NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Law Leads to Arrest of 205 Child Sex Offenders, 115 Children Rescued

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement on the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated mission by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and law enforcement agencies to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators, which led to the rescue of 115 children and arrest of 205 child sex offenders, including one individual in the Eastern District of Texas and five in the Western District. These cases were brought through Project Safe Childhood, which Sen. Cornyn successfully led the law to reauthorize last year.
    “There is no crime more heinous than child sexual exploitation, and I am grateful that my law to reauthorize the Project Safe Childhood program has most recently led to more than 200 dangerous individuals who have committed this unthinkable act being taken off our streets and 115 children being rescued through Operation Restore Justice,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Thank you to Attorney General Bondi, the entire Department of Justice, and other law enforcement agencies involved for prioritizing the safety of our nation’s most vulnerable, and I look forward to seeing even more arrests of child sex offenders in the future under my law.”
    Background:
    These legal cases were brought against hundreds of offenders as part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative to combat child sexual exploitation. This nationwide program was started in May 2006 by the DOJ. Sen. Cornyn authored and successfully passed the Project Safe Childhood Act, which was signed into law in December of 2024 and reauthorized and strengthened this critical initiative.
    In Texas, Operation Restore Justice has led to the arrest of six individuals in the Eastern and Western Districts of Texas charged with crimes ranging from distribution and possession of child pornography to child sexual exploitation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement on India and Pakistan

    Source: Government of Canada News

    May 9, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides.

    We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Risch, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Fight Antisemitism at the UN

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Republican colleagues in introducing the No Official Palestine Entry (NOPE) Act to cut off U.S. assistance to entities that give additional rights and privileges to the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Liberation Organization.
    “Time and again, the United Nations has chosen to lend legitimacy to terrorist enablers while demonizing one of our closest friend in Israel,” said Senator Scott. “Not a single cent of the American taxpayer dollar should be used to legitimize antisemitism or embolden our enemies. America will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel and root out antisemitism wherever it exists.”
    “Once created to be a bastion of peace and security in the world, the United Nations is now a seat of antisemitism and in desperate need of reform. Israel is one of America’s greatest allies and we cannot tolerate or fund any anti-Israel bias or favoritism for the Palestinian Liberation Organization at the UN,” said Senator Risch. “These bills will ensure that America has Israel’s back when it matters most.”
    BACKGROUND
    Current U.S. law prohibits U.S. funding to organizations, such as the UN, which give the PLO full membership or standing as a member state. The NOPE Act updates the existing funding prohibition to organizations that offer the PLO “any status, rights, or privileges beyond observer status.” 
    The full text of the NOPE Act can be found here.  
    Senators Scott and Risch were joined by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.).
    Additional House cosponsors include Reps. Jim Baird (R-Ind.), Michael McCaul (R-Texas), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Maria Salazar (R-Fla), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.), and Marlin Stutzman (R-Ind.). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore Presents 2025 Civic Education Teacher of the Year Award

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Brandon Pearce of South Kingstown High School Honored

    PROVIDENCE, RI � Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore today honored Brandon Pearce of South Kingstown High School as the 2025 winner of the Rhode Island Civic Education Teacher of the Year award at a State House ceremony. Secretary Amore was joined by representatives from the Rhode Island Department of Education and the South Kingstown School District, as well as Prosper Lin, student nominator, to honor this year’s winner.

    “Each year, I look forward to honoring the civics and history teachers who are making an incredible impact on our state’s students,” said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore. “Mr. Pearce is a shining example of what it means to go above and beyond for your students � to teach them the lessons and the history, but also how they can apply it to their own lives and become better community participants in the process. It was truly an honor to celebrate him.”

    The Civic Education Teacher of the Year award honors outstanding teachers who have demonstrated a commitment to and expertise in teaching civics or American government, with special consideration given to teachers who employ innovative teaching practices and experiential learning.

    “Congratulations to Mr. Pearce, who has left a lasting positive impact on his students and colleagues through his service,” said RIDE Commissioner Ang�lica Infante-Green. “From the classroom to afterschool programs, Pearce’s passion for the teaching profession and the subject of civics is inspiring. We thank you for your efforts to empower students to be civic leaders and make positive community contributions.”

    Brandon Pearce has been an educator in South Kingstown for 13 years. Currently, Mr. Pearce teaches AP US History, AP Government and Politics, and Tides Over Time: A Maritime History and Oceanography Course. Mr. Pearce lives in South Kingstown with his wife and two children.

    Prosper Lin, student nominator, shared that Mr. Pearce has “truly changed how I see the world and my role in it. Even though these are advanced classes, [Mr. Pearce makes] learning so exciting and real. This teacher doesn’t just make us memorize dates or court cases; they help us understand why these things matter, and how we can use that knowledge to be better citizens.”

    “It’s not just about getting good grades; it’s about becoming someone who cares, who understands, and who wants to make a difference. That’s the kind of teacher they are, and that’s why they deserve to be recognized,” continued Prosper.

    In addition to his teaching course load, Mr. Pearce has been the advisor of the SKHS Civics Club for two years. The SKHS Civics Club is a group of active students who get involved in a variety of civic events around the state.

    “I am honored to receive this award � teaching civics and bringing civics to students in Rhode Island is essential to the future of our democracy,” said Brandon Pearce, 2025 Civic Education Teacher of the Year.

    “Brandon has demonstrated a commitment to and expertise in teaching civics, social studies, and American government,” said Dr. Chip McGair, Principal of South Kingstown High School. “He is passionate about the topic of civics and an ideal selection for the Civic Education Teacher of the Year Award.”

    To learn more about the RI Department of State’s civic education and engagement initiatives, visit sos.ri.gov/divisions/civics-and-education or email civics@sos.ri.gov.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Expand Child Care for Local Law Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Scott Peters (CA-50), Josh Harder (CA-09), and Darrell Issa (CA-48) 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 the field. Police shortages have been especially harmful to rural communities, like the Central Valley, who have struggled to recruit and retain enough qualified officers.

    “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 Congressman 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.”

    “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.” 

    “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.” 

    “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.” 

    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).

    The Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act would:

    • 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. 

    Read the full bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at reception in celebration of establishment of Consulate-General of Uruguay in Hong Kong (English only) (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the reception in celebration of the establishment of the Consulate-General of Uruguay in Hong Kong today (May 9):

    Your Excellency Minister Mario Lubetkin (Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay), Your Excellency Ambassador Fernando Lugris (Ambassador of Uruguay to China), Consul-General Federico Lage Cabeza (Consul-General of Uruguay to Hong Kong), Commissioner Cui Jianchun (Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

         Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to be here on this important occasion – the establishment and opening, in Hong Kong, of the Consulate-General of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay.

         The opening of the Consulate-General is testament to the long-standing, and growing, ties between China and Uruguay, and it is important to note that the two countries have now enjoyed diplomatic relations for 37 years, with their relations elevated to comprehensive strategic partnership status in 2023.

         In March, President Xi Jinping’s special envoy, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Mr Han Jun, attended the inauguration ceremony of the President of Uruguay. Minister Han conveyed China’s wish to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, and boost bilateral trade in goods and services. 

         Hong Kong and Uruguay also maintain good relations in trade. In 2024, our bilateral merchandise trade rose 8.8 per cent over the previous year, to more than US$120 million. You probably note that the number eight is considered a lucky number for Chinese people. So the double eights here in this 8.8 per cent growth are music of double luckiness to my ears.

         Our increased trade, and the opening, today of the Uruguay’s Consulate-General, underlines the long-term promise of our economic prospects and people-to-people ties.

         Uruguay, after all, is a high-income economy built on free market policies in Latin America, with a large middle class which is strong and growing. It’s also a founding member of Mercosur, or the Southern Common Market, which has a population nearing 300 million. Uruguay, I’m pleased to add, is a participant in our country’s Belt and Road Initiative.

         Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys our country’s strong support, and maintains unparalleled connectivity with the world. I thank Commissioner Cui for telling so much about the ingredients and success factors of Hong Kong under “one country, two systems”. Hong Kong maintains unparalleled connectivity with the world that includes our pivotal roles in such national strategies as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The Greater Bay Area is a cluster city that counts Hong Kong, Macao and nine prosperous cities in Southern China. 

         The Greater Bay Area boasts a collective population exceeding 87 million and a combined GDP rivalling the world’s 10th largest economy. It gives Hong Kong a high-end consumer market more than 10 times larger than what our city’s alone can offer.

         We are Asia’s largest financial centre and the world’s third largest, behind only New York and London. Not surprisingly, Hong Kong also ranked fourth and fifth, globally, in foreign direct investment inflows and outflows. 

         As the world’s largest offshore Renminbi service centre, Hong Kong is a critical investment hub linking investment sources and destinations between Mainland China, Southeast Asian markets, and the world. 

         Like Uruguay and our country, Hong Kong is committed to free trade and the multilateral trading system. Goods, capital, people and information flow freely here – and it always will. In spite of challenges posed by emerging protectionism and geopolitical tensions, we strongly believe that free and open trade is key to our pursuit of high-quality development, together with a world of investors and economies.

         Hong Kong’s commitment to the rule of law and a judiciary that exercises its powers independently, to our common law system, and to protecting the rights of our people and businesses, is no less fundamental to our economy, our community and our future. 

         Hong Kong, in brief, is the ideal gateway for Uruguayan companies, and investors, looking to tap into the far-reaching promise of Mainland China and the rest of Asia.

         Beyond business, arts and culture – including the art and culture of eating and drinking well – is as central to life in Hong Kong as I know in Uruguay. Hong Kong, after all, is the rising East-meets-West arts and cultural centre; it is also a hub for international exchange.

         Ladies and gentlemen, the formal establishment and opening, today, of the Consulate-General of Uruguay in Hong Kong marks an auspicious new stage in the growing relations between our two economies, and our two peoples. 

         The Hong Kong SAR Government, and the businesses and people of Hong Kong, welcome you, and look forward to working with you. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Colombian Port Official Sentenced to Over Twelve Years in Prison for Money Laundering

    Source: United States Attorneys General 12

    A Colombian national was sentenced yesterday to 12 years and seven months in prison for conspiring to launder proceeds of bribes. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit a 2017 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder and a 2017 Porsche Cayenne that were involved in the money laundering scheme.

    According to court documents, Omar Ambuila, 64, of Cali, Colombia, pleaded guilty on Jan. 28 to a single count of conspiracy to launder money. As part of his plea, Ambuila admitted that while he was a port official in Colombia, he accepted at least $1,000,000 in illegal bribes that he and co-conspirators laundered to the United States from Colombia. As part of the scheme, Ambuila and his co-conspirators laundered the funds for Ambuila’s benefit and used the funds to purchase luxury vehicles and pay rent on waterfront property, among other things.

    “Criminals who exploit our financial system to launder their illegal gains threaten the security of the United States,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “When you try to abuse the financial system hard working Americans rely upon, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “HSI special agents, in close coordination with all their law enforcement partners, will always work diligently to pursue those individuals and those networks of bad actors who exploit the legitimate financial system to support criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge John Condon of Homeland Security Investigation Tampa. “This is just another great example of this work.”

    “Let this sentencing serve as a powerful reminder: the United States will not be a sanctuary for those seeking to launder the proceeds of crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Tampa Field Office. “We are relentless in our pursuit of criminals who attempt to exploit our financial systems, and we will use every tool at our disposal to ensure that they face justice. This case underscores our commitment to dismantling transnational criminal operations and holding those responsible accountable, no matter where they try to hide.”

    “This investigation exemplifies the FBI’s commitment to our federal law enforcement partnerships and the unified effort in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting money laundering schemes,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor of the FBI Tampa Division.

    The case was investigated by HSI, IRS-CI, and the FBI.

    Trial Attorneys Ariana Lazzaroni and Adrienne Rosen and Deputy Chief Joseph Palazzo of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Judicial Attaché’s Office in Bogotá, the HSI Attaché’s Office in Bogotá, and the U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance in securing the defendant’s extradition from Colombia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Pope Leo XIV liberal or conservative? Why this label doesn’t work for popes

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Mark Yenson, King’s University College, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Vice-President and Academic Dean (Interim), Western University

    The 133 cardinal electors sequestered in the Sistine Chapel elected a new pope May 8. The choice was a surprise — Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost, who has carried out most of his ministry in Peru, before being elevated to Vatican roles by Pope Francis.

    As commentators and the media try to piece together backgrounders on Pope Leo XIV, one obvious question will be, “Is he a liberal or a conservative?” The same question was asked about Pope Francis, and about the cardinals entering this conclave.

    When applied to individual Catholics, the terms “liberal” and “conservative” can mean very different things. One could be conservative in regard to liturgy and church practice while being strongly committed to anti-racism and environmentalism.

    Or one might be considered a social conservative on issues such as marriage, sexuality and gender while holding clearly left-wing, social democratic views on the role of government.

    Even if Catholics are comfortable self-identifying as liberal or conservative Catholics, we should not treat these terms as if their meaning were obvious — especially since even as purely political terms the meaning of “liberal” or “conservative” is contested.

    Papacy as institution

    Things become all the more complicated when we are talking about the pope, the supreme head of the Catholic Church. The papacy as an institution is conservative by definition.

    The pope is considered the successor of the Apostle Peter, and his job description is precisely to maintain the unity and catholicity (“wholeness”) of the Church’s life, not only in space but through time — that is, to ensure continuity.

    But because of this role to maintain the fullness of a tradition and the unity of the Church, the pope cannot be conservative (or liberal) in a political sense.

    Pope Francis legacy

    The pontificate of Francis should have served as a lesson against liberal/conservative labels. From the beginning of his pontificate, he advocated strenuously for migrants and refugees. He reached out personally to LGBTQ+ communities. He initiated a worldwide “synodal” process that included broad consultation and fostered discussion of topics previously considered out of bounds, such as ordination of women as deacons (though not priests). He placed women in high-ranking positions in the Roman curia previously reserved only for clerics.

    But Francis was also critical of “gender ideology,” affirmed Church teaching on abortion and maintained the Church’s reservation of ordination to men only. While he angered self-identified conservatives, he often disappointed self-identified liberals.

    Instead of trying to impose political categories, it makes more sense to try to uncover the internal dynamics and motivations of a pope’s teaching and ministry. For example, Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical letter, Laudato si’, was a landmark in Catholic teaching on ecology. Far from being a political manifesto, the letter presents a vision of the human being within creation, informed by the Bible, theological reflection and modern Catholic social teaching. Francis frequently references the social thought of his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who himself affirmed that the Church “must defend not only earth, water and air as gifts of creation that belong to everyone.”



    Read more:
    Laudato Si’: A look back on Pope Francis’s environmental legacy

    As the British theologian Anna Rowlands astutely notes, Catholic social teaching “functions as a social philosophy that never fully baptizes a liberal philosophy or sentiment. It remains locked in a complex dialogue … with liberal democracy.”

    The role of the pope, highlighted in Francis’s teaching on ecology, is to inspire a different kind of social and moral imagination, one not reducible to particular ideological positions.

    Catholic teaching, conscience

    Another example that subverts the liberal/conservative dichotomy was the well-known response of Pope Francis to a journalist’s question about homosexuality in the priesthood: “Who am I to judge?” Francis did not overturn “conservative” teachings in sexual ethics.

    But he did speak as a member of the Jesuit religious order and as a pastor, who knows that the general law must be applied in specific cases that introduce complexities and require nuanced concrete responses.

    There was also a tacit appeal to the teaching of the Second Vatican Council (1962–65), that an individual is bound to follow their conscience.

    For his part, Benedict XVI (as then-Cardinal Ratzinger), in a 1991 address to American bishops in Dallas, alluded to “the classical principle of moral tradition that conscience is the highest norm which [the human person] is to follow even in opposition to authority.” According to this principle, while church teaching authority would inform conscience, “conscience … would retain the final word.”

    There is no doubt that LGBTQ+ Catholics were able to hear something different in Francis’s language than they had heard in Benedict’s. However, both Benedict and Francis could appeal to shared principles, which were theological rather than political, and not reducible to liberal versus conservative categories.

    Weight of political polarization

    In our current political context, political terms like “liberal” and “conservative” tend to carry the weight of American political polarization.

    In the American context at the moment, “conservative Catholic” in its most radical form blends theological traditionalism — devotion to the traditional Latin mass, emphasis on doctrinal orthodoxy and opposition to Francis’s reformist papacy — with support for the Republican party and MAGA movement.

    As professor of moral philosophy Massimo Borghesi has argued, this radical conservative opposition to Francis has its genesis in the pro-capitalist Catholic neo-conservatism of the 1980s and 90s, and is a predominantly American phenomenon.

    In addition, as writer and editor James T. Keane noted in a 2021 article in the Jesuit magazine America, the political polarizations that have seeped into the American Catholic Church should not set the map for the rest of the world, least of all the papacy. It is important to remember this fact as the first North American pope begins his pontificate.

    Choice of name Leo

    Cardinal Robert Prevost, who has become Pope Leo XIV, has given indications of being critical of the Trump administration on issues of peace and migration, very much in line with Francis.

    His choice of the name Leo harkens back to Pope Leo XIII, the pope credited with initiating modern Catholic social teaching, and signals an emphasis on the Church’s advocacy for peace and justice. The new pope’s first Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and to the World”) address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica signalled continuity with Francis — peace, dialogue, encounter, bridge-building.

    And Pope Leo’s career as a missionary, bishop and Vatican cardinal outside of the U.S. means that his context is not confined to the polarizations of the U.S. Catholic Church and its bishops.

    Will the new Pope, Leo XIV, be liberal or conservative? Pope Francis did not fit neatly into these categories: I hope Pope Leo won’t either.

    Mark Yenson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Is Pope Leo XIV liberal or conservative? Why this label doesn’t work for popes – https://theconversation.com/is-pope-leo-xiv-liberal-or-conservative-why-this-label-doesnt-work-for-popes-256180

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: TO ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS: BOOK YOUR FREE FLIGHT RIGHT NOW

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

    “I signed an executive order to launch the first-ever self-deportation program. Illegal aliens who stay in America face punishments, including… sudden deportation, in a place and manner solely of our discretion. TO ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS: BOOK YOUR FREE FLIGHT RIGHT NOW.” –President Donald J. Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z_ib8266dQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: TO ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS: BOOK YOUR FREE FLIGHT RIGHT NOW.

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

    “I signed an executive order to launch the first-ever self-deportation program. Illegal aliens who stay in America face punishments, including… sudden deportation, in a place and manner solely of our discretion. TO ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS: BOOK YOUR FREE FLIGHT RIGHT NOW.” –President Donald J. Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG4jWpU57sg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China supports Cuba in defending sovereignty and resisting foreign interference: Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — China firmly supports Cuba in defending its national sovereignty and opposing foreign interference and blockade, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in the Russian capital on Friday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    As the Chinese President noted, the Chinese side also supports Cuba’s efforts to promote socio-economic development. The two countries, as important members of the Global South, should strengthen coordination and cooperation within such structures as BRICS and the China-CELAC Forum (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States), oppose power politics and unilateral bullying, and uphold international fairness and justice, the Chinese leader stressed.

    Xi Jinping recalled that in recent years, he has met with M. Diaz-Canel on several occasions and together they have brought China-Cuba relations to a new stage, characterized by deeper political mutual trust, closer strategic cooperation and stronger popular support.

    This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba, Xi said, adding that China is willing to further strengthen the ironclad friendship with Cuba, build a closer China-Cuba community with a shared future, and set a model for solidarity and cooperation among socialist countries and sincere mutual assistance among developing countries.

    Xi called on the two sides to promote steady progress in exchanges at all levels and cooperation in various fields, ensuring that high-level political mutual trust always remains the hallmark of inter-party and inter-state relations.

    M. Diaz-Canel, for his part, stated that Cuba and China are close friends and brothers, stressing that his country is grateful to China for its long-term and strong support for Cuban socio-economic development.

    According to the President, Cuba strictly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China, enhance friendly exchanges between the peoples, intensify coordination and cooperation in international and regional affairs, deepen the construction of a community with a shared future, and promote further progress in bilateral relations.

    Cuba supports the three major global initiatives put forward by China and hopes to work together with China to resist unilateralism and protectionism, defending the common interests of the international community, added M. Diaz-Canel. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Will Always Firmly Support Venezuela in Safeguarding Sovereignty, National Dignity, and Social Stability: Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 9 (Xinhua) — China and Venezuela are reliable partners who trust each other and develop together. China will always firmly support Venezuela in safeguarding its sovereignty, national dignity and social stability, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in Moscow on Friday.

    Xi Jinping made the statement during a meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    Pointing out that amid the changing international situation, China and Venezuela have established an unbreakable friendship, Xi Jinping said that since the two countries upgraded their bilateral relations to an all-weather strategic partnership in 2023, they have enjoyed lively exchanges in all fields and at all levels, bilateral trade has steadily expanded, new progress has been made in investment cooperation and cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and the China-Venezuela friendship has been deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples.

    Xi Jinping noted that China always views and develops relations with Venezuela from a strategic height and a long-term perspective, and is committed to expanding exchanges of experience in governance, steadily deepening practical cooperation in various fields, and continuously elevating bilateral ties to new heights so as to bring greater benefits to the peoples of both countries.

    China hopes to work with Venezuela and other Latin American countries to firmly uphold the international system with the UN at its core and the international order based on international law, and promote sustainable and long-term progress in building a community with a shared future for China and Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Chinese president added.

    N. Maduro, for his part, noted that China is a great friend of Venezuela and expressed gratitude for the constant and selfless support that the PRC provides to his country in defending national sovereignty and socio-economic development.

    Venezuela hopes to strengthen its all-weather strategic partnership with China and deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, agriculture, science, technology and education to achieve new tangible results and bring greater benefits to the peoples of the two countries, the president said.

    Noting that Xi Jinping’s concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind opens up bright prospects for peace and development throughout the world, N. Maduro stressed that Venezuela is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China to consistently pursue multilateralism, uphold international fairness and justice, and protect the common interests of the international community. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Military Spouse Day, 2025

    Source: The White House

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

    Military spouses are the heart and soul of our Armed Forces.  Their unwavering devotion and profound influence enrich our fighting forces and the communities in which they serve.  On Military Spouse Day, we proudly honor the wives and husbands who embrace this noble calling.
    Every day, military spouses share their loved ones with a demanding, no-fail mission.  Yet their own mission is no less daunting — frequent relocations to destinations not of their choosing; heart-wrenching separations; parenting, often alone; and career continuity within a nomadic and uncertain life.  Their ongoing sacrifices are intrinsically linked to family morale, readiness, and retention.  We cannot maintain the world’s most lethal fighting force without the love, selflessness, and support of the military spouses who navigate the unique and challenging demands in life.
    Employment is a critical challenge.  Military spouses face a 21 percent unemployment rate — one of the highest demographics in the country — and a 25 percent wage gap compared to their civilian counterparts.  Frequent relocations hinder job placements, career advancements, and tenures, regardless of their education and experience.  During my first Administration, we made significant strides to improve military spouse employment by enhancing job opportunities within the Federal Government, expanding licensure portability, and increasing remote and flexible job options that provide continuity and financial stability for military spouses.  Earlier this year, I issued a categorical exemption for military spouse employees following the return-to-office directive for Federal civilian employees, and we pledge to pursue additional innovative solutions to help military spouses thrive.
    It takes uncommon devotion and steadfast love to stand alongside those who wear our Nation’s uniform.  Yet, generation after generation, military spouses stand in spite of the uncertainty, global threats, increasing demands, long hours, and the deployments that last months or even years.  They stand –with resilience and resolve — not in the shadow of their loved ones in uniforms, but side by side as an invaluable mission partner and a force multiplier integral to our national defense.  The First Lady and I are in admiration of these volunteer patriots, heroes, and warriors.  Military spouses have our unwavering support, our prayers, and the respect of a grateful Nation.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2025, as Military Spouse Day.  I call upon the people of the United States to honor military spouses with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
    ninth 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 News: Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp

    Source: The White House

    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR
                   THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
                   THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
                   THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                          AGENCY

    SUBJECT:       Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp

    My Administration is committed to protecting the Great Lakes — the world’s largest surface freshwater system, and a highly valued shipping avenue, resource for fishing and recreation, and source of high-quality drinking water — from the economic and ecological threat of invasive carp.  This threat affects every State that borders the Great Lakes:  Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.  Curbing this threat requires immediate and effective deployment of resources, infrastructure, and expertise.  The Federal Government is prepared to do its part, but the States where preventative measures can be taken must cooperate.

    For several decades, invasive species of Asian carp have steadily migrated and expanded from the Southeast northward through streams, rivers, and lakes in the Mississippi River and Midwest region.  Asian carp, which can exceed 100 pounds in weight, spread rapidly by outcompeting native fish populations for food and space.  They also reduce water quality.  These invasive carp are nearing the entry point to the Great Lakes, which, if breached, would irreparably damage native fish species like walleye, yellow perch, and lake whitefish.  This poses a significant risk to Great Lakes fishing, boating, recreation, and tourism, which support tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of commerce annually. 

    The Brandon Road Interbasin Project near Joliet, Illinois, was authorized for construction in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-260) and would provide multiple layers of innovative technological deterrents designed to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes.  It is a joint project involving the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) and the States of Illinois and Michigan.

    The Federal Government has provided $274 million for this project, has undertaken design work, has started site preparation, and is ready to begin construction of deterrent measures.  In February 2025, however, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker decided to delay the State’s acquisition of property, which is necessary for construction to begin.  Once Illinois acquires the land, it must also issue the Army Corps a State-level permit to begin construction.

    My Administration fully supports preventing the spread of invasive carp.  The State of Illinois, where the Brandon Road Interbasin Project is located, must cease further delay in cooperating with this effort, for the sake of its own citizens and economy and for the sake of all of the Great Lakes States. 

    I am directing my Administration to achieve maximum speed and efficiency at the Federal level.  Specifically, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of the Army, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall determine and expeditiously implement the most effective mechanisms, barriers, and other measures to prevent the migration and expansion of invasive carp in the Great Lakes Basin and the surrounding region.  This includes supporting the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, through deadline-oriented investments of taxpayer dollars, to ensure the State of Illinois does not stand in the way of its construction. 

    Specifically, for this project to remain on schedule so that it can effectively fulfill its purpose and constitute a worthy investment of taxpayer resources, the State of Illinois should acquire the necessary land to begin construction of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project by July 1, 2025, and the State of Illinois and any applicable localities should grant all permits or approvals required to facilitate Army Corps construction within 30 days of such permits or approvals becoming ripe for consideration by the State or locality and should streamline all permitting and environmental reviews to the maximum degree.  Federal agency heads shall similarly streamline any permitting and environmental reviews and issue any requisite Federal permits or approvals as quickly as possible.

    Additionally, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall prioritize support for infrastructure projects to remove invasive carp from the Upper Illinois Waterway near Lake Michigan and for maintenance on existing infrastructure to block invasive carp from reaching and entering the Great Lakes Basin.

    The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, through their joint operation of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, shall prioritize support for research and management concerning the prevention, removal, and management of aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes, including invasive carp.  The Administrator of NOAA shall also prioritize this objective through the Great Lakes Aquatic Nuisance Species Information System and NOAA’s research and information-sharing work related to the growth and spread of aquatic invasive species.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Increasing Efficiency At the Office of the Federal Register

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose.  Deregulation is a critical priority for my Administration.  We will foster prosperity by freeing Americans from the heavy burden of Federal regulations accumulated over decades.  Although the decision about which regulations to eliminate is sometimes complex, the administrative process of removing a regulation from the Code of Federal Regulations through a rulemaking should be simple.  It is not.
    The Office of the Federal Register frequently takes days or, in some cases, even weeks to publish new regulatory actions.  Such delay is unwarranted.  The Office of the Federal Register receives final documents that are fully executed by the relevant decisionmakers — all that remains is publication.  Yet despite those delays, executive departments and agencies are charged $151-$174 per column of text to publish each rule in the Federal Register.  These inefficiencies inhibit my Administration’s deregulatory agenda and waste taxpayer money.

    Sec. 2.  Increasing Efficiency in the Federal Register.  (a)  The Archivist of the United States (Archivist), acting through the Office of the Federal Register, shall work with the Director of the Government Publishing Office to reduce publication delays to the greatest extent feasible, including by modernizing computer systems and eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy. 
    (b)  Within 15 days of the date of this order, the Archivist, acting through the Office of the Federal Register, shall submit a report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reflecting average publication times for different categories of documents. 
    (c)  Within 45 days of the date of this order, the Archivist, acting through the Office of the Federal Register, shall review the fee schedules for publication in the Federal Register and, working with the Director of the Government Publishing Office, take steps to ensure that fees are based on the actual costs of publication and account for increased efficiencies achieved as a result of this order.  The Archivist, acting through the Office of the Federal Register, shall promptly file a report with the Director of OMB calculating the percentage difference in fees between any proposed new fee schedule and the prior one.
    (d) No later than August 22, 2025, the Archivist, acting through the Office of the Federal Register, shall submit a second report to the Director of OMB reflecting average publication times between July 15, 2025, and August 15, 2025, for the same categories of documents on which the Office of the Federal Register reported under subsection (b) of this section.

    Sec. 3.  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 or 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 National Archives and Records Administration.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        May 9, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards

    Source: The White House

    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY
    THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR
    THE DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

    SUBJECT:       Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby direct:

    Water conservation requirements for faucets, showers, bathtubs, and toilets — promulgated by the Department of Energy pursuant to the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-486) — make bathroom appliances more expensive and less functional.  “Efficiency” standards render other American appliances like clothes washers and dishwashers less useful, more breakable, and more expensive to repair.  The Federal Government should not impose or enforce regulations that make taxpayers’ lives worse.

    To address these unnecessary radical green agenda policies, I direct the Secretary of Energy to consider using all lawful authority to rescind — or, as appropriate, amend to revert to the standards required by statute — the regulations found in 10 C.F.R. 430.32(f), relating to water and energy use in dishwashers; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(o), relating to water use in faucets; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(p), relating to water use in showerheads; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(q), relating to water use in water closets; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(r), relating to water use in urinals; the definitions of “automatic clothes washer,” “clothes washer,” “dishwasher,” “faucet,” “other clothes washer,” “semi-automatic clothes washer,” “urinal,” and “water closet” contained in 10 C.F.R. 430.2; the residential washing machine efficiency standards contained in 10 C.F.R. 430.32(g); and the commercial washing machine efficiency standards contained in 10 C.F.R. 431.156.

    Furthermore, I direct the Secretary of Energy to publish in the Federal Register a notice clarifying the Waiver of Federal Preemption of State regulations covered by the application of “Energy Efficiency Program for Consumer Products:  Waiver of Federal Preemption of State Regulations Concerning the Water Use or Water Efficiency of Showerheads, Faucets, Water Closets and Urinals,” 75 Fed. Reg. 80289 (December 22, 2010).

    I further direct the Secretary of Energy not to enforce any of the regulatory provisions listed in this memorandum, pending rescission or reversion of such provisions; the provisions of 42 U.S.C. 6295(j) and (k); or energy and water efficiency standards for washing machines, including the provisions in 42 U.S.C. 6295(g) and 42 U.S.C. 6313(e).

    Finally, I direct the Secretary of Energy and the Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs to jointly prepare and submit recommendations to the President, within 60 days of the date of this memorandum, through the Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council, for the Congress to rescind, insofar as each relates to the subject matter of this memorandum, 42 U.S.C. 6295(g), (j), (k), and (o) and 42 U.S.C. 6313(e), or to repeal the Energy Policy Act of 1992 in its entirety.

    This memorandum 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.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Keeping Promises to Veterans and Establishing a National Center for Warrior Independence

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Our Nation’s security, prosperity, and freedom would not be possible without our veterans.  Many service members paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Many others bear visible and invisible wounds from their service.  Too many veterans are homeless in America.  Each veteran deserves our gratitude.

    Yet the Federal Government has not always treated veterans like the heroes they are.  During the previous administration, unaccountable bureaucrats treated them shamefully, failing veterans when they needed help most and betraying the taxpayers who rightfully expect better.

    The story of the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center is indicative of this failure.  More than one hundred years ago, Senator John Percival Jones and Arcadia Bandini de Stearns Baker generously donated hundreds of acres of land that they owned in West Los Angeles on the condition that it be used to house disabled veterans.  The campus once featured a chapel, billiard hall, 1,000-seat theater, and housed about 6,000 veterans, but the Federal Government has since allowed this crown jewel of veteran care to deteriorate over the last few decades.  

    The Department of Veterans Affairs (Department) leased parts of the property to a private school, private companies, and the baseball team of the University of California, Los Angeles, sometimes at significantly below-market prices.  As of 2024, there were approximately 3,000 homeless veterans in Los Angeles, more than in any other city in the country and accounting for about 10 percent of all of America’s homeless veterans.  Many of these heroes live in squalor in Los Angeles’s infamous “skid row.”

    During my first term, I signed legislation to increase accountability and expand benefits and choices for veterans in accessing care, and my second term will build on those efforts.  Accountability will return to the Department.  Veterans around the Nation will have more choices in care, benefits, and services.  The VA campus in West Los Angeles will become the National Center for Warrior Independence with facilities and resources to help our veterans earn back their self-sufficiency.

    Sec. 2.  Establishing the National Center for Warrior Independence.  The Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) shall take all appropriate action to:

    (a)  designate a National Center for Warrior Independence on the West Los Angeles VA Campus in which homeless veterans in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and around the Nation can seek and receive the care, benefits, and services to which they are entitled;

    (b)  work with other municipalities and VA facilities to ensure that homeless veterans outside the Los Angeles metropolitan area who want to avail themselves of the National Center for Warrior Independence are provided the means to do so;

    (c)  in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the heads of any other relevant executive departments or agencies, ensure that funds that may have been spent on housing or other services for illegal aliens are redirected to construct, establish, and maintain this National Center for Warrior Independence;

    (d)  work to restore self-sufficiency and the warrior ethos among homeless veterans through any guidance, requirements, or services needed to ensure that homeless veterans can access housing, receive substance abuse or addiction treatment, and return to productive work and community engagement; and

    (e)  within 120 days of the date of this order, present an action plan to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, to meet these directives and restore the capacity to house up to 6,000 homeless veterans at the National Center for Warrior Independence by January 1, 2028.

    Sec. 3.  Voucher Program.  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, in consultation with the Secretary, use vouchers to support homeless veterans in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and around the Nation with respect to this effort.

    Sec. 4.  Restoring Accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The Secretary shall take the following steps to restore accountability and excellent service at the Department:

    (a)  take appropriate action against individuals who have committed misconduct, making full use of and in accordance with the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-41); and

    (b)  investigate and take steps to rectify the previous administration’s decision to rehire and reinstate back pay for employees previously fired for misconduct and direct such savings back toward care, benefits, and services for veterans, in accordance with all applicable laws.

    Sec. 5.  Providing Choices and Excellence to Veterans.  The Secretary shall take steps to increase the excellence of and options for care, benefits, and services for veterans including:

    (a)  within 60 days of the date of this order, submitting a report to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, with a plan to reduce wait times for Veterans Health Administration appointments that explores options like expanding office hours, offering weekend appointments, and increasing the use of virtual healthcare options;

    (b)  within 30 days of the date of this order, directing a feasibility study at the Manchester VA Medical Center and within 180 days of this order, submitting to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, an action plan to expand services to support a full-service medical center in New Hampshire so that it is no longer the only State in the contiguous United States without such a center; and

    (c)  in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, developing a strategy to improve the delivery and quality of the Department’s healthcare services in a more efficient and effective manner to support veterans; the strategy shall initially prioritize implementation of actions to reduce access times and improve service delivery, to include options for offering treatment to veterans at select military treatment facilities and military beneficiaries at VA facilities with appropriate reimbursement.

    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 Department of Veterans Affairs shall provide funding for this order’s publication in the Federal Register.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        May 9, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Doubles Down on CFPB Support

    Source: US State of California

    Urges court to keep order that will protect the agency from further dismemberment 

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced joining a coalition of 23 attorneys general in submitting an amicus brief in National Treasury Employees Union v. Vought, a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). In February, Attorney General Bonta submitted an initial amicus brief in this case, which was followed by the court granting a robust preliminary injunction, a decision that prevents the Trump Administration from moving forward with mass layoffs while litigation in this case proceeds. The Trump Administration has now appealed the preliminary injunction, asking the court to strike it down to allow further dismantling of the CFPB to continue. In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general argue that shuttering the CFPB would cause catastrophic harm to consumer protections nationwide. These actions by the Trump Administration trample over the decision of Congress to create the agency, violating the separation of powers under the U.S. Constitution. 

    “Further demolishing the CFPB, the top cop protecting Americans from exploitation, would put families nationwide at a stark disadvantage when standing up to big businesses who aren’t playing by the rules,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I urge the court to keep in place the order preventing the Trump Administration from issuing mass layoffs at the CFPB — its loss would have devastating and deep implications for California, and the financial well-being of households across the nation.”

    In the brief, filed in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the attorneys general argue the dismantling of the CFPB will cause irreparable harm to consumers and the states’ own consumer protection enforcement efforts, leave no oversight over large national banks, and will rapidly and substantially increase the burden on state agencies to protect consumers from conduct regulated by the CFPB. The loss of the CFPB’s partnership has concrete and widespread implications: from the sharing of complaints and trend data, to providing training, to partnering on joint investigations and litigations, the CFPB has been a force multiplier for California’s consumer protection efforts.

    Background
      
    After examining the fallout of the 2008 financial crisis, Congress concluded the crisis resulted in part from the failure of federal banking and other regulators to address significant consumer protection issues detrimental to both consumers and the safety and soundness of the banking system. In direct response to these events, Congress established the CFPB and tasked it with enforcing numerous federal consumer protection statutes and enacting regulations to further these efforts. For over a decade, the CFPB has served as an invaluable partner to state attorneys general and state banking regulators, both by working to protect consumers against fraudulent and abusive practices and by advancing a fair and level playing field in consumer financial markets by issuing regulations under federal law. 
     
    In the last months, the Trump Administration has taken a series of actions intended to debilitate the CFPB, including issuing a suspension of work across the agency, terminating probationary employees, and announcing a decision not to draw additional funding from the Federal Reserve. These actions appear to be part of a unilateral effort to permanently shut down the agency, including programs and operations mandated by federal law. Most recently, the Trump Administration issued reduction in force notices to 90% of the CFPB’s workforce — a move that was swiftly blocked by the courts.

    Attorney General Bonta has been a vocal supporter of CFPB. In February, Attorney General Bonta submitted an amicus brief in another case, Mayor and City Council of Baltimore v. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 
     
    In filing the brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New York, New Jersey, the District of Columbia, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.

    A copy of the brief can be found here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Bice Applauds President Trump’s Signing of Her Legislation to Overturn Burdensome Refrigeration Regulations 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Bice joined President Donald J. Trump at the White House as he signed her legislation H.J.Resolution 24, into law. The resolution permanently nullifies restrictive Biden-era regulations on walk-in coolers and freezers, which placed significant financial strain on small businesses and highlighted blatant federal overreach. 

    “Today is a victory for America’s small businesses,”said Congresswoman Bice. “I was honored to stand with President Trump as he signed my legislation into law. From pharmacies and food banks to restaurants and convenience stores, industries that rely on commercial refrigeration will no longer be burdened by this regulation. By overturning this rule, we are protecting economic freedom, preserving consumer choice, and ensuring businesses aren’t forced to bear unnecessary costs. I’m grateful to my colleagues in Congress who recognized the need to act decisively. With the President’s signature, we’ve taken a meaningful step to rein in bureaucracy, keep costs low, and restore commonsense to federal rulemaking.” 

    The now-signed resolution was introduced by Rep. Bice under the Congressional Review Act to stop the Biden Administration’s Department of Energy’s December 2024 rule, which would have imposed costly new energy efficiency mandates on commercial refrigeration units. The rule, with an estimated compliance cost of nearly $1 billion, was widely criticized by businesses, manufacturers, and consumer advocacy groups for increasing operational costs while delivering minimal energy savings. Rep. Bice’s legislation received bipartisan support in the House, reflecting broad concern over the regulatory overreach. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New affordable homes open for people in Courtenay

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Indigenous Elders, individuals and people with disabilities with low or moderate incomes now have access to 40 affordable homes in Courtenay.

    “The opening of these homes means more people can have safe, affordable places to live, close to their families, culture and community,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “These welcoming spaces will make people feel safe, supported and truly at home in affordable housing that meets their needs.”

    Naut’sa mawt (pronounced not-sa mott), a Coast Salish word meaning “together as one,” at 1679 McPhee Ave. is a five-storey, wood-frame building with 40 affordable homes prioritized for Indigenous people. Managed by Wachiay Friendship Centre Society, the building features a mix of studio and one-bedroom units with rents ranging from $500 to approximately $1,300 per month. Nearly 80% of units are fully accessible or adaptable, and thoughtfully designed to support people with diverse needs.

    “We raise our hands to celebrate the community support provided by AHMA member, Wachiay Friendship Centre Society,” said Margaret Pfoh, CEO of the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA). “AHMA members are quietly making a huge difference all across B.C. with housing that is affordable, culturally informed and serves those most in need.”

    The Wachiay Friendship Centre Society owns the building and aims to create a space where Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities can gather, exchange traditions and learn from one another. The building is adjacent to the Wachiay Friendship Centre, which delivers more than 50 programs and services to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

    “Wachiay Friendship Centre Society is thrilled to see the completion of Naut’sa Mawt,” said Monica Goodheart, president of Wachiay Friendship Centre Society. “This will provide much-needed housing for our most vulnerable and valued population, our Elders and other community members who are struggling to find safe affordable housing.”

    This project is part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes delivered or underway, including more than 700 in Courtenay.

    Quotes:

    George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville –

    “The opening of these 40 homes is a meaningful example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships with Indigenous communities. Everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and that’s exactly what these homes represent for the people of Courtenay.”

    Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim –

    “We are welcoming 40 new homes into the community of Courtenay, homes that will soon be filled with stories, connection and the daily rhythms of life. These homes are more than buildings. They are a foundation for people to stay rooted in the place they love, close to family, culture and community.”

    Will Cole-Hamilton, board chair, Comox Valley Regional District –  

    “This project represents key relationships with our Indigenous partners and addresses ongoing housing needs in the community. Congratulations to the Wachiay Friendship Centre Society on this fantastic achievement in providing safe and inclusive spaces to those in need.” 

    Bob Wells, mayor of Courtenay –  

    “Partnerships have played a key role in this amazing project, and we’re proud the City has been a contributor. We are truly grateful for the vision and leadership of Wachiay Friendship Centre Society, collaboration with M’akola Housing Society and major funding from BC Housing and CMHC.” 

    Quick Facts:

    • The Province, through BC Housing, contributed $7.2 million for the project through the Community Housing Fund.
    • The Province is also providing an annual operating subsidy of $212,000.
    • The federal government, through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, provided $2 million through the Affordable Housing Fund.
    • The Wachiay Friendship Centre Society provided the land, valued at approximately $878,000, and $5,000 in cash equity toward the project.
    • Other contributions include a grant of approximately $180,000 from Comox Valley Regional District, approximately $90,000 in waived development fees from the City of Courtenay and nearly $24,000 grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

    Learn More:

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/ 

    A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available here:  https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/Building-BC/homes-for-BC  

    To learn how BC Housing is helping to build strong, inclusive housing communities, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/podcast

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Larsen Releases Report on His Work in Congress This Year

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Rep. Larsen Releases Report on His Work in Congress This Year

    Washington, May 9, 2025

    Today, Rep. Larsen released the following report on his work in Congress so far this year:

    “I have been working hard in the 119th Congress to stand up for families and fight back against President Trump.

    “Here is a report on the work I have done in the first four months of this year: 

    LISTENING TO YOU

    • 29,352 attendees at February and March telephone town halls
    • 106 meetings and events in Northwest Washington
    • 76 meetings and events in D.C. with Washington state and Northwest Washington state groups 

    RESPONDING TO YOU

    • 47,019 messages answered – that’s 2.8x more than this time last year
    • 55 videos posted on social media
    • 17 news and podcast interviews done

    WORKING FOR YOU

    • 256 constituent cases opened
    • 171 constituent cases resolved
    • $775,000 recovered for Northwest Washingtonians
    • 308 tours of the Capitol provided to Northwest Washingtonians
    • 1,118 Northwest Washingtonians who received Capitol tours
    • 34,923 miles traveled between Washington state and Washington, D.C.

    FIGHTING BACK AGAINST TRUMP

    • Restored funding to the Port of Anacortes after the Trump admin shut it off
    • Demanding ICE and DHS respect the constitutional rights of everyone the Constitution protects, including Lelo Juarez Zeferino
    • Co-sponsoring bills to block Musk’s access to Americans’ personal information
    • Co-leading bills to end Trump’s abuse of tariff and emergency power
    • Supporting Washington state’s lawsuit to protect birthright citizenship
    • Voted against the Republican Rip-Off budget

    LEGISLATING FOR YOU

    • 41 bills co-sponsored, including:
      • John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
      • Protecting the Right to Organize Act
      • Protecting Americans’ Social Security Data Act
      • IVF for Military Families Act
      • Raise the Wage Act
    • Introduced legislation to reauthorize a community-led effort to restore marine habitats in the Northwest Straits region

    STANDING UP FOR YOU

    • 40 letters pushing back on the Trump admin, including:
      • Opposing Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid cuts
      • Opposing federal worker layoffs that threaten critical services families rely on
      • Demanding the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia
      • Opposing the rollback of environmental protections

    LEADING THE TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE

    • Defending hardworking air traffic controllers and protecting the flying public
    • Opposing local project cuts and protecting grants promised to communities
    • Advocating for pedestrian safety and holding the Department of Transportation accountable
    • Standing up for transportation investments that create jobs

    “I am proud of what we have accomplished since January, and I will continue to fight for you in Congress.”

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. The first place winner for Virginia’s Fourth is Journi Marlow with her acrylic painting, In Our Hands. Journi is an eleventh grader who attends Henrico High School. Her art has been featured in live interviews and community exhibitions, and she has served as a youth panelist speaking on the power of art for personal and collective change. Her work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol later this year.

    “I’m thrilled to congratulate Journi on her winning acrylic submission to this year’s Congressional Art Competition! Her piece is a beautiful representation of the American justice system, its fragility, and the promise held by the American people to uphold it,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “It is an honor to host this art competition and provide an opportunity for students across the district to showcase their work. Thank you to all the young artists who participated and shared your artistic vision with us. I can’t wait to see what you all do next in pursuing your love of art.”

    Congresswoman McClellan also announced the following finalists:

    • Olivia Price, a tenth grader from Hermitage High School, took second place with her pencil and acrylic drawing, New Form of Life.
    • Chloe Stamper, a tenth grader from Brunswick High School, took third place with her acrylic painting, Journey for Water.

    Below is a full list of submissions for this year and honorable mentions in each category.

    Overall Congressional Art Competition Winners:

    • 1st Place: In Our Hands / Journi Marlow of Henrico High School
    • 2nd Place: New Form of Life / Olivia Price of Hermitage High School
    • 3rd Place: Journey for Water / Chloe Stampher of Brunswick High School

    Digital Art:

    • 1st Place: Like a Moth to a Flame / Lina Lloyd of Petersburg High School
    • 2nd Place: Sandman’s Sheep Prowl the Night / Carra Wynn of Petersburg High School

    Photography:

    • 1st Place: Reality TV / Lily Frantz Laferriere of Clover Hill High School
    • 2nd Place: Place- Spring in Town / Dayanara Gonzalez-Hernandez of Petersburg High School

    Mixed Media:

    • 1st Place: Green and Gentle Waterway / Minhan Zhao of Clover Hill High School
    • 2nd Place: The Fire in My Eyes / Elizabeth Smith-Branzella of Petersburg High School
    • 3rd Place: Maristella / Navaeh Edwards of Petersburg High School

    Drawings:

    • 1st Place: New Form of Life / Olivia Price of Hermitage High School
    • 2nd Place: Dining Dolls / Gabrielle Williams of Thomas Dale High School
    • 3rd Place: A Hap of Laughter: The Memory of Papa Hay / Hazel Grace Bittenbender of Colonial Heights High School
    • 4th Place: Colored Over, Still Me / Grace Miao-Xuan Zheng of Maggie Walker Governor’s School
    • Honorable Mention: Backyard Chase / Jeremiah Adkins of Varina High School
    • Honorable Mention: Under Freedom’s Wing / Cadence Penelope Martin of Colonial Heights High School

    Paintings:

    • 1st Place: In Our Hands / Journi Marlow of Henrico High School
    • 2nd Place: Journey for Water / Chloe Stamper of Brunswick High School
    • 3rd Place: Pride / Lindsey Keatley of Thomas Dale High School
    • Honorable Mention: Wally’s Red Moon / Jeilyn Munoz of Hopewell High School
    • Honorable Mention: Salvation Mountain / Juliet Chanelle Torres of Colonial Heights High School
    • Honorable Mention: Look of Love / Mia Salinas Santiago of Petersburg High School

    The judging panel consisted of the following people: Sara Johnson Ward, S. Ross Browne, Taekia Glass, and Allie Sarinana.

    You can view all of the winning submissions and honorable mentions here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VA statement regarding President Trump’s executive order

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

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    WASHINGTON – After President Trump signed an executive order to provide better care to Veterans, improve accountability for such care, and establish a National Center for Warrior Independence for homeless Veterans, Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins released the following statement:

    “Under President Trump, VA is implementing a host of important reforms to improve care and benefits for our nation’s heroes,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This executive order builds on the progress we’ve made so far and puts us on a path to fixing some of the department’s most vexing problems.

    “After decades of mismanagement, VA has been leasing parts of its 388-acre West Los Angeles VA Medical Center campus to a wealthy and exclusive private school and the University of California, Los Angeles, baseball team. Today’s executive order will enable us to ensure VA’s West Los Angeles Campus is being used as intended: to benefit Veterans. Our goal is to turn the campus into a beacon of hope and a destination for homeless Veterans from across the nation who can travel there to find housing and support and start their journey back to self-sufficiency.

    “Under President Biden, VA failed to hold its employees properly accountable and actively fought congressional attempts to make it easier to fire poor-performing workers – even as health care wait times and benefits backlogs increased. With this executive order, VA will become the most accountable agency in the entire federal government. We’re going to celebrate the vast majority of VA employees who do a great job every day, hold employees accountable when they fall short of the mission and work to fix the wait-time and backlog issues that developed during the Biden Administration.

    “New Hampshire is the only state in the contiguous United States without a full-service VA medical center. In response to this executive order, we will develop a plan to ensure that is no longer the case.”

    Additional announcements regarding VA’s implementation of the EO are forthcoming. Read more about the EO here.

    ###

    Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov

    Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

    Contact us online through Ask VA

    Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

    Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Delivering More Housing Coloradans Can Afford: Governor Polis Signs Laws to Create More Housing for Hardworking Coloradans, Strengthen Colorado’s Workforce, and Save People Money on Transportation & Energy

    Source: US State of Colorado

    FORT COLLINS/BROOMFIELD/LAKEWOOD – Today, Governor Polis launched the 2025 Statewide bill signing tour and signed new laws to create more housing that Coloradans can afford, strengthen Colorado’s workforce, and save people money on necessities and energy. 

    To break down barriers to more housing Coloradans can afford, Governor Polis signed bipartisan HB25-1211 – Tap Fees Imposed by Special Districts sponsored by Representatives Rebekah Stewart and Sheila Lieder, and Senators Jeff Bridges and Barbara Kirkmeyer. 

    “We are focused on unlocking more housing that hardworking people can afford. These laws break down cost barriers to make it cheaper to build housing and ensure fees don’t impede new housing opportunities. In Colorado, we are looking at every solution to lower the cost of housing, and I am proud to continue that important work today,” said Governor Polis. 

    The Governor also visited Harmony Cottages in Fort Collins, a Habitat for Humanity housing development creating 48 new energy-efficient homes for hardworking families. 

    At Putnam Elementary School in Fort Collins, Governor Polis signed the bipartisan SB25-154 – Access to Educator Pathways, sponsored by Senator Cathy Kipp, and Representatives Eliza Hamrick and Matt Soper. 

    “This bipartisan bill expands pathways for current teachers to get specialized training, to help them become even better educators. Student success hinges upon our teachers having the support and skills to help students thrive, and expanding opportunities for teachers to get training in early childhood, elementary, or special education is good for our teachers and students,” said Governor Polis. 

    He also signed HB25-1010 – Prohibiting Price Gouging in Sales of Necessities, sponsored by Representatives Yara Zokaie and Kyle Brown, and Senator Mike Weissman. 

    To expand the freedom to move in the Free State of Colorado, Governor Polis signed bipartisan HB25-1281 – Title Register & Drive Kei Vehicles, sponsored by Representatives William Lindstedt and Larry Don Suckla, and Senators Nick Hinrichsen and Byron Pelton.

     “In the Free State of Colorado, we are protecting and strengthening our freedom to live our lives the way we want, including Kei Freedom. Kei vehicles are an affordable, fuel-efficient, and smaller transportation option, and by unlocking Coloradans’ access to Kei vehicles, we are helping Coloradans who want to exercise Kei freedom the ability to save money while getting where we need to go. I’m thrilled that Colorado is joining 38 other states to break down barriers and unlock Kei Freedom,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bill into law: 

    • HB25-1292 – Transmission Lines in State Highway Rights-of-Way, sponsored by Representatives Andrew Boesenecker and Junie Joseph, and Senator Faith Winter. This bill is bipartisan. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FY26 Budget Investments for Southern Tier Families

    Source: US State of New York

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    May 9, 2025

    Albany, NY

    Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul announced FY26 Budget affordability investments for Southern Tier families at Batch Grab and Go in Johnson City, New York. The Governor met with Kinya Middleton, Carly Budrick and Jaclyn Marie Kress as they expressed their concerns on the cost of living. The Governor also spoke with patrons as she highlighted her affordability agenda.

    B-ROLL of the Governor during the meeting can be found on YouTube and in TV quality (h.264, mp4) format.

    PHOTOS of the meeting are available on the Governor’s Flickr page.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Three in the Central District of Illinois

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “Protecting our children from those who seek to exploit them and inflict harm is a top priority for our office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois Gregory M. Gilmore. “We are grateful to our federal and local law enforcement partners whose dedicated work has made our community that much safer.”

    “There will be zero tolerance for those who commit crimes against our children,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “There will never be a lead we do not follow or door we do not knock on. We will not stand by – we will stand together. This operation shows that with every partner at the table, from law enforcement to community advocates, we are united in one mission, to protect our children.”

    The cases charged in the Central District of Illinois include the following:

    Mark Peterson, 41, of Pekin, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 25, 2025, with attempted enticement of a minor. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Peterson on May 6, 2025.

    According to the complaint affidavit, Peterson communicated via an internet-based social media platform with an individual whom he believed had access to a ten-year-old female, expressing multiple times that he wanted to engage in sexual activity with the child. Per the affidavit, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Peterson drove to a location in Peoria to meet the child for the purpose of having sexual relations. Federal law enforcement agents arrested him upon his arrival.

    If convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, Peterson faces a minimum sentence of ten years to life imprisonment.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long ordered Peterson detained on April 29, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz is representing the government in the prosecution.

    Dalton Trader, 27, of Williamsville, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography videos, including a video of a prepubescent minor, on Trader’s computer pursuant to a search warrant.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Trader faces a sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment.

    Trader is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending a detention hearing that is set for May 8, 2025.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, with assistance from the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Williamsville Police Department, Illinois State Police, Springfield Police Department, the Illinois Secretary of State Police, the Sherman Police Department, and Sangamon County Animal Control. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    James Yeager, 51, of Springfield, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography images, including photographs of prepubescent minors, on a micro-SD drive at Yeager’s residence, following the execution of a search warrant.

    U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless ordered Yeager detained on May 6, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office; the Decatur Police Department; the Springfield Police Department; the Illinois State Police; the Illinois Attorney General’s Office Investigation Division, and the Illinois Secretary of State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Yeager faces a minimum sentence of ten years and maximum sentence of twenty years of imprisonment.

    The following agencies provided further assistance during Operation Restore Justice: the Charleston Police Department; the Bradley Police Department; the Manteno Police Department; the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Police Department; and the Eastern-Central Illinois Task Force.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

    A complaint or indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: CanREA congratulates winners of Ontario MT2 RFP 

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: CanREA congratulates winners of Ontario MT2 RFP 

    16 Ontario wind projects, totalling more than 963 MW, were selected for recontracting in the IESO’s second medium-term request for proposals. 

    Toronto, May 9, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) congratulates seven member companies for their selection in Ontario’s second medium-term request for proposals (MT2 RFP), as announced today by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). 

    The MT2 RFP aims to recontract electricity resources with expiring contracts for a new, five-year term, to ensure the continued reliability and cost-effectiveness of Ontario’s electricity system.  

    “As this RFP demonstrates, Ontario’s existing fleet of wind farms can continue delivering much-needed renewable energy to the grid for many more years to come. Soon, these well-established assets will be complemented by new projects as Ontario invests in its affordable, clean and reliable energy future,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

    CanREA Industry Leader member company Engie, Terawatt members Acciona, Capstone, Enbridge and Kruger, and Gigawatt members Brookfield Renewables (Evolugen) and Capital Power, were among the 16 Ontario wind projects, totalling more than 963 MW, selected for recontracting through the MT2 RFP.  

    This represents more than half of the 28 projects, totalling more than 3000 MW, that were successful in the RFP’s two streams, capacity and energy. 

    “CanREA worked closely with the IESO on the development of this procurement before its launch last November, and we are thrilled to see our members succeed today. Wind energy, along with solar energy and energy storage, will help ensure Ontario’s near-term reliability and economic growth,” said Eric Muller, CanREA’s Ontario Director.  

    CanREA will continue to actively engage with the IESO and the Ontario government in the development of other critical procurements, such as the LT2. The IESO is currently in the process of awarding the contracts and will publish the details once they are fully executed, which is targeted for June. 

    Quotes 

    “As this RFP demonstrates, Ontario’s existing fleet of wind farms can continue delivering much-needed renewable energy to the grid for many more years to come. Soon, these well-established assets will be complemented by new projects, as Ontario invests in its affordable, clean and reliable energy future.”

    —Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

    “CanREA worked closely with the IESO on the development of this procurement before its launch last November, and we are thrilled to see our members succeed today. Wind energy, along with solar energy and energy storage, will help ensure Ontario’s near-term reliability and economic growth.”   

    —Eric Muller, Ontario Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

    For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

    Communications Canadian Renewable Energy Association 613-227-5378 communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

    About CanREA 

    The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 
    The post CanREA congratulates winners of Ontario MT2 RFP  appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: STATEMENT—Solar to accelerate Quebec’s energy transition 

    Source: – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: STATEMENT—Solar to accelerate Quebec’s energy transition 

    CanREA welcomes Hydro-Québec’s plan to develop 3,000 MW of solar power by 2035.   

    Montreal, May 6, 2025– the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds Hydro-Québec’s commitment to purchase 3000 MW of solar power by 2035, starting with the launch of a 300 MW RFP, as announced today by Hydro-Québec’s CEO, Michael Sabia. This is an important first for Quebec. 

     “This announcement is a huge step forward for the solar industry in Quebec. We are very pleased to see Hydro-Québec pursuing the deployment of solar energy,” said Jean Habel, CanREA’s Senior Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada.   

    The deployment of solar will be an asset for Quebec’s energy transition, given that high greenhouse-gas-emitting sources still account for half of Quebec’s energy portfolio. 

    Quebec diversifies its energy mix with solar power 

    Hydro-Québec’s solar energy plan, “Le solaire : une autre étape vers la diversification énergétique – Une approche évolutive pour une ambition de 3 000 MW d’énergie solaire au Québec” (in French only) represents a breakthrough for the solar sector in Quebec, which currently produces 17 MW of solar energy, just 0.31% of the 5,400 MW already installed across Canada.  

    “Every kilowatt of renewable energy contributes to achieving our climate goals. Hydro-Quebec’s solar plan proposes to take several actions simultaneously. Diversifying Quebec’s energy mix will help accelerate its energy transition,” said Habel.  

    A three-stage solar deployment  

    Quebec’s new solar plan will proceed in three phases: a new call for tenders for grid-connected solar farms, the potential development of larger projects, and new support for residential and commercial BTM solar.  

    “CanREA appreciates the predictability of Quebec’s solar plan, with a pathway that looks ahead to 2035. We expect to see new solar farms of various sizes, built in collaboration with developers, local communities and Indigenous communities, as well as the installation of solar panels on homes and businesses, for those who wish to produce their own power,” added Habel.  

    CanREA has long advocated for clear procurement targets that provide more long-term certainty for the renewable industry in Quebec, and for measures that encourage the deployment of decentralized energy resources, such as net metering.  

    Fewer than 1,000 households currently use net metering in Quebec. In order to achieve Hydro-Québec’s goal of the equivalent of 125,000 customers by 2035, CanREA recommends that the threshold be raised to 1 MW, as it is in Nova Scotia. 

    CanREA also recommends that a subsidy be implemented by 2026 for the installation of solar panels on homes and businesses. This will significantly boost interest in BTM solar, as noted in the Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors report, “BTM Solar: Canadian Market Outlook,”  which highlights the importance of onsite solar to Canada’s energy future, and the importance of financial incentives to encourage customer buy-in.   

    What’s more, businesses can now get a 30% federal tax credit on the capital cost of their investment in renewable technologies, such as solar energy, until 2034.   

    To learn more about the energy transition in Quebec, look no further than the second edition of the CanREA Quebec Net-Zero Summit, on May 15, 2025, in Montreal. More information is available here.

    Quotes 

    “This announcement is a huge step forward for the solar industry in Quebec. We are very pleased to see Hydro-Québec pursuing the deployment of solar as an energy source.”   

    “Every kilowatt of renewable energy contributes to achieving our climate goals. Hydro-Quebec’s solar plan proposes to take several actions simultaneously. Diversifying Quebec’s energy mix will help accelerate its energy transition.”  

    “CanREA appreciates the predictability of Quebec’s solar plan, with a pathway that looks ahead to 2035. We expect to see new solar farms of various sizes, built in collaboration with developers, local communities and Indigenous communities, as well as the installation of solar panels on homes and businesses, for those who wish to produce their own power.” 

    —Jean Habel, Senior Director, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) —Jean Habel, Senior Director, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) ‘

    For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

    Communications Canadian Renewable Energy Association 613-227-5378 communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

    About CanREA 

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Keeps Promises to Our Veterans and Establishes New Center for Homeless Veterans

    Source: The White House

    KEEPING OUR PROMISE TO OUR VETERANS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to provide better care to our veterans, improve accountability for such care, and establish a National Center for Warrior Independence for homeless veterans.

    • The Order directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish the National Center for Warrior Independence on the Veterans Affairs West Los Angeles Campus.
      • Homeless veterans in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and around the nation can avail themselves of this Center to seek and receive the care, benefits, and services to which they are entitled.
      • Funds previously spent on housing or other services for illegal aliens will be redirected to construct, establish, and maintain this Center.
      • The Center will promote self-sufficiency through housing, substance abuse treatment, and support for productive work for the veterans housed there.
      • The goal is to house up to 6,000 homeless veterans at this Center by 2028.
    • The Order directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to use vouchers to support homeless veterans with respect to this effort.
    • It instructs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to restore accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This includes taking action against individuals who have committed misconduct and investigating and rectifying the previous administration’s decision to rehire and reinstate back pay for employees previously fired for misconduct.
    • The Order ensures that veterans will have access to increased options for care, benefits, and services.
      • This includes reduced wait times for Veterans Health Administration appointments through options such as expanded hours, weekend appointments, and virtual healthcare. 
      • It orders a feasibility study at the Manchester VA Medical Center to expand services to support a full-service medical center in New Hampshire.

    TREATING VETERANS LIKE THE HEROES THEY ARE: President Trump strongly believes that every veteran deserves our gratitude, and that the federal government should treat veterans like the heroes they are.  

    • Previous administrations have failed veterans by allowing the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center—hundreds of acres in Los Angeles given to the Federal Government more than a century ago to help veterans—to fall apart.
      • Parts of the property are leased to a private school, private companies, and the baseball team of the University of California, Los Angeles—sometimes at rock-bottom prices.
    • Los Angeles has approximately 3,000 homeless veterans—more than any other city in the country and accounting for about 10% of all homeless veterans in America.
    • Many of these heroes live in squalor in Los Angeles’s infamous “skid row.”
    • The new National Center for Warrior Independence will help them and other veterans like them rebuild their lives.

    CONTINUING A RECORD OF REFORM: This Executive Order builds on the historic reforms and achievements of President Trump’s first term, which transformed the Department of Veterans Affairs and expanded care and opportunities for our nation’s heroes.

    • During President Trump’s first term, he signed legislation to increase accountability and expand benefits and choices for veterans in accessing care.
    • He also signed legislation to remove thousands of VA workers who failed to give our vets the care they so richly deserve.
    • President Trump improved the efficiency of the VA and modernized medical records.
    • President Trump signed and implemented the Forever GI bill, allowing veterans to use their benefits to get an education at any point in their lives.
    • He eliminated every penny of federal student loan debt owed by American veterans who are completely and permanently disabled.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Protects the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp

    Source: The White House

    STOPPING INVASIVE CARP: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a presidential memorandum to protect the Great Lakes from invasive carp.

    • The memorandum directs his administration to expeditiously implement the most effective mechanisms, barriers, and other measures to prevent the migration and expansion of invasive carp in the Great Lakes Basin and the surrounding region.
    • It supports construction of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, which would provide multiple layers of innovative technological deterrents designed to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes, provided that the states involved are willing to cooperate and meet deadlines so that the federal investment pays off and the project can be completed in a timely, effective fashion.  This project was authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 but has recently been delayed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker.
      • It sets a deadline of July 1, 2025, for Illinois to acquire necessary land to begin construction and 30-day deadlines for local permits to be granted to facilitate Army Corps construction.
      • Federal agencies are similarly directed to streamline their permitting and environmental reviews.
    • It instructs the Environmental Protection Agency to prioritize infrastructure projects to remove invasive carp from the Upper Illinois Waterway near Lake Michigan and maintain existing barriers to prevent their entry into the Great Lakes Basin.
    • It tasks NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to prioritize research and management for the prevention, removal, and control of invasive carp and other aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes.

    PROTECTING THE GREAT LAKES: President Trump understands that swift action is essential to safeguard the Great Lakes from the growing threat of invasive carp.

    • The Great Lakes are the world’s largest surface freshwater system, and a highly valued shipping avenue, resource for fishing and recreation, and source of high-quality drinking water.
    • For several decades, invasive species of Asian carp have steadily migrated and expanded from the Southeast northward through streams, rivers, and lakes, nearing the Great Lakes entry point.
    • Asian carp, which can exceed 100 pounds in weight, spread rapidly by outcompeting native fish populations for food and space, threatening species like walleye, yellow perch, and lake whitefish.
    • Their potential entry into the Great Lakes would irreparably damage fishing, boating, recreation, and tourism, which supports tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in commerce annually.
    • Immediate action is needed as the Federal Government has already invested $274 million in the Brandon Road project, but Illinois’ recent delays in land acquisition and permitting threaten this critical defense against an ecological and economic disaster.

    SAFEGUARDING AMERICA’S NATURAL ABUNDANCE: President Trump has consistently demonstrated a commonsense dedication to protecting America’s natural resources, environment, and outdoor recreation areas.

    • President Trump has championed improved forest management in order to prevent forest fires that are devastating communities and ecosystems across the country.
    • By pausing the expansion of windmills, President Trump recognized their detrimental environmental impact, particularly on wildlife, often outweighs their benefits.
    • President Trump signed the Save Our Seas Act to preserve and protect our beautiful waters and oceans from being littered with garbage. 
    • President Trump stands committed to sportsmen and anglers, ensuring they have access to thriving natural lands and waters for hunting and fishing.

    MIL OSI USA News –