Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI: Westport Fuel Systems Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (“Westport“) (TSX:WPRT / Nasdaq:WPRT) reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided an update on operations. All figures are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.

    “We continue to make significant strides in transforming Westport and sharpening our strategic focus. Our priorities remain clear: driving success through Cespira, our HPDI joint venture with Volvo Group; pursuing operational excellence through initiatives to streamline processes and reduce costs; and positioning Westport at the forefront of the alternative fuel shift.

    These priorities are guiding us as we work towards a brighter future. We’re seeing the impact of our efforts in our recent results – we significantly improved our net loss to $2.5 million in Q1 of 2025 from a net loss of $13.6 million in Q1 of 2024. This was supported by a $3.5 million increase in gross profit and an $8.1 million decrease in operating expenses. We also reported a substantial improvement in adjusted EBITDA as compared to the same period of the prior year.

    Looking to the future, with the announcement of the proposed sale of our light-duty business, Westport is realigning to focus on the hard-to-decarbonize applications primarily in long-haul and heavy-duty trucking where our unique HPDI and high-pressure technologies offer significant growth potential. Critically, this transaction is designed to provide immediate cash proceeds that bolster our balance sheet and fund growth opportunities in Cespira and the High-Pressure Controls & Systems business.

    Now, the conversation has changed. Our attendance at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo or ACT Expo, the largest showcase of clean transportation technologies in North America, validated our view that the market recognizes that the internal combustion engine utilizing alternative fuels is an affordable solution that also decarbonizes long-haul, heavy-duty transport. Westport is the clean-tech innovation company to help drive this change. Through Cespira, the HPDI fuel system does the on-engine work to our High Pressure Controls and Systems business where our components do the off-engine work we are providing OEMs with simplified solutions to decarbonize.

    Volvo recently highlighted that demand for their gas-powered trucks that utilize HPDI technology has been increasing, with sales up more than 25% in 2024, a trend that we saw continue into Q1 with Cespira delivering improved revenue driven by increased volumes as compared to Q1 of 2024. While we remain focused on scaling our alternative fuel solutions, including LNG, CNG, RNG, and hydrogen systems, we are matching the cleanest gaseous fuels with the most efficient engine technologies. We are committed to delivering practical, commercially viable low-carbon solutions today and providing sustainable, high-performance solutions that help our customers achieve their goals now and for years to come.”

    Dan Sceli, Chief Executive Officer

    Q1 2025 Highlights

    • Revenues decreased 9% to $71.0 million compared to the same period in 2024, primarily driven by decreased sales volumes in our Heavy-Duty OEM and High-Pressure Controls & Systems segments. This was partially offset by increased sales in our Light-Duty segment in the quarter. In Q1 2024, our Heavy-Duty OEM segment included the financial results of the HPDI business which are now accounted for as part of the Cespira joint venture.
    • Net loss of $2.5 million for the quarter compared to net loss of $13.6 million for the same quarter last year. The decrease in net loss was driven by a $3.5 million increase in gross profit, decrease in operating expenditures by $8.1 million; change in foreign exchange gain or loss by $2.3 million and an increase in loss from investments accounted for by the equity method of $3.8 million.
    • Adjusted EBITDA[1] of nil  compared to negative $6.6 million for the same period in 2024.
    • Cash and cash equivalents were $32.6 million at the end of the first quarter. Cash used in operating activities during the quarter was $4.9 million with net cash used by working capital of $8.1 million, partially offset by operating income of $1.7 million. Investing activities included the collection of $10.5 million in a holdback receivable related to our previous sale of CWI to Cummins in 2022, capital contribution into Cespira of $4.7 million and purchase of capital assets of $3.1 million. Cash used in financing activities was attributed to net debt repayments of $3.9 million in the quarter.

    [1] Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation is a non-GAAP measure. Please refer to NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES in Westport’s Management Discussion and Analysis for the reconciliation.

    Consolidated Results      Over /   
    ($ in millions, except per share amounts)     (Under)   
      1Q25 1Q24 %  
    Revenue $ 71.0   $ 77.6   (9 )%
    Gross Profit(2)   15.2     11.7   30 %
    Gross Margin(2)   21 %   15 %  
    Income (loss) from Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method(1)   (3.8 )     (100 )%
    Net Loss   (2.5 )   (13.6 ) 82 %
    Net Loss per Share – Basic   (0.14 )   (0.79 ) 82 %
    Net Loss per Share – Diluted   (0.14 )   (0.79 ) 82 %
    EBITDA (2)   (0.1 )   (9.2 ) 99 %
    Adjusted EBITDA (2)       (6.6 ) 100 %

    (1) This includes income or loss primarily from our investments in Cespira and Minda Westport Technologies Limited
    (2) Gross margins, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. Please refer to GAAP and NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES for the reconciliation to equivalent GAAP measures and limitations on the use of such measures.

    Segment Information

    Light-Duty

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $64.2 million compared with $63.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Light-Duty revenue increased by $0.9 million compared to the prior year and was primarily driven by increase in sales in our light-duty OEM and DOEM businesses. The light-duty OEM business had an increase in sales from its Euro 6 program compared to the prior year. In the first quarter of 2024, DOEM had a significant decrease in sales to a customer. This was partially offset by lower sales in our IAM, electronics and fuel storage businesses compared to the prior year.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 increased by $1.6 million to $14.0 million, or 22% of revenue, compared to $12.4 million, or 20% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by a change in sales mix with an increase in sales to European customers and a reduction in sales to developing regions.

    High Pressure Controls & Systems

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $1.4 million compared with $2.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The decrease in revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to the prior year was primarily driven by the hydrogen industry slowdown impacting demand for hydrogen components.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased by $0.2 million to $0.2 million, or 14% of revenue, compared to $0.4 million, or 17% of revenue, for the same prior year period. This was primarily driven by lower sales volumes increasing the per unit manufacturing costs in the quarter.

    Heavy-Duty Original Equipment Manufacturer (“OEM”)

    Revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $5.4 million, compared to $11.9 million for the prior year. The decrease in revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2025 is a result of the continuation of the business in Cespira. The revenue earned in the current quarter was from our services provided under the transitional service agreement with Cespira that is expected to end by Q2 2026.

    Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2025 increased by $2.1 million to $1.0 million, or 19% of revenue, compared to negative $1.1 million or negative 9% of revenue, for the same prior year period. The Heavy-Duty OEM segment received $0.9million in credits from component suppliers for inventory sold in the quarter.

    Selected Cespira Statements of Operations Data

    We account for Cespira using the equity method of accounting. However, due to its significance to our long-term strategy and operating results, we disclose certain Cespira’s financial information in notes 7 and 17 of our interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    The following table sets forth a summary of the financial results of Cespira for the three months ended March 31, 2025 .

    (in millions of U.S. dollars)   Three months ended March 31,   Change
          2025       2024     $   %
    Total revenue   $ 16.7     $     $ 16.7     %
    Gross profit   $ 0.5     $     $ 0.5     %
    Gross margin1     3 %     %        
    Operating loss   $ (7.1 )   $     $ (7.1 )   %
    Net loss attributable to the Company   $ (3.9 )   $     $ (3.9 )   %

    1Gross margin is non-GAAP financial measure. See the section ‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’ for explanations and discussions of these non-GAAP financial measures or ratios.

    Revenue

    Cespira revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were $16.7 million. In the prior year, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment, which included our HPDI business, had revenues of $11.9 million. This was primarily driven by an increase in HPDI fuel systems sold in the period.

    Gross Profit

    Gross profit was $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. In the prior year, the Heavy-Duty OEM segment had negative $1.1 million in gross profit primarily driven by the increase in sales volumes compared to the prior year and reductions in manufacturing cost.

    Operating loss

    Cespira incurred operating losses of $7.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Cespira continues to incur operating losses as it scales its operations and expand into other markets.

    Q1 2025 Conference Call
    Westport has scheduled a conference call for May 14, 2025, at 7:00 am Pacific Time (10:00 pm Eastern Time) to discuss these results. To access the conference call please register at
    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI73bcac200e5f4652873668cf803d72ed

    The live webcast of the conference call can be accessed through the Westport website at
    https://investors.wfsinc.com/.

    Participants may register up to 60 minutes before the event by clicking on the call link and completing the online registration form. Upon registration, the user will receive dial-in info and a unique PIN, along with an email confirming the details.

    The webcast will be archived on Westport’s website at https://investors.wfsinc.com.

    Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis

    To view Westport financials for the first quarter ended March 31st, 2025, please visit https://investors.wfsinc.com/financials/

    About Westport Fuel Systems

    At Westport Fuel Systems, we are driving innovation to power a cleaner tomorrow. We are a leading supplier of advanced fuel delivery components and systems for clean, low-carbon fuels such as natural gas, renewable natural gas, propane, and hydrogen to the global automotive industry. Our technology delivers the performance and fuel efficiency required by transportation applications and the environmental benefits that address climate change and urban air quality challenges. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, with operations in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, we serve our customers in approximately 70 countries with leading global transportation brands. At Westport Fuel Systems, we think ahead. For more information, visit www.wfsinc.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future strategic initiatives and future growth, future of our development programs (including those relating to HPDI and Hydrogen), our expectations for 2024 and beyond, including the demand for our products, and the future success of our business and technology strategies. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on both the views of management and assumptions that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activities, performance or achievements expressed in or implied by these forward looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include those related to our revenue growth, operating results, industry and products, the general economy, conditions of and access to the capital and debt markets, solvency, governmental policies and regulation, technology innovations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, operating expenses, continued reduction in expenses, ability to successfully commercialize new products, the performance of our joint ventures, the availability and price of natural gas and hydrogen, new environmental regulations, the acceptance of and shift to natural gas and hydrogen vehicles,fuel emission standards, the development of competing technologies, our ability to adequately develop and deploy our technology, the actions and determinations of our joint venture and development partners, the effects and duration of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, supply chain disruptions as well as other risk factors and assumptions that may affect our actual results, performance or achievements or financial position discussed in our most recent Annual Information Form and other filings with securities regulators. Readers should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. We disclaim any obligation to publicly update or revise such statements to reflect any change in our expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in these forward-looking statements except as required by National Instrument 51-102.

    Contact Information
    Investor Relations
    Westport Fuel Systems
    T: +1 604-718-2046

    GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). These U.S. GAAP financial statements include non-cash charges and other charges and benefits that may be unusual or infrequent in nature or that we believe may make comparisons to our prior or future performance difficult. In addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Westport and certain investors use EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as an indicator of our ability to generate liquidity by producing operating cash flow to fund working capital needs, service debt obligations and fund capital expenditures. Management also uses these non-GAAP measures in its review and evaluation of the financial performance of Westport. EBITDA is also frequently used by investors and analysts for valuation purposes whereby EBITDA is multiplied by a factor or “EBITDA multiple” that is based on an observed or inferred relationship between EBITDA and market values to determine the approximate total enterprise value of a company. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures also provide additional insight to investors and securities analysts as supplemental information to our U.S. GAAP results and as a basis to compare our financial performance period-over-period and to compare our financial performance with that of other companies. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures facilitate comparisons of our core operating results from period to period and to other companies by, in the case of EBITDA, removing the effects of our capital structure (net interest income on cash deposits, interest expense on outstanding debt and debt facilities), asset base (depreciation and amortization) and tax consequences. Adjusted EBITDA provides this same indicator of Westports’ EBITDA from continuing operations and removing such effects of our capital structure, asset base and tax consequences, but additionally excludes any unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses, stock-based compensation charges and other one-time impairments and costs which are not expected to be repeated in order to provide greater insight into the cash flow being produced from our operating business, without the influence of extraneous events.

    Segment Information

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts and do not have any standardized definition under U.S. GAAP, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA exclude the impact of cash costs of financing activities and taxes, and the effects of changes in operating working capital balances, and therefore are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under U.S. GAAP. Other companies may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently.

    Segment earnings or losses before income taxes, interest, depreciation, and amortization (“Segment EBITDA”) is the measure of segment profitability used by the Company. The accounting policies of our reportable segments are the same as those applied in our consolidated financial statements. Management prepared the financial results of the Company’s reportable segments on basis that is consistent with the manner in which Management internally disaggregates financial information to assist in making internal operating decisions. Certain common costs and expenses, primarily corporate functions, among segments differently than we would for stand-alone financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. These include certain costs and expenses of shared services, such as IT, human resources, legal, finance and supply chain management. Segment EBITDA is not defined under US GAAP and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and should not be considered a substitute for net earnings or other results reported in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of reportable segment information to consolidated statement of operations can be found in section “NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES & RECONCILIATIONS” within this press release.

      Three months ended March 31, 2025
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Cespira   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 64.2   $ 1.4     $ 5.4   $ 16.7     $ 87.7
    Cost of revenue   50.2     1.2       4.4     16.2       72.0
    Gross profit   14.0     0.2       1.0     0.5       15.7
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   3.0     1.0       0.1     3.1       7.2
    General & administrative   4.1     0.3       0.1     2.7       7.2
    Sales & marketing   2.3     0.1           0.3       2.7
    Depreciation & amortization   0.7     0.1           0.7       1.5
        10.1     1.5       0.2     6.8       18.6
    Equity income (note 8)   0.1                     0.1
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization   1.9     0.1           1.6       3.6
    Segment EBITDA $ 5.9   $ (1.2 )   $ 0.8   $ (4.7 )   $ 0.8
      Three months ended March 31, 2024
      Light-Duty   High-Pressure Controls & Systems   Heavy-Duty OEM   Total Segment
    Revenue $ 63.3   $ 2.4     $ 11.9     $ 77.6  
    Cost of revenue   50.9     2.0       13.0       65.9  
    Gross profit   12.4     0.4       (1.1 )     11.7  
    Operating expenses:              
    Research & development   3.6     1.3       2.8       7.7  
    General & administrative   3.7     0.2       1.8       5.7  
    Sales & marketing   2.1     0.2       0.5       2.8  
    Depreciation & amortization   0.6     0.1       0.1       0.8  
        10.0     1.8       5.2       17.0  
    Equity income                    
    Add back: Depreciation & amortization   1.5     0.1       1.4       3.0  
    Segment EBITDA $ 3.9   $ (1.3 )   $ (4.9 )   $ (2.3 )
    Gross Profit    
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars) 1Q25   1Q24
    Three months ended  
    Revenue $ 71.0     $ 77.6  
    Less: Cost of revenue   55.8       65.9  
    Gross profit   15.2       11.7  
    Gross margin %   21.4 %     15.1 %
      Three months ended March 31, 2025
      Total Segment   Less: Cespira   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 87.7   $ 16.7   $     $ 71.0  
    Cost of revenue   72.0     16.2           55.8  
    Gross profit   15.7     0.5           15.2  
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   7.2     3.1           4.1  
    General & administrative   7.2     2.7     1.9       6.4  
    Sales & marketing   2.7     0.3     0.3       2.7  
    Depreciation & amortization   1.5     0.7           0.8  
        18.6     6.8     2.2       14.0  
    Equity income (loss)   0.1         (3.9 )     (3.8 )
      Three months ended March 31, 2024
      Total Segment   Add: Corporate & unallocated   Total Consolidated
    Revenue $ 77.6   $   $ 77.6
    Cost of revenue   65.9         65.9
    Gross profit   11.7         11.7
    Operating expenses:
    Research & development   7.7         7.7
    General & administrative   5.7     4.7     10.4
    Sales & marketing   2.8     0.4     3.2
    Depreciation & amortization   0.8     0.2     1.0
        17.0     5.3     22.3
    Equity income          
    Reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to Loss before income taxes   Three months ended March 31,
        2025       2024  
    Total Segment EBITDA   $ 0.8     $ (2.3 )
    Adjustments:
    Depreciation & amortization     2.0       3.0  
    Cespira’s Segment EBITDA     (4.7 )      
    Cespira’s equity loss     3.9        
    Corporate and unallocated operating expenses     2.2       5.3  
    Foreign exchange loss     (0.5 )     1.8  
    Interest on long-term debt and accretion of royalty payable     0.7       0.8  
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     (0.9 )     (0.3 )
    Loss before income taxes   $ (1.9 )   $ (12.9 )
    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA        
    (expressed in millions of U.S. dollars)   1Q25   1Q24
    Three months ended    
    Loss before income taxes   $ (1.9 )   $ (12.9 )
    Interest expense (income), net     (0.2 )     0.5  
    Depreciation and amortization     2.0       3.2  
    EBITDA     (0.1 )     (9.2 )
    Stock based compensation (recovery)     0.3       0.3  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss     (0.5 )     1.8  
    Severance costs           0.5  
    Restructuring costs     0.3        
    Adjusted EBITDA   $     $ (6.6 )
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share amounts)
    March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024
     
        March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets        
    Current assets:        
    Cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash)   $ 32,637     $ 37,646  
    Accounts receivable     66,634       73,054  
    Inventories     63,214       53,526  
    Prepaid expenses     6,551       5,660  
    Total current assets     169,036       169,886  
    Long-term investments     40,052       39,732  
    Property, plant and equipment     45,314       41,956  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     19,249       19,019  
    Intangible assets     5,174       5,277  
    Deferred income tax assets     10,261       9,695  
    Goodwill     2,996       2,876  
    Other long-term assets     3,163       3,180  
    Total assets   $ 295,245     $ 291,621  
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity        
    Current liabilities:        
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   $ 93,127     $ 88,123  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     2,750       2,624  
    Current portion of long-term debt     13,225       14,660  
    Current portion of warranty liability     4,013       3,861  
    Total current liabilities     113,115       109,268  
    Long-term operating lease liabilities     16,560       16,433  
    Long-term debt     17,915       19,067  
    Warranty liability     1,603       1,456  
    Deferred income tax liabilities     4,063       4,029  
    Other long-term liabilities     4,391       4,343  
    Total liabilities     157,647       154,596  
    Shareholders’ equity:        
    Share capital:        
    Unlimited common and preferred shares, no par value        
    17,326,732 (2024 – 17,282,934) common shares issued and outstanding     1,246,408       1,245,805  
    Other equity instruments     9,081       9,472  
    Additional paid in capital     11,516       11,516  
    Accumulated deficit     (1,098,726 )     (1,096,275 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (30,681 )     (33,493 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     137,598       137,025  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 295,245     $ 291,621  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except share and per share amounts)
    Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024
     
        Three months ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Revenue   $ 70,955     $ 77,574  
    Cost of revenue     55,730       65,851  
    Gross profit     15,225       11,723  
    Operating expenses:        
    Research and development     4,052       7,693  
    General and administrative     6,397       10,353  
    Sales and marketing     2,758       3,287  
    Foreign exchange (gain) loss     (456 )     1,820  
    Depreciation and amortization     740       1,043  
          13,491       24,196  
    Income (loss) from operations     1,734       (12,473 )
             
    Income (loss) from investments accounted for by the equity method     (3,799 )     31  
    Interest on long-term debt     (676 )     (812 )
    Interest and other income, net of bank charges     869       341  
    Loss before income taxes     (1,872 )     (12,913 )
    Income tax expense     579       735  
    Net loss for the period     (2,451 )     (13,648 )
    Other comprehensive income (loss):        
    Cumulative translation adjustment     3,641       (430 )
    Ownership share of equity method investments’ other comprehensive loss     (829 )      
          2,812       (430 )
    Comprehensive income (loss)   $ 361     $ (14,078 )
             
    Loss per share:        
    Net loss per share – basic and diluted   $ (0.14 )     (0.79 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:        
    Basic and diluted     17,322,681       17,220,540  
    WESTPORT FUEL SYSTEMS INC.
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
    (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars)
    Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024
     
        Three months ended March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Operating activities:        
    Net loss for the period   $ (2,451 )   $ (13,648 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:        
    Depreciation and amortization     1,930       3,247  
    Stock-based compensation expense     212       331  
    Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss     (456 )     1,820  
    Deferred income tax (recovery)     (33 )     (40 )
    Loss (income) from investments accounted for by the equity method     3,799       (31 )
    Interest on long-term debt     22       22  
    Change in inventory write-downs     223       413  
    Change in bad debt expense     (33 )     (121 )
    Other           (248 )
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:        
    Accounts receivable     (2,072 )     12,526  
    Inventories     (7,502 )     (7,434 )
    Prepaid expenses     (415 )     (400 )
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities     2,840       4,725  
    Warranty liability     (963 )     (1,020 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     (4,899 )     142  
    Investing activities:        
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment     (3,142 )     (4,893 )
    Proceeds on sale of assets     82       135  
    Proceeds from holdback receivable     10,450        
    Capital contributions to investments accounted for by the equity method (note 7)     (4,686 )      
    Net cash used in investing activities     2,704       (4,758 )
    Financing activities:        
    Repayments of operating lines of credit and long-term facilities     (3,918 )     (17,689 )
    Drawings on operating lines of credit and long-term facilities           11,848  
    Net cash used in financing activities     (3,918 )     (5,841 )
    Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents     1,104       (494 )
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents     (5,009 )     (10,951 )
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period (including restricted cash)     37,646       54,853  
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period (including restricted cash)   $ 32,637     $ 43,902  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell, Nehls, Rutherford Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Supporting America’s Law Enforcement Professionals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy Nehls (TX-22), and John Rutherford (FL-05) have introduced a bipartisan concurrent resolution in the House expressing strong support for America’s law enforcement professionals.

    Original co-sponsors of the resolution are representatives Barry Moore (AL-01), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Mike Rogers (AL-03), Dusty Johnson (SD-At Large), Amata Radewagen (AS-At Large), Mike Collins (GA-10), and Josh Riley (NY-19).

    The resolution recognizes the dedication, sacrifice, and service of over 800,000 law enforcement officers across the country who risk their lives every day to protect and serve their communities. It also highlights the rising dangers faced by officers, including increased assaults, traumatic stress, and staffing shortages, and calls on all levels of government to ensure officers receive the tools, resources, and respect they need.

    “As a former sheriff with four decades in law enforcement, I know firsthand what it means to put on the badge and serve your community,” Ezell said. “This resolution is about showing our law enforcement professionals that Congress stands with them, not just in words, but through meaningful support. We honor their service, we mourn those we’ve lost, and we commit to making sure every officer has what they need to do their job safely and effectively.”

    “As a former law enforcement officer and Texas Sheriff, I know all too well the sacrifices our men and women in blue make to protect and serve our communities,” Nehls said. “I’m proud to join my colleague, Congressman Ezell, in introducing a resolution that demonstrates our unwavering support for our nation’s law enforcement officers. Our brave police officers deserve our support. In Congress, I will always back the blue.”

    “As a law enforcement officer for 40 years, including 12 years as Jacksonville Sheriff, I dedicated my life to protecting and serving my Northeast Florida community alongside our finest men and women,” Rutherford said. “I understand the dangers our officers face every day they put their uniforms on and kiss their families goodbye. That’s why I am proud to stand with Representative Ezell and Senator Cassidy to recognize the service and sacrifice of America’s law enforcement officers. We must pass strong bills in Congress that back our law enforcement officers and provide them with the tools they need to safely do their jobs. Anything less than that is not good enough for those putting their lives on the line each and every day.”

    “I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Congressman Mike Ezell for his support of law enforcement across the country,” said Mathew Silverman, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association. “As a nation facing many challenges, we need more legislators to step forward and support law enforcement at all levels of government so we can best serve the American people, together.”

    “Congressman Ezell’s resolution is a powerful affirmation of the service, sacrifice, and daily challenges faced by law enforcement. It sends a clear message that our Officers and their families are not forgotten, and that their well-being and safety remain a national priority,” Sheriff Kieran Donahue, Canyon County, ID President, National Sheriffs’ Association said.

    The resolution calls for:

    • Greater investment in officer safety and wellness,
    • Increased penalties for violence against police,
    • Expanded mental health resources for officers, and
    • Renewed support for training, equipment, and staffing needs, particularly in underserved and rural areas.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luke Letlow Post Office Established in Rayville, Louisiana

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05)

    RAYVILLE, LA – Today in Richland Parish, the Rayville Post Office was officially renamed the “Luke Letlow Post Office Building” in honor of the late Congressman-elect Luke Letlow.

    Congresswoman Letlow lost her husband Luke to COVID-19 on December 29, 2020, following his election to Congress and after years of service in both the federal and state governments.

    The recognition in Letlow’s home parish was made possible by legislation carried by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and signed into law late last year.

    Congresswoman Julia Letlow, former Congressman Ralph Abraham, and a large crowd of family and friends gathered at the post office today to celebrate the recognition.

    “The Luke Letlow Post Office will stand as a monument to Luke’s servant’s heart and his dedication to the rural communities in north Louisiana,” said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. “Luke was passionate about bringing people together – especially in places like Richland Parish. He never met a stranger, and he considered helping others through public service to be his highest calling. With this recognition, his legacy will live on in the place he called home.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland, Salazar Reintroduce Bipartisan Effort to Eliminate 90-Day State Residency Requirement for Military Spouses Applying for Citizenship

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, following Military Spouse Appreciation Day, U.S. Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Maria Salazar (FL-27) reintroduced the Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act, a bipartisan effort to eliminate the 90-day state residency requirement for spouses of servicemembers on active duty who apply for naturalization.

    “Military spouses are the backbone of our nation’s military, serving the nation right alongside our servicemembers,” said Strickland. “To ensure national security, address recruitment and retention issues, and maintain readiness, we must support green card-holding military spouses who want to become citizens.”

    “Our active duty servicemembers and their families make an enormous sacrifice to keep us safe,” said Salazar. “This bill ensures fairness for the spouses of servicemen seeking U.S. citizenship by updating state residency requirements for green-card holders. In doing so, these aspiring Americans are not penalized due to the orders they receive while serving our nation.”

    The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) requires lawful permanent residents – i.e. green card holders – to reside for at least 90 days within the state in which they file their naturalization application. This can adversely impact military spouses, who are sometimes required to move on short notice when their servicemember spouse receives orders.

    Currently, lawful permanent resident spouses of servicemembers stationed abroad are not subject to a single state residency requirement. The Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act would create parity for spouses of active-duty servicemembers stationed at home and abroad, and provide flexibility in meeting the demands of military service and the requirements of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration policy.

    The Ensuring Security for Military Spouses Act has the support of the National Immigration Forum.

    You can read the full bill text here.

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Honors Life and Legacy of Christopher S. “Kit” Bond on the House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Alford Honors Life and Legacy of Christopher S. “Kit” Bond on the House Floor

    Washington, May 13, 2025

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) honored the life and legacy of Christopher S. “Kit” Bond on the House floor. This follows Governor Mike Kehoe announcing former Missouri Governor and Senator Bond’s passing earlier today.

    Watch Congressman Alford’s remarks here or by clicking the image above.

    Read Congressman Alford’s remarks as prepared for delivery:

    “Mr. Speaker,

    “It’s with deep sadness that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of former Christopher S. ‘Kit’ Bond.

    “Leslie and I join the Bond family, the Show Me State, and a grateful nation in mourning the loss of one of Missouri’s favorite sons.

    “Kit was a true statesman and a mentor to many, including myself. He represented the highest ideal of public service.

    “Having served for more than forty years, including as Missouri’s youngest ever Governor and later as United States Senator, Kit’s impact can be felt all over Missouri and across America.

    “Through various roles, Senator Bond prioritized improving care for our nation’s veterans, providing support for a strong and well-equipped U.S. military, and delivering for the residents of his beloved Missouri.

    “We’re proud to continue his legacy of service on the Appropriations Committee today.

    “It brings me hope to know Kit now rests with his heavenly father, and we are eternally grateful for his lifetime of service.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Launches Second Annual Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes Initiative during National Police Week

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

    Contact: Riley Pingree

    (May 13, 2025) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) launched his second annual Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative in conjunction with the start of National Police Week (May 11–17, 2025). This initiative recognizes exceptional law enforcement officers serving communities across New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.  

    “Every day, the brave men and women of law enforcement put themselves in harm’s way to protect our families, neighborhoods, and communities,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr.“Here in New Jersey, we are fortunate to be served by officers who lead with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering sense of duty. I am honored to recognize many of these individuals through my annual Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative. These officers are not only protectors of public safety—they are mentors, lifesavers, and community leaders. Thanks to these officers’ courage and commitment, the families in our district are safer and our towns stronger.”

    Local officers were nominated by their department chiefs or supervisors and will be recognized by Congressman Kean throughout the year for their dedication and service.

    Congressman Kean invited nominations from police departments throughout the district to spotlight outstanding individuals in law enforcement. Each Hometown Hero was selected by leadership within their department for going above and beyond in their duty to protect and serve.

    National Police Week, observed each May, is a time to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s law enforcement officers. In the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Kean has cosponsored multiple pieces of legislation to support the law enforcement community. Most recently, Congressman Kean joined as an original cosponsor on the Establishing Accreditation Grants for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill would provide critical funding for small and mid-sized police departments to improve training, raise standards, and implement best practices through the accreditation process. The EAGLE Act is endorsed by the National Fraternal Order of Police, the Law Enforcement Action Partnership, and the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association.

    To kick off the 2025 Law Enforcement Hometown Heroes initiative, Congressman Kean recognized Detective Andrew Chuisano from the Watchung Police Department. View the post HERE.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads Bipartisan Bill to Support Small Businesses

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the Improving Access to Small Business Information Act, a bipartisan bill to reduce red tape and streamline the process to gather timely information at the Securities and Exchanges Commission (SEC) Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation. 

    The Improving Access to Small Business Information Act would amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions—like conducting field surveys—of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paper Reduction Act (PRA).  

    “The better information the federal government can gather, the better Congress and the public can identify policy gaps and help small businesses access capital they need,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “I’m proud to lead a bipartisan bill to streamline small business information gathering so our policies can keep up with economic growth and help entrepreneurs across the nation. This simple bill can hopefully make a big difference in helping our government work better for entrepreneurs who keep our economies running.”  

    “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities in Jersey. That’s why I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Improving Access to Small Business Information Act, which cuts outdated red tape and ensures that the federal government can better understand how to support small business owners from all backgrounds,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “In Congress, I’m dedicated to making our government more efficient so that we can improve access to capital for small businesses, create good-paying jobs, and unleash more economic opportunity.” 

    Read the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Dundee Corporation Delivers on Strategy With Strong Q1 Execution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The first quarter of 2025 was an important step forward for us – a period where we continued to execute on our long-term strategy and strengthen the business for the future, said Jonathan Goodman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dundee Corporation. “We’ve been steadily working to simplify our portfolio, reduce leverage, and sharpen our focus on our core mining strategy. This quarter, we delivered on that plan. In February, we announced the pending sale of our interest in Android Industries to a strategic buyer – a transaction that once closed, will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to simplify the business and recycle capital into our core mining strategy. We also realized proceeds from the sale of G Mining Ventures, which we received in connection with G Mining’s acquisition of Reunion Gold last year. This outcome is a clear example of our approach in action: identifying high-quality assets early, backing strong teams, and exiting when value has been crystallized. The monetization of our original investment in Reunion, realized through the sale of G Mining Ventures shares, allowed us to fully repay our corporate loan facility. As a result, we ended the quarter with no debt at the parent level – a key strategic achievement that enhances our financial flexibility going forward.”  

    “Against a backdrop of rising gold prices, solid mining equity performance, and heightened macro uncertainty, we saw a timely opportunity to increase our exposure to high conviction investments. We participated in Magna Mining’s convertible debenture to support the integration of a producing copper-nickel-PGM asset in Sudbury. We also initiated a new position in Revival Gold through a strategic placement. Revival is advancing a portfolio of gold projects in the U.S. with scale, quality, and potential – and we are excited to support their progress as a new partner. Each of these investments reflects the kinds of assets and teams we want to align with: technically strong, well-managed, and positioned to deliver meaningful long-term value.”

    Mr. Goodman concluded: “We ended the quarter with a strong cash position, no parent-level debt, and a royalty that will deliver cash flow to Dundee in the second half of 2025. We are operating from a position of strength and focus. We are proud of what we have accomplished this quarter and remain energized by the opportunity ahead. None of this progress would be possible without the dedication, focus, and sharp execution of our team – they continue to be the driving force behind everything we achieve.”

    FIRST QUARTER 2025 RESULTS

    • The Corporation sold its remaining 2.9 million shares of G Mining Ventures Corp. (“G Mining”) for net proceeds of $45.3 million, after registering an additional $14.2 million investment gain during the quarter.
    • In February, Dundee repaid the remaining $5.0 million of loan principal outstanding with Earlston Investments Corp.
    • In February, Dundee announced the sale of its interest in Android Industries, LLC (“Android”) for cash proceeds of approximately $24.5 million at closing, with additional proceeds payable contingent upon the release of all escrows. The transaction is now expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.
    • Reported net income from all portfolio investments for the first quarter of 2025 of $28.1 million (2024 – $12.6 million). Other than G Mining, the key drivers of performance during the quarter included investment gains of $4.5 million and $3.8 million in the Corporation’s investments in Ausgold Limited and Greenheart Gold Inc., respectively.
    • Reported consolidated general and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2025 of $4.5 million (2024 – $4.1 million).
    • Reported net earnings attributable to owners of the Corporation for the first quarter of 2025 of $24.5 million (2024 – $7.2 million), or earnings per share on a diluted basis of $0.25 (2024 – $0.07 per share).

    SEGMENTED FINANCIAL RESULTS  

    Mining Investments

    In the first quarter of 2025, the Corporation reported net earnings before taxes from the mining investments segment of $29.8 million (2024 – $9.3 million). Drivers of performance are described in the highlights above. The share of income from equity accounted mining investments during the first quarter of 2025 was $0.2 million (2024 – loss of $0.5 million).

    Corporate and others

    The Corporation reported a pre-tax loss from the corporate and others segment, including non-core subsidiaries, of $4.1 million (2024 – $0.4 million) during the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    The fair value of non-mining portfolio investments in the corporate and others segment decreased by $1.4 million (2024 – increased by $2.8 million) during the first quarter of the current year and was driven almost exclusively by the investment revaluation of Dundee’s ownership in TauRx Pharmaceuticals Ltd., owing to an increase to the discount rate used to value this investment at March 31, 2025.

    During the same period, the segment’s non-mining equity accounted investments reported pre-tax earnings of $0.03 million (2024 – $0.1 million). Also, the segment’s subsidiaries reported pre-tax losses of $0.1 million (2024 – $0.6 million).

    Mining Services

    During the first quarter of 2025, the mining services segment, comprised of the Corporation’s 78%-owned subsidiary, Dundee Sustainable Technologies Inc., reported a pre-tax loss of $1.7 million (2024 – $1.2 million).

    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY ON A PER SHARE BASIS

             
    Carrying value as at March 31, 2025     December 31, 2024  
    Mining Investments      
    Portfolio investments $ 93,649     $ 95,490  
    Equity accounted investments   31,273       30,013  
    Royalty   18,921       18,921  
          143,843       144,424  
    Corporate and Others      
    Corporate   64,253       32,976  
    Portfolio investments ‒ other   68,721       70,495  
    Equity accounted investments ‒ other         30,240  
    Real estate joint ventures   2,291       2,364  
    Subsidiaries   (106 )     3,403  
    Equity accounted investments ‒ Held-for-Sale   30,414        
          165,573       139,478  
    Mining Services      
    Subsidiaries   (535 )     (208 )
          (535 )     (208 )
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY ATTRIBUTABLE TO CLASS A SUBORDINATE SHARES      
    AND CLASS B SHARES OF THE CORPORATION $ 308,881     $ 283,694  
             
    Number of shares of the Corporation issued and outstanding:      
      Class A Subordinate Shares   86,305,197       86,269,735  
      Class B Shares   3,114,491       3,114,491  
    Total number of shares issued and outstanding   89,419,688       89,384,226  
             
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY ON A PER SHARE BASIS $ 3.45     $ 3.17  
                   

    The Corporation’s unaudited interim consolidated financial statements as at and for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, along with the accompanying management’s discussion and analysis, have been filed on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (“SEDAR”) and may be viewed by interested parties under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca or the Corporation’s website at www.dundeecorporation.com.

    ABOUT DUNDEE CORPORATION:

    Dundee Corporation is a public Canadian independent mining-focused holding company, listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “DC.A”. The Corporation is primarily engaged in acquiring mineral resource assets. The Corporation operates with the objective of unlocking value through strategic investments in mining projects globally. Our team conducts due diligence in order to assess the geological, technical, environmental, and financial merits and risks of each project and looks to deploy capital where it can either seek to generate investment returns or where the Corporation can collaborate with operating partners and take strategic partnerships through direct interests in mining operations.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

    This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects Dundee Corporation’s current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Dundee Corporation’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in the Annual Information Form of Dundee Corporation and subsequent filings made with securities commissions in Canada. Dundee Corporation does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Investor and Media Relations
    T: (416) 864-3584
    E: ir@dundeecorporation.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gloucester Police Officer Charged with Child Pornography Offense

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

    BOSTON – A police officer with the Gloucester Police Department has been charged with receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).  

    Alexander Aiello, 34, of Gloucester, was charged with one count of receipt of child pornography. Aiello will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.

    According to the charging documents, Aiello is a patrol officer employed with the Gloucester Police Department. It is alleged that Aiello was identified as a user with a registered account for a dark website, which provided a platform for users to download, view, advertise and distribute CSAM. Searches of Aiello’s person and residence on April 28, 2025, resulted in the seizure of the defendant’s cell phone and laptop as well as a USB thumb drive, which was found in Aiello’s nightstand in his bedroom.

    It is alleged that a preliminary examination of the devices revealed that a TOR Browser – an application that provides anonymous web access and access to dark web hidden services – was installed and actively running on Aiello’s laptop. It is further alleged that the application had evidence of downloaded files consistent with recent use. Additionally, the preliminary examination allegedly located encrypted folders on the USB drive and laptop computer.

    “As a law enforcement officer, Mr. Aiello was entrusted with safeguarding the community – and that includes protecting children from exploitation and abuse. Instead, he allegedly participated in one of the most reprehensible forms of exploitation,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “This case underscores our unwavering commitment to combating child exploitation in all its forms. Whether the offender is a private citizen or a public official, our mission remains the same: to protect children and pursue justice for victims.”

    “As a police officer, Alexander Aiello was sworn to protect and serve, but today, the FBI charged him for receiving images of children being sexually abused,” said James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “Those who seek out this despicable material are perpetuating the victimization of innocent children. That’s why the FBI Boston’s Child Exploitation – Human Trafficking Task Force diligently pursues these cases. Protecting kids from this physical and emotional trauma is our priority.”

    The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    U.S. Attorney Foley and FBI Acting SAC Crowley made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Gloucester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     


    CORRECTION: The defendant is 34, not 24 as the original release stated. In addition there is a updated FBI quote.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Luján Introduce Legislation to Improve AI Testing and Evaluation Systems

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced the Testing and Evaluation Systems for Trusted Artificial Intelligence (TEST) AI Act of 2025.

    This legislation would improve the federal government’s ability to test and evaluate Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems to drive innovation, protect national security, and build trust in these technologies.

    “While AI offers an opportunity to revolutionize American research and innovation, we must be cognizant of bad actors and potential threats to privacy and national security,” said Risch. “The Idaho National Laboratory is already a leader in AI, national security, and cybersecurity, and the TEST AI Act will use the National Labs’ capabilities to establish safeguards to prevent misuse of this growing technology.”

    “AI has reached every sector in our country and driven innovation, but we cannot ignore the vulnerabilities and risks that come with it. While these systems have the power to change lives, they can also fall short – providing inaccurate or biased data – and are at risk of malicious attacks or misuse by our adversaries,” said Luján. “The TEST AI Actaddresses these shortcomings by creating government testbeds to better evaluate AI systems. This will help leverage the talent of our National Laboratories and strengthen the federal government’s ability to implement responsible guardrails that protect our national security and the American people.”

    Risch and Luján were joined by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Peter Welch (D-V.T.) in introducing the TEST AI Act.

    The TEST AI Act directs the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) to collaborate with the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a testbed pilot program to develop and refine standards for evaluating AI systems. By laying the groundwork for broader national evaluation standards through a transparent and collaborative approach, the TEST AI Act would ensure that AI systems used by federal agencies are trustworthy, secure, and objective.

    The TEST AI Act would:

    • Codify collaboration between NIST and DOE to evaluate AI models;

    • Improve public-private partnerships through an AI Testing Working Group to develop standards for performance, reliability, security, privacy, and bias; and  

    • Create a public strategy for testing and the construction of testbeds, and a report to Congress on the results and recommendations for future standards development.

    Senators Risch, Luján, Blackburn, and Durbin co-lead the Senate National Labs Caucus, which identifies legislative opportunities to elevate the National Labs’ visibility and meet national energy and security objectives while solidifying U.S. leadership in critical scientific sectors. ?

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: STATEMENT: CanREA eager to work with new federal Cabinet to advance wind energy, solar energy and energy storage 

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: STATEMENT: CanREA eager to work with new federal Cabinet to advance wind energy, solar energy and energy storage 

    CanREA ready to help Canada’s newly appointed Ministers deliver on key election promises that will advance clean-energy initiatives nationwide. 

    Ottawa, Ontario, May 13, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) congratulates Canada’s new federal Cabinet Ministers and Secretaries of State on their appointment to Cabinet. The Ministers were sworn in today by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M, C.D., Governor General of Canada.  

    CanREA looks forward to supporting their delivery of an ambitious agenda for the clean-energy industry, helping Canada meet its economic and environmental goals.    

    Specifically, CanREA would like to congratulate: 

    The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne P.C. M.P., Minister of Finance and National Revenue 
    The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc P.C., M.P., President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy  
    The Hon. Shafqat Ali P.C. M.P., President of the Treasury Board  
    The Hon. Tim Hodgson P.C. M.P., Minister of Energy and Natural Resources 
    The Hon. Julie Dabrusin P.C. M.P., Minister of Environment and Climate Change 
    The Hon. Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P., Minister of Industry 
    The Hon. Rebecca Ally P.C., M.P. Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations  
    The Hon. Mandy Gull-Masty P.C., M.P., Minister of Indigenous Services 

    “Over the past number of years, the CanREA team has developed a strong working relationship with the federal government,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “My team and I are committed to advancing wind, solar and energy storage and we will work closely with Canada’s newly appointed ministers to shape and support federal policies that will be essential to our industry as we plan, finance and build clean-energy projects that benefit Canadians.”  

    During the recent election campaign, the Liberal Party committed to a suite of proposals that support the rapid deployment of clean energy, as described in this recent CanREA statement. These policies include:  

    Finalizing the Clean Economy Investment Tax Credits (ITCs), policies that have already galvanized private sector investment in Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industry. Getting the remaining ITCs passed into law, particularly the Clean Electricity ITC, will secure Canada’s position as a competitive and safe place for the private sector to invest. These will also help lower the cost of electricity to Canadian ratepayers. 
    Reducing the barriers to accessing capital faced by Indigenous companies and communities, by expanding the kinds of projects the Canada Infrastructure Bank can support to be more in line with First Nation, Inuit and Métis priorities. The Liberals also committed to exploring options for an Indigenous Infrastructure Bank to further address this gap. 
    Offering support for Canadians entering the trades, while also helping to reduce barriers that these skilled workers face when working in another province. 
    Creating a new First and Last Mile Fund that will move more electricity and goods from where they are produced to where they are needed, creating a more integrated and accessible Canadian economy. 
    Signing new Cooperation and Substitution Agreements with all willing provinces, territories and Indigenous Governing Bodies within six months, ensuring that projects go through only one review that upholds environmental standards and Indigenous consultation. 
    Cementing the signal for electrification by maintaining the industrial carbon price. During his leadership campaign, Mr. Carney even promised to set a pricing schedule out to 2035—this would be a strong signal upon which Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industry could rely. 

    Across the country, more than 18,000 MW of clean-energy procurements, representing more than $34 B, are being planned or currently taking place, all of which will benefit from these federal policies.   

    “The federal ITCs, along with increased Indigenous access to capital and new interprovincial interconnections, will allow Canada to maintain its competitive edge in the global race for renewable energy and energy storage investment,” said Fernando Melo, CanREA’s Federal Director of Policy and Government Affairs.  

    “Putting these in place will be no small feat, but CanREA is committed to collaborating with the federal government to get these groundbreaking policies across the finish line.” 

    Quotes

    “Over the past number of years, the CanREA team has developed a strong working relationship with the federal government. My team and I are committed to advancing wind, solar and energy storage and we will work closely with Canada’s newly appointed ministers to shape and support federal policies that will be essential to our industry as we plan, finance and build clean-energy projects that benefit Canadians.” 
    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

    “The federal ITCs, along with increased Indigenous access to capital and new interprovincial interconnections, will allow Canada to maintain its competitive edge in the global race for renewable energy and energy storage investment. Putting these in place will be no small feat, but CanREA is committed to collaborating with the federal government to get these groundbreaking policies across the finish line.”  
    —Fernando Melo, Federal Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

    For interview opportunities, please contact: 

    Bridget Wayland, Senior Director of Communications  Canadian Renewable Energy Association communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

    About CanREA 

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.    

    The post STATEMENT: CanREA eager to work with new federal Cabinet to advance wind energy, solar energy and energy storage  appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Urges Fiscal Responsibility and Against Healthcare Cuts in Republican Tax Plan Committee Consideration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

     

    [embedded content]

    Washington D.C. – Today, at an Energy & Commerce Committee meeting on the Republican tax plan, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) urged his colleagues to not go through with their extreme cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act to pay for tax cuts to wealthy individuals and corporations that do not need them. The Republican plan, which will not reduce the federal debt or deficit, would kick 13.7 million people off of their health insurance according to a new analysis by the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office.

    During his remarks, Rep. Peters also shared the story of his constituent, Jesus Acosta, who is an in-home care provider for his mother who was disabled after being hit by a car. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus would no longer be able to provide this care and pay the bills that keep their family together in their home.

    Rep. Peters began his remarks by stating, “This Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here. Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history. When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year. That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    He continued, “The bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide. In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up. Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.”

    And he concluded, “Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts. When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.”

    CA-50 Medicaid Facts:

    • 156,100 people in the district rely on Medicaid for health coverage—that’s 20 percent of all district residents.
      • 34,700 children in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 17,700 seniors in the district are covered by Medicaid.
      • 64,900 adults in the district have Medicaid coverage through Medicaid expansion—that includes pregnant women who are able to access prenatal care sooner because of Medicaid expansion, parents, caretakers, veterans, people with substance use disorder and mental health treatment needs, and people with chronic conditions and disabilities.
    • At least five hospitals in the district had negative operating margins in 2022. These hospitals would be especially hard-hit by cuts to Medicaid. For example:
      • Scripps Mercy Hospital had a negative 25.3 percent operating margin—and nearly 22 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • Sharp Coronado Hospital had a negative 3.5 percent operating margin—and over 36 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
      • University of California San Diego Medical Center had a negative 2.4 percent operating margin—and nearly 19 percent of its revenue came from Medicaid.
    • There are 54 health center delivery sites in the district that serve 529,944 patients.
    • Those health centers and patients rely on Medicaid—statewide, 69 percent of health center patients rely on Medicaid for coverage.
    • Health centers will not be able to stay open and provide the same care that they do today, with more uninsured and underinsured patients. They are already operating on thin margins—in 2023, nationally, nearly half of health centers had negative operating margins.
    • Medicaid cuts put health centers at risk, including:
      • Family Health Centers of San Diego
      • Neighborhood Healthcare
      • North County Health Project
      • San Diego American Indian Health Centers
      • St. Vincent De Paul Village

     Jesus’s Story:

    Jesus Acosta is a home care provider and member of United Domestic Workers, UDW/AFSCME, in San Diego. Jesus became a care provider after his mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled. She was a single mother who worked hard to provide for Jesus and his siblings. After her accident, Jesus felt it was his responsibility to care for the woman who always cared for him — and he’s proud to do it.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. The responsibilities that come with her care — medication management, feeding her, bathing her, taking her to doctor’s appointments, helping her with her physical therapy and to live a fulfilling life with her family — has made it difficult for Jesus to maintain full-time employment. But he is able to take care of himself and pay the bills for his family thanks to Medicaid. The program also pays for his mother’s wheelchair and doctors’ visits. Without Medicaid funding, Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and they would be separated

    Rep. Peters’ Full Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:

    Jesus is one of my constituents from San Diego. His mother was tragically hit by a car, leaving her disabled.

    Jesus became his mother’s full time care provider in 2016. He manages her medications, feeds her, bathes her, takes her to doctor appointments, and helps with her physical therapy.

    If these Medicaid cuts take effect, this work – this very had work — will not meet the so-called work requirements Republicans want to impose. Jesus and his family would likely have to move out of their home and live separated, and they will lose their health care.

    Mr. Chairman, this Committee has no jurisdiction over taxes, but let’s be honest with the American people. Taxes are the real reason we’re here.

    Over in the Ways & Means Committee, they are marking up what will be one of the most expensive tax bills in history.

    When Republicans originally passed the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, they designed many of the individual and some business tax provisions to expire this year.

    That’s because even back then, Republicans knew making the tax cuts permanent would cost the United States trillions in revenue we desperately need to pay our expenses. Making those tax cuts permanent now is no less costly.

    Yet, that’s what we are being asked to do today.  The Budget Committee instructed the Ways and Means Committee to cut taxes by $4.5 trillion and has asked our committee to come up with $880 billion in cuts to make up the shortfall.  That’s it. That’s what this is about.

    To do that, the bill before us will decimate Medicaid, which provides health insurance to nearly 72 million people nationwide.

    In every congressional district across the country, Medicaid supports health care for children, Americans with disabilities, and working people who are already struggling to keep up.

    Cutting health coverage for our most vulnerable neighbors will not make America healthier, it will make us sicker.

    At home I hear from people concerned about national debt and deficits and they say to me, “hey Scott we have to make cuts to address the deficit.”  But that is not what is happening here.  Because Republicans will continue to run $2 trillion annual budget deficits and we will see the national debt grow from 36 to 38 to 40 to 42 trillion.  And they will vote for a $5 trillion increase in the debt limit to make this borrowing possible, even though many of them swore a blood oath that they’d never vote to increase the debt.  They will enact a budget that according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget will increase the federal debt by $37 trillion over 30 years. 

    Don’t buy their fiscal responsibility act. Republicans are proposing these painful cuts to programs that help everyday Americans not to lower our debt but just so President Trump can follow through on his campaign promise to give his donors, who he himself said were already “rich as hell,” even more money in tax cuts.

    When the government borrows more, inflation goes up and working people suffer at the grocery store, gas pump, and when they pay for utilities. Higher federal borrowing drives up interest rates and makes it harder for people to buy a home, start a business, or pay down credit cards.  All this now in addition to depriving so many Americans of basic health care.

    I urge my colleagues to vote no.

    Thank you, I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 1400 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Second week in May as part of Operation Take Back America

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 1400 defendants with Criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.

    The Southern District of California filed 176 border-related cases this week, including charges of assault on a federal officer, bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances. These included Two complaints which charged five people with participating in a human smuggling event that led to the deaths of at least three migrants, including a 14-year-old boy from India. His 10-year-old sister is still missing at sea and presumed dead; their father is in a coma and mother is also hospitalized.

    The Central District of California filed criminal charges against 34 defendants this week who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal. Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felonies before they were removed from the United States.

    The District of New Mexico charged approximately 300 defendants with border-related crimes, including 91 defendants charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326). In addition, 209 individuals charged with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325) were also charged with violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) because they unlawfully entered the National Defense Area in New Mexico.

    The Southern District of Texas filed a total of 300 cases, charging 302 people from May 2-8 in continuing efforts to secure the southern border. As part of the cases, 93 face allegations of illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 193 people face charges of illegally entering the country, while 11 cases allege various instances of human smuggling with the remainder involving other immigration-related crimes.

    The Western District of Texas filed 316 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from May 2 through May 8. Among the new cases, Cirilo Delgado-Alderete, Dilan Karim Valenzuela-Baca, and Antelmo Eligio Ramirez-Bernardo were arrested at an alleged stash house in Anthony, New Mexico. According to an affidavit, U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations agents observed three vehicles that had been identified as being used to smuggle illegal aliens to Albuquerque, New Mexico, parked at the residence. When agents questioned Ramirez-Bernardo, a Guatemalan national, they allegedly discovered he possessed a key to the residence on his keychain. Agents then located 25 individuals inside the residence who admitted to being citizens of Mexico, Peru, Honduras, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, and Pakistan without documentation to be in the U.S. Two of the individuals, Delgado-Alderete and Valenzuela-Baca, were identified as alleged stash house caretakes and drivers to harbor and transport the illegal aliens. Delgado-Alderete, Valenzuela-Baca, and Ramirez-Bernardo are charged with one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens.  The drivers allegedly picked up aliens in El Paso before transporting them to New Mexico.

    The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 314 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 117 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 166 aliens for illegally entering the United States.  In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed 25 cases against 31 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.

    We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Joins Bipartisan Bill to Increase Support to Law Enforcement, First Responders Suffering from Service-Related Cancers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – During National Police Week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced she has joined the bipartisan Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act to expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who pass away or become permanently disabled from service-related cancers. Currently, these heroic men and women are only eligible for support under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program for physical injuries sustained in the line of duty, or for deaths from duty-related heart attacks, strokes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and 9/11 related illnesses.
    “Nevada’s police officers, firefighters, and first responders put their health at risk to keep our communities safe, sometimes developing cancer from exposure to toxic chemicals during their service,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why it’s critical that these public safety officers and their families can access all the federal support they need. I’m proud to support this bill to do just that, and will keep pushing to make sure we take the best care of our first responders.”
    Senator Rosen has fought to support Nevada’s first responders. Last year, she helped secure nearly $1 million in federal funding to provide mental health training and support to thousands of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and first responders. Senator Rosen also announced that more than $6 million in funding they secured for Nevada law enforcement, criminal justice, and public safety projects is being delivered. Last Congress, Senator Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to improve federal mental health support programs for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other emergency response personnel.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Arrives in Turkey

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today arrived in Turkey. Senator Graham traveled to the nation to meet with Turkish and U.S. officials to assess the situation in Syria. 
    “I have traveled to Turkey this week for the express purpose of assessing the situation in Syria. I am very inclined to support sanctions relief for Syria under the right conditions. However, we must remember that the current leadership in Syria achieved its position through force of arms, not through the will of its people. 
    “I know the Trump Administration has provided guidance to Syrian officials about conditions that need to be met before any sanctions can be relieved. I fully understand the role that Congress plays in this process, having supported Syrian sanctions that passed Congress during the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.  
    “Currently, Syria is also listed as a state sponsor of terrorism under U.S. law. In order for that designation to be lifted, the administration must submit a report to Congress on how circumstances have changed. That report has not been received and Congress has the opportunity to review this action if it chooses. The designation of Syria as a state sponsor of terrorism has tremendous ramifications apart from the sanctions. I am certain that Congress would need to be informed of changes in conditions placed on Syria and how they have met those conditions before Congress can make an informed decision on whether or not it should approve the change in designation. 
    “I have also been in close contact with Israel, as they are extremely concerned about the state of play in Syria. During this trip, I will be discussing this matter with our allies in Turkey and will maintain extremely close coordination with our allies in Israel so that we can fully understand the implications of sanctions waivers.
    “Waiving congressionally-passed sanctions is a complicated process. While I would like to empower the new players in Syria, it has to be done in a coordinated fashion with our allies – especially our friends in Israel – so that numerous security concerns can be addressed. Over the past decades, locations in Syria have been used to attack Israel.
    “This newly formed government in Syria may be a good investment and could be the pathway to unifying Syria, making it a stable part of the region. However, there is a lot that must be learned before making that determination. 
    “A stable Syria would be a game changer for the region, but given its past, their progress must be evaluated closely.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney to attend the inaugural Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced that he will travel to Rome, Italy, from May 16 to 19, 2025, to attend the inaugural Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

    A longstanding tradition of the Catholic Church, and a defining moment in Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate, the Mass will take place on Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square.

    While in Rome, the Prime Minister will also meet with other international leaders to discuss deepening trade, commerce, and cultural ties.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE St. Paul targets unauthorized employment, arrests illegal aliens in rural South Dakota

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with support from the FBI, Internal Revenue Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, Madison Police Department, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, conducted a worksite enforcement criminal investigation in Madison May 13. Eight illegal aliens were arrested during the operation.

    The multiagency investigation took place at Manitou Equipment America and Global Polymer Industries, resulting in a total of eight arrests. At Manitou, three illegal aliens, two from Nicaragua and one from El Salvador, were arrested. At Global, five illegal aliens, three from Nicaragua and two from Guatemala, were arrested. All eight individuals are currently being held by ICE pending removal proceedings.

    “Worksite enforcement remains a critical component of our mission to uphold the law and protect the integrity of the U.S. labor market. Employers who knowingly hire individuals without legal work authorization not only undermine our nation’s immigration laws but also exploit vulnerable populations,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt. “These enforcement actions make it clear: illegal hiring practices aren’t limited to major metropolitan areas – they are happening in small towns across rural America, and we will continue to hold violators accountable, wherever they operate.”

    ICE officials emphasized the agency’s continued focus on identifying public safety and national security threats. Individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are encountered during enforcement operations may be taken into custody and processed for removal in accordance with federal law.

    Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.

    For more information about ICE HSI St. Paul and its efforts to enhance public safety in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, follow on X at @HSISaintPaul.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Salt Lake City announces 52 illegal aliens were arrested during recent operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    RENO, Nev. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 52 illegal aliens during a four-day operation from May 5 to May 8 focused on bolstering public safety in northern Nevada.

    ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and its interagency partners identified, detained and removed dangerous criminals in the northern Nevada area, including Carson City and Reno. Criminal aliens in the U.S. illegally should utilize the CBP Home app to self-deport and avoid arrest by ICE.

    Among the criminal aliens arrested during the operation included:

    • Ernesto Lopez-Barrios, 50, of El Salvador, who was convicted of child molestation and DUI.
    • Luis Urbina-Bucio, 36, of Mexico in Reno, who was convicted of battery and carrying a concealed weapon.
    • Ariberto Roque-Sanchez, 32, of Mexico in Carson City, who was convicted of “statutory sexual seduction,” also known as statutory rape.
    • Rodolfo Hernandez-Yanez, 52, of Mexico in Carson City, who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter.

    Several federal law enforcement agencies assisted ICE during the operation, including Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, the ATF and the U.S. Marshals Service, along with local law enforcement partners.

    Members of the public can report crime and suspicious activity by calling 866-347-2423 or completing the online tip form. Follow us on X at @ICEgov to learn more about ERO’s missions and operations.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in Utah, Nevada, Idaho and Montana on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROSaltLakeCity.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Spotlights NY-20 Family’s Medicaid Story During Markup of GOP Budget

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — During an Energy and Commerce Committee Markup on the Republican budget today, which includes massive cuts to health care for millions of Americans, Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) shared the story of a local Albany family in their own words about what Medicaid means to them.

    Tonko spoke directly with parents Noëlle and Nathan about the impact of Medicaid in providing support for their 12-year-old daughter, Isla. Their conversation can be viewed HERE.

    Tonko’s full remarks can be viewed HERE or read below as prepared for delivery:

    I’m here today fighting for people like Noëlle and Nathan, constituents of mine who are raising their family in Albany, New York. Their 12-year-old daughter Isla has a rare genetic disorder and has received healthcare through Medicaid for almost eight years because of her disabilities.  

    Through Medicaid, Isla is in a program where she has self-directed care, which means she has a budget for a caregiver, classes, respite care and more to best support Isla and her family.  

    Noëlle and Nathan shared with me that one of their first reactions when they heard about Republicans plans was fear of how it would impact Isla’s care.  

    In Noëlle’s words, “Medicaid changed our life. I can’t imagine what our life would be like without Medicaid. It is not only the direct impact it has on Isla’s quality of life but our entire family’s quality of life. I know our story is just one of millions of families who would be devastated by the loss of Medicaid.  

    Nathan added, “on the human level it has been life changing for us. On an economic level it allows us to work.  

    To lose it would be awful not only for our family but also for all the people we serve through our work.”  

    They explained to me that when you have a child with complex medical needs and disabilities you are constantly navigating systems to advocate for your child in educations settings, in healthcare settings and in dealing with insurance.  

    Noëlle described how as a parent of a child with disabilities you are often pushing through all the red tape for your child’s needs to be respected.  

    Let’s not add more red tape for this family.

    Noëlle also described how Medicaid provides Nathan and her with a breath of relief of thinking about these supports for Isla as she gets older and enters adulthood.  

    Noëlle’s shared a friend’s sentiment that Isla doesn’t need to change for the world, the world needs to change for Isla. I could not agree more.  

    Noëlle asked Members of this Committee to rethink these devastating cuts and instead provide respect and dignity for families and individuals living with disabilities.  

    On behalf of Isla and her family and families like hers across my district, New York State and the nation, I demand that we reverse course on all the cuts to Medicaid and additional red tape that would hurt so many people.  

    With that, let’s say ‘NO’ to lining the pockets of billionaires and ‘YES’ to providing access to affordable healthcare via Medicaid for so many.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Underwood Introduces Legislation to Make Fertility Treatments More Affordable and Accessible

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-14) has introduced the Health Savings and Affordability for Fertility Act, legislation to expand eligible fertility treatment and care allowable under Health Savings Accounts (HSA), making fertility treatments more affordable and accessible for families.

    HSAs can lower health care costs and tax responsibilities for Americans enrolled in high deductible health plans by allowing them to set aside pre-tax dollars for their health care expenses. The Health Savings and Affordability for Fertility Act defines fertility treatment as a “qualified medical expense,” under HSAs, securing families’ ability to use HSAs to pay for their fertility treatments.

    “No one should be priced out of the treatment and health care that can help them achieve their dream of starting a family. Millions of Americans use fertility treatments to grow their families and find relief from the painful and often heartbreaking experience of infertility, and they deserve our support,” said Representative Lauren Underwood. “We must make sure that families are able to access this essential care. Ensuring that their HSA can be used to make these treatments more affordable is a key step forward.”

    The Health Savings and Affordability for Fertility Actwill codify the following fertility treatments as “qualified medical expenses” under an HSA:

    • Preservation (including long-term storage) of human eggs, sperm, or embryos for later reproductive use
    • Artificial insemination
    • Assisted reproductive technology, including in vitro fertilization
    • Medications prescribed for fertility
    • Gamete donation

    The full text of the Health Savings and Affordability for Fertility Act can be viewed here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Takes on PBMs During Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) pressed Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) on how their anti-competitive practices have raised costs for Vermont patients by undermining competition in the prescription drug supply chain. Senator Welch also discussed how PBMs’ lack of transparency has crushed and driven community pharmacies in Vermont and around the country out of business. 
    “We only have 126 independent pharmacies in Vermont. They’ve been going out of business left and right. In my view, they’re absolutely critical to the community. Main street’s getting devastated—this is especially true in rural America,” said Senator Welch. “Mr. Scott, I want to ask you—how in the world can a business survive if they sell the product at what is an agreed upon price, and then you reimburse them at a lower price months after the fact? How in the world is that a fair business model that makes it at all possible for our community pharmacies to survive?” 
    Mr. Juan Carlos Scott, President & Chief Executive Officer, Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, answered: “We all have the same goal, Senator. We need a healthy retail pharmacy market, because if we can’t serve patients with those access points…” 
    Senator Welch responded: “You know what? We don’t have a healthy retail pharmacy market—it doesn’t exist. They’re under incredible pressure, and we can be blind to it…I want an answer of how we deal with Mr. McDonough, how we deal with Jeff Hochberg, and how we deal with all of these community pharmacies in our small towns throughout the country.” 
    Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Pharmaceutical Care Management Association President and CEO Juan Carlos Scott below: 

    Senator Welch has championed bipartisan initiatives to lower prescription drug prices for Vermonters. Senators Welch and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) recently introduced the Fair Prescription Drug Prices for Americans Act, bipartisan legislation that would offer relief for millions of patients by prohibiting pharmaceutical companies from selling drugs in the United States at higher prices than an international average, ending the practice of forcing Americans to pay the world’s highest prices for medications.    
    In March, Senators Welch and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) led their colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Protecting Pharmacies in Medicaid Act to crack down on PBMs’ use of ‘spread pricing,’—charging Medicaid more than PBMs pay pharmacies for a drug—which drives up costs for Medicaid and short-changes pharmacies that are already struggling to stay in business. The bill would save Medicaid an estimated $2 billion over 10 years. 
    Last Congress, Senator Welch and Sens. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) led the introduction of bipartisan, bicameral legislation to streamline prescription drug patent litigation, encourage fair market competition, and lower prescription drug prices. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Capstone Infrastructure Corporation Reports First Quarter Results and Declares a Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Toronto, Ontario, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capstone Infrastructure Corporation (TSX: CSE.PR.A) (the “Corporation” or “Capstone”) today announced and filed its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Corporation’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) for the first quarter of 2025 and unaudited interim consolidated financial statements are available at www.capstoneinfrastructure.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Capstone’s MD&A details the “Results of Operations” and provides a “Financial Position Review” for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Dividend Declarations

    Today, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend on the Corporation’s Cumulative Five-Year Rate Reset Preferred Shares, Series A (the “Preferred Shares”) of $0.2314 per Preferred Share to be paid on or about July 31, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on July 15, 2025. The dividend on the Preferred Shares covers the period from April 30, 2025 to July 30, 2025.

    The dividends paid by the Corporation on its Preferred Shares are designated “eligible” dividends for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada). An enhanced dividend tax credit applies to eligible dividends paid to Canadian residents.

    About Capstone Infrastructure Corporation

    Capstone is generating our low-carbon future, driving the energy transition forward through creative thinking, strong partnerships, and a commitment to quality and integrity in how we do business. A developer, owner, and operator of clean and renewable energy projects across North America, Capstone’s portfolio includes approximately 885 MW gross installed capacity across 35 facilities, including wind, solar, hydro, biomass, and natural gas power plants. Please visit www.capstoneinfrastructure.com for more information.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain of the statements contained within this document are forward-looking and reflect management’s expectations regarding the future growth, results of operations, performance and business of the Corporation based on information currently available to the Corporation. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of presenting information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. These statements use forward-looking words, such as “anticipate”, “continue”, “could”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “believe” or other similar words. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements and, accordingly, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. The forward-looking statements within this document are based on information currently available and what the Corporation currently believes are reasonable assumptions, including the material assumptions set out in the management’s discussion and analysis of the results of operations and the financial condition of the Corporation (“MD&A”) for the year ended December 31, 2024, as updated in subsequently filed MD&A of the Corporation (such documents are available under the Corporation’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca).

    Although the Corporation believes that it has a reasonable basis for the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements, actual results may differ from those suggested by the forward-looking statements due to inherent risks and uncertainties. For a comprehensive description of these risk factors, please refer to the “Risk Factors” section of the Corporation’s Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2025, as supplemented by disclosure of risk factors contained in any subsequent annual information form, material change reports (except confidential material change reports), business acquisition reports, interim financial statements, interim management’s discussion and analysis and information circulars filed by the Corporation with the securities commissions or similar authorities in Canada (which are available under the Corporation’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca).

    The assumptions, risks and uncertainties described above are not exhaustive and other events and risk factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results and events discussed in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements within this document reflect current expectations of the Corporation as at the date of this document and speak only as at the date of this document. Except as may be required by applicable law, the Corporation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE AMERICAN PEOPLE DO NOT SUPPORT THIS EXTREME AND TOXIC BILL”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS AND PRESIDENT TRUMP UNVEIL THEIR PLAN TO TRADE AWAY AMERICANS’ HEALTH COVERAGE FOR TAX CUT FOR THE WEALTHY

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    TAMPA, FL — Before heading back to Washington, D.C., where her Republican Energy and Commerce colleagues plan to rip health care away from millions of Americans and make life more expensive for everyone to fund tax breaks for the wealthy, Castor stood with local health care advocates to demand that Republicans keep their hands off our health coverage, which is life or death for many Floridians. 

    “Millions of families rely on Medicaid for their health care. I am thinking of your grandparents, who are not on the street, because Medicaid is helping them live in an assisted living facility. I am thinking about pregnant mothers who use Medicaid to ensure they have healthy births. I am thinking about children who have complex medical conditions who literally need Medicaid to survive,” said Rep. Castor.

    This is not just a debate in Washington, D.C., this is a debate that will impact whether certain people will be able to live. Medicaid has always ensured that no matter where you stand in life, you never have to suffer. For the grace of God, this could be you, and you will need to think about whether your child can have a decent quality of life, or if you can afford the doctor or medications you need to stay alive.”

    In Florida, 3.9 million people rely on Medicaid. Over 4.7 million Floridians rely on the Affordable Care Act, which Republicans want to make more expensive. The independent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) determines that at least 13.7 million more Americans will go uninsured on Trump and Congressional Republicans’ watch.  The massive financial pain will hurt all Floridians, all Americans.

    New analysis from the nonpartisan CBO found the health provisions in the Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans’ bill will cut at least $715 billion and will result in at least 8.6 million more Americans going uninsured as a result of cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. The analysis was completed at the request of Democratic Committee leaders. 

    In additional analysis, CBO determined that 5.1 million more Americans will go uninsured as a result of Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits.

    Castor continued, “Let’s stick with our all-American values. We don’t need to gut health care so billionaires like Elon Musk can buy another private jet. Let’s take care of our neighbors.”

    Castor was joined by CEO and President of Tampa Family Health Centers, Sherry Hoback, CEO and President of Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete, Dr. Kanika Tomalin and CEO and President of Evara Health, Elodie Dorso.

    Photos from the event are available here.

    Watch the press conference here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTO: Cornyn Meets with UT San Antonio President

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) met yesterday with University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) President Taylor Eighmy and other system leaders to discuss their leading academic programs, merger with UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, and their research efforts in hypersonics. See photo below.

    This image is in the public domain, but those wishing to do so may credit the Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
    Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTO: Cornyn Meets with National Border Patrol Council

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) met yesterday with National Border Patrol Council board members to discuss improving infrastructure, updating technology, and increasing personnel along our southern border to give them the resources needed to do their job. Thanks to Border Patrol’s work and President Trump’s historic efforts to secure the border and enforce the laws on the books, southern border apprehensions are down nearly 95% from one year ago. See photo below.

    This image is in the public domain, but those wishing to do so may credit the Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
    Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Introduces Mission to MARS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today introduced the Mission to Modernize Astronautic Resources for Space (MARS) Act, which would improve and modernize Johnson Space Center’s (JSC) infrastructure to prepare National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for human missions to the moon and Mars:
    “Throughout history, America has pioneered human space exploration and boldly charted the path into the great unknown,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud to lead this legislation to not only send humans back to the moon, but to the next frontier of Mars, where technological advancements and untold scientific discoveries await.”
    Background:
    The Mission to MARS Act would bolster Johnson Space Center’s human spaceflight infrastructure by:
    Preparing the Neutral Buoyancy Lab for commercial space station training, lunar-suited operations, and collaborations with the Department of Defense;
    Upgrading and repairing the Astromaterials Curation and Research facility for samples from the moon and Mars;
    Modernizing the Mission Control Center to prepare for crewed missions beyond low-Earth orbit;
    Improving Ellington Field astronaut flight training facilities;
    Constructing the space food systems laboratory;
    And refurbishing astronaut training aircraft.
    This legislation aligns with Governor Greg Abbott’s Texas Space Commission’s efforts to further cement Texas as a leader in space exploration, and it supports President Trump’s call during his Joint Address to Congress to “conquer the vast frontiers of science” and “lead humanity into space and plant the American flag on the planet Mars and even far beyond.” As the space race with China accelerates, we must take steps to strengthen our national security and ensure American ingenuity is not weaponized against us. By staying one step ahead of this adversary in our missions to the moon and Mars, this legislation would help reinforce America’s standing as the preeminent global power in space.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Hoeven Introduce Bill to Strengthen Farm Safety Net

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) in introducing the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience (FARMER) Act, legislation to strengthen crop insurance and make higher levels of coverage more affordable for agricultural producers.
    “Farmers must have the risk management tools they need to plan for the future. The FARMER Act would make critical improvements to the farm safety net and deliver support to producers across the country who rely on these programs. I appreciate Senator Hoeven for continuing to lead on this issue as we work to provide certainty to America’s farm families,” Boozman said. 
    “Crop insurance remains the number one risk management tool for our farmers, but it doesn’t provide the kind of affordable coverage options that all producers need. The result has been the repeated need for ad-hoc disaster assistance. Ultimately, producers buying higher levels of coverage will lessen the need for ad-hoc disaster assistance in the future. That means less emergency spending by the federal government, greater certainty for farmers and a more resilient ag economy. Those are wins across the board,” Hoeven said.
    Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Jim Justice (R-WV), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) have cosponsored the bill.
    The FARMER Act would:
    Increase premium support for higher levels of crop insurance coverage, which will enhance affordability and reduce the need for future ad-hoc disaster assistance;
    Improve the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) by increasing premium support and expanding the coverage level, providing producers with an additional level of protection;
    Direct the Risk Management Agency (RMA) to conduct a study to improve the effectiveness of SCO in large counties; and
    Give producers flexibility to make decisions that work best for their operations rather than obligating them to choose between purchasing enhanced crop insurance coverage or participating in Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs.
    The bill is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, American Sugarbeet Growers Association, Crop Insurance and Reinsurance Bureau, Crop Insurance Professionals Association, Farm Credit Council, Midwest Council on Agriculture, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Sunflower Association, USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council, U.S. Beet Sugar Association, U.S. Canola Association, U.S. Durum Growers Association, Southwest Council of Agribusiness and Western Peanut Growers Association.
    The bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Chairman Pham Statement on Court Sanctions Against CFTC

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Commodity Futures Trading Commission Acting Chairman Caroline D. Pham made the following statement regarding the Federal District Court report and recommendations for sanctions against the CFTC for misconduct in CFTC v. Traders Global Group Inc:
    “Americans rightly demand the highest level of conduct, candor, professionalism, and ethics from the federal government—especially law enforcement agencies like the CFTC. As described in detail in the Court’s report, the CFTC engaged in willful and bad faith conduct by making multiple false statements to the Court and other ‘numerous instances of sanctionable behavior’ over the course of a year. This is inexcusable. The CFTC must now accept accountability so that appropriate corrective action can finally be taken to address the conduct issues, and the CFTC can put this behind us and move forward to restore the agency’s credibility and reputation.
    “This case is a wakeup call to those of us who hold and serve the public’s trust. The conduct by CFTC staff and especially CFTC management in this case led to failures that were foreseeable, which means they were also avoidable. I first raised numerous concerns about CFTC conduct in this case nearly two years ago—even before the complaint was filed, and again during the litigation when I reviewed CFTC emails evidencing management efforts to conceal the false statements from the Court. The CFTC not only disregarded my serious concerns and an oversight letter from a member of Congress, but also engaged in a malicious campaign of retaliation and defamation designed to impugn my character and integrity. It is vindicating that the Court cites my prior statements that raised concerns in this case and my efforts to ensure accountability.
    “While the Court’s findings have shined a bright light on the CFTC’s widespread violations of both the duty of candor to the Court and applicable rules of attorney professional conduct, these types of failures are rarely an isolated incident and point to a broader breakdown in the culture of the Division of Enforcement. This case clearly shows that the Division has for far too long maintained a culture that the CFTC is above the law and that breaking the rules is justified because the CFTC is a government agency. This culture is a slippery slope that turns good intentions into bad actions and normalizes wrongdoing.
    “Worse, this culture has predictably led to the abuse of the government’s prosecutorial power and the violation of a defendant’s Constitutional right to due process. I have discovered that for years, many highly respected leaders of the legal profession and former government attorneys have repeatedly raised red flags about CFTC staff conduct in enforcement actions—even before I raised concerns as a Commissioner. It is therefore unsurprising that the Court finds that ‘[w]ithout the imposition of sanctions, [the CFTC’s] conduct appears likely to repeat itself.’
    “Since I became Acting Chairman, I’ve wasted no time in fixing these issues. We’ve reorganized the CFTC’s Division of Enforcement, ensuring cases are appropriately assigned based on staff experience and expertise. We’ve established transparent, public guidelines to encourage greater self-reporting and cooperation in enforcement actions and launched an initiative to reduce a backlog of noncompliance matters, redirecting resources to more serious fraud and manipulation cases. We’ve adopted a Justice Department policy aimed at ending regulation by prosecution, and took steps to improve communication and referral procedures between the Division of Enforcement and the CFTC’s other operating divisions. 
    “I also want to commend our new Director of Enforcement, Brian Young, for taking immediate and proactive steps to promote an ethical culture and enhance continuing education and training opportunities for our enforcement staff to make sure this conduct never happens again, and the CFTC adheres to the highest standards.
    “We are now closing this chapter so we can focus on the future. The CFTC is made up of hundreds of dedicated and talented public servants who routinely demonstrate our value to our markets and American taxpayers. This case does not reflect the CFTC’s people, our values, or our critical mission. Trust is earned, and the CFTC remains committed to delivering for the American people.  As an agency, we will take the lessons learned from this case and be better for it.”
    The Court’s report finds that the CFTC’s conduct and internal communications “. . . implicate involvement of both the CFTC line attorneys and the highest levels of management in the CFTC’s Division of Enforcement.” The Court’s report also finds, “The CFTC, as one of the primary prudential regulators in the United States, has an obligation to discharge all of its obligations—statutory, regulatory, and ethical—faithfully. It also unquestionably has a duty of candor to the Court. However, at almost every stage in this case, the CFTC failed in this regard.” While some CFTC staff were removed from the case in 2024 following the filing of the sanctions motion, the CFTC has taken necessary measures to ensure accountability at all levels, including placing staff on administrative leave pending further investigation.
    Proactive CFTC Remediation and Reform Efforts
    Since being elevated to Acting Chairman in January, Pham has proactively led efforts to overhaul the CFTC’s Division of Enforcement and reform culture and conduct, develop staff, and leverage expertise and reduce siloing. The establishment of a new task force model allows CFTC attorneys to specialize in categories of cases, thereby enhancing relevant knowledge, practices and mentoring opportunities, and reducing the risk of legal or ethical lapses. 
    The Division of Enforcement has also launched a Basic Trial Advocacy Skills training series, with sessions ranging from opening, closing and direct examinations, interactions with jury and opposing counsel, and techniques to avoid creating misimpressions, with more sessions being planned. The sessions offer practical instruction on investigations and litigation as well as opportunities to discuss ethical and discovery dilemmas that can occur in real life litigation scenarios. 
    The Division of Enforcement also delivered various ethics training, including ensuring candor and openness in engagement with defense counsel. It also hosted a training on the American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct as applied to government attorneys, with additional trainings being planned. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: CLARKE SLAMS GOP’S ATTEMPT TO SLASH MEDICAID IN ENERGY AND COMMERCE COMMITTEE

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke (9th District of New York)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    May 13, 2025

    MEDIA CONTACT: 

    e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov

    c: 202.913.0126

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke delivered the following remarks at the Committee on Energy and Commerce Full Committee Reconciliation Markup:

    “I would like to begin by sharing a story of one of my constituents, David. This is David — one of the many faces of Medicaid. David is a 55-year-old Brooklyn resident who has been living with congestive heart failure since 2016. Once a full-time worker, his diagnosis sadly forced him to stop working and rely solely on Medicaid for his healthcare. Medicaid covers all aspects of his medical needs — including the daily medications he has to take, regular cardiac monitoring, and hospital-based care. His condition was so severe that during his first visit to the hospital, he remained admitted for nearly a full year, that extended hospitalization was entirely covered by Medicaid — and it saved his life. He was able to receive this life-saving care at SUNY Downstate, a vital hospital in my district, that also heavily relies on Medicaid dollars to provide high-quality care to their patients — just like most healthcare institutions across the nation, from rural to urban. 

    The medical team there provided him with consistent, high-quality care in a community-based setting. Without Medicaid, David would lose access to his medications and to the physicians who have managed his condition for nearly a decade. David clearly said, ‘If Medicaid is cut, I will have no way to afford my care. No medication. No follow-up. No hospital. Without Medicaid, I will die prematurely.’ David’s story is a powerful example of how essential Medicaid is. It’s not just policy, but a lifeline for Americans in my district and across the nation.

    “Let’s be crystal clear about what’s happening here. We are being asked to sit in this room today and pretend that gutting Medicaid is somehow a ‘necessary evil’ and ‘a tough decision’ made in the name of fiscal responsibility. But it’s not. It is a political CHOICE that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are choosing to make. It is a CHOICE that disproportionately targets low-income communities, communities of color, immigrants, and working-class families. It is a CHOICE that will impact hospital systems, especially in New York, that are still trying to recover from the devastating impacts of COVID-19. It is a CHOICE that will strip away life-saving healthcare for 17.3 million Americans — nearly 7 million, or 1 in 3, New Yorkers who rely on this program.

    “In New York’s 9th District, this amounts to over 65,000 people over the age of 65, over 24,000 disabled children and adults, over 146,000 young adults, over 85,000 parents and caretakers, over 149,000 children, and over 11,000 pregnant women. MAKE NO MISTAKE — this Medicaid cut would hit Republican or red states the hardest. For months, House Republicans have lied about their plans to cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid — and now the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has confirmed that their plan will kick millions of people off their health care. The only winners in the Republican budget scheme are their billionaire donors like Elon Musk.

    “And yet, here we are ONCE AGAIN, witnessing Republicans playing political games with people’s lives, so their billionaire friends enjoy tax breaks and their private jets. ONCE AGAIN, they are here to feed their relentless obsession to dismantle the Affordable Care Act — which we’ve fought to preserve. Somehow we always find the money for tax breaks for the wealthy… but when it comes to health care for working people, suddenly we are out of money? This is boldface cruelty. Their goal is to shift federal support to their donors’ pockets. They are punitive, they are shortsighted, and they will devastate people — like David.

    “So no, I will NOT quietly sit here so that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle can chip away at the health and dignity of the American people and call it ‘compromise.’ In one of the wealthiest and most advanced nations in the world, EVERYONE — no matter their political beliefs — deserves access to quality, affordable health care. This is not fiscal policy. This is a moral failure. And I reject this bill.

    “Cruelty is the point!”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News