NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Markey Outlines 100 of Trump’s Disastrous Decisions from His First 100 Days

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    WATCH: Senator Markey blasts “century’s worth of damage” in Trump’s first 100 days
    Washington (May 1, 2025) – To mark President Trump’s first 100 days in office, yesterday, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) gave remarks on the Senate floor where he listed 100 different ways the Trump administration has harmed the United States, including firing thousands of federal workers, implementing reckless tariffs that are driving up costs, defunding essential programs, and deporting children who are U.S. citizens. Below is an excerpt of his remarks.
    “100 days ago, Donald Trump proclaimed, ‘the golden age of America begins now.’ But in the 100 days since Inauguration Day, King Donald has shown us that he sits on a throne of fool’s gold – one built on empty boasts, unfulfilled promises, and lie after lie after lie. In just over three months, King Donald’s reign has rained down chaos, corruption, cuts, and crisis on the American people.   
    “And he is counting on you not to pay attention. He’s hoping you don’t notice that everyday costs are rising, retirement savings are sinking, and families living paycheck to paycheck are bearing the burden. He’s relying on all of us to roll over, accept his absolute rule, and let him and his caviar cabinet enjoy the circus while they pass a massive tax cut for their billionaire buddies.”  
    The full list of Trump’s 100 disastrous decisions is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey, Klobuchar Reintroduce Resolution to Give Individuals a Fair Chance After Incarceration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Resolution Text (PDF)
    Washington (May 1, 2025) – Yesterday, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) reintroduced a resolution to recognize the month of April as “Fair Chance Jobs Month,” to ensure that formerly incarcerated individuals have a fair chance at securing good-paying, stable employment. The Fair Chance Jobs Month Resolution acknowledges the importance of removing barriers to employment for those affected by the criminal legal system.
    Nearly 80 million Americans, or one in three adults, have a record of arrest or conviction. In the United States, nearly 14,000 laws and regulations restrict formerly incarcerated people from securing professional licenses required for a wide range of jobs. Individuals who reenter society continue to face systemic biases and stigmas that restrict access to employment. Even when formerly incarcerated individuals get hired, they earn lower wages on average than the general population.
    “Individuals who served their sentences deserve a fair chance at rebuilding their lives when they reenter society. Formerly incarcerated individuals face significant obstacles, including systemic biases and licensing barriers, to securing a good-paying job,” said Senator Markey. “I am proud to reintroduce this resolution alongside Senator Klobuchar to help ensure those impacted by the criminal legal system get a fair shot at reentering the workforce and supporting a better life for themselves and for their families.”
    “As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the employment challenges people can face when they are released after serving their sentence,” said Senator Klobuchar. “This resolution to recognize Fair Chance Jobs Month will raise awareness of the barriers formerly incarcerated people face in the job market and promote opportunities for those who are looking to reenter the workforce.”
    Cosponsors of the resolution in the Senate include Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
    The Fair Chance Jobs Month resolution is endorsed by JustLeadershipUSA.
    “This resolution recognizes the immense harm caused by the criminal legal system—especially its economic impact on directly affected individuals—and highlights ongoing barriers to basic needs that continue to affect families and communities. To enhance public safety and stabilize the economy, we must dismantle ineffective policies and expand access to training and enhanced support,” said Ronald Simpson-Bey, Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at JustLeadershipUSA.
    Senators Markey and Klobuchar first introduced the resolution in April 2024. In February 2024, Senator Markey sent a letter to Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm urging the Department of Energy (DOE) to make good-paying clean energy jobs accessible to currently and formerly incarcerated people. In December of 2023, Senator Markey also led colleagues in introducing the End Solitary Confinement Act, legislation that would end solitary confinement in federal prisons, jails, and detention centers, with limited exceptions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Similar to owls, sharp hearing helps hunting harriers home in on their prey – Flinders

    Source: Flinders University

    Owls, well adapted to hearing the exact location of prey, have something in common with an unrelated group of raptors – harriers.

    A new study led by Canadian and Australian researchers has found that harriers across the world are able to keep a much better ear out for their next meal than previously thought.

    The international team of University of Lethbridge and Flinders University researchers made the discovery when they found unexpected owl-like traits in the ear and brain of several harrier species, such as the Australian spotted harrier.

    The new article published in Journal of Anatomy features the work of the Iwaniuk Lab at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta and Associate Professor Vera Weisbecker’s ‘Bones and Diversity Lab’ at Flinders University in South Australia.

    University of Lethbridge PhD student Sara Citron, who led the study, says owls have fine-tuned hearing abilities, allowing some of their species to locate prey in complete darkness.

    “Until recently, it was assumed that all their hearing adaptations were unique to owls. However, our study shows that harriers have independently evolved several key adaptations for finding prey by sound,” she says.

    The research team focused on harriers – a group of hawks found in North America, Australia, NZ, Europe, and parts of Africa and Asia – because they show some unusual, owl-like hunting behaviours.

    Senior author and PhD supervisor Dr Andrew Iwaniuk, Associate Professor at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience,  says: “Hawks tend to hunt primarily by sight. But unlike other hawks, harriers fly low over tall grass with their beak pointed to the ground.

    “During this so-called ‘quartering flight’, they are not only looking for prey, they are also listening for it,” he says.

    Co-author Aubrey Keirnan, a PhD student at Flinders University who is also co-supervised by Dr Iwaniuk and Flinders University Associate Professor Vera Weisbecker, says that simply by looking at the harrier, you can see similarities with owls.

    “The Australian Spotted Harrier is a great example,” she says. “When you look at this species’ face, you can see a distinctive disc-shaped face, which may improve their prey localisation just like owls.”

    The discovery matches older behavioural studies showing that harriers can locate sounds with similar accuracy to owls, but how they did this has been a mystery.

    Using specimens from wildlife rehabilitators and museums in Australia and Canada, the team examined the anatomy of the skull and brain of harriers and other closely related hawk species such as the wedge-tailed eagle.

    They found that, like owls, harriers have enlarged ear openings and two expanded brain regions that are essential for calculating where a sound is coming from.

    “These auditory nuclei are found in the brainstem and compare the time at which sounds arrive at the left or right ear,” says co-author Associate Professor in evolutionary biology Vera Weisbecker, from Flinders University’s College of Science and Engineering.

    “If a sound arrives at both ears at the same time, then the sound is coming from directly in front of an animal. If there is a delay, this indicates that the prey is more to the left or right,” she says.

    “By having these two brain regions expanded, harriers can make such computations more accurately than other hawks, allowing them to locate where a potential rat, mouse or other prey is hiding in the grass.”

    “Harriers have therefore evolved an auditory system similar to owls, enabling them to target sounds as accurately as owls in a remarkable example of convergent evolution of both brain and behaviour in animals separated by over 60 million years,” adds first author Ms Citron.

    The team is careful to point out that the auditory system of many owls is far more sophisticated than that of harriers. This explains the ability of some owl species, such as the barn owl, to hunt in complete darkness whereas hawks only hunt during the day.

    “There are several other features that help owls with their keen hearing which we did not find in harriers. For example, some owl species have asymmetric ears that allow them to locate sound with greater acuity, and these owls also have several other enlarged brain regions that were not enlarged in harriers,” says Ms Citron.

    The team hopes their study results will encourage further research on bird anatomy to find out how a species perceives its surrounds.

    “Anatomical studies like ours are a window into how a bird perceives the world around it, which can be extremely useful for bird conservation,” adds Dr Iwaniuk. “For example, harriers’ reliance on sound for prey location means that they are likely more sensitive to traffic and industrial noise. This could be contributing to the large decreases in Northern Harrier populations we have seen in Canada.”

    The article, ‘The evolution of an “owl-like” auditory system in harriers: Anatomical evidence’ (2025) by Sara Citron, Cristian Gutierrez-Ibanez, Aubrey Keirnan, Vera Weisbecker, Douglas Wylie, Andrew N Iwaniuk has been published in Journal of Anatomy (Wiley Online Library) DOI: 10.1111/joa.14264.

    First published: 29 April 2025 https://doi.org/10.1111/joa.14264

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Video Statement On Federal Court Hearing In Case Of Detained Georgetown Scholar Dr. Badar Khan Suri

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Rep. Don Beyer issued a video statement today after attending a hearing at the Eastern District of Virginia courthouse on the case of his constituent, Dr. Badar Khan Suri, a postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown University who lives in Arlington, Virginia, and who was in the country legally when he was detained without charges on orders from the Trump Administration in March. Beyer met with counsel for Dr. Suri yesterday in his Washington, D.C. office. A transcript of Beyer’s statement follows below. 

    Dr. Suri was detained in March by masked agents outside his home in Rosslyn, and moved to a series of prisons and detention centers, ultimately ending in Texas. He is still being held there today, over 1,300 miles away from his wife, who is a U.S. citizen, and three young children. According to Dr. Suri’s counsel, “His son spent days crying uncontrollably following his father’s disappearance, and has now stopped speaking.” Dr. Suri has never been charged with a crime and the government has never produced evidence that he did anything wrong.

    In today’s hearing, Dr. Suri’s attorneys sought his return to Virginia, with Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles seeking further information from the government on their justification for moving him to Texas. The government claimed Dr. Suri was removed to Texas to prevent overcrowding at a Virginia detention center, yet, as Judge Giles pointed out, Suri had a room with a bed to himself in Virginia whereas, for the first 10 days of his detention in Texas Suri “was forced to sleep on the floor of the television room with the TV blaring nonstop and the lights on 24/7.”

    Judge Giles gave the government 24 hours to answer questions about the transfer, with a further 24 hours for response from Dr. Suri’s legal team, and a ruling to follow next week. 

    Transcript of Rep. Beyer’s video statement:

    “This is Congressman Don Beyer, representing Northern Virginia in the U.S. House, and it’s Thursday afternoon, May 1st. I’m here in front of the U.S. courthouse in Alexandria.

    “I just spent two hours listening to, Judge Patricia Giles, and the arguments over Dr. [Badar] Khan Suri. 

    “He’s my constituent here legally in America. He’s a postdoc graduate student and teacher at Georgetown University working on conflict resolution. 

    “He was picked up, a little less than two months ago, late at night by three plain-clothes ICE agents [with] no identification, put in an unmarked car and whisked off to Chantilly, to Farmville, to Chesterfield and then Richmond, to Louisiana, and finally to Texas. 

    “We’re here today because his lawyers are making the case that he should never have been taken from Virginia when a writ of habeas corpus had been filed. 

    “I’m very upset by this. Dr. [Suri] – no one has accused him of doing anything wrong. More than anything else, this is a great example – another sad example of the Trump administration’s attempt to instill fear and repression into our college campuses and to immigrants, or people with voices they don’t like, across this country. 

    “We have to fight back. We have to resist. I’ll be doing everything I can to help Dr. [Suri] and his family, and I encourage each one of us to do all that we can to tell these stories, to help educate the American people about what’s happening, and this threat to our Constitution, to our rights. 

    “It is Kafkaesque when somebody can be kidnapped without reason, without acknowledgment, without logic, without charges, and taken off to be locked in a prison in Texas, not knowing what happens next.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Majority Leader Expedites Vote On Historic Digital Asset Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    WASHINGTON—Today, Senate Majority Leader John Thune initiated a process that expedites a vote on a historic piece of legislation that establishes the first ever regulatory framework for payment stablecoins. The legislation is the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act authored by United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, and cosponsored by Tim Scott (R-SC), Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY).
    “The GENIUS Act establishes a clear, pro-growth, and secure regulatory framework to modernize our payments system and cement U.S. dollar dominance. I look forward to passing the GENIUS Act in short order to keep digital asset innovation in America, protect customers, and make sure foreign companies are playing by the same rules,” Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) said.
    “Our landmark stablecoin legislation is a huge victory for the digital asset industry and a critical step in securing our nation’s financial future,” said Sen. Cynthia Lummis. “The GENIUS Act strikes the balance of establishing proper guardrails that protect consumers while preserving financial innovation and America’s dollar dominance in the global financial system. President Trump and Leader Thune’s decision to bring this important legislation to the floor demonstrates his commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in financial services while keeping digital asset companies and jobs onshore. I want to thank Senator Hagerty and Chairman Scott for their leadership on this and look forward to getting this legislation across the finish line.”
    “The GENIUS Act is a critical first step towards delivering on President Trump and the American people’s mandate to advance a regulatory framework for digital assets – and will protect consumers and expand financial inclusion across the country,” said Chairman Tim Scott. “I look forward to voting for the bill on the floor and the Senate taking historic action to provide the industry with the clarity it deserves.”
    Background:
    Dollar-denominated payment stablecoins are digital assets pegged to the U.S. dollar. They can improve transaction efficiency, expand financial inclusion, and strengthen the dollar’s supremacy as the world reserve currency by driving demand for U.S. Treasuries. The previous Administration’s hostility toward crypto and refusal to provide clear regulatory guidelines has severely stifled stablecoin innovation. This legislation turns a new page.
    The GENIUS Act:
    Defines a payment stablecoin as a digital asset used for payment or settlement that is pegged to a fixed monetary value;
    Establishes clear procedures for institutions seeking licenses to issue stablecoins;
    Implements reserve requirements and light-touch, tailored regulatory standards for stablecoin issuers;
    For issuers of more than $10 billion of stablecoins, applies the Federal Reserve’s regulatory framework to depository institutions and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s framework for nonbank issuers;
    Allows for state regulation of issuers under $10 billion in issuance and provides a waiver process for issuers exceeding the threshold to remain state-regulated; and
    Establishes supervisory, examination, and enforcement regimes with clear limitations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Applauds Passage of Resolution to Repeal Longfin Smelt ESA Listing

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

    WASHINGTON – Today, the House of Representatives passed a Congressional Review Act resolution to repeal the Biden Administration’s listing of the longfin smelt as endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act. This resolution would halt the proposed designation of critical habitat for the longfin smelt, as well as ensure California’s water remains available for those who need it most—families and farmers. Congressman Valadao joined Reps. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Vince Fong (CA-20), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Darrell Issa (CA-48), and Young Kim (CA-40) in introducing this resolution in March 2025.

    “Th Biden Administration’s unnecessary decision to list the longfin smelt as an endangered species is yet another example of an environmental policy not grounded in science that puts fish over people,” said Congressman Valadao. “Our families and farmers are already struggling with burdensome regulations that restrict water deliveries and threaten the future of agriculture in the Central Valley, and this rule would have ensured even more of our water is sent out to sea. By passing this resolution, the House is taking an important step forward in rolling back draconian water restrictions that directly affect our farmers, families, and rural communities, and I’m happy to see common sense won.”

    “The Biden Administration and activist judges have used this listing as a political tool to block progress on California water policy,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “This listing is based on cherry picked scientific anecdotes and even Stanford’s Center for Water California Recourses Policy and Management questioned the science of the listing. It adds yet another layer of conflicting regulations that dump tens of millions of acre feet of water out to the Pacific Ocean, with farmers receiving only 40% to 50% of their promised federal and state water. Congress isn’t going to stand by while bureaucrats and environmental lawsuits continue to wreck the water system that feeds our farms, our families, and our economy. I’m glad to see the House take a stand and push back with real solutions that help us grow food, provide water, and keep our economy strong.”

    Background:

    This designation, driven by litigation from an environmental group, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service during the Biden Administration threatens California’s water supply by imposing new restrictions on the Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project (SWP). This listing resulted in subsequent burdensome requirements imposed on the CVP that will divert even more water to the Pacific Ocean instead of supplying farms and families across the state. Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress can review and potentially block such regulations within a specific timeframe, and it drops the usual 60-vote requirement in the Senate for these resolutions.

    Read the full resolution here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst: “Make ‘Made in America’ the Norm, Instead of the Exception”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – To continue the domestic manufacturing explosion happening under the Trump administration, Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) unveiled a significant new initiative to unlock a key part of the White House’s “Made in America” agenda.
    Ernst, alongside Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler and House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-Texas), touted their Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act that will unleash small businesses and lead to job growth in Iowa and across America.

    Click here to watch Ernst’s full remarks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Pushes Air Force to Honor its Commitment to Iowa National Guard’s Runway in Sioux City

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    Published: May 1, 2025

    “Iowa’s 185th has served with honor, and they absolutely deserve infrastructure that matches their operational demands.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who served in the Iowa National Guard, pushed Mr. Matthew Lohmeier, nominee to be Under Secretary of Air Force, for a commitment to upgrade the Iowa National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing’s runway in Sioux City and reaffirmed her resolve to continue fighting.
    During the Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Ernst outlined the importance of the 185th Air Refueling Wing’s mission, which she has long advocated for. She pointed out the Air Force’s previous commitments and called on the service to honor them.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here.
    “Iowa’s 185th has served with honor, and they absolutely deserve infrastructure that matches their operational demands. I’m going to continue to press on this, and I hope that I have resolution in the near future. We need to make sure these commitments are honored,” said Ernst.
    Background:
    Ernst is dedicated to supporting servicemembers and their families in Iowa. Since 2023, she has pushed the Air Force to honor its promises to Siouxlanders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Capito Votes to Repeal Biden-Era Rule Prohibiting Reclassification of Major Sources

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    To watch Chairman Capito’s floor remarks, click here or the image above.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, voted to overturn the Biden Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources. This rule would prohibit many industries critical to our country’s economic and national security from reclassifying as Area Sources and discourage efforts to reduce emissions. The Senate approved the Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval, which was introduced by U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) and co-sponsored by Chairman Capito, by a vote of 52-46.

    Prior to the final vote on the CRA, Chairman Capito delivered remarks on the Senate floor detailing the importance of approving this resolution and returning to the rule in place under President Trump’s first Administration that encouraged industries to reduce emissions without increasing regulatory burdens.

    Below are the floor remarks of Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) as delivered.

    “I rise today in support of my friend from Utah, Senator Curtis, and his Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Biden Environmental Protection Agency’s Review of Final Rule Reclassification of Major Sources as Area Sources.

    “This misguided rule would remove a major incentive for dozens of industries to reduce emissions. It would further saddle American energy producers and manufactures with regulatory costs and burdens, and simply put, operates under a premise that is purely unfair.

    “Under this rule, once you classify as a ‘Major Source’ you are always considered a ‘Major Source.’ You would even be prohibited from ever achieving an ‘Area Source’ status again, even if your emissions output decreased below the applicable threshold.

    “This tells American manufacturing and energy leaders that no matter what you do, you will always operate under the strictest regulatory standard available. We should, instead, provide incentive for industries to lower their emissions and keep alive the option of returning to an ‘Area Source’ once emissions are reduced.

    “Over the last 20 years, no other country has reduced its emissions like the United States, and we do not need overly restrictive regulations to continue this. 

    “Giving our private sector the ability to innovate in a sensible timeline is a different approach than the inflexible, top-down mandate that became accustom over the past four years.

    “The good news is, every member of this chamber now has the opportunity to right this wrong and reinstate the rule in place before that which allowed for reclassification of these sources.

    “The former rule, which was put into place by President Trump’s first Administration, encourages industries to take proactive steps to reduce emissions without increasing regulatory burdens. And the results during President Trump’s first term were overwhelmingly clear, source reclassification reduces hazardous air pollution in our communities.

    “We need to take every opportunity available to right size regulatory requirements prohibiting our ability to revitalize American manufacturing and achieve energy dominance, while taking steps that reduce emissions through innovative technologies that I have advocated alongside my colleagues across both aisles of this chamber.

    “We need to remember that our manufacturing, energy, and environmental policies do not need to be at odds with one another. A robust manufacturing sector, energy reliability, and a clean environment are not mutually exclusive. 

    “So, I’m proud to join in this effort alongside Senator Curtis, my colleague on the Environment and Public Works Committee. This is an opportunity to return to some common-sense environmental quality and policy, and I encourage my colleagues to join us in supporting this resolution.

    “With that, I yield the floor.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Court Rules to Stop Trump Administration Effort to Gut Institute of Museum and Library Services

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    American Library Association and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Win Order to Pause Cuts to Independent Agency, Which Threaten Libraries Nationwide

    Washington, D.C. – A federal judge has temporarily stopped devastating and unlawful Trump administration dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, ordering a temporary restraining order in ALA et al v Sonderling et al brought by Democracy Forward and Gair Gallo Eberhard LLP on behalf of the American Library Association (ALA) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). With today’s ruling, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) – a non-partisan and independent agency dedicated to supporting and funding museums and libraries and the crucial community services they provide in every state across the country – will continue to operate as required by Congress while the court hears the case.

    “The immediate halt to the gutting of IMLS is a win for America’s libraries and the millions of Americans who rely on them,” said ALA President Cindy Hohl. “ALA is encouraged that the court recognizes the immediacy of the need for IMLS and library services at risk. The temporary restraining order will stop the dismantling of IMLS while the court considers the merits in this case.”

    “We celebrate today’s decision as a victory for library and museum workers and the communities who depend on them. They do everything from helping workers connect to job opportunities to instilling a love of learning and inspiring creativity in others. This ruling will halt the layoffs of the critical workers who support them,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “We look forward to moving our case forward and reversing this unlawful shut down.”

    “Libraries are vital for people and communities across our nation. Attacking libraries and those who ensure the continuity of their services is yet another move by the Trump administration that does nothing to make Americans’ lives better or easier,” said Skye Perryman, President & CEO of Democracy Forward. “Democracy Forward is honored to continue our work with libraries and librarians to protect these important educational institutions in our country, and we are grateful that this preliminary injunction will pause these devastating cuts while our case can be considered.”

    IMLS was first created and funded by Congress in 1996 and charged with supporting America’s libraries and museums. The agency has had bipartisan support throughout its history, having been reauthorized under the Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama, and Trump administrations. IMLS is bound by laws requiring that the agency conduct certain activities to support libraries and report on important issues to Congress. The complaint explains that cutting programs at IMLS will violate the law by eliminating programs Congress has provided funding for and directed IMLS to undertake.

    This case continues Democracy Forward’s record of working with communities, parents, and libraries to defend the freedom to read. That work has previously included efforts in Arkansas, where Democracy Forward represented a coalition of librarians, booksellers, and readers who successfully prevented portions of an Arkansas law that threatens to criminalize librarians and booksellers from taking effect is asking a court to permanently stop the law from being enforced; Florida, where Democracy Forward represented the Florida Education Association, Florida Freedom to Read Project, and Families for Strong Public Schools to challenge the DeSantis administration’s actions that shutter classroom libraries and undermine public education in Florida; and in Alabama, where Democracy Forward is representing a group of Alabama families and librarians with a broad array of political and religious backgrounds in a suit to stop policies approved by the library board that threaten to keep constitutionally protected books like To Kill a Mockingbird off of public library shelves.

    Read the full complaint here and the temporary restraining order here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prosecutors in CDCA Charge 45 Defendants with Being Illegal Aliens in U.S. Following Removal – a 3,755% Increase from Previous Year

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Federal prosecutors in the Central District of California this week criminally charged 45 defendants who allegedly illegally re-entered the United States following removal, bringing the total number of defendants charged with this crime since January 20 of this year to 347, a year-over-year increase of 3,755%, the Justice Department announced today.

    The defendants charged were previously convicted of felonies before they were removed from the United States, offenses that include attempted burglary and forgery.

    Since the change in administration this year, federal prosecutors in the seven-county Central District, which includes Los Angeles, have aggressively pursued criminal illegal aliens. In comparison, federal prosecutors in 2024 charged a total of nine defendants with Title 8 United States Code § 1326 – illegal re-entry following removal. In 2023, the office charged eight such defendants.

    “The government has a duty to protect its citizens,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “During the prior administration, this office abdicated its duty by effectively failing to prosecute any illegal re-entry cases. Those days are over. Criminal illegal aliens will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “The difference in numbers is staggering,” said United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd M. Lyons. “Since January 20, this jurisdiction has prosecuted 347 illegal aliens for reentering the United States after removal — but last year, there were only nine of these prosecutions. That’s a 3,755% increase in just over a quarter of the time. Partnerships between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ICE, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the FBI play a critical role in ensuring that individuals who pose threats to public safety are removed from our communities.”

    The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base sentence of up to two years in federal prison. Defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year sentence and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

    The recently filed cases include the following defendants:

    • Paulino González-García, 26, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal. González-García was removed in 2018 and has two prior state convictions in Santa Barbara County Superior Court for driving under the influence (DUI). He is in state custody and charged with a third DUI offense. Assistant United States Attorney Christina A. Marquez of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
    • Ricardo Cruz-García, 31, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States following removal. Cruz-García was removed in 2019. He has a 2018 conviction for attempted burglary and 2019 convictions in Orange County Superior Court for possession of a controlled substance, possession of unlawful paraphernalia, and forgery. Assistant United States Attorney Christina A. Marquez of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.

    Federal prosecutors this week also charged the following defendant:

    • José Rosales Ramírez, 27, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Ramirez was caught with possession of two firearms because of his involvement in an incident in Compton where it is alleged that he shot at a moving vehicle. Assistant United States Attorney Christina A. Marquez of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating these matters.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Equinor sells the Peregrino field for USD 3.5 billion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Equinor Brasil Energia Ltda., a subsidiary of Equinor (OSE: EQNR, NYSE: EQNR), has entered into agreements(1) with Brazilian company Prio Tigris Ltda., a subsidiary of PRIO SA (PRIO3.SA) for a sale of its 60% operated interest in the Peregrino field in Brazil.

    PRIO, Brazil’s largest independent oil and gas company, will pay a consideration of USD 3.35 billion and a maximum of USD 150 million in interest to Equinor for the transaction. The final cash payment will reflect the closing date and any deductions generated by the asset since the effective date, which is 1 January 2024.

    Equinor will be responsible for operations of the field until closing of the transaction, after which PRIO will take over operatorship.

    “With this transaction we realise value from a long-standing asset in our Brazil portfolio. Brazil will continue to be a core country for Equinor, as we focus on starting up the Bacalhau field and continue progressing the Raia gas project. With these two operated projects and our partnership in Roncador our equity production in Brazil will be close to 200,000 barrels per day by 2030,” says Philippe Mathieu, Executive Vice President for Exploration and Production International at Equinor.

    “This deal is part of Equinor’s ongoing effort to high-grade its international portfolio through asset divestments and acquisitions. We continue to see growth potential and opportunities to extend the longevity of our international oil and gas portfolio, also in Brazil,” says Philippe Mathieu.

    Equinor has been operating the Peregrino field since 2009 and around 300 million barrels of oil have been produced by the asset since. Peregrino is a heavy oil field and consists of a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) platform, supported by three fixed platforms. The field is in the Campos Basin, east of Rio de Janeiro. In Q1 2025, Equinor´s share of production from Peregrino was around 55,000 barrels per day.

    Last year, PRIO acquired Sinochem’s 40% interest in the Peregrino field.

    “PRIO has been a valued partner since joining the Peregrino license last year and we look forward to a smooth hand-over with them,” says Veronica Coelho, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for Equinor Brazil.

    “We are very proud of the work that has been done by our team over the past 20 years on the Peregrino field. This asset has been the cornerstone of Equinor’s history in Brazil. Our journey in Brazil continues with full momentum, building on the legacy of those that have worked on Peregrino. We are preparing for operations on Bacalhau, as well as the startup of the Serra da Babilonia renewable hybrid project by our subsidiary Rio Energy and we are progressing the Raia gas project” says Veronica Coelho.

    The transaction is subject to regulatory and legal approvals. The payment will occur in two tranches, one at signing and a further one closer to closing. The payment will be subject to customary adjustments.

    —

    1: The deal is divided in two parts, one for the acquisition of 40% and operatorship of Peregrino, the second for the acquisition of the remaining 20%. The 40% operation will receive a payment of USD 2,233 million, with an additional payment of USD 166 million which is contingent on the completion of the second part of 20%. The 20% operation will have a value of USD 951 million. The final component is USD 150 million of maximum interest, reaching the total of USD 3.5 billion.

    —

    Contact details:

    Investor relations
    Bård Glad Pedersen, Senior Vice President Investor Relations
    +47 918 01 791

    Media
    Ola Morten Aanestad, Media Relations
    +47 480 80 212

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rosen Secures Commitment from National Nuclear Security Administration Nominee to Oppose Resuming Nuclear Testing in Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Watch the full exchange HERE.
    WASHINGTON, DC – During a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) secured a commitment from the nominee to be the Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration, Vice Admiral Scott Pappano, that he would oppose resuming explosive nuclear testing in Nevada at the Nevada National Security Site. From 1951 to 1992, the Site was ground zero for the majority of the United States’ explosive nuclear testing, when 100 atmospheric and 828 underground tests were conducted at the Site. During this era, millions of people and acres of land across the Southwest were contaminated by radiation. In lieu of testing, the Nevada National Security Site now conducts subcritical experiments in an underground laboratory to certify the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of our nuclear stockpile without conducting explosive testing. Last month, Senator Rosen secured a similar commitment from the nominee to lead the National Nuclear Security Administration to not advocate for resuming nuclear testing in Nevada.
    Below are excerpts from the exchange:
    Senator Rosen: If President Trump sought your counsel on restarting explosive testing, would you advise the resumption of explosive nuclear testing?
    Admiral Pappano: Based on what you suggested there, Senator, thank you for the question, but if confirmed, I would not advocate for nuclear testing based on the amount of data we have from explosive testing, our extensive modeling simulation capabilities, subcritical testing capabilities, and the annual verification.
    Senator Rosen: The second question I’m going to ask you is, given that the stockpile has been annually certified as safe and effective without explosive testing, do you see any technical or strategic justification for resuming explosive testing?
    Admiral Pappano: Thank you, Senator. Again, based on the amount of explosive data we have, modeling and simulation capability, subcritical testing capabilities at the Nevada Test Site, among other places, and that annual verification, I do not see a need to return to explosive testing and would not advocate for that if confirmed.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla, Murray, Wyden, West Coast Ports Sound Alarm on Trump’s Tariffs That Are Leaving Shelves Bare, Forcing Painful Layoffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla, Murray, Wyden, West Coast Ports Sound Alarm on Trump’s Tariffs That Are Leaving Shelves Bare, Forcing Painful Layoffs

    WATCH: Padilla highlights importance of California’s ports in powering national economy
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) hosted a virtual press call alongside Port of Long Beach Chief Executive Officer Mario Cordero and other West Coast port leaders to sound the alarm on the dramatic decline of container ships making the trip to West Coast ports and the harmful consequences of Trump’s reckless tariffs across the American economy: price hikes, layoffs, empty store shelves, and more. These tariffs will devastate California’s ports, including the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach — which receive 40 percent of the nation’s imports — impacting the entire U.S. economy.
    A new forecast by Apollo Global Management contends that the U.S. economy is on the verge of a self-inflicted recession as a result of Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” tariff policies. Apollo predicts the slowdown of container ships will lead to a sharp decrease in trucking demand by mid-to-late May, which will subsequently result in supply shortages and lower sales for retailers. Apollo predicts layoffs will occur across trucking and retail industries and that the U.S. economy will fall into a recession by this summer.
    The West Coast Senators raised serious concerns about these warning signs for the economy and urged their Republican colleagues to join them in asserting Congressional authority over tariffs to put an end to Trump’s trade war and reverse the economic damage already inflicted by the President before it’s too late.
    “California’s Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are keystones for the success of not just our state’s economy, but our national economy. So when the San Pedro Bay ports and other West Coast ports send warning signs about the damage of Trump’s tariffs, we know they’re really warning signs for our country,” said Senator Padilla. “The drop in cargo volume caused by Trump’s tariffs will mean empty shelves when products don’t reach our stores, rising prices on everything from groceries to clothes to cars, and undoubtedly, more Americans out of work. While today, it’s Western ports — we know it will only be a matter of weeks before the ripple effect causes pain across the nation.”
    “We are already seeing the consequences of Trump’s tariffs at our ports: fewer ships from across the Pacific, means less cargo at our ports, less cargo at our ports means less goods for our truckers to transport—and that ultimately means bare shelves for our retailers and the American consumer,” said Senator Murray. “Our ports know better than anyone that supply chains do not reset in an instant. The time to reverse these Republican tariffs was the same day they were announced. Every day This Republican Congress refuses to reject these tariffs is a day they are actively enabling Trump’s pro-recession agenda and higher taxes on every American. Congress needs to take the matches away from the President who is setting fire to the economy. Democrats are going to make sure Republicans continue to feel the pressure until this Congress takes action and overrides this President.”
    “Oregon knows firsthand that Trump’s tariff chaos is already hurting small businesses and drying up markets for red-white-and-blue products,” said Senator Wyden. “Speaking with small businesses and workers all over Oregon last week, every single one warned of damage from tariffs in the near future. West Coast senators will be on the front lines pushing back against these senseless Republican tariffs.”
    “As one of America’s largest ports, Long Beach moves more than $300 billion in cargo every year to and from every congressional district, supporting 2.7 million jobs. Due to the new trade policies, we are about to see a shift from cargo surge to cargo slowdown in the supply chain, and this will have a real impact on the American economy. For workers across the country whose jobs depend on cargo moving through the Port of Long Beach – dockworkers, truckers, logistics workers, retailers, farmers, factory workers – any sort of long-term, sustained downturn in shipments caused by the tariff will be detrimental to the job market. I remain hopeful that leaders in our nation’s capital recognize the significance of the goods movement industry and will take necessary action to ensure America’s economy can thrive,” said Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach.
    “Cargo volume at the nation’s busiest port will drop by about one-third next week,” said Port of Los Angeles Executive Director, Gene Seroka. “That means fewer jobs along with rising prices for consumers and businesses. Additionally, counter tariffs are having a severe impact on American agricultural exporters. We need agreements quickly with our trading partners that benefit and support the U.S. economy and supply chain.”
    The Port of Los Angeles — the largest port in the United States — expects imports to drop by 35 percent in just two weeks, and the Port of Long Beach expects similar declines.
    Senator Padilla is strongly opposed to Trump’s policies that will raise costs across the board for millions of working-class families. During a speech on the Senate floor yesterday, Senator Padilla similarly criticized Trump’s cruel tariffs and their impacts on the San Pedro ports, emphasizing the devastation they will cause American families and the national economy. He supported Senator Wyden’s resolution yesterday to undo Trump’s tariffs, which received Republican support but narrowly failed 49-49 after Vice President Vance’s tiebreaking “no” vote. Padilla also recently proposed a concurrent resolution that would simply demand basic transparency by requiring that any tariff used to offset tax cuts for the wealthy be explicitly written into the Republicans’ partisan budget reconciliation bill.
    Senator Padilla has consistently fought to secure federal funding to support and protect California’s nationally leading ports. Last year, he announced that the San Pedro Ports would receive more than $112 million through the FY 2024 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan for critical construction upgrades and operations and maintenance activities. He has also consistently pushed for funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for California’s ports, including over $283 million for the Port of Long Beach in 2023, $94 million in port infrastructure grant funding in 2022, and over $57 million in 2021.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Advances Padilla, Murkowski Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Senate Advances Padilla, Murkowski Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) announced that the Senate Commerce Committee unanimously advanced their bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) through Fiscal Year 2028. The bill would provide lifesaving funding to support research, development, and implementation activities related to earthquake safety and risk reduction.

    The NEHRP Reauthorization Act of 2025 would reauthorize annual funding from FY 2024-2028 across the four federal agencies responsible for long-term earthquake risk reduction under NEHRP: the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The Senate unanimously passed a version of this bill late last year, but it was not taken up in the House of Representatives.

    “It is not a matter of if, but when the next major earthquake strikes, and Californians know the importance of staying prepared,” said Senator Padilla. “The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program supports crucial tools like the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning System, works to advance scientific understanding of earthquakes, and strengthens earthquake resilience in communities nationwide. I am glad to see this bipartisan effort move forward, and with the safety of our communities at stake, we must reauthorize this critical program as soon as possible.”

    “Alaska is no stranger to massive earthquakes that can cause serious damage to our communities. From the 1964 Good Friday earthquake, the 7.1 earthquake in 2018, to the thousands of smaller quakes that rattle our state each year—it’s critical we invest in programs that keep us prepared and ready to respond to disaster,” said Senator Murkowski. “I am pleased to see that the Commerce Committee has advanced the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act, which will modernize earthquake safety programs in western states, reinforcing our readiness for future seismic activity. I look forward to supporting legislation on the Senate Floor.”

    “The Earthquake Engineering Research Institute applauds the Senate Commerce Committee’s bipartisan advancement of the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2025. This is a critical step in strengthening our nation’s long-term resilience to earthquakes. With an estimated $15 billion in losses from earthquakes in the U.S. every year, sustained support for mitigation is not only cost-effective—it is essential. We are encouraged to see momentum behind this program and look forward to continuing the vital work of reducing seismic risk in communities across the country,” said Ellen Rathje, President of the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute.

    “The International Code Council welcomes Senator Padilla and Murkowski’s bipartisan leadership to reauthorize the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP),” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer John Belcik. “We call on Congress to immediately reauthorize NEHRP to continue the advancement of model building codes that improve building safety and earthquake resilience.”

    “The American Society of Civil Engineer (ASCE) applauds Senators Alex Padilla and Lisa Murkowski for prioritizing the resilience of our nation’s infrastructure against seismic events and is pleased to support their efforts to reauthorize the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP). Since 1977, NEHRP has provided the resources and leadership that have led to significant advances in understanding the risk earthquakes pose and the best ways to mitigate them. This reauthorization will ensure that NEHRP resources continue to improve our understanding of earthquakes and guide the ASCE standards that form the backbone of building codes that protect public health, safety, and economic vitality,” said ASCE Past President Marsia Geldert-Murphey.

    “The National Council of Structural Engineers Associations is proud to support the NERHP reauthorization bill and is grateful for the bi-partisan leadership of Senators Padilla and Murkowski.  NCSEA urges Congress to prioritize reauthorization to enable the NEHRP agencies to contribute critical science, knowledge, and other best practices toward the development of codes, standards, and other resources used by structural engineers around the country to improve the earthquake resilience of our communities,” said Alfred Spada, Executive Director of the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA).

    “SEAOC commends Senators Padilla and Murkowski for championing NEHRP reauthorization, aligning with Structural Engineers Association of California’s (SEAOC) commitment to enhanced seismic safety and community resilience. SEAOC implores Congress to act promptly in fortifying California and the entire nation against the seismic challenges ahead,” said Don Schinske, Executive Director of the Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC).

    This NEHRP reauthorization includes:

    • Directing state and local entities to inventory high risk buildings and structures;
    • Expanding seismic events to include earthquake-caused tsunamis;
    • Providing more technical assistance to tribal governments; and
    • Improving mitigation for earthquake-connected hazards.

    California faces substantial earthquake risks. According to the California Department of Conservation, over 70 percent of Californians live within 30 miles of a fault that could cause high ground shaking within the next 50 years. The state averages two to three earthquakes per year at magnitude 5.5 or higher, risking moderate structural damage. Because of these major earthquake risks, California has become a leader in earthquake research, including through the California Institute of Technology Seismological Laboratory.

    The NEHRP Reauthorization Act of 2025 is endorsed by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI), International Code Council, National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA), and Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC).

    Senator Padilla has long been a leader in mitigating earthquake risks. As a California State Senator, Padilla authored Senate Bill 135, signed by Governor Jerry Brown in 2013, which required the state to establish the nation’s first statewide early warning system. In 2021, he led five of his U.S. Senate colleagues in requesting details from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) on future plans and funding needs for the West Coast Early Earthquake Warning system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Introduces Bill to Strengthen Reservation Systems for Public Lands as Trump Administration Announces Scaled-Back Yosemite Summer Reservation System

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Introduces Bill to Strengthen Reservation Systems for Public Lands as Trump Administration Announces Scaled-Back Yosemite Summer Reservation System

    After push from Padilla, Yosemite will implement a 2025 seasonal reservation system to improve visitor access and experience; however, the system is significantly pared down from the plan Yosemite proposed

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) introduced legislation to expand access to public lands, improve the visitor reservation process, and enhance transparency in how fees are collected for federal lands and national parks. The Review and Evaluation of Strategies for Equal Reservations for Visitor Experiences (RESERVE) Federal Land Act would direct the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to study and recommend improvements to reservation systems across federal lands to ensure they are fair, user-friendly, and accessible to all Americans.

    The legislation comes after the Trump Administration, following significant delays, announced that Yosemite National Park will implement a 2025 seasonal reservation system. However, this year’s system is significantly scaled back from the plan Yosemite successfully piloted previously, which was carefully crafted based off public input and data. This year’s system requires reservations for fewer days and hours than what Yosemite proposed. Earlier this year, Padilla pushed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to allow Yosemite to implement its preferred reservation system, emphasizing its importance in managing park visitation while preserving Yosemite for future generations.

    “For months, I’ve joined with park officials in calling on the Trump Administration to extend the use of Yosemite’s successful reservation system. While the decision to open reservations at Yosemite National Park for the summer is a win for outdoor lovers, the environment, and local businesses that rely on park visitors, it shouldn’t have taken this long,” said Senator Padilla. “The needless delays by the Trump Administration in approving a reservation system, and the Administration’s scaling back of Yosemite’s carefully crafted plan, will undermine the visitor experience for the millions who come to California to view this natural wonder. Congress must continue to invest in the staffing and resources needed to protect our national parks. We can start by passing my RESERVE Act, which will launch a national study on how to improve Recreation.gov and other public land reservation systems so they are accessible, transparent, and supportive of local communities’ needs.”

    Yosemite is California’s most visited National Park, with an average of 3.3 million visitors annually. Last year, that number surged to 4.2 million visitors as Yosemite again piloted reservations during peak summer months. For decades, overcrowding, vehicle congestion, limited parking, and long lines have diminished what should ordinarily be a world-class experience, particularly for first-time visitors. Thanks to the reservation system, however, Yosemite was able to accommodate pre-pandemic visitor levels but without the excessive congestion. The reservation system helped distribute visitors more evenly throughout the day, week, and peak summer season.

    Federal land management agencies have experimented with new visitor management methods such as online reservation systems for other public lands as well; however, there has been little national research on how these systems can be improved.

    The RESERVE Act would direct NAS to study reservation systems across federal lands, including campsites, hiking permits, climbing passes, and other outdoor recreation activities. The report would be due in 18 months and would cover reservation system design, system user demographics, and data availability and accessibility. The study would also investigate the fee structure and transparency of Recreation.gov, the government’s centralized travel planning platform and reservation system for 14 federal agencies.

    Senator Padilla is a strong advocate for ensuring equitable access to outdoor spaces. Last year, President Biden signed Padilla’s bipartisan, bicameral Outdoors for All Act into law as part of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The Outdoors for All Act expands outdoor recreational opportunities in urban and low-income communities across the nation.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bonamici Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Educate Students About Danger of Accidental Fentanyl Poisoning

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

    WASHINGTON, DC [5/1/25] – Today Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced bipartisan legislation based on a successful Oregon program to protect students from accidental fentanyl poisoning.

    The Fentanyl Awareness for Children and Teens in Schools (FACTS) Act is modeled on the Beaverton School District’s Fake and Fatal fentanyl awareness curriculum in Oregon, which has successfully prevented student deaths since its launch. The bill will also develop a federal interagency task force to fight the synthetic opioid crisis through education and prevention and improve federal education and health data collection efforts to understand and highlight the effects of synthetic opioids on youth.

    Oregonians Jon and Jennifer Epstein lost their son Cal to fentanyl poisoning when he mistakenly took a fake pill, and they were instrumental in creating the Fake and Fatal curriculum and advocating for its expansion. Jon was Bonamici’s guest for the 2024 State of the Union.

    “I continue to be inspired by Jon and Jennifer’s dedication to saving lives following the tragic loss of their son,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “The educational programs they helped create are already saving students by increasing awareness about the dangers of fake pills laced with fentanyl. The FACTS Act will build on that legacy by spreading this powerful and effective curriculum to reach students in schools across the country.”

    “An accidental fentanyl poisoning forever changed our family,” said Jon and Jennifer Epstein. “Like many youth still today, Cal had no idea that something 50x more powerful than heroin was being made into fake pills that look exactly like real pharmaceuticals and sold on social media for a few bucks. Cal made a tragic mistake thinking that buying something like this online was safe; he had no idea the risk he was taking, and it turned out to be fatal. The FACTS Act will reduce the number of families from suffering the devastation ours did by giving youth trustworthy facts and information about today’s drug landscape and how to keep themselves and their friends safe.  We’re incredibly grateful to Rep. Bonamici and the other members for bringing forward and supporting this valuable legislation; closing the knowledge gap and changing the perception of harm around off script medicine use will undoubtably save young lives and lessen the future burden of harmful substance use. There are no magic wands in this crisis, but upstream awareness, education, and primary prevention efforts are largely untapped mitigations with huge potential.

    “As a mother who lost a child to this scourge, I am grateful to see members of Congress from opposite sides of the aisle introduce this legislation. I want to thank Representative Bonamici, Representative Wittman, Representative Neguse, and Representative Van Drew for introducing the Fentanyl Awareness for Children and Teens in Schools (FACTS) Act, which will bring awareness to this issue and save lives,” said Laura Didier, Outreach Coordinator at Song for Charlie.

    The FACTS Act is cosponsored by Representatives Rob Wittman (R-VA), Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ).

    “Far too many families in Virginia’s First District and across America have experienced the heartbreak of losing a loved one to accidental fentanyl poisoning,” said Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01). “I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the FACTS Act to help stop this crisis before it starts in schools —by giving students, parents, and educators the tools they need to recognize the dangers of counterfeit pills laced with deadly synthetic opioids. Education is prevention, and this bipartisan bill will help save lives by expanding access to proven awareness programs in schools across the country.” 

    “The harsh reality we are dealing with is fentanyl is destroying families and taking lives right here in our communities,” said Congressman Jeff Van Drew. “The FACTS Act is a proactive step to arm our students, teachers, and families with the knowledge and tools they need to fight back. By educating our youth about the dangers of counterfeit pills and synthetic opioids, we are giving them the power to make safer choices.”

    Only 2 in 5 young Americans consider themselves knowledgeable about fentanyl, according to Song for Charlie. The organization, which is dedicated to raising awareness about fake pills, also found that only 36 percent of teens are aware that fentanyl is being used to create counterfeit pills.

    The FACTS Act is endorsed by: Song for Charlie, National PTA, School Superintendents Association (AASA), American Psychological Association (APA), National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), National Association of Counties (NACo), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

    “The recent decline in youth fentanyl deaths indicate that public awareness campaigns are having a positive impact,” said Ed Ternan, President of Song for Charlie, a nonprofit that educates kids and families about the fentanyl crisis. “The FACTS Act facilitates the critical next step – implementing educational programs in classrooms and community centers across the country.”

    “The solution to the problem of substance use by youth requires a collaborative effort,” said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA, the nation’s oldest and largest child advocacy association. “PTA applauds Representative Bonamici for reintroducing the FACTS Act. The bill would provide funding to establish and strengthen partnerships between public health agencies, nonprofit organizations and state and local education agencies to help raise awareness and prevent the use of fentanyl by children and teens.”

    “Fentanyl education works,” said Dr. Gustavo Balderas, Superintendent of the Beaverton School District, where a robust fentanyl awareness program, called Fake & Fatal, has been in practice since April 2021. “When you intentionally and consistently inform students and their families about the dangers of fake pills made from deadly fentanyl, you equip them with the knowledge to make life-saving decisions. It is my hope that this legislation will provide other school districts around the country with the tools and encouragement to implement curriculum and support systems that save lives.”

    A fact sheet on the FACTS Act can be found here and the full text can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Matsui, Bonamici, 63 House Democrats Demand Answers on the Disbandment of the Administration for Community Living

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Doris Matsui (CA-07), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) led 63 House Democrats in a letter to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing their strong opposition to the elimination of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and the unjustified termination of nearly half of the agency’s workforce. 

    “Established in 2012, the ACL was created to eliminate fragmentation in federal programs for aging and disability populations, improve access to quality healthcare and long-term services, and ensure consistent policies across federal agencies,” wrote the lawmakers. “ACL’s workforce plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating federal, state, and local programs aimed at helping seniors and people with disabilities remain healthy and thrive in their homes and communities.”

    “We are gravely concerned about your arbitrary directive to dismantle the ACL and urgently request answers to understand the wide-ranging consequences this decision will have upon the health and wellbeing of older adults and individuals with disabilities,” continued the Members. 

    This letter is in response to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announcement to end ACL’s critical programs across the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This month, a draft budget proposal outlining the proposed elimination of ACL’s Aging Programs and Nutrition and Disability Services Programs from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) was made public. 

    Full text of the letter can be found here. 

    This letter has been endorsed by Justice in Aging, National Health Law Program (NHeLP), National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA), USAging, Caring Across Generations, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, and National Association of Social Workers (NASW). 

    In addition to Reps. Schakowsky, Matsui, and Bonamici, the letter was also signed by Reps. Nydia Velázquez, Jill Tokuda, Lucy McBath, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Dwight Evans, Paul Tonko, Debbie Dingell, Jesús G. “Chuy” García, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Danny K. Davis, Salud Carbajal, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr.,  Eric Sorensen, Mark Pocan, Juan Vargas, Sean Casten, J. Luis Correa, Brittany Pettersen, Terri A. Sewell, Sarah McBride, Stephen F. Lynch, Rashida Tlaib, Gwen S. Moore, James P. McGovern, Andrea Salinas, Bennie G. Thompson, David Scott, Haley M. Stevens, Mikie Sherrill, Betty McCollum, Seth Magaziner, Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., Nikki Budzinski, Adam Smith, Hillary J. Scholten, Delia C. Ramirez, Ritchie Torres, Shri Thanedar, Troy A. Carter, Sr., Seth Moulton, Greg Landsman, Greg Stanton, Gabe Amo, Angie Craig, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Jennifer L. McClellan, Eugene Simon Vindman, Becca Balint, Lois Frankel, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Ro Khanna, LaMonica McIver, Kevin Mullin, Maggie Goodlander, Judy Chu, Chellie Pingree, Val Hoyle, George Latimer, Mary Gay Scanlon, Dave Min, Steve Cohen, Kelly Morrison, and Donald S. Beyer Jr.

                                                                     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Equinor sells the Peregrino field for USD 3.5 billion

    Source: Equinor

    02 MAY 2025 – Equinor Brasil Energia Ltda., a subsidiary of Equinor ASA, has entered into agreements(1) with Brazilian company Prio Tigris Ltda., a subsidiary of PRIO SA (PRIO3.SA) for a sale of its 60% operated interest in the Peregrino field in Brazil.

    PRIO, Brazil’s largest independent oil and gas company, will pay a consideration of USD 3.35 billion and a maximum of USD 150 million in interest to Equinor for the transaction. The final cash payment will reflect the closing date and any deductions generated by the asset since the effective date, which is 1 January 2024.

    Equinor will be responsible for operations of the field until closing of the transaction, after which PRIO will take over operatorship.

    “With this transaction we realise value from a long-standing asset in our Brazil portfolio. Brazil will continue to be a core country for Equinor, as we focus on starting up the Bacalhau field and continue progressing the Raia gas project. With these two operated projects and our partnership in Roncador our equity production in Brazil will be close to 200,000 barrels per day by 2030,” says Philippe Mathieu, Executive Vice President for Exploration and Production International at Equinor.

    “This deal is part of Equinor’s ongoing effort to high-grade its international portfolio through asset divestments and acquisitions. We continue to see growth potential and opportunities to extend the longevity of our international oil and gas portfolio, also in Brazil,” says Philippe Mathieu.

    Equinor has been operating the Peregrino field since 2009 and around 300 million barrels of oil have been produced by the asset since. Peregrino is a heavy oil field and consists of a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) platform, supported by three fixed platforms. The field is in the Campos Basin, east of Rio de Janeiro. In Q1 2025, Equinor´s share of production from Peregrino was around 55,000 barrels per day.

    Last year, PRIO acquired Sinochem’s 40% interest in the Peregrino field.

    “PRIO has been a valued partner since joining the Peregrino license last year and we look forward to a smooth hand-over with them,” says Veronica Coelho, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for Equinor Brazil.

    “We are very proud of the work that has been done by our team over the past 20 years on the Peregrino field. This asset has been the cornerstone of Equinor’s history in Brazil. Our journey in Brazil continues with full momentum, building on the legacy of those that have worked on Peregrino. We are preparing for operations on Bacalhau, as well as the startup of the Serra da Babilonia renewable hybrid project by our subsidiary Rio Energy and we are progressing the Raia gas project” says Veronica Coelho.

    The transaction is subject to regulatory and legal approvals. The payment will occur in two tranches, one at signing and a further one closer to closing. The payment will be subject to customary adjustments.

    1: The deal is divided in two parts, one for the acquisition of 40% and operatorship of Peregrino, the second for the acquisition of the remaining 20%. The 40% operation will receive a payment of USD 2,233 million, with an additional payment of USD 166 million which is contingent on the completion of the second part of 20%. The 20% operation will have a value of USD 951 million. The final component is USD 150 million of maximum interest, reaching the total of USD 3.5 billion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Mexican Fiesta Street Party in Hargreaves Mall

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    In celebration of the exclusive Frida Kahlo: In her own image exhibition at Bendigo Art Gallery, Hargreaves Mall will be transformed into a Mexican-themed Fiesta Bendigo Street Party tomorrow, Saturday May 3, 2025 from 11am to 4pm.

    This community event will celebrate the rich music, delicious food, colourful culture, stunning fashion, and engaging dance of Mexico.

    The City of Greater Bendigo has curated the event in partnership with the Mexican Social and Cultural Association of Victoria, a non-profit organisation that seeks to promote and share Mexican culture with Victorians.

    Coordinator Creative City Maree Tonkin said the street party was a fun day out for the whole family.

    “The Fiesta Bendigo Street Party in Hargreaves Mall will bring together the vibrant colours, fun and excitement of Mexican culture,” Ms Tonkin said.

    “People of all ages will be entertained with stage performances from The Mexican Music Man, Mexbourne Dance Company, Lenin, and 7-piece Mariachi band Los Romanticos.

    “Children can join in the fun with free activities that includes breaking open piñatas which are an important part of Mexican cultural celebration tradition.

    “The fiesta will also have face painting, circus activities and craft workshops to keep little hands creative and entertained.

    “You can also browse a special market with Mexican-inspired treasures and there will be two food stalls to complement the Fiesta Party.

    “Bring your family and friends and join us for a day full of festivities and immerse yourself in the spirit of Mexico at the Fiesta Bendigo Street Party in Hargreaves Mall tomorrow, Saturday May 3.”

    One of the key aims in the City’s adopted Hargreaves Mall Action Plan is to get more people, more often into the city centre.

    The City has hosted over 200 fantastic activations in Hargreaves Mall over the past year, offering free entertainment for families including popular school holiday events.

    For the full Fiesta Bendigo program, visit: 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE Lodges Detainers Against Violent Aliens Over Corpse Rape, Shooting Spree

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is working relentlessly to remove criminals and sexual predators from American communities. This week, ICE New York City and Memphis placed immigration detainers on two criminal illegal aliens accused of heinous crimes. 

    Enoc Martinez, an illegal alien from Honduras, was arrested in Shelby County, Tennessee and has been charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder for a shooting spree in Memphis that left two people hospitalized. Martinez illegally entered the U.S. in June 2014 as an unaccompanied minor. He was apprehended by Border Patrol and was turned over to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and then placed with a sponsor in Memphis, TN. He was issued a final order of removal in 2022.  

    Following the shooting spree, ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Martinez. 

    Felix Rojas, an alien who illegally entered the country multiple times dating back to 1998, was arrested in New York City and has been charged with rape and grand larceny for raping a corpse on the subway near Whitehall Street Station in Manhattan.  On April 30, ICE New York City lodged an immigration detainer against Rojas. 

    “With impunity open border policies have allowed violent criminal aliens to terrorize America’s towns and cities,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia Mclaughlin. “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem’s leadership, ICE is working around the clock to remove the worst of the worst from our communities. If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you and lock you up.” 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Colleagues Push to Revitalize Domestic Nuclear Shipbuilding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined his Republican colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee in urging President Trump to fully implement the Shipbuilder Accountability and Workforce Support (SAWS) proposal to accelerate domestic nuclear shipbuilding, including at Austal USA in Mobile. The Biden administration previously rejected this proposal, which would be the largest shipbuilding deal in American history.

    “SAWS consolidates over $100 billion in past and future submarine contracts into a coordinated negotiation,” the senators wrote. “This proposal will maximize your leverage, allowing you to gain concessions from industry that would be unattainable through piecemeal approaches. By redirecting unspent funds, it delivers an immediate a pay raise for 45,000 shipbuilders, accelerates nuclear submarine production, and frees $5.7 billion from the last continuing resolution to support your Office of Shipbuilding. It will also help draw innovative tech firms into the maritime industrial base. A potential repayment of $5 to $8 billion arises only decades later if nuclear shipbuilding is shut down. This historical deal—the largest defense negotiation ever—will create a stronger Navy, a thriving workforce, and support the reindustrialization of America.”

    The SAWS proposal would return attack submarine production to two per year instead of the current rate of 1.2 submarines per year and give a pay raise to 45,000 blue-collar shipbuilders. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Armed Services Committee and Chairman of the SASC Subcommittee on Personnel, Senator Tuberville has long advocated for bolstering our U.S. Navy, especially as China’s shipbuilding capacity continues to outpace our own.

    Complete text of the senators’ letter to President Trump can be found here. 

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Grassley Reintroduce Bill to Help Students Navigate College Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – Today, Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) reintroduced a bill to help students and families make informed decisions when choosing a college and taking out loans. From the initial college search, to the acceptance of financial aid, to counseling once in college, the bill would help students avoid sticker shock, find the best school for their budget and avoid taking out ill-advised and oversized loans. Senator Tuberville, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee and the Chairman of the Education and the American Family Subcommittee, emphasized the importance of transparency in the college decision-making process:
    “More and more of our young people are finding themselves buried in student loan debt,” said Senator Tuberville. “Too many of our young people are falling behind on their life goals because they are carrying the burden of college loans for years after completing their degrees. This bill will help young people, who are considering pursuing higher education, understand if college is right fit for them and exactly what financial assistance they may need.”
    BACKGROUND:
    The Understanding the True Cost of College Act would create a universal financial aid offer form and standardize terms used to describe financial aid to allow students to more easily compare financial aid packages between schools. This move aims to prevent troubling findings by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that over 90% of college financial aid offer letters currently understate the price students would pay. A summary of the Understanding the True Cost of College Act is available HERE. 
    MORE:
    Tuberville Introduces Legislation to Lower the Cost of Graduate School
    Tuberville: No Student Loan Bailouts for Convicted Antisemitic Protestors
    Tuberville, Marshall Request Expedited Review of Financial Aid Applications
    Tuberville Joins Legislation to Protect Taxpayers From Biden’s Latest Student Loan Scam
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON REPUBLICANS BEING FORCED TO CANCEL TWO BUDGET MARK-UPS AND DELAY THEIR TOXIC SCHEME

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

    Know Your Immigration Rights

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

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

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

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

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Faircourt Gold Income Corp. Announces Net Asset Value for Annual Redemption of Class A Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Toronto, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Faircourt Asset Management Inc., the Manager of Faircourt Gold Income Corp. (the “Company”) announces today that Securityholders who tendered their Class A Shares for redemption on March 31, 2025 will be entitled to receive $3.9552 per Class A Share, which is equal to the Net Asset Value per Share calculated using a five day volume weighted average price for exchange-traded equity securities held by the Company, determined as of April 29 2025 less the pro rata share of the aggregate of all brokerage fees, commissions and other costs relating to disposition of portfolio securities necessary to fund such redemption. Payment will be made in full on May 21, 2025.

    This press release is not for distribution in the United States or over United States wire services.

    For further information on the Faircourt Funds, please visit www.faircourtassetmgt.com at (416) 364-8989 or
    1-800-831-0304.

    You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell Units of the Trust on CBOE Canada or other alternative Canadian trading system (an “exchange”). If the Units are purchased or sold on an exchange, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying Units of the Trust and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them.

    There are ongoing fees and expenses associated with owning units of an investment fund. An investment fund must prepare disclosure documents that contain key information about the fund. You can find more detailed information about the fund in the public filings available at www.sedar.com. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Grills Armed Services Nominees on Effectiveness of Women, Peace and Security Law Hegseth is Attempting to Scrap; Nominees Affirm Program’s Importance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    **In Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing, Shaheen highlighted how senior military officials have underscored the strategic advantage WPS provides**

    (Washington, DC) – As Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attempts to “end” implementation of the bipartisan Women, Peace and Security (WPS) law at the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke in a SASC nomination hearing this morning about the operational value WPS provides in countering China and Russia, preventing radicalization by violent extremist organizations and disrupting the smuggling of narcotics, weapons and humans into the United States. Shaheen pressed the nominees on the effectiveness of the program – all of whom reaffirmed its importance. You can watch Senator Shaheen’s remarks and questions here. 

    Key quotes from Senator Shaheen: 

    • “Since that time, WPS has been used by the warfighters to identify victims of human trafficking, in joint exercises on noncombatant evacuations, to provide human intelligence on violent extremist groups like ISIS and Al-Shabaab and to understand the human terrain to improve kinetic and non-kinetic targeting. I’m very concerned that taking away these tools does not make us a stronger or more lethal fighting force, and in fact it takes away some of the options we have to be successful.” 
       
    • “Secretary Hegseth also claimed that warfighters hate it, and yet the newly-confirmed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs not only told this committee about WPS’s operational value, but he was very clear that this is not DEI.” 
       
    • “This is information that’s not new to this committee. Every 4-star combatant commander has told us about the strategic advantage that WPS provides to our forward deployed forces.” 

    During the hearing, Shaheen raised a memo made public in an article last night from the Joint Staff providing their best military advice to Secretary Hegseth. The memo acknowledged that China and Russia have no equivalent of WPS, and that the combatant commands’ engagements with partners over the next two years under the program “counter China by gaining access to a population China largely ignores.” 

    In 2017, Shaheen led the bipartisan Women, Peace and Security law through Congress to prioritize the promotion of women’s participation in foreign policy and national security efforts, such as conflict prevention, peace negotiations and democratic institutions. Women’s participation in peace negotiations increases the probability by 35 percent of agreements lasting at least 15 years.  

    After Shaheen’s bill passed the Republican-led Senate by unanimous consent and was approved by the Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives, President Trump signed the bipartisan legislation into law in October 2017. Members of President Trump’s current cabinet were integral to its passage through Congress – Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was the sponsor of the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was an original cosponsor in the Senate and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz chaired the House WPS caucus for many years.   

    In a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing earlier this month on Lieutenant General John D. Caine’s nomination to be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Caine told Shaheen about how WPS is a program that provides operational advantage for the U.S. military – not DEI.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan America the Beautiful Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined her colleagues, U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Angus King (I-ME), to introduce their bipartisan conservation bill, the America the Beautiful Act. This legislation builds on the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act, which Shaheen cosponsored, by strengthening and reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) and addressing the serious maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands.
    “New Hampshire’s public lands and outdoor spaces are integral to our state identity and our thriving outdoor recreation economy. We must take steps to protect these resources for future generations of Granite Staters,” said Shaheen. “I was proud to see the Great American Outdoors Act become law, and I’ll continue fighting to protect and preserve outdoor spaces by passing this legislation which will continue the progress we’ve made.” 
    Shaheen, Daines and King were joined by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mark Warner (D-VA), Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in introducing the bill.
    The America the Beautiful Act reauthorizes the LRF through 2033 and increases funding to $2 billion per year to help address the maintenance backlog in national parks and public lands. Currently, the maintenance backlog for each agency is $23.26 billion for the U.S. Park Service, $8.695 billion for the U.S. Forest Service, $2.65 billion for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, $5.72 billion for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and $804.5 million for the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education. In New Hampshire, National Parks and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuges have approximately $13 million in outstanding deferred maintenance needs.
    Since its creation in 2020, the LRF has benefitted numerous national parks and public lands in New Hampshire. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park has received more than $14 million from the Legacy Restoration Fund to rehabilitate four historic structures and address electrical, HVAC and alarm systems. Across the White Mountain National Forest, the Legacy Restoration Fund is supporting trail restoration work on the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail and Rumney Rocks Climbing Area, as well as repairs of the Tripoli Bridge. Sections of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail across New England are slated to receive $15 million in FY25 to rehabilitate and repair facilities along the trail that will address maintenance needs and improve visitor safety. 
    The America the Beautiful Act is supported by over 40 public lands, conservation and recreation groups. Click here to view the full list of statements of support and supporting groups.
    You can read the full bill text here.
    Shaheen has led efforts to safeguard our natural environment and invest in climate resiliency while boosting New Hampshire’s recreation economy. Shaheen led the bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act into law to require the federal government to measure the impact of the outdoor recreation on the economy. In November 2024, Shaheen applauded the release of an annual report showing a $1.2 trillion economic contribution by the outdoor recreation sector in 2023, including $3.9 billion in New Hampshire. Shaheen also helped reintroduce the Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development (SHRED) Act to fuel investment in outdoor recreation in national forests that benefits mountain communities.
    Shaheen has also led efforts to help secure full funding and permanent authorization for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which has helped protect more than 2.5 million acres of land and supported tens of thousands of state and local outdoor recreation projects throughout the nation. In 2020, Shaheen helped lead the Great American Outdoors Act into law to permanently fund the LWCF and provide mandatory funding for deferred maintenance on public lands.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Op-Ed: Break Up Big Tech Behemoths to Reclaim American Freedom

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) | April 30, 2025 | The New York Post

    I distinctly remember the time Mark Zuckerberg came to see me in my office.

    It was five years ago now, back when the Facebook founder was at the height of his “move fast and break things” stardom.

    I was a new senator and a skeptic.

    I thought his company — now Meta — was breaking too many things: like the right to free speech, or the right to control your personal data, or the right of your kids to have a sane childhood.

    Zuckerberg came to convince me otherwise, as he had convinced many a regulator and politician, by making vague promises about Big Tech’s good intentions.

    I’ll never forget the look of shock on his face when I suggested the best thing Big Tech could do was start surrendering power.

    Break themselves up.

    Give control back to their customers.

    It was abundantly clear he had no such intentions.

    Now the Federal Trade Commission is suing Meta for antitrust violations in federal court — and on April 17, another federal judge found tech giant Google liable for a host of antitrust breaches.

    Finally.

    […]

    The Constitution opens with the seminal words “We the People.”

    But given the power Big Tech has amassed in recent years, one could be forgiven for thinking it starts with “We the Corporations.”

    We have come to a moment of decision: Either the government will break up these behemoths and return to the people the power they have seized, or the corporations will effectively be the government for the nation.

    […]

    The Big Tech companies have more power than any corporation on earth. Indeed, they have more power than any corporation in history.

    And if we don’t act now, they will control our lives, and our country, altogether.

    […]

    The solution here is simple: We must take power from the corporations and return it to We the People.

    How?

    Enforce antitrust law to the hilt.

    Take the April 17 Google verdict on advertising.

    Ad revenue fuels everything these companies do, from designing ever-more-addictive products to censoring Americans’ speech.

    The recent verdict may turn that spigot off.

    […]

    The FTC’s case against Zuckerberg and Meta is significant, too.

    If the FTC wins, it could force Meta to divest Instagram and WhatsApp, restoring competition to digital markets.

    Antitrust law can be a powerful tool.

    But we must do more.

    We ought to empower citizens directly.

    Antitrust cases can take years, even decades.

    And we can’t always wait for the government to act.

    That’s why I’ve proposed legislation to open the courtroom doors to every American harmed by these companies.

    Let Americans who have been censored sue.

    Let parents whose kids have been victimized by predators online sue.

    […]

    Giving ordinary citizens their day in court means the tech companies have to stop taking your personal information without payment or consent.

    And breaking up the Big Tech-Big Government alliance means bad actors like the Biden administration can’t use the ginormous power of the corporations to do their censorious bidding.

    […]

    Read Senator Hawley’s full op-ed here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Halt Illegal Student Visa Revocations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    May 01, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, both D-Ore., said today they have joined Senate colleagues to demand the Trump Administration stop its illegal slashing of student visas.

    After learning federal agencies have been revoking student visas and terminating Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records across the country in violation of existing laws and policies that protect students’ status, the senators demanded the Trump Administration fully reverse its actions after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began to reinstate these visas.

    “[S]tudents across the country—who by all accounts appear to have followed all of the applicable laws and agency guidance—have reported visa revocations with no clear explanation as to the basis to terminate status,” the senators wrote in a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons. 

    “Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has completed at least 4,736 total terminations of student visa holders’ Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records. By DHS’s own admission, the statute and regulations do not provide SEVP the authority to terminate nonimmigrant status by terminating a SEVIS record. Your decision to reverse such terminations is therefore prudent and required by law,” the senators wrote.

     The lawmakers also noted that current laws, regulations, and agency guidance require notice to be provided when a student’s status is being terminated or revoked. “Students who have entered through our legal immigration system and followed the law remain unsure of what, if any, steps they may take to maintain their status and safeguard themselves from immigration enforcement,” the senators wrote. “While we are relieved that ICE has reversed these SEVIS terminations, we now urge you to undo other actions to end student status that are inconsistent with such laws, regulations, and agency guidance. Finally, we understand that you are contemplating additional actions to end student status. Any such changes must be consistent with applicable statutes, including requirements for notice with respect to changes that would deprive a student of their status and ability to live and study in the United States and place them at risk of detention.” 

    The letter was led by Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin, D-Ill., Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. In addition to Wyden and Merkley, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Michael Bennett, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Chris Coons, D-Del., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Tim Kaine, D-Va., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Andy Kim, D-N.J., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Bernard Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Mark Warner, D-Va., Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.

    Full text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Rising Tech Threat from China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) introduced the Partner with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Act. This bipartisan bill would enhance cooperation with key partners in technology and scientific research, while combating the rising influence of the Chinese Communist Party.

    “Communist China is using illegal practices to gain an unfair advantage in the tech world,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Now is the time to stand together with our allies and partners across the globe to counter these aggressive tactics. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will make our country more secure and spur job-creating technology innovations here at home.”

    The Partner with ASEAN, CERN, and PIF Act amends the International Organizations Immunities Act to expand diplomatic privileges and immunities to these three international organizations. It provides the legal authorities to streamline the movement of people and materials between these organizations and the U.S., deepening U.S. ties with Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and a key scientific research partner.

    You can find the full text of the legislation here.

    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to stand up to the Chinese government’s aggression. She introduced the PASS Act to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites and the Strengthening Exports Against China Act, which would incentivize economic growth by eliminating barriers for American businesses competing directly with China in emerging industries like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. She’s also introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare-earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and electric vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China.

    MIL OSI USA News –