encryption, JACKBIT ensures secure and flexible banking, reinforcing its status as the best online casino Canada trusts.

    <<>>

    Security: A Safe Gaming Environment

    Security is a top priority at JACKBIT, making it one of the safest online casinos Canada offers. The platform uses SSL encryption and blockchain technology to protect player data and transactions. Provably fair games and Random Number Generators (RNGs) ensure unbiased outcomes, while the no-KYC policy enhances privacy without compromising trust.

    • Blockchain Transparency: Verify transactions for peace of mind.
    • Certified Fairness: Independent audits confirm game integrity.
    • Why It’s Great: Players can game confidently, knowing their experience is secure.

    Mobile Gaming: Play Anywhere, Anytime

    JACKBIT’s mobile-optimized platform delivers a seamless experience on iOS and Android without requiring a dedicated app. Players can access the full game library, deposit instantly, and claim bonuses on the go. The responsive design ensures smooth navigation, making JACKBIT a top choice for mobile gamblers seeking the best online casinos Canada has.

    • Cross-Device Sync: Switch between devices without losing progress.
    • Intuitive Interface: Easy navigation on smaller screens.
    • Why It’s Great: Play wherever life takes you.

    Customer Support: Always There for You

    JACKBIT offers 24/7 live chat support in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish, resolving queries within minutes. Email support and a comprehensive FAQ section provide additional resources. The team’s professionalism strengthens JACKBIT’s reputation as the best Canadian online casino.

    • Bilingual Support: French options cater to Canada’s diverse population.
    • Fast Response: Issues are handled promptly, day or night.
    • Why It’s Great: Reliable help enhances the player experience.

    Sportsbook: Betting with a Canadian Twist

    JACKBIT’s sportsbook covers 140+ sports, including hockey, basketball, tennis, and e-sports, with 82,000+ live monthly events and 4,500+ betting types. Live streaming and competitive odds make it the best online casino for Canadian sports fans, with a strong focus on hockey to resonate with local passions.

    • Hockey Focus: Extensive NHL betting options for Canadian fans.
    • Live Action: Real-time updates keep bets engaging.
    • Why It’s Great: Perfect for sports betting enthusiasts.

    Responsible Gambling: Prioritizing Player Well-Being

    JACKBIT promotes safe gaming with tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, reality checks, and links to organizations like GamCare and Gambling Therapy. These features ensure a fun and controlled experience, aligning with the standards of safe online casinos Canada trusts.

    • Proactive Tools: Set boundaries to prevent issues.
    • Support Resources: Help is always a click away.
    • Why It’s Great: Keeps gaming enjoyable and responsible.

    No-KYC Benefits: Privacy and Convenience

    JACKBIT’s no-KYC policy allows anonymous play and withdrawals, a major draw for privacy-conscious players. Paired with fast payouts, this feature makes JACKBIT the best online casinos Canada offers for discreet gaming.

    • Hassle-Free: Skip ID checks and play instantly.
    • Secure Anonymity: Your data stays private without compromising safety.
    • Why It’s Great: Ideal for players valuing personal freedom.

    Crypto Gambling Trends Shaping Canada’s iGaming Scene

    The rise of crypto gambling in Canada is driven by several key trends that align perfectly with JACKBIT’s offerings, making it the best online casino for 2025:

    • Growing Crypto Adoption: More Canadians are holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, making the best online casinos in Canada a natural fit for seamless transactions.
    • Demand for Privacy: No-KYC platforms like JACKBIT cater to players seeking discretion in their gaming activities.
    • Technological Advancements: Blockchain technology and fast transactions enhance the gaming experience, offering transparency and security.
    • Why JACKBIT Excels: Its crypto-first approach positions it as the leader among Canadian online casinos, meeting the needs of modern players.

    By staying ahead of these trends, JACKBIT continues to dominate as the best online casinos Canada embraces.

    Why Canadians Love JACKBIT: A Psychological Perspective

    Canadian players are drawn to JACKBIT for reasons that go beyond games and bonuses. The platform taps into key psychological drivers that make it the top Canadian online casino:

    • Control and Freedom: No-KYC policies and instant payouts give players full control over their gaming experience.
    • Balanced Risk-Reward: Bonuses like Rakeback offer rewards without requiring high stakes, appealing to cautious players.
    • Community Connection: Social media bonuses and tournaments foster a sense of belonging, enhancing player loyalty.
    • Why It Works: JACKBIT understands what motivates players, making it the best online casino Canada adores.

    <<>>

    JACKBIT’s Community Engagement

    JACKBIT goes beyond gaming to build a vibrant community, further solidifying its status as the best online casino Canada offers:

    • Charity Initiatives: Partners with Canadian organizations to support local causes, giving back to the community.
    • Player Events: Hosts virtual meetups for fans to connect and share their experiences.
    • Feedback Forums: Actively incorporates player suggestions to improve the platform.
    • Why It Matters: These efforts create a loyal, engaged player base, making JACKBIT an online casino Canada loves.

    Navigating Canada’s Regulatory Landscape

    Canada’s gambling laws are evolving, with provinces like Ontario regulating online gaming while crypto remains a gray area. JACKBIT’s Curacao license ensures compliance with international standards, but future regulations could shape the industry:

    • Potential Crypto Rules: Provinces may introduce specific regulations for online gambling.
    • Enhanced Protections: New safeguards could boost player trust in online casinos Canada.
    • JACKBIT’s Advantage: Its global license and no-KYC model provide flexibility, keeping it at the forefront as the best online casino Canada trusts.

    By staying adaptable, JACKBIT is well-positioned for long-term success in the Canadian market.

    JACKBIT’s Innovation Roadmap

    JACKBIT is committed to staying ahead of the curve with exciting enhancements planned for the future, ensuring it remains the best online casino Canada looks to:

    • New Cryptocurrencies: Adding support for emerging coins like Cardano to expand payment options.
    • AR/VR Gaming: Exploring immersive slot and live dealer experiences for a next-level gaming experience.
    • AI Personalization: Tailoring game recommendations based on player preferences for a customized experience.
    • Why It’s Exciting: These innovations keep JACKBIT at the cutting edge of Canadian online casinos.

    Why JACKBIT Is the Ultimate Choice for 2025

    JACKBIT’s combination of no-KYC freedom, instant payouts, and an unmatched game library makes it the best online casino Canada has in 2025. Its focus on security, rewarding bonuses, and innovative features creates a gaming experience that’s hard to beat, whether you’re a casual player or a high roller. From its extensive sportsbook to its community-driven initiatives, JACKBIT delivers on every front, setting a new standard for online casinos Canada.

    Final Thoughts on the Best Online Casino Canada

    JACKBIT has redefined online gaming with its anonymous, no-KYC gameplay, lightning-fast payouts, and vast game selection. Its generous promotions, robust security measures, and player-first approach offer both excitement and peace of mind.

    While its Curacao license may not be the strictest, JACKBIT builds trust through transparent practices and a strong commitment to responsible gambling. As a relatively new name in the industry, JACKBIT has quickly risen to become a leader among Canadian online casinos, delivering a seamless experience for all types of players.

    <<>>

    Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Online Casinos Canada

    Is JACKBIT considered one of the best online casinos in Canada?

    Yes, JACKBIT is recognized as one of the top online casinos in Canada due to its extensive game library, fast online payouts, and user-friendly platform.

    Are crypto deposits and withdrawals at JACKBIT safe and secure?

    Absolutely. JACKBIT uses advanced blockchain technology and encryption to ensure all transactions are fast, transparent, and secure.

    Can I play at JACKBIT without completing a lengthy verification process?

    Yes, JACKBIT offers a streamlined signup process with optional KYC for most users, enabling anonymous gaming while complying with regulatory standards.

    Does JACKBIT offer localized support for Canadian players?

    Yes, JACKBIT provides customer support tailored for Canadian users, including support in English and French, and supports Canadian dollars for fiat transactions.

    What makes JACKBIT stand out among other online casinos in 2025?

    JACKBIT excels with over 7,000 games, instant payouts, frequent promotions, and a strong focus on user experience, making it a leading choice for Canadian online gamblers.

    Contact: support@jackbit.com

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Gambling carries risks; verify information and play responsibly. You must be 19 (or 18 in some provinces) to gamble legally in Canada. Laws vary, so comply accordingly. We may earn commissions from links at no extra cost to you. Our JACKBIT review is unbiased, based on thorough research.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5a2f43ee-df37-4d2c-9822-5c827ed79663

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2990cac1-07b3-4196-885a-1c3ce14e3830

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6eef5186-5de5-49f9-b0f9-24997f8279c6

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadian Coast Guard Inshore Rescue Boat Stations to Open Across Atlantic Canada

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 16, 2025

    Dartmouth, NS – The Canadian Coast Guard’s Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) stations across Atlantic Canada will be opening tomorrow.

    Inshore Rescue Boat stations are crewed by post-secondary students hired and trained by the Canadian Coast Guard. They provide additional maritime search and rescue service during the busy summer recreational boating season. The stations are located in:

    Prince Edward Island

    • Charlottetown

    Nova Scotia

    • Halifax
    • Mahone Bay
    • Pictou

    New Brunswick

    • Saint John
    • Shediac

    Newfoundland and Labrador

    • Conception Bay (in Conception Bay South)
    • Bonavista Bay (in Terra Nova National Park)
    • Notre Dame Bay (in Lewisporte)

    They will be open from May 17, 2025, until early September.

    Ashore, Canadian Coast Guard Marine Communications and Traffic Services centres provide marine safety communications, while the response to each search and rescue case is coordinated by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax and Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre St. John’s.

    Waterways remain very cold at this time of year and take much longer to warm up compared to the air. Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide is an excellent source of information in preparation for the recreational boating season.

    On water emergencies can be reported 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, toll-free (within Canada) at 1-800-565-1582, or via marine VHF radio – channel 16.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces Director of Charlotte Office

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces Director of Charlotte Office

    Governor Stein Announces Director of Charlotte Office
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Stein announced that Walter L. Bowers, Jr., will join his team as Director of the Governor’s Charlotte Office.  

    “Pastor Bowers has a broad and rich understanding of our state’s largest city, and I look forward to his service connecting people with the support they need from their state government and making the region safer and stronger,” said Governor Josh Stein. 

    Walter L. Bowers, Jr., is the Senior Pastor of Chosen City Church in Charlotte. Bowers is a former United States Army officer and a partner at Wooden Bowers Law PLLC. Prior to practicing law, Bowers served with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department as a patrol officer and an attorney within its legal division. Pastor Bowers holds a B.S. in Computer Information Systems from Miles College, a M.A. in Biblical Studies from New Life Theological Seminary, and a J.D. from Charlotte School of Law. Pastor Bowers will serve in the Governor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.  

    May 16, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Expands Student Loan Repayment for Rural Health Care Providers

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Expands Student Loan Repayment for Rural Health Care Providers

    NCDHHS Expands Student Loan Repayment for Rural Health Care Providers
    jawerner

    To encourage more health care providers to serve in rural areas, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is offering the opportunity for educational loan repayments. This program, known as the North Carolina Primary Care Physician Incentive, is available to qualifying physicians committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive care in independent private practices in certain rural counties.

    “We deeply value the dedication of our private practice physicians and recognize the essential role they play in ensuring health care access for our rural communities,” said North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Through this program, we aim to offset some of the financial burden and invest in our health care workforce, particularly in our rural counties.”

    North Carolina is a leader in rural health care and continues to set the standard for supporting and advancing health and well-being. North Carolina’s rural population is the second largest in the country, reflecting nearly one in three people in the state, and more than 4.6 million people live in rural counties. From maintaining healthy lifestyles to treating life-threatening illnesses, people depend on and trust their primary care physicians.

    The NC Primary Care Physician Incentive is a part of $50 million in funding allocated by the North Carolina General Assembly to support health care providers, nurses and mental health services. Prior to 2025, independent private practices located in rural, medically underserved areas of the state were not deemed automatically eligible for the state-funded North Carolina Loan Repayment Program. In State Fiscal Year 2024, the NCDHHS Office of Rural Health received one-time funding to launch the incentive.

    The program is open to primary care physicians in independent private practices located in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties based on North Carolina’s County Distress Rankings. Eligible providers include family medicine, general internal medicine, general surgery (within critical access hospitals only), general pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology or psychiatry physicians operating in these 80 counties. 

    Applications for the NC Primary Care Physician Incentive are now available, but funding is limited. Awards will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible and complete applications. NCDHHS will provide up to 16 awards in each of the six Medicaid Regions. 

    For more information, including eligibility criteria and applications, visit the NCDHHS Office of Rural Health website. Other medical, dental and behavioral health recruitment and incentives are also available for providers through the Office of Rural Health.

    Para animar a más proveedores de atención médica a prestar servicios en áreas rurales, el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS) ofrece la oportunidad de pagar préstamos educativos. Este programa, conocido como el Incentivo para médicos de atención primaria de Carolina del Norte, está disponible para médicos calificados y comprometidos a brindar atención integral de alta calidad en consultorios privados independientes en ciertos condados rurales.

    “Valoramos profundamente la dedicación de nuestros médicos de práctica privada y reconocemos la función esencial que desempeñan para garantizar el acceso a la atención médica en nuestras comunidades rurales”, dijo el Secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte, Dev Sangvai. “A través de este programa, nuestro objetivo es compensar parte de la carga financiera e invertir en nuestra fuerza laboral de atención médica, particularmente en nuestros condados rurales”.

    Carolina del Norte es líder en atención médica rural y continúa estableciendo el estándar para apoyar y promover la salud y el bienestar. La población rural de Carolina del Norte es la segunda más grande del país, lo que refleja casi una de cada tres personas en el estado, y más de 4.6 millones de personas viven en condados rurales. Desde mantener estilos de vida saludables hasta tratar enfermedades potencialmente mortales, las personas dependen y confían en sus médicos de atención primaria.

    El Incentivo para Médicos de Atención Primaria de Carolina del Norte es parte de los $50 millones en fondos asignados por la Asamblea General de Carolina del Norte para apoyar a los proveedores de atención médica, enfermeras y servicios de salud mental. Antes de 2025, los consultorios privados independientes ubicados en áreas rurales y zonas médicamente desatendidas del estado no se consideraban automáticamente elegibles para el Programa de Reembolso de Préstamos de Carolina del Norte financiado por el estado. En el año fiscal estatal 2024, la Oficina de Salud Rural del NCDHHS recibió fondos únicos para lanzar el incentivo.

    El programa está abierto a médicos de atención primaria en consultorios privados independientes ubicados en los condados de Nivel c1 y Nivel 2 según la Clasificación de Emergencia del Condado de Carolina del Norte. Los proveedores elegibles incluyen medicina familiar, medicina interna general, cirugía general (solo en hospitales de acceso crítico), pediatría general, obstetricia o ginecología, o psiquiatría que funcionan en estos 80 condados. 

    Las solicitudes para el Incentivo para Médicos de Atención Primaria de Carolina del Norte ya están disponibles, pero la financiación es limitada. Las asignaciones se concederán por orden de llegada para las solicitudes elegibles y completas. NCDHHS proporcionará hasta 16 asignaciones en cada una de las seis regiones de Medicaid. 

    Para obtener más información, incluidos los criterios de elegibilidad y solicitudes, visite el sitio web de la Oficina de Salud Rural del NCDHHS. Otras contrataciones e incentivos médicos, dentales y de salud conductual también están disponibles para los proveedores a través de la Oficina de Salud Rural.

    May 16, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Votes to Pass Three Key Bills to Support and Protect Law Enforcement Officers

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01) a steadfast advocate for Law Enforcement and a proud son and grandson of Nassau County and NYPD Officers, voted to pass the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act, the LEOSA Reform Act, and the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025. These three critical pieces of legislation increase data collection to help prevent Officer injuries and suicides, permit qualified Officers to carry concealed firearms nationwide, and allow retired Officers the option to purchase their service weapons.

    “As a committed advocate for public safety and our men and women in blue, I proudly voted for three bipartisan bills that support those who wear—and have worn—the badge: the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act, the LEOSA Reform Act, and the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025,” said LaLota. “These commonsense measures enhance officer safety, cut needless red tape, and honor their service. Better data helps prevent tragedy by shaping smarter policy. Expanding carry rights ensures officers can respond to threats wherever they arise. And giving retired officers the chance to keep their service weapons is a meaningful way to recognize a lifetime of dedication to public safety.”

    To read the full text of the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act, click HERE.

    To read the full text of the LEOSA Reform Act, click HERE. 

    To read the full text of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025, click HERE. 

    Background:

    The Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act directs the Department of Justice to report on targeted attacks against Law Enforcement Officers, the feasibility of tracking those attacks through existing crime reporting systems, and the mental health resources currently available to support Officers.

    The LEOSA Reform Act allows qualified active and retired Law Enforcement Officers to carry concealed firearms across state lines.

    The Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025 allows current federal Law Enforcement Officers in good standing to purchase a retired service weapon at market value from a federal agency.

    Congressman LaLota has been a steadfast advocate for Law Enforcement, supporting legislation to increase funding for officer training, mental health resources, and advanced equipment. He has also championed initiatives aimed at combating gang violence and enhancing coordination between federal, state, and local Law Enforcement agencies. Additionally, Congressman LaLota has worked to secure grants that provide the Suffolk County Police Department with the tools necessary to address the growing challenges they face.

    In January 2025, LaLota signed on to co-sponsor H.R. 31 – the POLICE Act of 2025, which would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to designate the assault of a Law Enforcement Officer as a deportable offense. 

    In January 2024, LaLota introduced theCOPS on the Beat Grant Program Reauthorization and Parity Act of 2024, a bipartisan bill aimed at reauthorizing and enhancing the COPS on the Beat Grants Program. This legislation seeks to support local Law Enforcement in hiring new Officers and improving community policing and training efforts.

    In both the 118th and 119th Congress, LaLota co-sponsored the Protect and Serve Act, which protects Law Enforcement Officers by increasing penalties for those who target them. 

    In January 2023, LaLota co-sponsored and introduced the Back the Blue Act, which enhances penalties for those who seek to harm Law Enforcement Officers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Pat Fallon Leads Introduction of the Federal Cyber Workforce Training Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Pat Fallon (TX-04), along with Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) introduced the Federal Cyber Workforce Training Act of 2025, a bill which would require the National Cyber Director to submit to Congress a plan to establish an institute within the Federal Government to serve as a centralized resource and training center for Federal cyber workforce development.

    “This legislation modernizes our approach to building a robust cyber workforce by streamlining onboarding with hands-on, role-specific training and sets high standards via DHS and DOD collaboration,” said Rep. Fallon. “By fostering sustainable career paths and bolstering recruitment with specialized talent management modules, we are taking necessary steps to fortify our defenses against escalating cyber threats.”

    “The cyber threats against our nation are serious. This bipartisan legislation will help us to mount a defense against malign actors by bolstering, and enhancing cyber training,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “This bipartisan legislation developed with Congressman Fallon seeks to modernize cyber workforce development through streamlined onboarding training — raising the bar for the Departments of Homeland Security and Defense. Our objective is to develop a framework to foster the highest levels of excellence in cybersecurity for professionals serving on the frontlines to safeguard our nation.”

    Specifically, this legislation aims to:

    1.     ENSURE BETTER ONBOARDING:  Provides modularized work role-specific training, including hands-on learning and skill-based assessments, to prepare personnel from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds to perform effectively in federal cyber work roles.

    2.     SET STANDARDS: Coordinate with the DHS/DOD /Others to develop work role-specific curriculum for the training required above.

    3.    MAINTAIN SUSTAINABLE CAREER TRACK: Prioritize entry-level positions in the provision of curriculum and training but should also include curriculum development and training for federal cyber workers seeking transition to mid-career positions and may include upskilling and reskilling efforts.

    4.     BOLSTER RECRUITING:  Consider developing a specific module to familiarize and train appropriate federal government talent management personnel in the unique challenges in recruiting and hiring personnel for federal cyber workforce roles.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One, Big, Beautiful Bill PROTECTS Medicaid by REMOVING Illegals from the Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    The One, Big, Beautiful Bill is a generational chance to protect Medicaid for Americans by removing at least 1.4 million illegal immigrants from the program.
    Read more in Breitbart:
    “House Republicans are moving to block an estimated 1.4 million illegal aliens from receiving American taxpayer-funded Medicaid as Democrats struggle to message their support for the unpopular position.
    The House Energy and Commerce Committee completed its markup of its portion of the budget reconciliation bill Wednesday morning after an all-night session which included a provision blocking anyone unable to verify citizenship, nationality, or satisfactory immigration status from coverage.
    The committee projects 1.4 million illegal aliens will be removed from the program due to those requirements.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, DeLauro, Baldwin Call on Secretary McMahon to Promptly Inform K-12 Schools About Their Federal Funding After Harmful Delays, Uncertainty, and Chaos

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Top Democratic appropriators call out delays in notification of federal education funding

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, sent a letter to Secretary Linda McMahon calling out the Department’s failure to provide public K-12 schools across the nation the timely notice they usually receive about federal funding they count on—and urging McMahon to put an end to the harmful delays.

    “We write to express our concern about the delay in providing states and school districts with information about expected formula funding required to be provided to them under the fiscal year 2025 appropriations law and request you re-focus the Department of Education on fulfilling its statutory obligations in a clear, certain and timely manner,” write the lawmakers. “We believe you need to immediately change course and work in partnership with states and school districts to help them effectively use federal funds to implement the purposes and requirements of federal law to improve educational opportunities for all students.”

    The lawmakers note that, under enacted appropriations laws, “the Department must allocate formula-grant funding for multiple programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.  The largest of these, the Title I-A grant program, will provide $18.4 billion by formula to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts, and is already factored into budgets for the coming school year that is only a few months away.”

    But despite this requirement to get federal K-12 funding out the door, it has taken the Department more than three times as long as the last administration to provide preliminary allocations to states and school districts after passage of fiscal year 2025 appropriations: “Yet, it took until May 13, 2025—more than 50 days after enactment of the 2025 appropriations law—for the Department to provide preliminary allocations of the amounts states and their school districts should expect to receive under the Title I-A formula grant programs for the 2025-2026 school year. This inexcusable delay is in sharp contrast with actions by the Biden administration. After President Biden signed the 2024 appropriations law on March 23, 2024, the Department provided preliminary allocations under the Title I-A program on April 8, 2024, just over two weeks after the appropriations law was signed. The Trump-McMahon Department took more than three times as much time to accomplish this basic task. We were told your Department’s work would be efficient, particularly after the reduction in force in which you reduced half of the Department’s workforce,  but that does not appear to be the case here.”

    “The delayed allocation,” the lawmakers write, “gives states less time to identify these [school support and improvement] amounts and make decisions about how best to allocate funds as allowed by federal law, which are required to be used for evidence-based interventions designed to help improve student outcomes in the lowest performing public schools in the state and lowest performing subgroups in public schools in the state.”

    The lawmakers conclude by calling on Secretary McMahon to put an end to these delays and ensure K-12 schools have the certainty and support they need in the coming school year: “We implore the Department to reverse course, stop creating chaos, provide states and school districts with information about the resources Congress provided in the 2025 appropriations law and begin to support states and their school districts in the effective implementation of federal law.  The Department’s actions to date have only imposed legally dubious policy reversals, funding cancellations, terminations and reductions, and funding directives that do nothing to support students and educators in improving student learning and outcomes.”

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:

    The Honorable Linda McMahon Secretary U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202  

    Dear Secretary McMahon:

    We write to express our concern about the delay in providing states and school districts with information about expected formula funding required to be provided to them under the fiscal year 2025 appropriations law and request you re-focus the Department of Education (“Department”) on fulfilling its statutory obligations in a clear, certain and timely manner.  States and school districts are best able to plan to most effectively use federal funds with advance knowledge of expected funding, as Congress intends by providing funds on a forward-funded basis.  We have seen and heard numerous remarks from you and President Trump about returning education to the states.  However, actions to date tell a very different story about the Department’s intentions.  We believe you need to immediately change course and work in partnership with states and school districts to help them effectively use federal funds to implement the purposes and requirements of federal law to improve educational opportunities for all students, particularly students from low-income families, students with disabilities, English learners, students experiencing homelessness and other historically underserved students our federal laws specifically require states to support.

    Congress passed the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which President Trump signed on March 15, 2025.   This law includes appropriations to the Department under the terms and conditions of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024.  Under those terms, the Department must allocate formula-grant funding for multiple programs authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.  The largest of these, the Title I-A grant program, will provide $18.4 billion by formula to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts, and is already factored into budgets for the coming school year that is only a few months away.  Public school budgets also already factor in billions in funding for longstanding federal formula grants, including English Language Acquisition Grants, Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, and more. Yet, it took until May 13, 2025–more than 50 days after enactment of the 2025 appropriations law–for the Department to provide preliminary allocations of the amounts states and their school districts should expect to receive under the Title I-A formula grant programs for the 2025-2026 school year. 

    This inexcusable delay is in sharp contrast with actions by the Biden administration.  After President Biden signed the 2024 appropriations law on March 23, 2024, the Department provided preliminary allocations under the Title I-A program on April 8, 2024, just over two weeks after the appropriations law was signed.  The Trump-McMahon Department took more than three times as much time to accomplish this basic task..  We were told your Department’s work would be efficient, particularly after the reduction in force in which you reduced half of the Department’s workforce,[1] but that does not appear to be the case here.

    As you know, Title I-A is the largest federal program that provides supplemental funds to more than 80 percent of the nation’s school districts for more than half of all public schools. It also contains critical funding to identify and support the lowest performing public schools in each state and consistently underperforming subgroups of students in public schools in each state, and support students experiencing homelessness. States are required to set-aside a portion of a state’s allocation of Title I-A funds for its school support and improvement work without reducing any school district’s allocation.  The delayed allocation gives states less time to identify these amounts and make decisions about how best to allocate funds as allowed by federal law, which are required to be used for evidence-based interventions designed to help improve student outcomes in the lowest performing public schools in the state and lowest performing subgroups in public schools in the state. In addition, school districts are required to reserve sufficient funds to provide services to students experiencing homelessness in Title I and non-Title I schools.  The Department’s delayed notification could also make it more difficult for school districts to best serve students experiencing homelessness as required by law.

    Unfortunately, the Department’s delays also extend to the Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP) and other programs. REAP supports more than 6,000 rural school districts and was created to address the unique challenges faced by rural schools, including a lower tax base and capacity challenges in seeking competitive funding.  Unfortunately, the Department  made the application for the Small, Rural Schools Assistance (SRSA) program—one of two REAP grant programs—available on May 14th, with applications due 30 days later on June 13, 2025.  By contrast, last year under the Biden administration, the Department released the FY 2024 application for SRSA on March 19, 2024 and provided a 60-day application window.  The delayed application and shortened application window under your leadership demonstrate a lack of concern for the challenges rural schools face; or perhaps the Department’s workforce reductions have limited its ability to fulfill its statutory obligations in a timely way.  

    Unfortunately, we must also note the Department has been busy discontinuing funds for hundreds of grantees of school-based mental health programs we have supported through appropriations directives to the Department and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.[2]  The Department abruptly decided to discontinue expected federal support for more than 200 grants for mental health services in schools after what it claimed, without evidence, was an individualized review of the grants.[3] This alleged review led the Department to the conclusion that continuing the grants was not in the “best interest of the Federal Government” and that some of the grants “undermine the well-being of the students these programs are intended to help”.[4]  There’s bitter irony in the Department’s decision only days later to issue updated guidance encouraging states to undertake more work under the unsafe school option provision of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act [5] after discontinuing funds supported on a bipartisan basis for the important federal support it provides for mental health services that can help students feel safe in school and protect them from acts of school violence.[6]

    We implore the Department to reverse course, stop creating chaos, provide states and school districts with information about the resources Congress provided in the 2025 appropriations law and begin to support states and their school districts in the effective implementation of federal law.  The Department’s actions to date have only imposed legally dubious policy reversals,[7][8][9] funding cancellations, terminations and reductions,[10][11][12]  and funding directives[13][14] that do nothing to support students and educators in improving student learning and outcomes.

    In addition, Congress and American taxpayers continue to see an utter lack of transparency from you and this administration.  We’ve written numerous letters[15][16][17][18] that have yet to receive adequate or any response. You also failed to meet legal requirements to provide an operating plan at the level of detail required by section 1113 and in adherence to section 1101 of the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, despite having more than 45 days to do so. This must change immediately. 

    Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to seeing actions from the Department that align to the timely and effective implementation of the requirements of federal law. We also look forward to responses to our letters and your testimony before committees later this year.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cline Earns 2024 Club For Growth’s Defender of Economic Freedom Award

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

    Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) has been awarded the “Defender of Economic Freedom Award” by the Club for Growth, America’s largest free market advocacy organization.  

    “One of my top priorities in Congress is to support economic policies that benefit the citizens of the Sixth District of Virginia,” said Congressman Cline. “I’ve voted to cut taxes, eliminate red tape, reduce regulations on small businesses, and fight inflation. It’s a privilege to receive this award from Club for Growth as I continue working to advance fiscally responsible legislation that empowers Americans and strengthens our economy.”

    “We congratulate Rep. Cline for earning Club for Growth’s Defender of Economic Freedom Award for fighting for policies that advance limited government and prosperity,” said Club for Growth President David McIntosh. “Meanwhile Democrats have become more socialist than ever despite many of them claiming to be ‘moderate.”

    The award is based on the Club for Growth Foundation’s 2024 Congressional Economic Scorecard, the gold-standard in measuring the voting behavior of Members of Congress based on issues relating to limited government and economic growth. Club for Growth’s Defender of Economic Freedom Award required Representatives and Senators to not only score 90% or better on votes cast in a year, but to also maintain a lifetime rating of at least 90% to receive the award.

    Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Announces Roundtable on Executive Compensation Disclosure Requirements

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    We make markets work better.

    Founded to help our country respond to the Great Depression, we’re the agency that protects investors from misconduct, promotes fairness & efficiency in the securities markets, and facilitates capital formation for those looking to hire, innovate, and grow.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Upcoming Executive Compensation Roundtable

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    When the Commission instituted tabular executive compensation disclosure in 1992,[1] then-Chairman Richard C. Breeden championed an easily comprehensible disclosure regime centered around a graphical presentation of total executive compensation with comparisons against compensation of executives in peer firms and against the issuer’s performance.[2]

    In the intervening years, disclosure requirements have been expanded to focus more and more on variations of components of compensation, rather than on total compensation.  While it is undisputed that these requirements, and the resulting disclosure, have become increasingly complex and lengthy, it is less clear if the increased complexity and length have provided investors with additional information that is material to their investment and voting decisions.

    It is important for the Commission to engage in retrospective reviews of its rules to ensure that they continue to be cost-effective and result in disclosure of material information without an overload of immaterial information. As part of this review of its executive compensation requirements, the SEC will host a roundtable with representatives from public companies and investors, as well as other experts in this field.

    Commission staff will provide further details about the roundtable’s agenda and speakers before the event. As the staff develops that agenda, I have asked them to consider the questions outlined below. I also welcome and encourage members of the public to provide their views on these questions, either in advance of or after the roundtable.

    Potential Questions for Consideration

    Executive compensation decisions: setting compensation and making investment and voting decisions

    1. What is the process by which companies develop their executive compensation packages? What drives the development and decisions of compensation packages? What roles do the company’s management, the company’s compensation committee (or board of directors), and external advisors play in this development?
    2. Current disclosure requirements seek to unpack these processes for investors. How can our rules be revised to better inform investors about the material aspects of how executive compensation decisions are made?
    3. What level of detail regarding executive compensation information is material to investors in making their investment and voting decisions? Is there any information currently required to be disclosed in response to Item 402 of Regulation S-K that is not material to investors or that could be streamlined to improve the disclosure for investors? How do companies’ engagement with investors drive compensation decisions and compensation disclosure?

    Executive compensation disclosure: past, present, and future

    1. The Commission substantially revised its executive compensation disclosure requirements in 2006 with requirements to provide, among other things, enhanced tabular disclosure of compensation amounts and a compensation discussion and analysis of the company’s compensation practices. The rules were intended to provide investors with a clearer and more complete picture of the compensation earned by a company’s executive officers. Have these disclosure requirements met these objectives? Do the required disclosures help investors to make informed investment and voting decisions? Given the complexity and length of these disclosures, are investors able to easily parse through the disclosure to identify the material information they need?  In what ways could disclosure rules be revised to return to a simpler presentation and focus?
    2. The Dodd-Frank Act added several executive compensation related requirements to the securities laws, including shareholder advisory voting on various aspects of executive compensation. What types of disclosure do investors find material in making these voting decisions? Are companies able to provide such disclosure in a cost-effective manner? Do the current rules strike the right balance between eliciting material information and the costs to provide such information?
    3. With the experience of almost 20 years of implementing the 2006 rule amendments, how can the Commission address challenges that either companies or investors have encountered with executive compensation rules and the resulting disclosures in a cost-effective and efficient manner while continuing to provide material compensation information for investors? For example, are there requirements that are difficult or costly to comply with and that do not elicit material information for investors? Are there ways that we can reduce the cost or otherwise streamline the compensation information required by the rules?

    Executive compensation hot topics: exploring the challenging issues

    1. The Commission recently adopted rules implementing the requirements of Dodd Frank related to pay-versus-performance and clawbacks. Now that companies have implemented the new rules, are there any lessons we can learn from their implementation? Can these rules be improved? If so, how? For example, which requirements of these rules are the most difficult to comply with and how could we reduce those burdens while continuing to provide investors with material information and satisfy these statutory mandates?
    2. Since adoption of the pay-versus performance rules, I have continued to hear concerns regarding the rule’s definition of “compensation actually paid” (CAP). What has been companies’ experience in calculating CAP and what has been investors’ experience in using the information to make investment and voting decisions?
    3. What has been companies’ experience in applying the two-part analysis articulated by the Commission in 2006 with respect to evaluating whether perquisites for executive officers must be disclosed? How do disclosure requirements resulting from the test, and whether a cost constitutes a perquisite, affect companies’ decisions on whether or not to provide a perquisite? For example, how has the application of the analysis affected evaluations relating to the costs of security for executive officers? Are there types of perquisites that have been particularly difficult to analyze? How do investors use information regarding perquisites in making investment and voting decisions?

    Members of the public who wish to provide their views on executive compensation disclosure requirements may submit comments electronically or on paper. Please submit comments using one method only. Information that is submitted will become part of the public record of the roundtable and posted on the SEC’s website. All comments received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying information from comment submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make publicly available. All submissions should refer to File Number 4-855, and the file number should be included on the subject line if email is used.

    Electronic Comments:

    Use the SEC’s Internet submission form or send an email to rule-comments@sec.gov with “4-855” included in the subject line.

    Paper Comments:

    Send paper comments to Vanessa Countryman, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549-1090.

    MIL OSI USA News –