NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters’ Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

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

    San Diego, CA – Today, Representative Scott Peters released the following statement upon learning of the passing of Pope Francis:

    “Pope Francis’s loss is particularly painful today, as so many of us were heartened to see him celebrate the Resurrection of Christ yesterday. He reminded Catholics – and all Christians – of the core values of our faith: caring for the poor and most vulnerable among us, outreach to those in most need of acceptance, healing and forgiveness, nurturing the planet and God’s creation, courage, faith, and love and inclusion for all of God’s children.  

    “I was honored to speak at the Vatican’s global climate conference in 2017. Pope Francis lived up to his given name for the Saint from Assisi, who considered all living things his brothers and sisters. Pope Francis’s moral clarity and commitment toward climate action through his Encyclical on climate change and leadership have been critical to the movement to save God’s planet. May God bless him and may he rest in peace.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters and Huizenga Reintroduce Landmark Fiscal Commission Act

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

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA-50) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI-4), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, reintroduced the Fiscal Commission Act. Their commonsense legislation would establish a bipartisan, bicameral, and open-doored commission to tackle our nation’s long-term debt, help us avoid automatic and across-the-board cuts to Social Security and Medicare, and secure a more prosperous future for our children. The commission would be required to put forward recommendations on adjusting both taxes and spending to reduce our borrowing, hold field hearings, and educate the public on its work.   

    “When I first introduced this legislation two years ago, we estimated that interest payments on the national debt would exceed defense and Medicaid spending in a decade. Today, we are already at that point,” said Rep. Peters. “Our accelerating fiscal crisis threatens to bankrupt our children’s future. Congress has been too timid or too afraid to act but kicking the can down the road only makes solving this problem more costly and painful. ‘Regular order’ and the status quo have not worked for the last twenty years, we owe it to the American people to do something different.”  

    “Our bipartisan Fiscal Commission Act is the most practical, immediate, and comprehensive action Congress can take right now to end our nation’s deepening fiscal crisis,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “If we do not address the unsustainable trajectory of our national debt, Americans who rely on Medicare and Social Security will face mandatory cuts to their benefits. We can protect and preserve these vital programs while improving the fiscal health of our nation by passing the Fiscal Commission Act and finally forcing Congress to act.” 

    Fromer Senator Rob Portman said, “one of our challenges as a country is how to find common ground to solve tough policy problems. Sometimes, when Congress can’t find a way forward, we have turned to bipartisan commissions to break through partisan gridlock to move the country forward. I believe we have reached that moment when it comes to addressing our unsustainable federal debt. A bipartisan group of key lawmakers and outside experts established by Congress has the potential both to bring people along by outlining the fiscal crisis in an objective and transparent way and to chart a responsible, bipartisan way ahead. I applaud Representatives Huizenga and Peters for introducing the Fiscal Commission Act. Their leadership shows that Democrats and Republicans can still work together to confront tough issues and put the country’s long-term interests first.” 

    Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said, “A bipartisan fiscal commission would give the country’s fiscal situation the attention it urgently deserves. Fixing our growing debt will not be easy, but the Fiscal Commission Act would create a venue for serious, cross-party dialogue and help pave the way toward a more sustainable fiscal future. We commend Representatives Huizenga and Peters, co-chairs of the Bipartisan Fiscal Forum, for their leadership in putting forward a thoughtful, serious proposal to confront one of our greatest long-term challenges.” 

    Ben Ritz, Vice President of  the Progressive Policy Institute, said “at a time when our government is spending more money on interest payments than it is on national defense or Medicaid, Congress should be working to get our debt under control — not add to it with several trillion dollars of unfunded tax cuts. The Fiscal Commission Act is a small first step towards fixing the problem rather than making it worse.” 

    The Fiscal Commission Act would create a committee of  

    16 members selected by Congressional leadership of each party. Each party leader selects 4 members (3 colleagues from their chamber and 1 outside expert). Final makeup would be 6 House members (3 R, 3 D), 6 Senators (3 R, 3 D), and 4 outside experts (2 R, 2 D). Approving the commission’s recommendations requires a majority vote including at least 3 members of each party, and outside experts do not vote. 

    Background: 

    Reps. Peters and Huizenga first introduced the Fiscal Commission Act in September 2023. The legislation passed out of the House Budget Committee in January 2024. 

    The Fiscal Commission Act is supported by Representatives Ed Case (D-HI), Herb Conaway (D-NJ), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Jared Golden (D-ME), Adam Gray (D-CA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), William Timmons (R-SC), Cory Mills (R-FL), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Blake Moore (R-UT), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), David Schweikert (R-AZ) , John Moolenaar (R-MI), David Rouzer (R-NC), Erin Houchin (R-IN), David Valadao (R-CA), & Andy Barr (R-KY). 

    Read the full text of the Fiscal Commission Act here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Reintroduces the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act

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

    Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to address the childcare needs of law enforcement officers and their families. The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act will help local police departments establish childcare options for their officers and address the nationwide police staffing shortages by making it easier for parents to enter and stay in the field. Rep. Peters is joined by Representatives David Valadao (CA-22), Josh Harder (CA-9), and Darrell Issa (CA-48) as co-leads on this legislation. 

      

    “Access to quality, reliable childcare is essential to recruitment and retention of the best, most representative police force we can have,” said Rep. Peters. “Our officers go out every day and ensure our children are safe — the least we can do is make sure there is someone to watch their kids when they are on duty. San Diego is leading the way to expand childcare opportunities for police officers, and I am working to support those efforts at the federal level.” 

     

    “Our Central Valley police departments continue to face staffing shortages, and we need real solutions to support the people who put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” said Rep. Valadao. “By making childcare more accessible for officers working long, irregular hours, this bipartisan bill reduces a major barrier for working parents in law enforcement and helps improve public safety in our communities.” 

     

    “We have a responsibility to provide our police officers with the tools, training, and equipment they need to safeguard our streets and protect our communities,” said Rep.  Issa. “This bill represents a creative and innovative approach to not only advance law and order everywhere it is needed, but allowing these brave men and women on the front lines to be both parents and police.” 

     

    “This is a no brainer – keeping our families safe starts by recruiting and retaining top-tier police officers,” said Rep. Harder. “Making sure our officers have access to quality, affordable child care means we increase the pool of talented, diverse recruits and keeps officers on the streets helping our communities.” 

     

    The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act will: 

    − Establish a pilot program under the Administration for Children and Families to supply grants to law enforcement agencies to provide child care benefits to their officers. 

    − Authorize $24 million in funding for each of the next five fiscal years. Law enforcement agencies will be able to use this funding to construct or operate new center for police departments’ exclusive use, offer scholarships to subsidize the cost of care, or provide assistance for care for children with disabilities.  

    − Allow law enforcement agencies, local governments, and child care providers to determine each of their responsibilities while requiring local entities to contribute a scaled matching requirement over a three-year grant period. 

    − Set aside 20% of the total grant funding for police departments employing fewer than 200 officers. 

    − Require HHS to report to Congress the grant recipients, corresponding law enforcement agencies, employee retention and recruitment data, and the unmet child care needs of other first responder sectors. 

     

     

    San Diego is home to a first-of-its-kind local law enforcement child care facility which opened last year. 

      

    “As leaders of the 30×30 Initiative to advance women in policing, we commend Congressman Scott Peters for introducing this crucial legislation. Access to affordable, reliable child care is essential to recruiting and retaining women in law enforcement and other public safety roles. This bill represents a vital step toward investing in structural supports that improve the workplace for all employees and enhance public safety outcomes.” — Maureen McGough, Co-Founder, and Dr. Tanya Meisenholder, Director, 30×30 Initiative 

     

    “Law Enforcement Officers struggle daily trying to maintain a family life. Their schedules are both erratic and not predictable. Through their shift work, mandatory overtime court appearances and unpredictable critical incidents, they have to arrange care for minor children. It is often nearly impossible. This bill would provide that safety net for these dedicated public servants while allowing them to be responsible parents.”  — Sam Cabral, President of the International Union of Police Associations (IUPA) 

     

    “The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act removes barriers to entry and retention for law enforcement parents by helping agencies establish childcare centers specifically tailored for officers and the nonstandard hours they work. The San Diego Police Officers Association, a NAPO member organization, created the first such childcare center in the nation and it has yielded a marked improvement in police work by easing the stresses and worries of childcare for officer parents.  This bill contributes to safer communities by assisting in the recruitment and retention of law enforcement officers.  We stand with Congressman Peters in support of this important bill and thank him for his leadership and support of the law enforcement community.” — Bill Johnson, Executive Director, National Association of Police Organizations 

     

    “Law enforcement officers have extremely demanding jobs, which are made even more difficult by the often-unconventional hours and the stresses of shift work. It is even more challenging for officers with young children. Many of these officers work nights or have non-traditional hours and may not have viable options for affordable childcare. Since most childcare programs only operate during traditional hours, the programs are often unable to accommodate law enforcement families.  The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act addresses this issue by authorizing $24 million per year through Fiscal Year 2030 and will help law enforcement agencies establish childcare programs that work for these families. We are proud to support Representative Peters’ efforts to pass this legislation.” —  Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police 

      

    “PORAC strongly supports this bill to help ensure accessible and affordable childcare for peace officers across the nation. This vital legislation tackles childcare barriers for officers, boosting recruitment, retention, and public safety. PORAC is proud to lead the charge for our nation’s law enforcement families.” — Brian Marvel, President of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) 

      

    “As recruiting and retention of police officers has become increasingly challenging across America, the San Diego Police Officer’s Association appreciates and supports Congressman Peters’ innovative Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act.  Childcare, in both rising cost and limited availability, has become a barrier to mothers and parents protecting and serving their communities.  This Act will help bridge that gap and help recruit from a wider group of people who want to serve their communities.” — Jared Wilson, President of San Diego Police Officer’s Association 

     

    “Thank you, Representative Peters, for your unwavering commitment to the vital issue of childcare assistance for law enforcement officers and deputies. I am a firm believer that our law enforcement officers and deputies deserve comprehensive support both on and off the job. Grant funding for childcare services is a crucial step in acknowledging the unique challenges these dedicated professionals face. As a profession that works around the clock, our employees make personal sacrifices to fulfill our mission of keeping everyone safe. Investing in our deputies ensures they can focus on protecting the community while knowing their families are cared for. I stand strongly in support for the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act.” – Kelly A. Martinez, Sheriff, San Diego County 

     

     

    Background: 

    In recent years, law enforcement agencies have struggled to retain, hire, and train officers. At the same time, the nation has faced a shortage of child care providers, driving up costs and reducing options for working families. Police officers, in particular, are challenged by their nonstandard work schedules, with most child care centers operating under a 9 to 5 work day. Rep. Peters’ legislation would help ease this significant barrier to entry and retention for parents who wish to pursue careers in law enforcement and would help expand child care capacity in regions that are most in need. 

      

    Full text of the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters Launches Build America Caucus

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

    Abundance-Oriented Caucus to Focus on Peters’ Priorities: Unleashing American Energy, Building More Housing, Investing in Science

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50), along with a bipartisan group of Congressmembers, launched the Build America Caucus as a founding member. The caucus will support the abundance movement: to ensure government delivers for Americans by tackling the self-imposed red tape that has led to a constricted and costly energy system, out-of-control housing costs, decades of infrastructure delays, and lagging investments. The caucus will also reinforce America’s lead in, and need to support, scientific discovery. The American people have lost faith in government’s ability to get things done, and instead often see government as an obstacle to timely results. The Build America Caucus will work to restore the public’s trust by advancing substantive legislation to cut red-tape and lower the cost of living.  

    Rep. Peters’ remarks at the caucus launch below:  

    “America prides itself on accomplishing big things:  winning world wars, sending man to the moon, or discovering the next medical breakthrough.  

    “During World War II, San Diego factories built a bomber an hour, a bomber an hour.  

    “We did it because the need was urgent. So, we found a way.  

    Our challenges have not gone away — our capacity to achieve great things has. 

    “Homelessness is on the rise, our electrical grid can’t meet future demand, and our competitors like China are supplanting our role as the scientific powerhouse of the world. 

    “We know we must build more housing, expand our grid, and invest in basic scientific research. Yet, we let NIMBYs from both sides hold projects hostage. We let so-called “environmental” groups mire transmission and clean energy projects in decades of litigation. And this administration slashes scientific funding and deters the best minds in the world from coming here. 

    “Today, we launch the Build America Caucus, the pro-growth abundance caucus, to think bigger and take real action to solve these problems, not just pay lip service. People are frustrated with all the delay, gridlock, and government-imposed red tape. Too often, we as lawmakers see that problem as the system we work in, instead of the system we have the power to change.  

    “I am working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to rework the 50-year-old environmental laws that are ironically used to stop clean energy projects. This isn’t easy. We came close last year with the Energy Permitting Reform Act in the Senate, but it came with immense opposition from those who think the status quo is acceptable. We know that it is not. 

    “This caucus will stand ready to face the pressure from all sides on strong bipartisan efforts like this, as a commonsense majority that tunes out the noise so that we can get shit done.  

    “There are many political fights in D.C., but when I go back home, what I hear about over and over is the cost of living. The cost of housing, and electricity, and childcare. They are counting on us to put politics aside to make their lives better. That’s exactly what the Build America Caucus plans to do.”  

    Background:  

    Representative Peters has long championed the movement to make government more efficient, build more housing, update outdated laws to deliver reliable and affordable energy to power our economy, and invest in scientific innovation.

    Rep. Peters’ legislation in this space includes:

    The Building Chips in America Act* 

    The BIG WIRES Act 

    The SPEED and Reliability Act 

    The FASTER Act 

    The Advanced Reactor Fee Act*  

    The Build More Housing Near Transit Act 

    The Fix Our Forests Act 

    *Now law 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Peters & Colleagues Reintroduce Landmark Legislation to Restore Patent Protections

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA-50) and Kevin Kiley (R-CA-03) and U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE) reintroduced legislation to restore patent eligibility for inventions that are essential to the life sciences and technology industries. Their Patent Eligibility Restoration Act will help support American businesses and universities from foreign actors that stand to steal their innovations.  

    “For more than two centuries, a U.S. patent has guaranteed inventions will be protected from theft, helping the U.S. become the innovation capital of the world. San Diego, in particular, is the proud home of a thriving life sciences and technology ecosystem that has benefited from these protections,” said Rep. Peters. “Over the last 15 years, however, several Supreme Court decisions have created confusion about what exactly is eligible for a patent. Innovators, consumers, and even the judges who adjudicate patent law have called on Congress to provide clarity on what can be patented. I look forward to working with Congressman Kiley, Senator Coons, and Senator Tillis to advance our Patent Eligibility Restoration Act and protect American innovation.” 

    “American innovators have been at a disadvantage in recent years because of the U.S. patent system,” said Rep. Kiley. “Convoluted Supreme Court rulings and tests on subject matter eligibility have made it increasingly difficult for inventors to receive patents, leading to foreign companies overtaking our own. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the bi-partisan Patent Eligibility Restoration Act, which will dramatically reverse this trend, and unleash a tide of economic growth and job creation here at home.” 

    “When American innovators know their ideas are eligible for patent protection, they take the risks that push us into the future – whether that’s the next medical test or the latest AI technology,” said Senator Coons. “PERA restores clarity to the law on what can be patented and what cannot – guidance that federal courts have been requesting for years and that the Supreme Court has refused to provide. Congress must step up to provide America’s inventors with the stable legal foundation they need to produce the cutting-edge technologies that power our economy.” 

    “Clear, reliable, and predictable patent rights are imperative to enable investments in the broad array of innovative technologies that are critical to the economic and global competitiveness of the United States, and to ensuring the national security of our great country,” said Senator Tillis. “Unfortunately, a series of Supreme Court decisions have rendered patent eligibility law unclear, unreliable, and unpredictable, resulting in U.S. inventors being unable to obtain patents in areas where our economic peers offer patent protection. This is particularly concerning in the economically critical areas of biotechnology and artificial intelligence. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation maintains the existing statutory categories of eligible subject matter, which have worked well for over two centuries, while addressing inappropriate judicially created eligibility limitations by creating clear rules for what is eligible. We cannot allow foreign adversaries like China to overtake us in key areas of technology innovation due to the current state of patent eligibility law. I look forward to continuing to work with all stakeholders on this important matter. Passing patent eligibility reform is one of my top legislative priorities.” 

    Background: 

    Throughout our history, patent law has generally recognized three limited judicial exceptions to patent eligibility: abstract ideas, natural phenomena, and laws of nature. Since 2010, the Supreme Court has handed down several rulings that vastly expand those three initial exceptions. As a result, new medical diagnostics, like those pioneered by the biosciences community in San Diego, are almost entirely excluded from patent eligibility. 

    There is widespread bipartisan agreement in Congress and across recent Administrations that reforms are necessary to restore the United States to a position of global strength and leadership in key areas of technology and innovation, such as medical diagnostics, biotechnology, personalized medicine, artificial intelligence, 5G, and blockchain. 

    PERA would replace vague judicial exceptions like “abstract ideas” and “laws of nature” with a clear statutory framework for determining patent eligibility. This change will give inventors and courts predictable guidelines, reducing confusion and inconsistency in patent determinations. 

    By broadening patent eligibility to include areas like AI and medical diagnostics, PERA brings U.S. patent law in line with our international competitors. This alignment will help prevent innovation and investment in these areas from drying up in the United States and flowing to countries with more accommodating patent systems. 

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Applauds Historic Inclusion of his School Choice Legislation in Tax Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today released a statement applauding the inclusion of hisEducational Choice for Children Act (ECCA) in the tax bill to expand President Trump’s tax cuts released by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Ways and Means.
    “For years I’ve advocated for school choice with my Educational Choice for Children Act. I am pleased to see it included in the big, beautiful bill,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Expanding President Trump’s tax cuts is about preserving the American Dream. Giving parents the ability to choose the best education for their child makes the dream possible.”
    In January, Cassidy and U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) led their colleagues in introducing ECCA to expand educational freedom and opportunity for students. Specifically, it provides a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $4.6 Million for Hurricane Ida Recovery Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $4,558,830.45 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for permanent repairs following Hurricane Ida.
    “Whether it’s a firehouse or a theater, these buildings matter to a community,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding improves public safety and restores cultural spaces for folks that live in the New Orleans area.”
    The City of New Orleans will receive $1,367,392.50 in federal funding for permanent repairs to the Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts building damaged during Hurricane Ida. The City of Harahan will receive $3,191,437.95 in federal funding for the replacement of Fire Station No. 25 damaged following of Hurricane Ida.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $16.9 Million for Hurricanes Ida, Francine Recovery

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $16,869,114.99 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for building replacements, permanent repairs, and emergency protective measures following Hurricanes Ida and Francine.
    “From schools to public safety, this funding helps our communities recover, rebuild, and prepare for the future,” said Dr. Cassidy. 
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $1,597,661.02
    Town of Jean Lafitte
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the Town Hall building following Hurricane Ida.
    $6,259,500.35
    Terrebonne Parish
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to the Original Diesel Plant Generator Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $2,450,731.50
    Jefferson Parish Public School System
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs to Bissonet Plaza Elementary School following Hurricane Ida.
    $5,082,284.70
    Terrebonne Parish District Attorney’s Office
    This grant will provide federal funding for replacement of the Kirschman Building following Hurricane Ida.
    $1,478,937.42
    Louisiana Department of Public Safety
    This grant will provide federal funding for emergency protective measures taken during Hurricane Francine.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Exposing The Democrat Corrupt Drug Pricing Scheme

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

    Biden, Bernie, Obama, Klobuchar, Pocahontas, AOC, Blumenthal—ran their mouths about lowering drug prices. But they lied. They protected The Democrat Corrupt Drug Pricing Scheme that bled Americans dry. President Trump actually signed an EO to lower drug costs & put Americans first.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGW18lu7_fM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Blew Up The Democrat Corrupt Drug Pricing Scheme

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

    Democrats talk about lowering drug prices—but they protected the rigged system that sent costs through the roof. Today, President Trump signed an executive order and blew up The Democrat Corrupt Drug Pricing Scheme—to make prescription drugs affordable for Americans.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6xhdXWkuGg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Applauds House Ways & Means Committee for Including Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit in Tax Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Fischer established the first-ever nationwide PFML in 2017 Tax Cuts & Jobs Act; bill builds upon 2017 law to better serve working familiesToday, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after the House Ways & Means Committee unveiled a tax bill which includes her Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit Extension and Enhancement Act:“It is welcome news the House Ways and Means Committee has produced a tax bill that includes my Paid Family and Medical Leave tax credit, which helps businesses of all sizes offer PFML plans to their employees. Thank you to my House counterpart and Ways and Means Committee Member, Rep. Randy Feenstra, for working to get this provision inserted. I look forward to getting this important bill over the finish line to support America’s working families,” said Fischer.Fischer’s work on Paid Family and Medical Leave:Fischer and Senator Angus King (I-Maine) established the country’s first-ever nationwide PFML policy, which was included in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and implemented in 2018. Fischer and King reintroduced the bill in February, which builds upon the 2017 law to better serve working families. It also provides additional ways for businesses to qualify for the paid leave tax credit, such as paying for PFML insurance products, and requires greater outreach efforts to raise awareness about the credit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Discussions with the People’s Republic of China

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby determine and order:
    Section 1.  Background.  In Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports With a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), I declared a national emergency arising from conditions reflected in large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits, and imposed additional ad valorem duties that I deemed necessary and appropriate to deal with that unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and economy of the United States.  Section 4(b) of Executive Order 14257 provided that “[s]hould any trading partner retaliate against the United States in response to this action through import duties on U.S. exports or other measures, I may further modify the [Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States] to increase or expand in scope the duties imposed under this order to ensure the efficacy of this action.”In Executive Order 14259 of April 8, 2025 (Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties as Applied to Low-Value Imports From the People’s Republic of China), and Executive Order 14266 of April 9, 2025 (Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates To Reflect Trading Partner Retaliation and Alignment), pursuant to section 4(b) of Executive Order 14257, I ordered modifications of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) to raise the applicablead valorem duty rate for imports from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) established in Executive Order 14257, in recognition of the fact that the State Council Tariff Commission of the PRC announced that it would retaliate against the United States in response to Executive Order 14257 and Executive Order 14259.Section 4(c) of Executive Order 14257 provided that, “[s]hould any trading partner take significant steps to remedy non-reciprocal trade arrangements and align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters, I may further modify the HTSUS to decrease or limit in scope the duties imposed under this order.”  Since I signed Executive Order 14266, the United States has entered into discussions with the PRC to address the lack of trade reciprocity in our economic relationship and our resulting national and economic security concerns.  Conducting these discussions is a significant step by the PRC toward remedying non-reciprocal trade arrangements and addressing the concerns of the United States relating to economic and national security matters.
    Pursuant to section 4(c) of Executive Order 14257, I have determined that it is necessary and appropriate to address the national emergency declared in that order by modifying the HTSUS to suspend for a period of 90 days application of the additional ad valorem duties imposed on the PRC listed in Annex I to Executive Order 14257, as amended by Executive Order 14259 and Executive Order 14266, and clarified in the Presidential Memorandum of April 11, 2025 (Clarification of Exceptions Under Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as Amended), and to instead impose on articles of the PRC an additional ad valorem rate of duty as set forth herein, pursuant to the terms of, and except as otherwise provided in, Executive Order 14257, as modified by this order. 
    Sec. 2.  Suspension of Country-Specific Ad Valorem Rate of Duty.  Effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 14, 2025, all articles imported into the customs territory of the United States from the PRC, including Hong Kong and Macau, shall be, consistent with law, subject to an additional ad valorem rate of duty of 10 percent subject to all applicable exceptions set forth in Executive Order 14257 and the Presidential Memorandum of April 11, 2025.  This ad valorem rate of duty of 10 percent reflects (i) the modification of the application of the additional ad valorem rate of duty on articles of China (including articles of Hong Kong and Macau) set forth in Executive Order 14257, by suspending 24 percentage points of that rate for an initial period of 90 days, and the retention of the remaining ad valorem rate of 10 percent on those articles pursuant to the terms of said order; and (ii) the removal of the modified additional ad valorem rates of duty on those articles imposed by Executive Order 14259 and Executive Order 14266.
    Sec. 3.  Tariff Modifications.  In recognition of the intentions of the PRC to facilitate addressing the national emergency declared in Executive Order 14257, the HTSUS shall be modified as follows:Effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 14, 2025: (a)  heading 9903.01.25 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting the article description and by inserting “Articles the product of any country, except for products described in headings 9903.01.26–9903.01.33, and except as provided for in heading 9903.01.34, as provided for in subdivision (v) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter . . . . . . ” in lieu thereof;(b)  heading 9903.01.63 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “125%” each place that it appears and by inserting “34%” in lieu thereof;(c)  subdivision (v)(xiii)(10) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “125%”, and by inserting “34%” in lieu thereof; and(d)  heading 9903.01.63 and subdivision (v)(xiii)(10) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS are hereby suspended for a period of 90 days beginning at 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 14, 2025.
    Sec. 4.  De Minimis Tariff Decrease.  To ensure that the reduction in duties pursuant to section 2 of this order is made fully effective and the purpose of Executive Order 14257, as amended, is not undermined, I also deem it necessary and appropriate to:(a)  decrease the ad valorem rate of duty set forth in section 2(c)(i) of Executive Order 14256 of April 2, 2025 (Further Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China as Applied to Low-Value Imports), as modified by Executive Order 14259 and Executive Order 14266, from 120 percent to 54 percent;(b)  retain in effect the per postal item containing goods duty of 100 dollars in section 2(c)(ii) of Executive Order 14256, as modified by Executive Order 14259 and Executive Order 14266, that has been in effect since 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 2, 2025, unless and until otherwise modified by a subsequent executive action, notwithstanding the increase contemplated effective June 1, 2025, pursuant to Executive Order 14256, as modified by Executive Order 14259 and Executive Order 14266; and(c)  modify the HTSUS, effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on May 14, 2025, as follows:(i)   subdivision (w) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “120 percent”, and by inserting “54 percent” in lieu thereof; and(ii)  subdivision (w) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS shall be amended by deleting “, and before 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 1, 2025.  For merchandise entered for consumption on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on June 1, 2025, the applicable specific duty rate is $200 per postal item containing such goods.”
    Sec. 5.  Implementation.  The Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative, as applicable, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing, and the Chair of the United States International Trade Commission, are directed to take all necessary actions to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices in the Federal Register and adopting rules and regulations, and are authorized to take such actions, and to employ all powers granted to the President by IEEPA, as may be necessary to implement this order.  Each executive department and agency shall take all appropriate measures within its authority to implement this order.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.(b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.(c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.(d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Commerce.  
                                   DONALD J. TRUMP   THE WHITE HOUSE,    May 12, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Charged With Re-entry Of Deported Alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that MARLON SANTOS (“SANTOS”), age 36, a native of Honduras, was indicted on May 8, 2025, for re-entry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

    According to court documents, SANTOS was found in Orleans Parish on April 21, 2025.  He had previously been removed to Honduras on December 21, 2018.

    If convicted, SANTOS faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the 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).

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

    *   *   *

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Revolutionising Predator Control: A New Wave of Tech Tools Accelerating New Zealand’s Predator Free Mission

    Source: Predator Free 2050

    Aotearoa New Zealand’s fight for a predator free future has taken a bold leap forward, with a powerful suite of next-generation tools and technologies already starting to transform pest management across the motu.
    Developed through Predator Free 2050 Limited (PF2050 Limited) Products to Projects (P2P) funding of innovation since 2019, 20 cutting-edge tools are becoming operational with more on the way. These tools range from AI-driven detection systems and remote monitoring networks to smarter traps and more targeted toxin use.
    Over $8 million in revenue sales to developers has been accomplished to date, with further commitments to purchase from interested parties later this year. A number of these tools are also gaining international attention with sales as far afield as Guam, Scotland, USA and the UK. Not only is this good news for the developers, it’s also further growing New Zealand’s reputation as global leaders in pest management for conservation.
    “These tools are game-changers,” says PF2050 Limited Research and Development Project Support Manager Olivia Rothwell. “For example, the ‘Backcountry Camera’, a remote-reporting thermal camera with onboard AI image recognition, is enabling the maintenance of tens of thousands of hectares of predator free space in Predator Free South Westland.”
    ‘’This is no longer just about one device. It’s an ecosystem of tools-powered by cutting-edge technology, informed by our in-depth knowledge of possums, rats and mustelids, and brought together through local innovation to protect our native species,” Rothwell says.
    The Toolbox
    Better Luring
    – PoaUku- Developed by Boffa Miskell, these long-life ceramic-based lures can stay attractive in the field for up to three months and be refilled when they run out. Two versions are available – one for mustelids (stoats, ferrets and weasels) and one for possums and rats.
    – EzyLure- Developed by Boffa Miskell, this is a set-and-forget device that automatically dispenses fresh lure at pre-determined intervals. It can be retrofitted to a wide range of existing traps and bait stations and paired with trail cameras for effective monitoring.
    – Motolure- Developed by Zero Invasive Predators, Motolure dispenses a preset amount of fresh lure for up to one year without requiring manual service. It can be used as a lure for traps, a prefeeding tool, a detection device, and a biomarker tool to monitor predator movements.
    Remote Monitoring
    – BaitSense- Developed by eTrapper, Baitsense provides a near real-time view of levels in mini Philproof Gen III baitstations. Data is remote-reported and displayed on the Trap.NZ web platform, making it free for the user to be notified if bait is being taken or if a refill is required.
    – Backcountry Camera- Developed by Zero Invasive Predators, is a remote-reporting thermal video camera with onboard AI image recognition that supports landscape-scale predator surveillance across tens of thousands of hectares in Predator Free South Westland.
    – Smart Camera Monitoring System- Developed by Critter Solutions, this trail-camera with onboard AI image recognition and thermal triggering offers improved detection and species recognition. The camera can also send alerts of images taken of target species in real-time.
    Remote Communication
    – OutPost- Developed by Zero Invasive Predators, this is a remote communication system for traps and detection cameras. Outpost can be paired with a range of devices and utilises LoRaWan to send data out of remote landscapes where there is no cell connectivity.
    – Flexicomms- Developed by Critter Solutions, Flexicomms is a remote communication platform (web-based front and back end) developed for trap and detection device integration. Currently a cell-based version, it will also utilise OneNZ direct-to-satellite IoT technology.
    – Connected Leg-Hold Traps- Developed by Encounter Solutions, this system enables real-time notification from, and monitoring of, leg-hold traps over even challenging topographies (utilising the Celium network, a dynamic low-power long-range communication system).
    – Live Capture Remote Locking- Developed by Encounter Solutions, also utilising the Celium network, this system allows users to remotely lock live capture cage-traps, ensuring that animal welfare is maintained when staff are unable to physically disable live capture traps.
    Supporting Software
    – CamTrap- Developed by Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, this free to use AI image recognition software can identify 11 species and supports the rapid assessment for predator detection of images that standard motion-triggered cameras (‘trail cameras’) produce.
    – Open Sensor Network- Developed by Trap.NZ and using LoRaWAN (a low power long range wide area network protocol), this enables ‘off-the-shelf’ hardware to send trap-trigger alerts and data directly to the Trap.NZ platform (a free predator control data management app).
    – Deployment & Planning Module- Developed by Trap.NZ, these new functions enable Trap.NZ users to better plan predator trapping deployment within the Trap.NZ web app. Recording functions also help users to keep track of landowner permissions and device installations.
    Self-resetting Traps
    – AT220- Developed by NZ AutoTraps, the AT220 is New Zealand’s first multi-species, automatic resetting and re-luring predator trap, controlling both possums and rats for predator free. It has been shown to quickly and effectively control pest populations with minimal labour costs.
    – Multi-species AI Kill Trap- Developed by Critter Solutions, this trap with AI species recognition targets mice, rats, mustelids and possums with the highest animal-welfare rating. With open architecture, it can target shy pests while protecting native wildlife.
    High-interaction Rate Traps
    – High Interaction Rate Trap- Developed by The Cacophony Project, this earlier version of the High Interaction Rate Trap is an open-architecture motion-sensing multi-species cage trap, ideal for targeting remaining hard to control predator individuals, or those re-invading.
    – Intelligent High Interaction Rate Trap- The Cacophony Project further developed their trap to include a PIR (passive infrared red) sensor and an automated reset mechanism, further improving its sensitivity for capturing predators and allowing it to be deployed for longer.
    – PosStop- Developed by Zero Invasive Predators, this is an improved raised set for the leg-hold trapping of possums, still one of the best approaches that we have for helping to eliminate remaining possum individuals following their knock-down control in backcountry landscapes.
    Selective Toxin Application
    – Wildlife Friendly Bait Station- Developed by Zero Invasive Predators, this bait station effectively delivers toxic bait to predators over long periods while ensuring that non-targets cannot access the bait (with a focus on being safe for kea in backcountry landscapes).
    – Possum Spitfire- Developed by Envico Technologies, the Spitfire is a self-resetting, species-specific toxin delivery device, that uses a sensor array to accurately spray liquid toxin onto the stomach of only possums (and no other species), which is then ingested during grooming.
    Latest Technology Videos 
    https://youtu.be/0KMzv6scjss – Envico Technologies Limited
    https://youtu.be/zZO-j1lroIg – Encounter Solutions 
    https://youtu.be/N4Ic7u1A8FI – Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research
    https://youtu.be/TgQpbaC58II – Critter Solutions
    https://youtu.be/xJ3w7PjfhIg – Zero Invasive Predators

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Gomez Statement on Trump Caving on China Tariffs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    U.S. and China Agree to 90-Day Tariff Pause As Trade War Continues

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) issued the following statement after President Trump announced a 90-day pause in U.S.-China tariffs and cutting the U.S. tariff rate from 145% to 30%. In response, China is lowering its tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%.

    “Trump paused his tariffs on Chinese imports because of one word: Christmas,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. “During my tour of the Port of Los Angeles, I learned retailers weren’t placing orders for the holidays due to Trump’s tariffs. That means we would be seeing severe shortages right now, making it nearly impossible or incredibly expensive for families to find the perfect Christmas gift—including clothes, electronics, and toys like dolls. Trump may be backing off now, but the economic damage is done. Shipments are still delayed, empty ships aren’t returning to carry our agricultural exports, and getting things back on track will take more than a month. The worst part is that working families are paying the price.”

    Rep. Jimmy Gomez — a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees trade — has been holding the administration accountable in committee and led the Congressional Dads Caucus in calling out the harm to working families, and fighting to pass legislation to shut down Trump’s global tariffs, prevent him from punishing allies, and put Congress back in charge of trade. He recently visited the Port of LA to hear directly from port staff and highlight the real-world consequences of President Trump’s tariffs on imported goods — including a projected 35% drop in cargo volume next week. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Statement on Congressional Republicans Pushing Largest Medicaid Cut In History, Kicking Millions Off SNAP and Nutrition Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Nonpartisan CBO Analysis Shows All Savings from Republican Bill Come from Benefit Cuts, Terminating Health Coverage, and Payment Cuts for Doctors, Hospitals, Nursing Homes, and Home Care Providers
    House Committees Meeting This Week to Advance Tax Scam, Gut Medicaid and Nutrition Programs
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on Congressional Republicans advancing a reconciliation bill that would strip millions of Americans of their health insurance and access to vital nutrition programs:
    “Congressional Republicans are moving forward this week with the Trump Tax Scam 2.0 – and in the process, they’re kicking millions off their health insurance, gutting vital nutrition assistance, and putting the health and well-being of the most vulnerable Americans at risk. All of this is being done to pass yet another tax scam for the wealthiest Americans and corporate interests.
    “This plan raises costs for families and rips opportunities away. From seniors in nursing homes and children in school meal programs, to veterans needing care, these drastic cuts will leave Americans behind. This playbook isn’t new – and once again, it’s hardworking Americans who will pay the price. Democrats will fight back to protect Medicaid, SNAP, and the dignity that all Americans deserve.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and Africa Prosperity Network sign a Strategic Partnership on the eve of the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan

    SOURCE: The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business

    Strategic MoU establishes framework for collaboration, event reciprocity, and new joint initiatives to accelerate Canada-Africa trade and investment
    ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, May 12, 2025 – The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business (www.CanadaAfrica.ca) and The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the occasion of the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, marking a significant step forward in strengthening economic ties between Canada and African investments.

    The MoU was formalized during a high-level reception at the Canadian Embassy last night, with Paula Caldwell St-Onge, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, and Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, Chair of the Africa Prosperity Network, as signatories. The MoU was witnessed by H.E. Anderson Blanc, Canada’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, who graciously hosted the Official Canadian Reception during the Africa CEO Forum currently underway.

    Retired Ambassador St-Onge, who previously served as Director General for Pan African Affairs in the Government of Canada, emphasized the agreement’s practical impact: “This MoU includes tangible commitments to reciprocity between our organizations’ extensive program offerings and establishes a framework for new collaborative initiatives that will directly support the acceleration of Canada-Africa trade and investment.”

    “I would like to extend special thanks to former Board Chair Sebastian Spio-Garbrah for his leadership in bringing this initiative to fruition,” added St-Onge during her remarks at the Opening Reception of the Canada Program during the Africa CEO Forum, where the Canada-Africa Chamber served as an official partner with private sector support.

    Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, co-signatory to the MoU, highlighted the alignment with his organization’s mission: “At APN, we believe in strong and practical partnerships that result in bankable projects across the continent. This partnership with the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business creates new pathways for meaningful economic engagement.”

    “This MoU is more than a formal agreement — it is a bridge between ideas, people, and shared ambitions,” said His Excellency Anderson Blanc, the Ambassador of Canada to Côte d’Ivoire. “Canada is committed to fostering partnerships that harness innovation and create meaningful connections between African and Canadian businesses. We believe in the potential of dialogue, collaboration, and forward-looking engagement to deliver tangible benefits to our respective populations.”

    About The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business:
    Founded in 1994, the Chamber is based in Toronto with members located throughout Canada and African markets.  The Chamber is an independent, not-for-profit organization with strong working links with both Canadian and African businesses and governments. ‘Our membership rates are provided thanks to the generous support of several existing private sector members who sponsor the Chamber,” says Chamber President Garreth Bloor.

    “We thank our generous supporters for ensuring we can deliver our mission – as a proudly independent Not-for-Profit organization, dedicated to accelerating trade and investment through world-class networking and information-sharing events across Canada and the African continent.”

    For more information visit: www.CanadaAfrica.ca

    About The Africa Prosperity Network:
    The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) is a private non-profit organisation founded to advance the vision of “Africa We Want,” as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It strives to promote Africa’s progress, independent of external aid. Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD). The Africa Prosperity Dialogues series offers a strategic platform where movers and shakers across Africa elevate the continent’s economic integration objectives from ambition to real action.

    Set in Accra, the APD is a one-of-a-kind event where African leaders from diverse areas of national endeavour gather each year to expedite, among other things, the implementation of the agreed initiatives within the AfCFTA trade bloc and shape the Africa Agenda for Action.

    For more information visit: www.AfricaProsperityNetwork.com                                

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Opposes House GOP’s Steep Cuts to Medicaid Could Leave Thousands of RIers Without Health Coverage

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) says House Republicans are proposing “catastrophic cuts” to federal Medicaid funding that goes to states to help provide health coverage.  In Rhode Island, the federal-state program pays for about 1 in 4 Rhode Islanders’ health care and has become a key underpinning of the state’s economy.
    On Sunday night, House Republicans released a plan they worked out behind closed doors to slash Medicaid.  The New York Times reports the House Republican plan “would cause millions of poor Americans to lose Medicaid health coverage and millions more to pay higher fees when they go to the doctor.” 
    Senator Reed pointed out that the so-called savings in the bill will simply increase costs on families, communities, and states – stripping health care away from millions in order to give tax breaks to billionaires.
    “The Republican prescription is less health care for vulnerable Americans, more people without insurance seeking uncompensated emergency room care at higher costs, and higher prices and premiums for those who still have health insurance and must pay more out of pocket.  I strongly oppose the Republican plan to strip health care from millions of people, adding stress to seniors on fixed incomes and Americans with disabilities who can’t work,” said Senator Reed. “The Republican plan would leave nursing home residents, children, our economy, and health care system worse off.  I will work hard to prevent these catastrophic cuts to Medicaid.”
    The House Energy and Commerce Committee is scheduled to hold a mark-up Tuesday of its share of the budget reconciliation package that Republicans are using to pass President Trump’s billionaire-first tax agenda.  They plan to cut $880 billion over a decade to help offset the increased deficit spending that would result from tax giveaways to special interests and the wealthiest Americans. 
    Nationwide, Medicaid provides health care services for more than 72 million people. Among those who qualify for care are the low-income elderly, those with disabilities, and about half of all children.  Approximately 44 percent of births in Rhode Island are covered by Medicaid.
    According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) — the nonpartisan federal agency that advises Congress — the Energy and Commerce Committee Republicans’ bill will cut at least $715 billion and result in at least 8.6 million more Americans going uninsured as a result of cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.
    In an additional analysis, CBO determined 5.1 million more Americans will go uninsured as a result of Republicans refusing to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, as well as full implementation of the Marketplace Integrity Rule.
    Reed notes that the Republican cuts to Medicaid would also hit doctors, hospitals, and the economy hard, and could cause hospital closures in many communities or exacerbate a shortage of health care providers.
    Reed also called out Republicans over phony assertions that eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse and adding a work requirement for Medicaid recipients would achieve the reductions in spending they seek.  Adding a work requirement’s administrative oversight adds to the very spending that cost-cutters pledged to eliminate, according to the health research non-profit KFF.
    “This all comes down to numbers and priorities: Republicans’ number one priority is a bigger tax cut for the wealthy at the expense of vulnerable people.  Under the Trump plan, if you look at the numbers, the bottom 20 percent of households by income lose their health care in exchange for around $130 a year.  Meanwhile, the transfer in wealth goes to those in the top tax brackets, with the super-rich netting an extra $275,000 annually.  The vast majority of Americans want to ensure a sound health care system for all, but the Trump priority is to jam through a bigger tax cut for billionaires, even if it breaks the health care system and denies coverage to millions of Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Statement on Qatar Gifting Luxury Plane to President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, after President Trump announced that he would accept a luxury plane as a gift from the Qatari royal family to be used as Air Force One, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:
    “For President Trump to even consider accepting a luxury plane as a gift from Qatar, a foreign government with its own strategic interests, is an appalling breach of ethical standards. Such a gesture represents a blatant conflict of interest and undermines the integrity of American leadership. The President would also be in clear violation of the Emoluments Clause, a provision in the U.S. Constitution that prohibits federal officials from accepting gifts or financial benefits from any foreign state without the consent of Congress.
    “Even more alarming is the suggestion that this aircraft could be used as Air Force One, which would pose immense counterintelligence risks by granting a foreign nation potential access to sensitive systems and communications. This reckless disregard for national security and diplomatic propriety signals a dangerous willingness to barter American interests for personal gain. It is an affront to the office of the presidency and a betrayal of the trust placed in any U.S. leader to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Joins Councilmembers Erik Bottcher, Lynn Schulman, and Community Advocates to Introduce Legislation Strengthening Medicaid for People Living With Serious Mental Illness

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

     

     ‘Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act’ Incentivizes State Support for Those with Serious Mental Illness 

     

    Over One-Third of Individuals with Serious Mental Illness Do Not Receive Any Form of Mental Health Treatment 

     

    Read Bill Text Here 

     

    See Pictures and Video from Press Conference Here 

    New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) was joined by Council Members Erik Bottcher,  Health Committee Chair Lynn Schulman, and mental health advocates in reintroducing the ‘Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act’ today, which would support individuals living with serious mental illnesses (SMI) such as schizophrenia, bipolar illness, and major depressive disorder. Council Member Erik Bottcher will introduce a Council Resolution in support of the federal bill putting on record the New York City Council’s support for its passage.  

    “The mental health crisis in America demands urgent action, resources, and federal support to ensure every American can access the care they need,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Mental health care has been overlooked and underfunded for decades, and this legislation takes a critical step forward by providing millions of Americans living with severe mental illness access to lifesaving treatment and support by expanding Medicaid services for our most vulnerable. We have an obligation to guarantee adequate care for every one of our neighbors.’ 

    Council Member Erik Bottcher said, “The Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act is a critical step in tackling the nationwide mental health crisis. This legislation expands Medicaid to cover much-needed community-based mental health services and incentivizes states to meet higher standards of care. As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, there is no better time to ensure these life-saving services are affordable and accessible to everyone who needs them. I’m proud to sponsor a City Council resolution supporting this bill, and I thank Congressman Dan Goldman for his leadership on this critical issue.” 

    Council Member Lynn Schulman, Chair of the Committee on Health, said, “Access to quality mental health care is a fundamental right, and we must do everything we can to support those living with serious mental illness. Strengthening Medicaid to ensure comprehensive care is essential for our communities, especially for the most vulnerable among us. I am proud to support Congressman Dan Goldman and Senator Gillibrand’s legislation, as well as Council Member Bottcher’s efforts to advance this critical initiative at the city level. I am committed to working alongside my colleagues to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to the mental health services they need and deserve.” 

    Council Member Linda Lee, Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addiction, said, “The mental health crisis continues to impact families throughout our city, state, and nation, with an estimated 15.4 million Americans living with serious mental illness. Now more than ever – especially amid ongoing uncertainty at the federal level – it is critical that individuals in need have access to life-saving resources and a full continuum of care. I’m proud to co-prime this resolution with Council Member Bottcher in support of federal legislation introduced by Representative Goldman and Senator Gillibrand to expand Medicaid coverage for those with severe mental illness. Medicaid is a vital healthcare lifeline for low-income individuals, and strengthening it to address the mental health needs of our most vulnerable will help us build healthier, more resilient communities.” 

    Douglas C. Brooks, LCSW-R, the President and CEO of Community Counseling & Meditation (CCM) said, “With our 40 years of experience in providing mental health services to New York City’s most vulnerable and marginalized communities, Community Counseling & Meditation proudly stands in support of The Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act.”  

    Amy Harclerode, Executive Director of the Hetrick-Martin Institute for LGBTQIA+ Youth (HMI), said, “Our community faces a mental health crisis. Since 1979, HMI has delivered intensive, life-saving care to some of our community’s most vulnerable youth. But we do this fully at the generosity of grants and contributions —because Medicaid, as it stands, does not recognize or reimburse the kinds of community-centered, integrated services that actually work. I rise in strong support of the reintroduction of the Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act, which affirms what we at HMI have always known – that recovery should be possible outside hospital walls, and that Medicaid should support care that reflects the lives, identities, and realities of the people it serves.” 

    Eric Rosenbaum, CEO of Project Renewal, said, “Project Renewal is proud to support Congressman Goldman and Council Member Bottcher’s efforts through the Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act to provide a new level of care aimed specifically for individuals with serious mental illness. At Project Renewal, where our multi-disciplinary team of clinicians provide medical care and psychiatric treatment to over 6,000 individuals, we know that proper diagnosis and treatment of serious mental illness is critical to helping individuals break the cycle of homelessness. Yet, our current systems are fragmented and under-resourced—leaving people to cycle between shelters, emergency rooms, jails, and the streets. This legislation will make it possible to offer a package of comprehensive and flexible services that integrate mental health treatment, housing assistance, substance use services, peer support, and supported employment.”  

    Jody Rudin, president and CEO, Institute for Community Living (ICL), said, “We know that the proper support can help people with the most serious mental health challenges build stability and stop the expensive and inhumane cycle of institutionalization, incarceration, and street homelessness. We have – and are building out – a continuum to provide mobile support and wrap around whole health services, but we need the funding to reach all those who need it. The Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act would provide the support community based organizations like ICL need to help more people get better. We are grateful to Congressman Goldman for introducing this bill and Council Member Bottcher for supporting it though a resolution.”  

    Evette Maduro CEO, Betances Health Center, said, “At Betances Health Center, we witness daily the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services—especially for those living with serious mental illness. The Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act is a pivotal step toward ensuring no individual is left behind due to gaps in care. We are proud to stand with Congressman Goldman and Council Member Bottcher in supporting legislation that prioritizes equity, dignity, and access for our most vulnerable community members.” 

    Brooke Montes, Alliance’s Senior Vice President of Communications, said “As a NYC-based multiservice organization with 34 years of experience delivering community-based health services, Alliance for Positive Change applauds Congressman Goldman and NYC Council Member Bottcher for calling on the US Congress to pass the Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act. Investing in meaningful community-based services for people with serious mental health challenges is a common-sense, cost-effective way to reduce emergency hospitalizations, mental health crises, fatal overdoses, chronic homelessness, and justice system involvement. Alliance’s three decades of work has shown that combining multidisciplinary care teams, peer-based support, and interagency partnerships yields benefits far greater than the sum of the parts—for individuals, families, and communities. This legislation is an urgently needed investment.” 

    Daniel Pichinson, President & CEO of Ryan Health, said “Access to mental health services where people live and work is key to getting them the care that they deserve and need. Ryan Health has a long history of providing impactful mental health services in our Emotional Wellness Centers and primary care locations. We support the Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act to increase availability of treatment to improve the lives of New Yorkers living with mental illness.” 

    Noeline Maldonado, Executive Director of The Healing Center, said, “Restricting equitable access to Medicaid removes a key pathway to comprehensive care for individuals with mental illness and is antithetical to the proposed goals of any credible mental health policy.”  

     

    Ken Zimmerman, CEO of Fountain House, said, “We applaud Representative Goldman for his leadership on the introduction of the ‘Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act’ and thank both him and Councilmember Erik Bottcher for recognizing community-based programs like Fountain House and the clubhouse model as integral in the continuum of mental health care. The clubhouse model is not only highly effective, but also a responsible way to ensure a return on investment while promoting recovery and thriving — Medicaid costs for Fountain House members were 21% lower compared to the highest risk population, research shows. Our nation must support and recognize the more than 14 million people living with serious mental illness, especially at this critical time, by prioritizing dignity, agency, and community as fundamental building blocks. This bill is a significant step toward a more person-centered, holistic, and proven approach to mental healthcare in the U.S. by focusing on and investing in targeted supports that help people with serious mental illness thrive.” 

    Over 15 million adults in the United States are currently living with a serious mental illness, while over one-third of these individuals receive zero mental health treatment. This legislation creates a new package of services under Medicaid that specifically aims to provide care to individuals living with SMI, sets a national standard for SMI care, and incentivizes states to provide intensive community-based services to treat SMI. 

    The bill is endorsed by the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law and the National Health Law Program.

    To better support those living with SMI, the Strengthening Medicaid for Serious Mental Illness Act would:  

    Create a new waiver program granting Medicaid authority to provide states with an option to offer a package of services targeted specifically to individuals with SMI. The package would include: 

    1. Assertive community treatment, an evidence-based, highly individualized team-based service designed to support adults with the most intensive mental health needs; 

    2. Supported employment to help individuals get and keep a job; 

    3. Peer support services from individuals who have lived or living experiences with mental health conditions; 

    4. Mobile crisis intervention teams that can help de-escalate situations and link individuals to other community-based services; 

    5. Intensive case management; and 

    6. Housing-related activities and services to support individuals with transitioning to and maintaining housing. 

    Require states to adhere to certain standards, like tracking disparities in treatment, to ensure services are delivered with care to all in need. 

    Create a tiered Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) increase to incentivize states to provide intensive community-based services to individuals with SMI. This means that states could receive an increase up to 25 percent in funds allocated by the federal government for their Medicaid programs. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman has worked tirelessly to expand mental health care for people across the country. 

    Last year, Congressman Goldman introduced the ‘Michelle Alyssa Go Act’ to increase the number of federal Medicaid-eligible in-patient psychiatric beds for individuals who are seeking treatment for both mental health and substance use disorders. 
    Last Congress, Congressman Goldman joined colleagues in introducing the ‘Expanding Access to Mental Health Services in Schools Act’ to address the urgent need for mental health professionals in schools. The bill would increase the number of mental health service providers in schools, particularly in high-need areas, by providing competitive grants to local educational agencies for recruitment, hiring, retention, and diversification of mental health service providers. 
    In 2023, Congressman Goldman joined Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06) in introducing the ‘Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act’ to establish a grant program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services to provide federal funds to community health centers to help them hire qualified mental health professionals who are fluent in a language other than English.   

    Congressman Goldman is a member of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Issa Reintroduces Legislation to Support Child Care Options for Law Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) joined House colleagues Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50), Rep. David Valadao (CA-22), and Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) to reintroduce the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act. This bipartisan bill aims to address the nationwide police staffing shortages by making it easier for parents to enter and maintain work in law enforcement that often requires night, weekend, and holiday work. 

    “We have a responsibility to provide our police officers with the tools, training, and equipment they need to safeguard our streets and protect our communities,” said Rep. Issa. “This bill represents a creative and innovative approach to not only advance law and order everywhere it is needed, but allowing these brave men and women on the front lines to be both parents and police.” 

    The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act would:

    • Establish a pilot program to supply grants to law enforcement agencies to provide childcare benefits.
    • Authorize funding for five fiscal years. Law enforcement agencies will be able to use this funding to construct or operate new center for police departments’ exclusive use, offer scholarships to subsidize the cost of care, or provide assistance for care for children with disabilities.  
    • Allow law enforcement agencies, local governments, and child care providers to determine each of their responsibilities while requiring local entities to contribute a scaled matching requirement over a three-year grant period.
    • Set aside 20% of the total grant funding for police departments employing fewer than 200 officers. 

    In 2023, San Diego opened the nation’s first childcare center for local police. In April 2025, Boone County, Missouri, broke ground on a new public safety childcare center.

    Supporting organizations include: 30×30 Initiative, International Union of Police Associations (IUPA), National Association of Police Organizations, Fraternal Order of Police, and Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC).

    Full bill text of the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act can be found here.

    Darrell Issa is the Representative of California’s 48th Congressional District, which encompasses the central and eastern parts of San Diego County and a portion of Riverside County, including the communities of Fallbrook, Valley Center, Ramona, Escondido, Santee, Lakeside, Poway, Temecula, Murrieta, and the mountain and desert areas of the San Diego-Imperial County line. Issa served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform from 2011-2015.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 2025

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-center”>By the President of the United States of America
     
    A Proclamation 
     

    On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we honor our brave officers who serve on the front lines to protect our families, safeguard our communities, and shoulder a burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fathom.  This week and always, we honor the courageous men and women serving in law enforcement and memorialize those who sacrificed their lives defending the thin blue line. 
    A nation in chaos ceases to be a citadel of liberty.  Tragically, the previous administration allowed lawlessness to permeate our country, making it harder for our law enforcement officers to do their jobs.  Their reckless, soft-on-crime policies emboldened criminals and thugs; wreaked havoc on the sanctity of our homes, businesses, and public spaces; instilled fear; and jeopardized public trust.
    As your 47th President, I am fulfilling my promise to make America safe again by reclaiming sovereignty on the border and restoring the rule of law in communities nationwide.  We will utilize every available means to equip and train law enforcement, retain qualified officers, and recruit on the basis of meritocracy. 
    The oath to serve and protect comes with extraordinary risk and sacrifice, and we are indebted to those who choose this righteous profession.  That is why I have asked the Congress to codify my Executive Order mandating the death penalty for the murder of a police officer — sending an unequivocal message that barbaric acts of violence and blatant disregard for the lives of our Nation’s heroes will not be tolerated — and to pass a crime bill with enhanced protections for police officers.
    I stand in steadfast solidarity with those who defend our freedoms and the families who love and support them.  We pray for those who grieve the fallen and pledge that their lives, legacies, and sacrifices will forever be remembered by our grateful Nation.
    By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (Public Law 87-726, 76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 105-225 (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week in which it falls as “Police Week.”
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 11 through May 17, 2025, as Police Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also call on the Governors of the States and Territories and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty‑five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Winners of Solar District Cup Class of 2024–2025 Announced

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    18 Teams Earn Division Winner Titles for Solar and Solar-Plus-Storage Design Proposals

    On April 21 and April 22, the division winners and Project Pitch Champion in the Solar District Cup Collegiate Design Competition’s Class of 2024–2025 were announced.

    This year’s competing class of teams is the largest in Solar District Cup history, beating last year’s record. Thirty-eight teams competed in April. A total of 18 student-led teams won first-, second-, or third-place trophies across six divisions, with the addition of five honorable mentions and one Project Pitch Champion.

    Now in year six of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) competition administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Solar District Cup challenges multidisciplinary student teams to develop solar and solar-plus-storage systems to supply mixed-use districts, or groups of buildings served by a common electrical distribution feeder. The competition engages students across engineering, finance, urban planning, energy technology, and other disciplines to reimagine how energy is generated, managed, and used in a real-world district.

    The competition is designed to inspire students to consider new career opportunities, learn industry-relevant skills, engage with the professional marketplace, and prepare to lead the next generation of energy innovators.

    On Saturday, April 19, students presented their solar energy development proposals to their division peers and panels of industry judges, who provided scoring and instructional feedback to the student teams. On the following Monday, April 21, the top teams in each division, plus five honorable mentions, were announced by leadership from the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office.

    On April 22, the six division first-place teams were invited to pitch their concepts to a new panel of judges, who selected the most compelling solar proposal as this year’s Project Pitch Champion.

    The Solar District Cup Class of 2024–2025 division winners are as follows:

    Bring-Your-Own-District Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: University of California, Merced
    • 2nd Place: Manhattan University
    • 3rd Place: Cornell University
    • Honorable Mention: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

    Penn State Health Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: University of Pittsburgh
    • 2nd Place: Santa Clara University
    • 3rd Place: Northwestern University
    • Honorable Mention: Marshall University

    Seattle Colleges Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    • 2nd Place: University of Utah
    • 3rd Place: New York Institute of Technology, Vancouver
    • Honorable Mention: North Carolina State University, Wolfpack Watts Team

    State University of New York at Oneonta Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: Appalachian State University
    • 2nd Place: The University of Alabama
    • 3rd Place: Villanova University
    • Honorable Mention: The College of New Jersey

    The College of New Jersey Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: Drexel University, Solar Dragons Team
    • 2nd Place: North Carolina State University, Lion Pack Lumineers Team
    • 3rd Place: Northeastern University

    University of Oregon Use Case Division

    • 1st Place: The Pennsylvania State University
    • 2nd Place: Columbia University
    • 3rd Place: California State University of Chico
    • Honorable Mention: Tennessee State University

    Project Pitch Champion

    After the announcement of top teams in each division on April 21, the six first-place teams moved on to the next day’s Pitch Championship, where they presented condensed pitches to a four-judge panel of industry experts, who decided the winner. The Solar Dragons team from Drexel University was chosen as Project Pitch Champion for the Solar District Cup Class of 2024–2025.

    In his remarks to the student competitors, Alejandro Moreno, associate principal deputy assistant secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at DOE, said, “I know the skills you’ve learned through the Solar District Cup will serve you well regardless of the career path you choose—but I hope you’ll consider a career in the energy sector. You can be an integral part of advancing the energy economy, where your skills will be in demand for years to come. You are needed!”

    During the competition, students receive access to educational resources and tools provided by partnering organizations Aurora Solar, RE+ Events, and CapIron Inc. These partners provide benefits over the course of the competition, including design and analysis software tools, networking opportunities with industry professionals, and instruction. District use case partners Penn State Health, Seattle Colleges, State University of New York at Oneonta, The College of New Jersey, University of Oregon, and those partners who worked with students to define their own districts shared valuable data with students to design their projects. The collective support of these organizations is essential to students’ success in the competition and in their career development.

    And a special thank you goes out to the seven panels of industry judges and the many industry professionals who offered their time as mentors to the student teams in this competition!

    Congratulations to all the students who competed in the Class of 2024–2025! Follow the Solar District Cup HeroX page for updates about future opportunities.

    Learn more about the Solar District Cup.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Guatemalan Man Who Unlawfully Resided in the United States Charged with Fraudulently Sponsoring Unaccompanied Alien Children

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Guatemalan national was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of New Jersey for allegedly submitting sponsorship applications with false statements to the U.S. government to gain custody of two unaccompanied alien children (UACs) after they entered the United States illegally.

    “The prior administration’s border policies created chaos and allowed bad actors to prey upon the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice will always seek strong legal penalties to protect children from those who would do them harm.”

    “This prosecution is an example of my office’s dedication to keeping children safe,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District New Jersey. “We will continue to bring to justice those who take advantage of our country’s Unaccompanied Alien Children program and threaten the safety of our community. There will be zero tolerance for those who prey on the vulnerable.”

    “This was a clear attempt from an individual unlawfully in the United States seeking to undermine our laws and target children, and the FBI will not tolerate it,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We remain laser-focused on ensuring people who come into the United States intending to wreak havoc and intentionally violate our rule of law will face serious consequences.”

    According to the criminal complaint, Luciano Tinuar Quino, also known as Luciano Tinuar Guino, 57, who unlawfully entered the United States in 2016 and previously resided in the area of Orange, New Jersey, submitted multiple applications to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) under penalties of perjury to sponsor and obtain custody of two UACs.

    As alleged in the complaint, after a 15-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-1) illegally entered the United States in April 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted to sponsor this UAC that falsely: (1) claimed to be his father; (2) claimed his own name was “A.S.T.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. To prove his relationship with UAC-1, Tinuar Quino submitted a photoshopped image, which he asserted was a photo of himself with UAC-1’s mother.  As a result, the boy was transported from Texas to New Jersey to live with Tinuar Quino.

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate his identity as A.S.T. and falsely claim he was UAC-1’s father.(2)

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate a father-son relationship with UAC-1 and to assert that the clearly photoshopped woman was UAC-1’s mother.

    Tinuar Quino is also charged with submitting false information in an attempt to obtain custody of another UAC. Specifically, the complaint charges that in June 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted an application to sponsor a 17-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-2) who had entered the United States illegally. As alleged, Tinuar Quino falsely: (1) claimed to be UAC-2’s father; (2) stated that his name was “J.R.M.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. ORR did not approve this application.   

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate his identity as J.R.M. and falsely claim he was UAC-2’s father (2)

    “Attempting to exploit the sponsorship system to gain custody of unaccompanied alien children puts those minors at serious risk,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons. “ICE works alongside our law enforcement partners to prevent trafficking and exploitation by individuals falsely claiming to be family. ICE remains firmly committed to detecting deception, upholding the integrity of the immigration process, and, above all, protecting these at-risk children.”

    “Protecting children means holding individuals accountable when they use deception to exploit our systems,” said ORR Acting Director Angie M. Salazar. “ORR acted swiftly to identify the fraud and share with our law enforcement counterparts who located the children and ensured justice was served.”

    Tinuar Quino is charged with two counts of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    These charges are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The FBI and ICE HSI Newark field offices are jointly investigating with assistance from the FBI’s Legal Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided valuable assistance.

    Senior Trial Attorney Christian Levesque of HRSP, JTFA Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Sussman of the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chinese Company and Three Chinese Nationals Indicted for Unlawfully Importing Pill-Making Equipment Used to Manufacture Controlled Substances

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal grand jury returned a 21-count indictment against a Chinese company and three Chinese nationals for their alleged role in the illegal importation of pill-making equipment, the Department of Justice announced.

    According to an indictment returned April 23 and unsealed today, CapsulCN International Co. Ltd. (CapsulCN) and Xiochuan “Ricky” Pan, 40, Tingyan “Monica” Yang, 37, and Xi “Inna” Chen, 30, all of the People’s Republic of China, were charged with smuggling, Controlled Substances Act, and money laundering offenses in connection with CapsulCN’s unlawful import and distribution of tableting machines (also known as “pill presses”), encapsulating machines, and counterfeit die molds capable of producing millions of potentially lethal fake pills. The indictment also charges Pan, CapsulCN’s principal officer and a shareholder, with leading a continuing criminal enterprise. Additionally, four internet domains used by CapsulCN to market and sell illicit pill-making equipment to U.S. customers were seized today in connection with this investigation.

    “This indictment and today’s domain seizures send an unmistakable message to criminals in the People’s Republic of China and across the world — the Department will use every weapon in its arsenal to combat those who facilitate the manufacture and distribution of deadly drugs in the United States,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.

    “This U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on bringing the full force of justice to anyone who conspires to poison our communities with fentanyl,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Whether through the importation of pill presses and related materials, as alleged in this indictment, or through trafficking precursor chemicals and the drug itself, it is evident that bad actors are determined to harm Americans with fentanyl. Our federal prosecutors, through collaborative efforts with our law enforcement partners, are determined to stop them.”

    Many of the fake pills containing fentanyl and other controlled substances seized in the United States are manufactured using relatively inexpensive pill-making equipment — such as pill presses, encapsulating machines, and die molds — obtained from Chinese pharmaceutical equipment companies and imported into the United States. These fake pills often mimic the look, feel, and effect of legitimate pharmaceutical drugs and are particularly dangerous and misleading to U.S. consumers, who may falsely believe they are taking legitimate prescription medication that is safer and less addictive than the fentanyl and methamphetamine the pills really contain.

    According to court documents, between December 2011 and April 2025, Pan led CapsulCN, which advertised and sold pill-making equipment to U.S. customers on websites, popular e-commerce platforms, and various social media accounts. CapsulCN marketed and catered to customers seeking to make counterfeit pills that mimicked the look and effect of prescription drugs. In 2020, Pan and Yang created a new brand, “PillMolds,” to advertise, sell, and promote counterfeit die molds to the United States. Although the PillMolds brand was part of CapsulCN, thereafter, CapsulCN ceased marketing and selling die molds via its www.capsulcn.com website and instead did so using the website www.pillmold.com. Today, HSI seized both of these websites, along with two others (www.ipharmachine.com and huadapharma.com) that CapsulCN used to facilitate its unlawful sales and imports of pill-making equipment.

    The indictment alleges that, between December 2011 and April 2025, CapsulCN imported and distributed pill presses and encapsulating machines to customers in the United States, knowing or having reason to believe that those items would be used to manufacture controlled substances. CapsulCN also distributed counterfeit die molds, which can be used to compress inactive and active ingredients into pills that mimic the shape and imprinted markings of legitimate pharmaceutical drugs such as oxycodone, dextroamphetamine, hydrocodone, amphetamine, and alprazolam. Drug traffickers often replace these active ingredients in the legitimate pharmaceutical drugs with other controlled substances such as fentanyl and methamphetamine.    

    The indictment alleges that CapsulCN concealed the nature and purpose of the pill presses, encapsulating machines, and die molds from U.S. customs officials and law enforcement by using deceptive packaging and false manifests that undervalued and misidentified the contents. Some customers sought to avoid mandatory requirements to report the import and distribution of pill presses and encapsulating machines to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). CapsulCN also allegedly helped conceal the nature of its shipments avoid detection by disassembling the machines and shipping the parts in separate packages, again with false manifests. CapsulCN employees then would direct customers to social media accounts maintained by CapsulCN that contained videos instructing customers on how to reassemble the machines once in the United States.

    According to court documents, Yang, Chen, and other CapsulCN sales representatives communicated extensively with potential customers in the United States over company emails and encrypted electronic messaging applications. In these communications with customers, Yang, Chen, and others agreed to smuggle pill-making equipment to U.S. customers and assisted customers in selecting die molds that best replicated identified pharmaceutical drugs. Yang, Chen, and other CapsulCN sales representatives also exchanged electronic messages and emails negotiating payment for CapsulCN products that were smuggled into the United States and imported and distributed for use in manufacturing controlled substances. CapsulCN maintained bank accounts in the People’s Republic of China and accounts with online payment services to facilitate the transfer of funds from the United States to China in furtherance of CapsulCN’s criminal activities.

    The HSI El Paso Field Office investigated the case with assistance from Customs and Border Protection, IRS Criminal Investigation’s El Paso Office, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Trial Attorneys Colin W. Trundle, Cadesby Cooper, Kaitlin Sahni, Edward E. Emokpae, Scott B. Dahlquist, Assistant Director Katharine A. Wagner, Deputy Director of Criminal Litigation A.J. Nardozzi, and Director Amanda Liskamm of the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Gregory and Donna Miller and OCDETF Chief Steven Spitzer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas are handling the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Cotton, Womack Announce $141 Million Additional Investment for Ebbing Air National Guard Base

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Congressman Steve Womack (R-AR-03) announced that they secured $141 million in new investments for Ebbing Air National Guard Base to further its capacity as host of the F-35 Foreign Military Sales mission. This funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution.
    “This funding represents another critical step forward for Ebbing and the foreign pilot training center in the River Valley. The FMS mission is not only tremendously beneficial for Fort Smith, the region and our state –– it is also a vital component of our national security strategy. The Arkansas congressional delegation will continue ensuring it has the resources necessary to successfully host our allies and partners to help defend our nation and interests,” Boozman and Cotton said.
     “I’m proud to have worked alongside my friends and colleagues, Sens. Boozman and Cotton, to secure funding for Ebbing Air National Guard Base in this challenging year. The F-35 FMS mission enhances our national security by improving the capabilities of our allies and partners while also delivering meaningful benefits to the surrounding Fort Smith community. I look forward to seeing this mission continue to grow,” Womack said.
    The funding will support the construction of an Academic Training Center, F-35 bay aircraft maintenance hangar and F-35 squad operations mission planning facility as well as the design of future projects on base.
    Boozman serves as Chairman of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee. Cotton is the Senate Republican Conference Chairman and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Womack sits on the House Appropriations Committee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WEDNESDAY: Governor Newsom to release revised budget plan in Sacramento

    Source: US State of California Governor

    May 12, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom will release his revised 2025-26 state budget proposal on Wednesday in Sacramento.

    WHEN: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at approximately 10:30 a.m.

    LIVESTREAM: Governor’s Twitter page, Governor’s Facebook page, and the Governor’s YouTube page. This event will also be available to TV stations on the LiveU Matrix under “California Governor.”

    **NOTE: This in-person press event will be open to credentialed media only. Media interested in attending must RSVP by clicking here no later than 10 p.m., May 13. Location information will be provided upon RSVP confirmation.

    Once the press conference begins, the Department of Finance will post a summary document of the May Revision at www.ebudget.ca.gov.

    Economy, Media advisories

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    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom today released a model ordinance for cities and counties to immediately address dangerous and unhealthy encampments and connect people experiencing homelessness with shelter and services. Backed in part by $3.3 billion in…

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    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025 as “Older Californians Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONCalifornia is home to nearly nine million older residents who…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Construction Defects Law, Ending Years of Gridlock to Build Housing People Can Afford

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER/AURORA – Today, Governor Polis continued the 2025 bill signing tour, signing new laws to lower costs, and build a Colorado for all. 

    The Governor signed a landmark housing bill, HB25-1272 – Construction Defects & Middle Market Housing, sponsored by Representatives Bird and Boesenecker, Senate President Coleman and Senator Roberts, which addresses construction defects challenges and breaks down barriers that prevented more condos from being built in Colorado. Condos are a historically more affordable option for Coloradans to purchase, and this new law builds on Governor Polis’s efforts to reduce housing costs for Coloradans and help more Coloradans build wealth through home ownership. Read the Governor’s signing statement. 

    “This new law will lead to thousands of new condos being built across our state.. By breaking down the barriers that prevented new condos from being built, we are unlocking new, more accessible housing for Coloradans to buy as a starter home. I thank the bill sponsors for their work on this legislation and look forward to seeing the positive impact on Coloradans,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Governor Polis called for reforming construction liability in his State of the State Address this past January. Governor Polis also signed SB25-001 – Colorado Voting Rights Act, sponsored by Senator Gonzales and Representatives Bacon and Joseph, to further secure Colorado’s already gold-standard elections system. Colorado is a model for the nation when it comes to voting and elections, and this new law enshrines the state’s systems to ensure that Coloradans can continue to make their voices heard conveniently and securely. 

    “Colorado has set a high bar for elections and we are proud of our efforts to ensure that every Coloradan can vote easily and securely to make their voices heard. This legislation strengthens election integrity for Colorado and I appreciate the sponsors for their work on this bill,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bills in signing ceremonies: 

    • HB25-1225 – Freedom From Intimidation In Elections Act, sponsored by Representatives Woodrow and Velasco, and Senators Hinrichsen and Daugherty.
    • HB25-1315 – Vacancies in the General Assembly, sponsored by Representatives Sirota and Pugliese, and Senators Weissman and Kirkmeyer.
    • SB25-050 – Racial Classifications on Government Forms, sponsored by Senator Jodeh and Representative Zokaie.
    • SB25-196 – Insurance Coverage Preventive Health-Care Services, sponsored by Senators Jodeh and Mullica, and Representatives Lieder and Jackson. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan Man Who Unlawfully Resided in the United States Charged with Fraudulently Sponsoring Unaccompanied Alien Children

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Guatemalan national was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of New Jersey for allegedly submitting sponsorship applications with false statements to the U.S. government to gain custody of two unaccompanied alien children (UACs) after they entered the United States illegally.

    “The prior administration’s border policies created chaos and allowed bad actors to prey upon the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice will always seek strong legal penalties to protect children from those who would do them harm.”

    “This prosecution is an example of my office’s dedication to keeping children safe,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District New Jersey. “We will continue to bring to justice those who take advantage of our country’s Unaccompanied Alien Children program and threaten the safety of our community. There will be zero toleration for those who prey on the vulnerable.”

    “This was a clear attempt from an individual unlawfully in the United States seeking to undermine our laws and target children, and the FBI will not tolerate it,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We remain laser-focused on ensuring people who come into the United States intending to wreak havoc and intentionally violate our rule of law will face serious consequences.”

    According to the criminal complaint, Luciano Tinuar Quino, also known as Luciano Tinuar Guino, 57, who unlawfully entered the United States in 2016 and previously resided in the area of Orange, New Jersey, submitted multiple applications to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) under penalties of perjury to sponsor and obtain custody of two UACs.

    As alleged in the complaint, after a 15-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-1) illegally entered the United States in April 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted to sponsor this UAC that falsely: (1) claimed to be his father; (2) claimed his own name was “A.S.T.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. To prove his relationship with UAC-1, Tinuar Quino submitted a photoshopped image, which he asserted was a photo of himself with UAC-1’s mother.  As a result, the boy was transported from Texas to New Jersey to live with Tinuar Quino.

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate his identity as A.S.T. and falsely claim he was UAC-1’s father.(2)

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate a father-son relationship with UAC-1 and to assert that the clearly photoshopped woman was UAC-1’s mother.

    Tinuar Quino is also charged with submitting false information in an attempt to obtain custody of another UAC. Specifically, the complaint charges that in June 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted an application to sponsor a 17-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-2) who had entered the United States illegally. As alleged, Tinuar Quino falsely: (1) claimed to be UAC-2’s father; (2) stated that his name was “J.R.M.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. ORR did not approve this application.   

    Tinuar Quino allegedly submitted to ORR to falsely demonstrate his identity as J.R.M. and falsely claim he was UAC-2’s father (2)

    “Attempting to exploit the sponsorship system to gain custody of unaccompanied alien children puts those minors at serious risk,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons. “ICE works alongside our law enforcement partners to prevent trafficking and exploitation by individuals falsely claiming to be family. ICE remains firmly committed to detecting deception, upholding the integrity of the immigration process, and, above all, protecting these at-risk children.”

    “Protecting children means holding individuals accountable when they use deception to exploit our systems,” said ORR Acting Director Angie M. Salazar. “ORR acted swiftly to identify the fraud and share with our law enforcement counterparts who located the children and ensured justice was served.”

    Tinuar Quino is charged with two counts of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    These charges are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The FBI and ICE HSI Newark field offices are jointly investigating with assistance from the FBI’s Legal Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided valuable assistance.

    Senior Trial Attorney Christian Levesque of HRSP, JTFA Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Sussman of the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: EPA Approves State-Led Coal Ash Recycling and Disposal Program in North Dakota

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    05.12.25
    Program Created Under Hoeven-Led Law Passed in 2016, Provides Certainty for Coal Producers
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hoeven today announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved the State of North Dakota’s application for a state-led coal ash recycling and disposal program. The program is made possible through bipartisan legislation Hoeven authored and passed in 2016 and will:
    Provide certainty for the safe and efficient recycling of coal ash.
    Coal ash recycling allows for the productive use of coal residuals in applications like construction, where it serves as an ingredient in a less-expensive, stronger and more durable form of cement.
    Coal ash was used in the construction of the North Dakota Heritage Center and the National Energy Center of Excellence at Bismarck State College.

    Establish an enforceable state permit program for the disposal of coal ash, which requires protective infrastructure for disposal sites as well as timely and effective groundwater monitoring, among other standards.
    “North Dakota is leading the way in developing more energy with better environmental stewardship, which is why we authored and passed bipartisan legislation in 2016 to enable this states-led approach for recycling coal ash,” said Hoeven. “We appreciate EPA working with our state to advance approval of North Dakota’s coal ash permit program, which will ultimately ensure that coal ash is managed in a way that works for our energy producers and the environment.”
    Hoeven’s legislation was needed after an EPA rule issued in 2014 correctly regulated coal as a non-hazardous material, but did not create an effective enforcement mechanism. Instead, the regulation relied on litigation to enforce standards, creating uncertainty and added cost for coal producers. States that choose not to create a permit program or that do not have an approved application from EPA will continue to be regulated directly by EPA.

    MIL OSI USA News –