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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kelly backs legislation to stop EV mandates, de facto ban on gas-powered vehicles

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) joined Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman John Joyce (PA-13), Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Congressman John James (MI-10), along with Members of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, California Republicans, and Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain on three Congressional Review Act resolutions that would undo harmful rules created under the Biden administration’s Environmental Protection Agency.

    These three Congressional Review Act resolutions would reverse radical regulations that established a de facto ban on the use of gas-powered vehicles, heavy trucks, and diesel engines over the next decade.

    “Pennsylvania drivers shouldn’t be subjected to California laws, plain and simple. This series of legislation rejects radical EV mandates and ensures drivers across the United States will be able to choose the vehicle that’s best for them, whether it’s gas-powered, electric, or a hybrid model,” Rep. Kelly said. 

    “The American people should choose what vehicle is right for them, not California bureaucrats. By submitting the three California waivers to Congress, Administrator Zeldin is ensuring that Congress has oversight of these major rules that impact every American,” said Chairman Guthrie. “The Committee has been committed to addressing this issue since California first attempted to create a de facto EV mandate. Energy and Commerce Republicans will continue to fight against far-left policies that would harm consumers and will now work to ensure that the Congressional Review Act process finally puts these issues to rest. Thank you to Congressman Joyce, Congressman Obernolte, and Congressman James for your work to ensure that families and businesses can continue to choose the vehicles they need.”

    “Since arriving in Washington, I have fought to protect consumer freedom and allow American families to choose the vehicle that best fits their budget and needs,” said Vice Chairman John Joyce, M.D. “The introduction of this resolution to overturn California’s ban on gas-powered vehicles is long overdue. Thank you to Chairman Guthrie and Chairman Capito for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to seeing this legislation swiftly pass through Congress so President Trump can permanently protect the freedom of the open road for all Americans.”

    “As a representative of California, I’ve seen firsthand how burdensome regulations from the California Air Resources Board have hurt businesses and hardworking Americans by imposing costly mandates instead of allowing the market to drive innovation,” said Congressman Obernolte. “Congress must exercise its oversight authority to ensure these policies do not become the national standard. It is critical we protect jobs, supply chains, and the ability of consumers to choose what is best for them and their families.”

    “The Biden administration left behind comply-or-die Green New Deal mandates that threaten to crush our trucking industry and drive up costs for hardworking Americans,” said Congressman James. “I know — my family has a trucking company. Republicans are working hard to implement President Trump’s America First agenda, and the first step is repealing the rules and waivers that contributed to Bideninflation!” 

    “During the Biden administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowed a series of stringent, environmentally charged regulations on vehicles that would effectively overhaul the marketplace and steer consumers toward purchasing electric vehicles,” said Congressman Fulcher. “I am honored to join my colleagues in introducing a legislative package to repeal these overreaching federal mandates and preserve consumer freedom and choice in the automotive and heavy-duty truck markets,” 

    “California’s sweeping and unachievable emissions mandates are a direct assault on everyone who lives, works, or does business in our state,” said Congressman LaMalfa. “These regulations drive up costs, limit consumer choice, and force trucking and automotive industries into an impossible transition timeline. Californians are already paying some of the highest fuel and energy costs in the country. These rules are causing the cost of new and used cars and trucks to increase for everyone. If you want to buy an electric vehicle, buy one, but everybody else shouldn’t be forced into this mandate. The Federal Government cannot allow one state to destroy the American car and truck market. Instead of making life even more expensive, we should focus on what consumers want. I’m pleased to support this effort to stop California’s insanity and protect drivers and consumers across my state and the country.” 

    “The Newsom Administration’s irrational plan to ban gas-powered cars and trucks is an affront to the freedom of Californians and an economic burden to the whole country,” said Congressman Kiley. “The Biden Administration aided and abetted this insanity with special waivers. With the Congressional Review Act resolutions introduced today, we have an opportunity to return to economic reality and restore common sense.” 

    “Biden’s EPA waivers effectively allowed one state’s woke agenda to dictate national policy. It’s not the government’s role to decide what vehicle Americans must drive,” said Chairwoman McClain. “These waivers bypass Congress and ignore millions of Americans who rely on affordable, reliable transportation. Instead, we should have a little more faith in the American people to choose what’s best for them. It’s time we end this regulatory overreach.” 

    BACKGROUND

    Making these changes at a time when the United States is unprepared for a full transition to electric vehicles would have massive consequences for American communities. With states making up more than 40% of the auto market following California’s emissions standards, implementing Californias EV mandate would result in a nation-wide shift in the vehicles that are available for purchase, and in fact could lead to a shortage of the vehicles consumers need. 

    H.J. Res. 88, introduced by Congressman Joyce (PA-13), would reverse the EPA’s decision to approve a waiver granted to California allowing the State to ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035.

    H.J. Res. 89, introduced by Congressman Obernolte (CA-23), would put an end to the EPA’s decision to allow California to implement its most recent nitrogen oxide (NOx) engine emission standards, which create burdensome and unworkable standards for heavy-duty on-road engines.

    H.J. Res. 87, introduced by Congressman James (MI-10), would reverse the EPA’s decision to approve a waiver granted to California allowing the State to mandate the sale of zero-emission trucks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gomez Hosts Virtual Roundtable with Social Media Creators and Influencers, Pushes for Better Federal Support

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

    Gomez pushes for better support for content creators and connects with gaming and digital influencers to reach young Americans

    LOS ANGELES, CA — Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) today hosted a virtual roundtable with digital creators, influencers, and leaders in the gaming and anime space to discuss the growing role of the creator economy in shaping culture, driving innovation, and empowering young people. The conversation focused on financial security for creators, digital entrepreneurship, and educational opportunities through gaming to reach out to people aged 18–24. Gomez is also pushing the Small Business Administration (SBA) to better support content creators through better access to loans, tax resources, and protections for intellectual property.

    Participants included creators and influencers like Kenny Williams Jr., Angelina Darrisaw, David Echeverria, Ilan Shapiro, Ryan Johnson, John Cash, DJ Squid, and Bethany Simpson — representing millions of followers across platforms.

    “Content creators aren’t just building audiences — they’re building businesses, creating jobs, and driving a $250 billion economy,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez. “We need small business programs that match that reality — not policies that make it harder for entrepreneurs to succeed.”

    “Representative Gomez isn’t just showing up — he’s leading the way,” said Michael Ceraso, an organizer and advocate with Winning Margins who moderated and invited creators to the event. “At a time when most politicians are scrambling to catch up with the digital world, Rep. Gomez is already building real partnerships with creators and pushing for the federal support they deserve. He understands that creators are small business owners, educators, and cultural leaders — and he’s fighting to make sure policy reflects that. This gathering wouldn’t have happened without his vision and commitment.”

    Ryan Johnson — founder and CEO of Cxmmunity Media, a company focused on eSports and video game career development for students of color — spoke about empowering creators, especially students at HBCUs. Rep. Gomez reflected on how platforms like Twitch and YouTube are shaping public opinion and stressed the importance of Democrats engaging directly with digital communities and young Americans.

    “Our company’s claim to fame is that we started the nation’s first eSports and video game league for HBCUs,” said Ryan Johnson, Founder and CEO of Cxmmunity Media. “We’ve been trying to find more strategic ways to not only tell stories but help and empower these creators to use their voices.”

    Rep. Jimmy Gomez represents LA, a global hub for the digital creator economy. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, he has been vocal about modernizing the tax code and small business support systems to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs. Today’s discussion builds on Rep. Gomez’s January listening session with leading social media influencers, held just days before a potential TikTok ban.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Neguse Demand Commerce Department Reverse Planned Cuts to NOAA, Colorado-Based Research Centers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, along with Representative Joe Neguse, urged Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to preserve funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its Cooperative Institutes (CIs) following recent reports that the Trump administration plans to cut funding for NOAA in its upcoming budget proposal.

    “Cooperative Institutes are integral to solving some of our biggest problems and making all of us safer and better prepared for short-term and long-term hazards. Any plan to terminate funding for NOAA CIs would be detrimental not just to the people of Colorado, but to people across the entire country,” wrote the lawmakers.

    Colorado is the only state in the nation to house two CIs, which are academic and nonprofit research centers that provide invaluable support to NOAA’s mission.

    • The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES), located at the University of Colorado Boulder, is the oldest and largest CI. It employs nearly 800 researchers, support staff, and students focused on research related to drought, wildfire, and space weather.
    • The Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA), located at Colorado State University, employs nearly 200 individuals who are working to improve weather and fire forecasting.

    “We strongly condemn any such plan and believe terminating this funding would be extremely short-sighted and costly to the American people and economy in the long run,” continued the lawmakers. 

    Read their full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Gonzales Create Harsh Penalties for Deadly Fentanyl Dealers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: April 29, 2025
    Drug dealers behind lethal fentanyl will face life in prison or death penalty.
    WASHINGTON – On National Fentanyl Awareness Day, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) are increasing the criminal penalties to the strictest possible level for the drug dealers behind the fentanyl epidemic that is the leading cause of death for Americans 18-44 and contributed to around 87,000 overdose deaths.
    The Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act makes knowingly distributing fentanyl resulting in death a first-degree murder carrying a sentence of up to life in prison or even the death penalty.
    “I have seen firsthand how the scourge of fentanyl has inflicted incredible tragedy on communities across Iowa,” said Ernst. “I have worked for years to protect Americans and stop this deadly epidemic. Increasing the severity of the punishment for the drug dealers responsible for the deaths of too many Iowans is long overdue.”
    “I served 20 years in the military, I know what war looks like. Make no mistake, the current fentanyl crisis our country is experiencing is not random—it’s an intentional act of war against the American people. Drug cartels have taken advantage of loopholes at our borders to peddle illicit drugs into our country, meanwhile, our communities pay the price,” said Gonzales. “My bill sends a strong message to those who work with cartels and other bad actors—if you sell the drug and take an innocent life, justice will be delivered. Our law enforcement agencies are in overdrive combatting the drug epidemic in America, it’s time to take action and up the penalties for fentanyl dealers.”
    Click here to view the bill.
    Background:
    Earlier this year, the Senate passed an Ernst-supported bill to classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I, to enable law enforcement authorities to target fentanyl traffickers, no matter how much they chemically tweak their products to take advantage of a legal loophole.
    After visiting the southern border, Ernst worked to increase penalties on individuals who fuel the border crisis and fentanyl epidemic.
    Her bipartisan solution to address the fentanyl crisis was also included in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.
    Last week, Ernst introduced the BE GONE Act to codify a key part of President Trump’s zero-tolerance border crackdown by requiring illegal immigrants convicted of sex crimes to be deported.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.29.2025 WTAS: Bipartisan, Bicameral TAKE IT DOWN Act to Criminalize the Spread of Deepfake Revenge Porn Heads to President Trump’s Desk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, the bipartisan, bicameral TAKE IT DOWN Act, introduced in the Senate by Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and co-led by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 409-2 and heads to President Trump’s desk. The legislation unanimously passed the Senate in February.
    The TAKE IT DOWN Act criminalizes the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII (or “deepfake revenge pornography”), and requires social media and similar websites to implement procedures to remove such content within 48 hours of notice from a victim.
    The House companion was introduced by Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) and Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.).
    Here is what they are saying about the TAKE IT DOWN Act:

    TIME: Inside the First Major U.S. Bill Tackling AI Harms—and Deepfake Abuse
    “In January, however, Cruz was promoted to become the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, giving him a major position of power to set agendas. His office rallied the support for Take it Down from a slew of different public interest groups. They also helped persuade tech companies to support the bill, which worked: Snapchat and Meta got behind it.
    “‘Cruz put an unbelievable amount of muscle into this bill,’ says Sunny Gandhi, vice president of political affairs at Encode, an AI-focused advocacy group that supported the bill. ‘They spent a lot of effort wrangling a lot of the companies to make sure that they wouldn’t be opposed, and getting leadership interested.’”

    THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS: House passes Ted Cruz bill cracking down on deepfake nudes
    “U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz’s bill targeting the publication of nonconsensual deepfake pornography will soon be federal law.
    “The House voted 409-2 Monday to approve the bill, which already passed the Senate, sending it to President Donald Trump’s desk.
    “Elliston was 14 years old in October 2023 when a classmate used an artificial intelligence program to turn innocent photos of her and her friends into realistic-looking nudes and distributed the images on social media.
    “They were only removed after they shared the story with Cruz and he pushed for action.
    “First lady Melania Trump participated in an event highlighting the issue and Elliston sat with her as a guest for the president’s joint address to Congress.
    “Trump gave Elliston a shout-out during the speech, saying he looked forward to signing Cruz’s proposal into law after the House passed it.”

    USA TODAY: With rare bipartisan support, Congress passes bill to outlaw deepfake pornography
    “A bill to criminalize AI-generated explicit images, or ‘deepfakes,’ is headed to President Donald Trump’s desk after sailing through both chambers of Congress with near-unanimous approval.
    “The Take It Down Act has enjoyed uncommon bipartisan support, along with a key endorsement from the first lady.
    “The newly-passed bill will require technology platforms to remove reported “non-consensual, sexually exploitative images” within 48 hours of receiving a valid request. Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, introduced the legislation in August.”

    The New York Times: House Passes Bill to Ban Sharing of Revenge Porn, Sending It to Trump
    “The legislation, introduced by Senators Ted Cruz, Republican of Texas, and Amy Klobuchar, Democrat of Minnesota, is the first internet content law to clear Congress since 2018, when lawmakers approved legislation to fight online sex trafficking. And though it focuses on revenge porn and deepfakes, the bill is seen as an important step toward regulating internet companies that have for decades escaped government scrutiny.”

    CBS NEWS: House passes “Take it Down Act,” sending revenge porn bill backed by Melania Trump to president’s desk
    “‘If you’re a victim of revenge porn or AI-generated explicit imagery, your life changes forever,’ Sen. Ted Cruz, a Texas Republican, said at a March 3 roundtable promoting the bill.
    “Cruz, who introduced the bill, recalled the experience of a teenage victim, Elliston Berry, whose classmate used an app to create explicit images of her and then sent them to her classmates. Berry’s mother had tried unsuccessfully to get Snapchat to remove the images for months before she contacted Cruz’s office for help.
    “‘It should not take a sitting senator or sitting member of Congress picking up the phone to get a picture down or video down,’ Cruz said.”

    CNN: House passes bill aimed at protecting victims of deepfake and revenge porn
    “Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas introduced the bill, and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Rep. Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania, have supported the effort.
    “According to Cruz’s office, the bill ‘would criminalize the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII (or ‘deepfake pornography’), and require social media and similar websites to have in place procedures to remove such content upon notification from a victim.’”

    THE HILL: Bill criminalizing deepfake revenge porn passes House, heads to Trump’s desk
    “Cruz celebrated the bill’s passage on Monday, calling it a ‘historic win in the fight to protect victims of revenge porn and deepfake abuse.’
    “‘By requiring social media companies to take down this abusive content quickly, we are sparing victims from repeated trauma and holding predators accountable,’ he wrote in a statement.”
    More than 120 organizations representing victim advocacy groups, law enforcement, and tech industry leaders have voiced their support for the legislation, including Meta, Snap, Google, Microsoft, TikTok, X, Amazon, Bumble, Match Group, Entertainment Software Association, IBM, TechNet, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Internet Works, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network), and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE).
    In March, Sen. Cruz and Rep. Salazar hosted a bipartisan roundtable with First Lady Melania Trump to hear from victims of revenge and deepfake pornography and urge the House to pass the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act. During his State of the Union address, President Trump emphasized the bill’s importance and said, “I look forward to signing it into law.”
    Other notable endorsements came from the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, a group of House lawmakers evenly split between Republicans and Democrats, and Paris Hilton, who called the bill “a crucial step toward ending non-consensual image sharing online.”
    During the 118th Congress, the bill unanimously passed the Senate Commerce Committee and the full Senate.
    BACKGROUND:
    While nearly every state has a law protecting people from non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including 30 states with laws explicitly covering sexual deepfakes, these state laws vary in classification of crime and penalty and have uneven criminal prosecution. Further, victims struggle to have images depicting them removed from websites, increasing the likelihood the images are continuously spread and victims are retraumatized.
    In 2022, Congress passed legislation creating a civil cause of action for victims to sue individuals responsible for publishing NCII. However, bringing a civil action can be incredibly impractical. It is time-consuming, expensive, and may force victims to relive trauma. Further exacerbating the problem, it is not always clear who is responsible for publishing the NCII. 
    The TAKE IT DOWN Act would protect and empower victims of real and deepfake NCII while respecting speech by:

    Criminalizing the publication of NCII in interstate commerce. The bill makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish NCII on social media and other online platforms. NCII is defined to include realistic, computer-generated pornographic images and videos that depict identifiable, real people. The bill also clarifies that a victim consenting to the creation of an authentic image does not mean that the victim has consented to its publication.
    Protecting good faith efforts to assist victims. The bill permits the good faith disclosure of NCII, such as to law enforcement. 
    Requiring websites to take down NCII upon notice from the victim. Social media and other websites would be required to have in place procedures to remove NCII, pursuant to a valid request from a victim, within 48 hours. Websites must also make reasonable efforts to remove copies of the images. The Federal Trade Commission is charged with enforcement of this section. 
    Protecting lawful speech. The bill is narrowly tailored to criminalize knowingly publishing NCII without chilling lawful speech. The bill conforms to current First Amendment jurisprudence by requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” test for appearing indistinguishable from an authentic image.

    To read the bill text, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Leads Colleagues in Releasing Report Highlighting Harm to Seniors and People with Disabilities During Trump’s First 100 Days

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP) Committee, released a report highlighting President Trump’s first 100 days in office and his disastrous policies hurting older Americans and people with disabilities. The report details Republican attacks on Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security; the mass layoff of federal employees at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Department of Education (ED), and Social Security Administration (SSA); and proposals to further cut funding for programs that Americans rely on, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

    “During President Trump’s first 100 days in office, he has enacted horrendous policies that will have negative consequences for Americans for decades to come,” said Kaine. “Today, I’m releasing this report with my colleagues highlighting the reprehensible harm that President Trump and his Administration have caused for older Americans and people with disabilities. From gutting HHS and other federal agencies to rolling back policies that make it easier for Americans to access health care and afford prescription drugs, the Trump Administration has made it clear that they do not care about the well-being of our nation’s seniors or people with disabilities. I’ve heard from older Americans and individuals with disabilities in Virginia, including at a recent roundtable in Wytheville, about their concerns with what the Trump Administration is doing. I will keep pushing to protect important federal programs that support older Americans and people with disabilities, and fight against Republican proposals to slash Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.”

    “In his first 100 days, Mr. Trump has made it abundantly clear that seniors and people with disabilities do not matter. Instead of protecting the programs and services working families rely on, Trump is getting ready to give more tax breaks for billionaires, while making it harder for Americans to access Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security & veterans benefits. That is morally obscene,” said Sanders.

    “Just last week, RFK callously called for a ‘registry’ of people with autism. He’s spent 100 days firing scientists and working with this Administration to rob research facility dollars used to cure cancer and Alzheimer’s. His boss Donald Trump is trying to gut Medicaid to pay for billionaire tax cuts at the expense of vulnerable communities. It is clear that those who have been leading our country these last 100 days and making decisions about our health care are not only wildly unqualified, they are dangerous. Our families deserve better, we are sick of it,” said Alsobrooks.  

    The full report is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Leads Bill to Ban Discrimination Against LGBTQ+ Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) in reintroducing the Equality Act to ban discrimination against LGBTQ+ Americans, just as religious, racial, and ethnic discrimination are illegal everywhere in the United States.

    “The Equality Act simply puts into law what we all believe: that every American is created equal and should be treated equally under the law. But, for too many LGBTQ+ Americans in states across the country, equality under the law is not the reality, and they are harassed at work, denied a place to live, and discriminated against just for being who they are,” said Senator Baldwin. “The Equality Act makes clear that in the United States, we can live up to our nation’s highest ideals and we will not tolerate discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity – just like religion, race, or ethnicity. Equality is not a privilege, it’s what we’re all owed as American citizens, and I’m committed to making that promise a reality.”

    In states across the country, over 850 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been filed so far this year—the most in U.S. history—including 12 bills in Wisconsin.

    The Equality Act amends landmark federal anti-discrimination laws to explicitly add sexual orientation and gender identity to longstanding bans on discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, jury service, access to credit, federal funding, and more. It would also add protections against sex discrimination in parts of anti-discrimination laws where these protections had not been included previously, such as public accommodations and federal funding.

    Despite major advances in equality for LGBTQ+ Americans in recent years, including passing Senator Baldwin’s Respect for Marriage Act to codify federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages, the majority of states still do not have explicit LGBTQ+ non-discrimination protection laws. The Equality Act would finally enshrine protections into federal law under all areas of potential discrimination, protecting the rights and freedoms of all LGBTQ+ Americans for generations to come.

    In addition to Senators Baldwin, Merkley, and Booker, the Equality Act is co-sponsored by 44 of their Senate colleagues.

    Full text of this legislation is available here.

    A summary of this legislation is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Europe Subcommittee Chairman Self Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on Future of Cyber Diplomacy

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Europe Subcommittee Chairman Keith Self delivered opening remarks at a full committee hearing titled, “Shaping the Future of Cyber Diplomacy: Review for State Department Reauthorization.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks- 

    Today the subcommittee will be exploring the role of the State Department in cyber and technology matters, and how such policies might align with U.S. national security interests and foreign policy objectives. In particular, we will be examining the work of the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy, or CDP. Across the globe, malicious cyber attacks are conducted by state and non-state actors against the United States and its allies, including from the People’s Republic of China.

    From cyber criminals scamming individuals out of their savings to large-scale state-sponsored attacks from America’s adversaries, U.S. government entities and citizens are increasingly under siege. For years, PRC-supported hackers have buried deep into critical infrastructure, including water, transportation networks, and energy systems.

    According to the 2025 Annual Worldwide Threats Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community, the PRC remains the most active and persistent cyber threat to U.S. government, private sector, and critical infrastructure networks. Beijing’s campaign to preposition access on critical infrastructure for attacks during crisis or conflict—tracked publicly as Volt Typhoon—or its more recently identified compromise of U.S. telecommunications infrastructure, also referred to as Salt Typhoon, demonstrates the growing breadth and depth of the PRC’s capability to compromise U.S. infrastructure.

    Russia also poses a significant cyber threat, with its efforts to compromise sensitive targets for intelligence collection and to preposition access to U.S. critical infrastructure. In addition to Beijing and Moscow, Tehran has demonstrated an increasing willingness to carry out aggressive cyber operations targeting the security of U.S. networks and data. Furthermore, Pyongyang’s cyber program presents a highly capable and maturing threat, including an approach to launder and cash out cryptocurrency from the United States and other victims to fund its nefarious activities.

    As cyber becomes a growing battlefield for criminal networks and malign actors, the State Department must be ready to meet the challenge. The U.S. is not facing these real and growing threats alone. Through cooperation with our allies and partners, the U.S. will continue to work to combat malign cyber activities from the PRC, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

    Since the recent establishment of CDP, it’s played a role in the U.S. response to a major ransomware campaign in Costa Rica that disrupted critical services. In particular, CDP, alongside other federal partners, worked to strengthen Costa Rica’s cyber defenses against attacks from malicious actors threatening the security of both our countries. It has also worked to identify strategic opportunities to leverage partner resources to further U.S. strategic objectives through subsea cable projects in the Pacific Islands. Such efforts ensured that the Pacific Islands rely on trusted, primarily American businesses for their internet connectivity while also countering the PRC’s influence in the strategically important region.

    The Department of State agreement on a cybercrime UN treaty that conflicted with CDP policy lead and recommendations begs the question of the actual authority wielded by CDP. This hearing should lead us toward conclusions on how to improve CDP efficiency and effectiveness in this vital area of national interest and security. As we move through this reauthorization process, the experience and insights from today’s witnesses will help inform this subcommittee on the State Department’s cyber diplomacy role in addressing these increasingly important challenges.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 193

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 193
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    525 PM CDT Tue Apr 29 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    South-central and Eastern Kentucky

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon from 525 PM until Midnight
    CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible

    SUMMARY…Clusters of storms will progress eastward across the
    region this evening with isolated wind damage as the main severe
    risk.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 50
    statute miles north and south of a line from 25 miles northwest of
    Bowling Green KY to 40 miles south of Huntington WV. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 189…WW 190…WW
    191…WW 192…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    26025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 193 SEVERE TSTM KY 292225Z – 300500Z
    AXIS..50 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    25NW BWG/BOWLING GREEN KY/ – 40S HTS/HUNTINGTON WV/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 45NM N/S /23NW BWG – 63SSW HNN/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 26025.

    LAT…LON 37958674 38508255 37068255 36508674

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 193 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Pens Op-Ed in Newsweek: The President’s First 100 Days Is a Return to American Greatness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) penned an op-ed in Newsweek today, celebrating the rapid progress of President Donald Trump’s First 100 Days.

    Click HERE or on the image above to read Senator Marshall’s full op-ed in Newsweek 
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s op-ed include: 

    “The American people delivered a powerful mandate in November. They were ready to turn the page on the failures of the Biden-Harris administration and restore America first leadership by electing President Donald Trump. This choice has already begun to pay off tremendously.

    “In just 100 days, we have witnessed one of the most productive presidential administrations in modern history. Trump has already signed more than 140 executive orders, issued more than 40 proclamations, and authored more than 30 memorandums—far surpassing the number of actions many presidents have taken throughout their entire administrations.
    “Despite relentless criticism from the mainstream media, radical judges blocking the president’s actions, and Democrats in disarray, the American people stand strongly behind the president’s America first vision.
    “Recent polling from RealClear Politics shows an 11-point surge in optimism since January 2025—a clear sign the American people believe the country is back on the right track. That’s because Trump is delivering on the promises he made.
    “Trump campaigned on many critical issues, but none were more pressing than the promise to secure our border and make American families safer. Under the Biden-Harris administration, illegal crossings surged to more than 15,000 per day. That number has now dropped to fewer than 200 per day, and more than 130,000 violent criminals and illegal immigrants have been deported.”

    “Under Trump, America is not an economic zone to be exploited or a workforce to be taken advantage of by other countries. It is a protected, sovereign nation—a place where the hopes and dreams of millions of families can grow and prosper.

    “That is the promise of the America-first agenda made manifest. If we want this legacy to last, Congress must do its part to codify this progress and ensure Trump’s next 1,300 days are as impactful for the American people as his first 100.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: 100 Days of Promises Made, Promises Kept by President Trump

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) released a video today highlighting the wins President Trump has delivered for Kansans – and Americans nationwide – in his first 100 days.

    Click HERE to watch Senator Marshall’s video.
    Transcript of Senator Marshall’s remarks:
    “Well, folks, I don’t know about you, but these first 100 days with President Trump [have] been nothing but a bold blur. At the same time, though, these have been some of the most consequential days in American history. And as I think back on them, there’s one theme: promises made, promises kept.
    “You know, more than anything else, President Trump campaigned to secure your border. Now think about this, under Joe Biden, there [were] over 10,000 crossings in a day on many days, but under President Trump, he’s now averaging under 300 per day. That’s a drop from 10,000 per day to 300 per day. Promise made, promise kept.
    “President Trump also said he’s going to make your family safer. To that end, he’s deported over 130,000 violent criminal aliens. All over the state of Kansas, when I talk to law enforcement officers, they tell me that crime is coming down, and the fentanyl poisoning is coming down as well. Another promise made and another promise kept.
    “President Trump also said he would bring down the price of gas and groceries. Now, it wasn’t too long ago here in DC that gas was over $5 a gallon, and back home, it was typically over $4 a gallon. Today, all over the state of Kansas, the price of gasoline is approaching two and a half dollars a gallon. Again, this went from $5, $4 a gallon down to two and a half dollars a gallon. That’s another promise made, and another promise kept. 
    “Well, what else did President Trump promise? Well, he also said that he was going to take care of the EV mandate. He’s going to slow the green energy transition and end boys in girls’ sports. All those he’s accomplished, and through DOGE, he saved Americans billions of dollars. On the world stage, he’s withdrawn us from the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement – both of those, again, putting America first. 
    “But what I’m really, really, really excited about in these first 100 days, President Trump has secured a $7 trillion investment in America… And what that means to me is more jobs, more good jobs for hard-working Americans. Again, the first 100 days… promises made, promises kept.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand, Sanders, Wyden, Baldwin Slam Trump Administration’s Plan To Dismantle Federal Agency That Helps Seniors Live Independently, Stay In Their Homes As They Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Administration For Community Living Provides Assistance To Senior Citizens And Americans With Disabilities To Age In Place

    Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand, Bernie Sanders, Ron Wyden, and Tammy Baldwin led a group of 22 senators in slamming Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to dismantle the Administration for Community Living (ACL), a critical federal agency that helps seniors and people with disabilities live independently and fully participate in their communities. ACL provides home-delivered and congregate meals for older adults, Medicare enrollment assistance, peer supports, community living activities, and support for family caregivers, among other functions. The Trump administration recently announced that it would dismantle the agency, fire over half its workforce, and scatter its functions across several different agencies. The lawmakers are calling on Secretary Kennedy to halt this shortsighted effort that will cause tangible and enduring harm to older adults and people with disabilities.

    “For over a decade, ACL and its expert staff have coordinated services across federal, state, and local governments to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities live healthy, connected, independent lives in the community,” wrote the senators. “In fact, ACL saves the Federal government and taxpayers money by keeping older adults and people with disabilities out of institutions; for example, it costs less to feed a senior for an entire year through the Older Americans Act than it does for a senior to spend one night in a hospital. Transferring ACL programs to the Administration for Children and Families, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services—also reeling from your devastating staffing reductions— will create havoc and disrupt delivery of bipartisan supported programs such as home-delivered and congregate meals for older adults, Medicare enrollment assistance, peer supports, community living activities, and interventions to support family caregivers.”

    The senators added, “Interruption to nutrition programs means millions of older adults may go hungry without the over 220 million meals they rely on. 53 million family caregivers will be left without support, forcing some to leave the workforce to care for their loved ones. Vital evidence-based research and services for people with developmental disabilities will be in jeopardy. Your illegal attempt to dismantle ACL will have far-reaching implications…We strongly urge HHS to consider the needs of seniors, people with disabilities, and those who care for them, and halt this effort to dismantle ACL.”

    The letter was signed by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Mark Warner (D-VA).

    The full text of the letter to Secretary Kennedy is available here or below: 

    Dear Secretary Kennedy, 

    We are writing in opposition to the proposed dismantling of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) as outlined in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) fact sheet on March 26, 2025. ACL is essential to administering the critical programs established and funded by Congress that ensure older adults and people with disabilities can live in their communities with the dignity, security, and independence they deserve. Scattering its functions among several different agencies and firing over half of its workforce is in direct conflict with the fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill that Congress just passed and will cause tangible and enduring harm to older adults and people with disabilities. 

    The vague proposal to improve “efficiency” by shuttering ACL will achieve the exact opposite. ACL was created in 2012 to bring together the Administration on Aging, the Office on Disability, and the Administration on Developmental Disabilities to enhance coordination of services.

    For over a decade, ACL and its expert staff have coordinated services across federal, state, and local governments to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities live healthy, connected, independent lives in the community. In fact, ACL saves the Federal government and taxpayers money by keeping older adults and people with disabilities out of institutions; for example, it costs less to feed a senior for an entire year through the Older Americans Act than it does for a senior to spend one night in a hospital. Transferring ACL programs to the Administration for Children and Families, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services—also reeling from your devastating staffing reductions— will create havoc and disrupt delivery of bipartisan supported programs such as home-delivered and congregate meals for older adults, Medicare enrollment assistance, peer supports, community living activities, and interventions to support family caregivers. 

    ACL was created to further the fundamental principle that older adults and people with disabilities should be able to live independently and fully participate in their communities. ACL has grown significantly since its creation in 2012 as it took on programs Congress transferred from other agencies. These functions include a research institute, independent living, assistive technology, and traumatic brain injury programs; paralysis and limb-loss resource centers; and programs to assist in the navigation of Medicare benefits and the health care system. 

    Last month Congress passed a fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill that provides funding for ACL to continue to carry out these important functions and programs. The proposed reorganization is a brazen disregard of that law. HHS has always worked closely with Congress on reorganizations such as this, including in the establishment of ACL. This time, HHS has refused to provide any information to Congress or the American people regarding exactly how these changes would take place, and how they would be enacted without resulting in delays in the implementation of programs, activities, and functions Congress just funded and tasked ACL with carrying out. There have been reports that the Department fired the entire staff of the Office of Grants Management, which raises additional concerns about how funding will reach the thousands of community-based organizations that rely on it. The obvious conclusion is these are haphazard changes, and HHS has not considered the impact they will have on older Americans and people with disabilities. You claim a mission of making Americans healthier and a commitment to “radical transparency” but both of those assertions fall flat with this proposal.

    Any interruption to the effective delivery of programs administered by ACL will have detrimental consequences. For example, a breakdown in adult protective services, long-term care ombudsman programs, and other protection and advocacy programs means that older adults and people with disabilities will be more vulnerable to abuse and neglect. Interruption to nutrition programs means millions of older adults may go hungry without the over 220 million meals they rely on. 53 million family caregivers will be left without support, forcing some to leave the workforce to care for their loved ones. Vital evidence-based research and services for people with developmental disabilities will be in jeopardy. Your illegal attempt to dismantle ACL will have far-reaching implications. 

    ACL is critical to safeguarding the self-determination of older adults and people with disabilities. These populations should not have their decision-making power undermined and government programs they depend on put at risk simply because you decided that burying these programs within other agencies would be “more efficient.” An overwhelming majority of people prefer to live and age in their own homes where they can continue to be active members of their communities. The resources and programs administered by ACL are critical to achieving that goal, and dismantling ACL will undoubtedly harm efforts to ensure that people with disabilities and older adults can maintain and accomplish such goals. 

    We strongly urge HHS to consider the needs of seniors, people with disabilities, and those who care for them, and halt this effort to dismantle ACL. While we strongly oppose the decision to dismantle ACL, it is critical that HHS be transparent and provide information to Congress and the American public about the steps it is taking and plans to take with regard to ACL and all of its functions. Please respond to the following questions by April 30, 2025.  

    1. How many ACL employees have been fired, put on administrative leave, accepted the deferred resignation program offer, or accepted the VERA/VSIP offer since January 20, 2025?
      1. Please provide a complete breakdown by office and position. For each category of employee at each office, provide information on GS level and veteran status, and clearly state the justification for termination. Include employees who have since been reinstated or placed on administrative leave, noting that change in status. Please provide the latest data available. 
      2. How many ACL employees remain in force as of April 21, 2025? How many ACL employees were fired on April 1 and have subsequently been rehired?
    1. Several positions at ACL are required in statute, including the Assistant Secretary on Aging and the Administrator of ACL. Please explain how HHS will remain in compliance with relevant statutes, including but not limited to the Older Americans Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, following the restructuring of the agency. 
    1. Provide a detailed list of all programs implemented by ACL in fiscal year 2024 and either the agency or office that HHS proposes to transfer them to or whether the program will be eliminated entirely. Include an explanation for each, addressing HHS’s decision to either eliminate a program, or to transfer a program to a new agency or office, including HHS’s reasoning on why the chosen agency or office should administer it and how that will improve the delivery of services for older Americans and people with disabilities.
      1. If changes will be made to any program (e.g., reduction of scope, cancellation of grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements) describe the consultation process HHS conducted with stakeholders, including career subject matter experts within HHS, organizations representing older adults and people with disabilities, and the expected consequences of such changes to the program.  
      2. Did HHS consult with subject matter experts and external stakeholders before changing the structure of ACL? If so, what concerns did HHS career subject matter experts and external stakeholders raise about cancelling, transferring, or changing programs implemented by ACL? If not, why did HHS not engage in a transparent process to seek comment on such a significant restructuring that would dissolve ACL into other HHS agencies or offices? Please provide unredacted copies of any written documents detailing concerns about transferring, cancelling, or changing ACL programs as a consequence of HHS’s planned reorganization, including e-mails, texts, letters, memorandums, and other documents with HHS subject matter experts and external stakeholders.
    1. For ACL programs that HHS proposes to transfer to another agency or office, describe how HHS would uphold all the statutory requirements currently under ACL’s purview once its functions are transferred to other agencies or offices.  
    1. For ACL programs that HHS proposes to transfer to another agency or office, describe how the receiving agency or office will find the necessary expertise to ensure effective operation of programs, including:
    1. Existing content expertise of the program at the receiving agency or office.
    2. Expertise at the receiving agency or office in coordination between stakeholders and state and local government and any other partners.
    3. Any feedback that career employees at the receiving agency have provided regarding their capacity to take over the transferred programs, especially in light of recent, or planned, reduction in force efforts including firings, resignations, and buy-outs.
    1. Explain how your decision to decimate ACL—the agency created to reduce duplication of programmatic efforts—will increase efficiency. 
    1. Which organizations representing older adults, people with disabilities, and state and local governments did HHS consult with to reach its determination that eliminating ACL would increase efficiency? 
    2. If HHS did not consult with groups representing older adults, people with disabilities, and state and local governments before reaching its determination that ACL would increase efficiency, please explain why HHS did not engage in a transparent process with impacted stakeholders before dissolving ACL.
    1. How will you monitor the impact of transitioning programs on the lives of older adults and people with disabilities? Please include: 
    1. Variables to be measured and methods for assessment.
    2. How HHS will include feedback, when determining the impact of its changes, from older adults and people with disabilities, and the organizations that represent them.
    3. How HHS will include feedback, when determining the impact of its changes, from state and local governments and the organizations that represent them. 
    1. We understand that HHS will eliminate all ACL staff from HHS regional offices. 
    2. Can HHS confirm that there will be no ACL staff at HHS regional offices? 
    3. How does HHS intend to replace or address the critical functions of ACL regional staff, including technical expertise, support, and administration of Older Americans Act State and Tribal grant programs, and disaster response coordination, with the elimination or reduction in ACL regional staff? 
    4. How will HHS execute ACL’s fiscal year 2025 appropriations, given it explicitly funded ACL to carry out specific authorized activities, programs, and functions? Does HHS proposed reorganization include any transfer of funds? 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: POTUS announces 21 brand new F-15EX Eagle II Fighter Jets.

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

    #fighterjet #jet #military #trump #presidenttrump #potus #secdef #defense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=on04-MZ67TQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: More campsites, new facilities opening at China Beach

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People visiting Juan de Fuca Park can soon enjoy more campsites, and new accessible washrooms and showers at China Beach Campground.

    “For so many people, camping is a way to connect with family and friends, and spend time together in nature,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “That’s why we’re building more capacity with new, accessible campsites on Vancouver Island as more people choose to vacation within Canada and support our economy.”

    Thirteen new campsites have been added to the popular campground, bringing the total number of campsites to 125. Eight of the new campsites are drive-in tent sites; the remaining five sites are walk-in. Two accessible-shower and flush-toilet buildings are also part of the project, which incorporates universal design standards where possible.

    BC Parks has carried out the expansion project for China Beach campground in collaboration with the Pacheedaht First Nation, on whose territory Juan de Fuca Park is located.

    The campground is scheduled to open May 15. Reservations for the new sites open May 1 for arrivals between May 15 and Sept. 1, 2025. After that, reservations will be available on a four-month rolling window.

    In addition to the 13 new sites, 33 campsites (22 drive-in and 11-walk in) were added to the campground in spring 2024 as part of the $2.3-million expansion. Upgrades will also be made in fall 2025 to the nearby day-use parking area at China Beach to better accommodate the increasing number of visitors. The new parking area will have approximately 45 new stalls, a dedicated space for RVs and a turnaround area for large vehicles. A service centre with a pit toilet, bike racks and an information shelter is also part of the project.

    “I’m pleased that BC Parks is delivering opportunities for more people to enjoy the natural environment at our doorstep by providing additional campsites and parking expansions at China Beach campground and day-use area,” said Dana Lajeunesse, MLA for Juan de Fuca-Malahat. “I was fortunate to have spent my childhood here and I have many fond memories of all the spectacular beaches in the area. BC Parks are more popular than ever, and I’m happy to see more opportunities for families and friends to enjoy more of what B.C. has to offer.”

    The China Beach Campground and day-use parking-lot expansion is part of a five-year, $21.5-million investment to increase and improve opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout British Columbia. Upgrades include new campsites and trails, improvements to existing facilities and accessibility improvements.

    Quick Facts:

    • Juan de Fuca Park encompasses 1,528 hectares on Vancouver Island’s rugged southwest coast.
    • The park includes campgrounds, day-use areas, beaches, and the popular 47-kilometre Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, which will remain closed for the summer while undergoing repairs.
    • A phased reopening is expected for sections of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and backcountry campsites as repairs are completed.
    • Since 2017, more than 2,000 campsites have been added to BC Parks and recreation sites.
    • Of the 10,700 campsites BC Parks manages, approximately half are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Learn More:

    To reserve the new campsites, visit https://camping.bcparks.ca or call 1 800 689-9025

    For more information about Juan de Fuca Park, visit https://bcparks.ca/juan-de-fuca-park/

    For information about BC Parks, visit: https://bcparks.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger: Texas values are no longer under siege — they’re leading the way.

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

    President Trump’s First 100 Days: Delivering for America and Restoring Texas Values

    When President Donald J. Trump took the oath of office exactly one hundred days ago, he vowed to usher in the “Golden Age of America.” Given the chaos President Biden left behind—open borders, soaring inflation, weakened energy independence, and a nation divided—this was no small promise. It is now one hundred days into his second term, and President Trump is turning campaign promises into measurable outcomes. With a Republican Congress working in tandem, we have begun reversing the damage done under the previous administration and laying the groundwork for a stronger, safer, and more self-reliant America.

    These first 100 days have made one thing abundantly clear: under Republican leadership, commonsense is being restored, and the American people are once again being prioritized. Change is never easy, but President Trump’s willingness to shake up a broken system has already produced tangible, meaningful victories and has set the tone for where we are going. Illegal border crossings have dropped to historic lows, energy production is surging in the Permian Basin, and Texas values are no longer under siege—they’re leading the way.

    Border security, in particular, stands as one of the most dramatic turnarounds from the Biden administration years. In contrast to President Biden’s border policies that enabled drug cartels, traffickers, and violent criminals to flood across our southern border, bringing deadly fentanyl and chaos with them, President Trump has taken immediate action to reestablish control and restore rule of law. Illegal border encounters have declined by 95%, known daily “gotaways” have dropped 99%, and over 21 million fentanyl pills have been seized. Construction of the border wall has resumed, the Remain in Mexico policy has been reinstated, and over 150,000 illegal immigrants—including gang members from MS-13 and Tren de Agua—have been arrested.

    Furthermore, the passage of the Laken Riley Act, the first piece of legislation signed into law this term, reflects a renewed commitment to American safety and accountability. Texas certainly bore the brunt of the prior administration’s lax border policies, but thankfully, we no longer face that burden alone. With President Trump back in office, Washington is finally acting like a partner again, not an obstacle. It is ironic that President Biden once said only Congress could fix the border—turns out we just needed a president who cared enough to try.

    Beyond securing the border, the Trump administration and Republican Congress have wasted no time unleashing America’s energy potential. On day one, President Trump declared a national energy emergency and immediately set to work undoing the regulatory mess imposed by the Biden administration. In partnership with Congress, the White House has reinstated oil and gas production on federal lands, revived the Keystone XL pipeline, axed the job-killing natural gas tax, and cut the permitting timeline for new projects to just under a month.

    As the representative for Texas-11 and the Permian Basin, I’ve seen firsthand how these changes can bring stability to producers and relief to consumers. I also know it is imperative to work in lockstep with industry on these issues to produce the best energy outcomes. My bill to repeal the Biden-era natural gas tax, the second piece of legislation signed into law this Congress, was the direct outcome of my work with industry leaders and helps codify President Trump’s actions to ensure that future energy policy supports, rather than punishes, those who power the nation.

    Stable, pro-growth energy policy isn’t just an economic issue—it’s a geopolitical imperative. A predictable regulatory framework gives our companies the confidence to invest, hire, and expand, while reducing our dependence on foreign adversaries. That’s why we’re fighting to codify these reforms into law—to ensure long-term policy that supports American energy independence regardless of who occupies the White House.

    These first 100 days have been about more than just a policy shift—they’ve been a course correction. In 2024, voters sent a clear message: They wanted an end to the progressive ideological nonsense and a return to practical governance rooted in American values. We are delivering on that mandate.

    The past administration attempted to govern by progressive fiat—undermining parental rights, blurring the lines between men and women in public spaces and athletics, stripping God and faith from our ideology, and more—but American voters, and especially Texans, never accepted that trajectory as inevitable.

    As a seventh-generation Texan, I deeply believe that Texas is the best place to live and raise a family and that our way of life must be protected from political overreach. This belief inspired me to run for Congress and fuels my work every day. I am passionate about protecting the Texas way of life for the next generation, and I’m proud to be doing that alongside a President who shares our priorities.

    Much remains to be done—but the turnaround is underway. God bless Texas-11, and God bless the United States of America.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Helps Pass Bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act to Combat Deepfake Exploitation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), announced that the House has passed the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act, landmark legislation that strengthens protections for victims of non-consensual, sexually exploitative imagery – including AI-generated deepfakes – by criminalizing the publication of such content and requiring online platforms to remove it within 48 hours of notice.

    “I’m pleased that the House and Senate have both passed the TAKE IT DOWN Act in a bipartisan way,” said Dr. Cuellar. “As a father, husband, and South Texan, I was proud to cosponsor this important bill to protect victims, remove harmful deepfake content, and hold bad actors accountable. I’m grateful to Senator Cruz and Congresswoman Salazar for their leadership and partnership on this effort. I look forward to it being signed into law without delay.”

    The TAKE IT DOWN Act ensures faster action for victims, holds perpetrators responsible, and protects lawful speech, making online spaces safer and more accountable.

    “This is a strong, bipartisan step forward to defend the dignity and safety of Americans in the digital age,” Dr. Cuellar continued. “By working together across party lines, we’re giving victims real tools to fight back and building safer online communities for everyone.”

    The bill passed both chambers with strong bipartisan support and is now headed to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

    ###

    Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. is a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Previously, he served as a Texas State Representative and Texas Secretary of State. Sign up to receive Dr. Cuellar’s E-mail Newsletters.

    Click here for Dr. Cuellar’s Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube Channel

    Representante Cuellar Ayuda a Pasar Bipartidista
     Ley TAKE IT DOWN para combatir la explotación de Deepfake

    Washington, DC – Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), anuncio que la Casa de Representantes ha aprobado la ley bipartidista TAKE IT DOWN Act, legislación histórica que refuerza la protección de las víctimas de imágenes de explotación sexual no consentidas – incluyendo deepfakes generados por IA – criminalizando la publicación de tales contenidos y requiriendo a las plataformas online que los retiren en 48 horas desde la notificación.

    “Me complace que tanto la Casa de Representantes como el Senado hayan aprobado la Ley TAKE IT DOWN de forma bipartidista,” dijo el Dr. Cuellar. “Como padre, esposo y habitante del sur de Texas, me sentí orgulloso de co-patrocinar este importante proyecto de ley para proteger a las víctimas, eliminar el contenido deepfake dañino y responsabilizar a los malos actores. Estoy agradecido al Senador Cruz y a la Congresista Salazar por su liderazgo y colaboración en este esfuerzo. Espero que se convierta en ley sin demora.”

    La Ley TAKE IT DOWN garantiza una actuación más rápida para las víctimas, responsabiliza a los autores y protege la expresión lícita, haciendo que los espacios en línea sean más seguros y responsables.

    “Este es un paso firme y bipartidista para defender la dignidad y la seguridad de los estadounidenses en la era digital,” continuó el Dr. Cuellar. “Al trabajar juntos a través de las líneas de partido, estamos dando a las víctimas herramientas reales para defenderse y construir comunidades en línea más seguras para todos.”

    El proyecto de ley fue aprobado en ambas cámaras con un fuerte apoyo bipartidista y ahora se dirige a la mesa del Presidente para su promulgación.

    ###

    El congresista Henry Cuellar es miembro del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes de Estados Unidos. Anteriormente, fue Representante del Estado de Texas y Secretario de Estado de Texas. Inscríbase para recibir el boletín del Dr. Cuellar E-mail Newsletters.

    Haga clic aquí para ver la página del Dr. Cuéllar Facebook, Twitter, o en YouTube Channel

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Bill Rosen Helped Introduce to Combat Explicit Deepfakes Passes Congress, Heads to President’s Desk

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced that bipartisan legislation she helped introduce to stop the spread online of non-consensual explicit content, including “deepfake” images, has now passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, and it is now headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act would criminalize the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated images, and require social media and similar websites to establish procedures to remove such content within 48 hours of notice from a victim.
    “The lack of protections for victims of online abuse has put far too many people at risk, and it’s past time we took action to stop bad actors, protect victims, and hold social media sites accountable,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m glad to see that our bipartisan bill to criminalize non-consensual intimate images, including deepfakes, and require social media platforms to remove this content has passed Congress and is on its way to becoming law. I’ll always work across party lines to protect victims of online abuse.”
    Senator Rosen has consistently worked across the aisle to protect victims of crime. She helped introduce and pass the bipartisan Human Trafficking Prevention Act, which requires the National Human Trafficking Hotline to be posted in the restrooms of all U.S. planes, buses, trains, airports, bus stations, and rail stations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Questions Michael Cadenazzi, Jr., Vice Admiral Scott Pappano at Senate Armed Services Committee Confirmation Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned the nominees for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, Michael Cadenazzi, Jr., and Principal Deputy Administrator National Nuclear Security Administration, Vice Admiral Scott Pappano, USN, at their confirmation hearing.
    During the hearing, Fischer asked VADM Pappano about ensuring that the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) weapons production remains on schedule. She emphasized the importance of modernized facilities capable of processing the materials necessary for nuclear weapons production.
    Fischer asked Mr. Cadenazzi about working with NNSA and the Department of Energy to grow our skilled manufacturing workforce and address broader industrial base concerns. She also asked about increasing munitions production and the Department of Defense’s National Defense Industrial Strategy.
    Click the image above to watch a video of Fischer’s questioning
    Click here to download audio
    Click here to download video
    Fischer Questions Nominees:Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you Ranking Member Reed. Thank you, gentlemen, for being here today and for your willingness to continue to serve this country. Admiral, thank you for coming in to visit. I appreciated you taking time in the conversation that we had. If confirmed, can you tell me how you will work to ensure that NNSA weapons production remains on schedule?
    VADM Pappano: Thank you, Senator. Yes, if confirmed, obviously, the production—shifting to production—is a key element for us to modernize the nuclear weapons stockpile right now. We’ve done a very good job of stockpile management in a science-based manner and kept up over the years. However, now, we have to transition that from the science-based stockpile management to actual production facilities and make sure we modernize the facilities, making sure that we don’t lose the science in the process and continue that going forward. I’ll look to do that by looking across at how we are modernizing our facilities right now and try to bring as much advanced manufacturing capabilities we can. As we look at the Manhattan Project era buildings that we’re dealing with: a lot of these facilities, how do we—as we modernize those—bring in modern technology so that we can be much more effective going forward in our production of nuclear weapons stockpile.
    Fischer: Thank you. We talked a little bit about NNSA’s 25-year Enterprise Blueprint, a roadmap to modernize the infrastructure there, and some of which, as you brought up in our discussion, dates back to the Manhattan Project. We won’t be able to produce the weapons that we need without the facilities needed to process materials like uranium, lithium, high explosives that go in those nuclear weapons. So, anything we can do as you look at that modernization process, please let us know.Fischer: Mr. Cadenazzi, both the Department of Defense and the NNSA have similar challenges with their industrial bases, and I believe that we have an opportunity now to address underlying issues in a way that strengthens both the nuclear industrial base and the defense industrial base. If confirmed, do you commit to working closely with NNSA and the Department of Energy on policies – like increasing our skilled manufacturing workforce – that would impact both of those industrial bases?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, appreciate the question and the significance of it, particularly in light of the workforce issues and access to materials that we’re facing across the industrial base. These are major challenges that both the NNSA and the broader defense industry face and are dealing with. And if confirmed, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to speak to you about how and where the Industrial Base Policy office and I might be able to focus.
    Fischer: Great. What we’ve seen happen in the Ukraine war has shown us that militaries in modern conflicts, they expend munitions at a much faster pace than we ever expected before. And our stockpiles must be adjusted to account for this, and we must expend our munitions production capacity. We have to expand that. We’ve taken some steps to address it in recent years, and we have the opportunity to make those generational investments through the reconciliation process. In your opening statement, Sir, you said that production must be scaled now before conflict starts. I agree with that. If confirmed, what steps would you take to accomplish that goal?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Appreciate the question again, Senator, the issue of munitions production is the top of the priority list, and something I’ve discussed with multiple Senators on this committee. I’m excited to work with the committee, if confirmed, on this topic. There are a couple of major things that I think will drive this. One is predictable and stable defense budget and program spend. So, the more we can stabilize that, the more industry will be able to align around it. A better understanding in industry of what the expectations for surge capacity are will make it clear what the potential opportunities are for them, and the level of capital required to increase facilities and workforce. That’s a major opportunity for the Department to articulate what would be a big, hairy, audacious goal in business school terms. And to go ahead and say, “we need a lot more capability from you, and we need to agree then on the investment required to meet that point.” We need to scale the workforce as well. There are many initiatives underway to improve workforce capabilities across the country. We need to grow those and take advantage of small businesses as well. If confirmed, these are all exciting opportunities for us to help address what is an obvious and well reported gap on this issue.
    Fischer: Are you familiar with the Department’s National Defense Industrial Strategy?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: I am, Senator, yes.
    Fischer: Do you have any concerns with that strategy or think that there are gaps there that still need to be addressed?
    Mr. Cadenazzi: Senator, I think the strategy is solid given the expectations of the previous administration and the goals they were looking to achieve. I’ve reviewed the external, open-source material for that and the associated implementation plan. If confirmed, I’m eager to work with the Industrial Base Policy office, the administration, and the committees to understand what changes we believe are necessary. I’m happy to work with you on that and to make sure that we tune that to meet the current needs of the moment, particularly in light of the changing requirements of the new administration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Warns Walgreens Buyout by Private Equity May Lead to Pharmacy Closures, Lost Jobs in Massachusetts, Limit Access to Medication

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 29, 2025
    Warren seeks assurances from Sycamore Partners that its heavily-leveraged, debt-fueled acquisition of Walgreens will not lead to layoffs, store closures
    After private equity looted Steward Health Care hospitals, Warren concerned that Walgreens could be next: “These private equity buyouts of companies facing financial hardship…frequently lead to worse outcomes for employees and consumers.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, wrote to private equity firm Sycamore Partners (Sycamore) regarding concerns that the firm’s proposed acquisition of retail pharmacy chain Walgreens may cost hardworking Massachusetts residents their jobs and create difficulties for patients who need access to lifesaving medications. 
    Sycamore’s multi-billion-dollar takeover of Walgreens has been touted as an attempt to keep the struggling retail pharmacy chain alive. However, private equity buyouts have a record of running already-struggling companies into the ground and producing devastating consequences for workers and communities, as witnessed by private equity’s looting of Steward Health Care, which resulted in two shuttered hospitals in Massachusetts. 
    “My primary concern is that Sycamore’s acquisition of Walgreens may lead to restructuring of the company that results in layoffs and pharmacy closures in the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren. 
    Walgreens has already announced plans to close nine locations across Massachusetts, in addition to the six stores closed in the state within the past year. Many of the shuttered Walgreens stores are located in vulnerable communities, leaving thousands of residents without reliable pharmacy access. 
    Sycamore has a troubling history of leading the companies it acquires into bankruptcy, further harming already-struggling communities. 
    “These private equity buyouts…frequently lead to worse outcomes for employees and consumers: private equity firms sell off assets and close locations, employees lose their jobs, and consumers lose access to essential goods and services,” wrote Senator Warren.
    A review by the Private Equity Stakeholder Project (PESP) revealed that the Walgreens buyout will be heavily leveraged with debt, heightening the risk of bankruptcy and threatening the availability of critical services to customers and patients.
    “These are deeply troubling conclusions, suggesting that yet another private equity firm might leverage a failing health care chain to turn a profit at the expense of Massachusetts’ patients, providers, and taxpayers,” wrote Senator Warren.
    Millions of customers across the United States rely on Walgreens for primary care, essential medications, and household items, and if the Walgreens-Sycamore deal leads to even more store closures, customers could be left in “pharmacy deserts” without access to necessities.  
    “I seek assurances that Sycamore’s buyout of Walgreens will not damage the company further, and will not cost hardworking Americans their jobs or create difficulties for patients who need access to lifesaving medications,” concluded Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren requested a response identifying the impact Sycamore’s acquisition of Walgreens will have on workers and communities by May 13, 2025.
    Senator Warren has repeatedly called out the harms of private equity ownership on health care costs and quality of care and has fought to prevent companies from taking advantage of the bankruptcy system:
    In February 2025, Senator Warren questioned private equity executive Stephen Feinberg, President of Cerberus Capital Management and nominee for Deputy Secretary of Defense, on his actions to enrich himself and his investors at the expense of Steward Health Care patients and workers.
    In October 2024, Senator Warren led colleagues in reintroducing the Stop Wall Street Looting Act, comprehensive legislation to fundamentally reform the private equity industry and level the playing field by forcing private investment firms to take responsibility for the outcomes of companies they take over, empowering workers and protecting investors. This reintroduction comes after private equity firm Cerberus looted Steward Health Care, leaving hospitals, patients, and workers hanging out to dry.
    In September 2024, Senators Warren and Markey (D-Mass.), alongside Representatives Auchincloss and Lynch, sent a letter to RHG raising concerns over its proposed acquisition of Steward Health Care’s physician group, Stewardship Health.
    In September 2024, Senator Warren urged the IRS to crack down on Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) squeezing the health care industry.
    In August 2024, Senators Warren and Markey requested information from private equity firm Apollo Global Management (Apollo) on the company’s role in Steward’s bankruptcy, and urged Apollo to work in good faith to facilitate the sale of Steward’s Massachusetts hospitals. 
    In July 2024, Senators Warren and Markey wrote to Medical Properties Trust and Macquarie Infrastructure Partners, owners of Steward’s eight Massachusetts hospitals, urging them to offer lease concessions to keep the hospitals open and viable.
    In June 2024, Senator Warren, Representative Chu, and Representative Nadler urged CMS to increase oversight of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic software tools used to guide coverage decisions in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, citing the NaviHealth scandal as cause for concern. 
    In June 2024, Senators Warren and Markey introduced the Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act of 2024 to root out corporate greed and private equity abuse in the health care system, specifically preventing what happened with Steward from happening again. 
    In June 2024, Senator Warren wrote to the DOJ, FTC, and HHS calling out high health care costs due to vertically-integrated insurers, private equity companies, and pharmaceutical companies that are driving health care consolidation.
    In June 2024, Senators Warren, Brown (D-Ohio), and Markey wrote to the Director of the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP), calling for USTP to move to appoint a Chapter 11 trustee to run the company in place of Steward’s current management, and to monitor the hospitals’ bankruptcy proceedings to protect patients and local communities. 
    In May 2024, Senator Warren sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, urging them to support communities and health care providers affected by the crisis caused by Steward’s financial mismanagement.
    In April 2024, Senators Warren and Senator Markey (D-Mass.) sent a letter to six private credit funds that are holders of Steward’s debt, asking them a series of questions about their loans and calling on them to offer loan modifications that could potentially help keep the hospitals afloat.
    In April 2024, Senators Warren and Markey called out Medical Properties Trust and Macquarie Infrastructure Partners for exploiting Steward Hospitals, and urged them to help keep the hospitals open. 
    In April 2024, Senators Warren, Markey, and the rest of the MA delegation urged the FTC and DOJ to closely scrutinize UnitedHealth Group’s proposed acquisition of Steward Health Care’s physician group, Stewardship Health.
    In April 2024, Senator Warren delivered remarks at a Senate hearing in Boston titled, “When Health Care Becomes Wealth Care: How Corporate Greed Puts Patient Care and Health Workers at Risk,” which centered on Steward Health Care’s Massachusetts hospitals.
    In April 2024, Senators Warren and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) called out private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management (Cerberus) for its role in creating Steward Health Care’s financial challenges, following Cerberus’s reply to the Massachusetts congressional delegation’s February 2024 probe. 
    In February 2024, Senator Warren slammed UnitedHealth Group for leveraging NaviHealth’s unregulated artificial intelligence algorithm to unlawfully deny health care to seniors with severe injuries.
    In March 2024, Senator Warren released a statement about Steward’s plan to sell its physician group Stewardship Health to UnitedHealth Group’s subsidiary Optum.
    In March 2024, Senators Warren and Markey sent a letter  to Steward CEO and Chairman Dr. Ralph de la Torre, calling on him to testify at a congressional hearing in Boston.
    In March 2024, Senators Warren and Markey sent a letter to Dr. de la Torre, blasting him for years of financial mismanagement, private equity schemes, and executive profiteering that have led to Steward Health Care’s financial crisis.
    In February 2024, Senators Warren and Markey, along with all nine members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation, sent a letter to Cerberus seeking answers from the private equity firm for its role in creating the current financial challenges at Steward hospitals.
    In January 2024, Senator Warren released a statement about Steward’s financial situation and allegations of patient neglect at Steward facilities.
    In January 2024, Senator Warren led the Massachusetts congressional delegation in a letter to the CEO of Steward Health Care pressing the company to brief them on Steward’s financial position, the status of their Massachusetts facilities, and their plans to ensure the communities they serve are not abandoned. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Announces 2025 National Small Business Week Virtual Summit Agenda

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced the agenda for the National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event that will be held May 6-7. Registration is required. The Virtual Summit, co-sponsored by SCORE, will feature more than a dozen educational workshops led by cosponsors, access to federal resources, and networking and mentorship opportunities. The virtual summit is part of the 2025 National Small Business Week taking place May 4-10.

    “As America’s top provider of free, expert small business mentoring, SCORE is proud to help drive the nation’s small business engine,” said SCORE CEO Bridget Weston. “Through this year’s Virtual Summit, we will meet entrepreneurs where they are, providing expert insights on timely topics alongside the tools and resources needed to achieve success.”

    National Small Business Week cosponsors VISA, T-Mobile, Google, Verizon, Paychex, U.S. Bank, Amazon, Constant Contact, Block, Chase for Business, Lockheed Martin and Worldpay lead the sessions. View the schedule online or as a PDF.

    The National Small Business Week Virtual Summit is part of SBA’s year-round efforts to leverage technology to reach small business owners in communities across America. An in-person, national award celebration will take place on May 5 in Washington, D.C., and local winners will be recognized at award events across the nation.

    Details on National Small Business Week, the virtual summit, registration and speakers are featured on www.sba.gov/NSBW and will be updated as additional information and activities are confirmed. Local events will be featured on www.sba.gov/events and are identifiable by searching with #SmallBusinessWeek.  

    # # #

    About SCORE
    SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Since 1964, SCORE has provided education and mentorship to more than 11 million entrepreneurs. SCORE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    Cosponsorship Authorization #24-44-C. SBA’s participation in this Cosponsored Activity is not an endorsement of the views, opinions, products or services of any Cosponsor or other person or entity. All SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Adams Convene Roundtable to Address Black Higher Education and Strengthening HBCUs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Congressional Black Caucus Whip Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus Chair Alma Adams (NC-12) held a roundtable discussion with Reps. Sewell (AL-07),Hayes (CT-05), Sykes (OH-13), Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Brown (OH-11), and Figures (AL-02), HBCU leadership, students, and advocacy organizations to highlight the impacts of Trump Administration policies on the HBCUs that have played a vital role in empowering Black students across the country. Photos are available here.

    The roundtable included presidents from Howard University, Bowie State University, Morgan State University, and Virginia Union University and representatives from Texas Southern University, the United Negro College Fund, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the 1890 Foundation to discuss student life concerns, academic access and funding, infrastructure and facilities, and the role of the federal government. 

    “Our HBCUs continue to face systemic challenges that impact student success, campus quality-of-life, and institutional growth. Shamefully, the Trump Administration’s attacks on DEI initiatives and higher education funding have only made these challenges worse,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “Now is the time for policymakers, education leaders, and students to engage in direct dialogue about solutions to protect and uplift Black students.”

    “HBCUs have always punched above their weight, producing the leaders, innovators, and changemakers who move this country forward,” said Congresswoman Adams. “Despite their success though, they face historic underfunding that force them to do more with less. It’s time we meaningfully invest in HBCUs so they can continue serving their students for generations to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert Announces May Staff Mobile Office Hours

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    EATON, CO– Staff from Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s (CO-04) office will be holding Mobile Office Hours in May across the district to connect with constituents within their communities. In addition to the Congresswoman’s congressional offices in Eaton and Lone Tree, the Mobile Office Hours aim to provide services to constituents who need in-person guidance.

    “Our Congressional Mobile Office Hours provide an opportunity for constituents from across the 4th District to get the assistance they need from our staffers who can help them in a variety of ways,” stated Congresswoman Boebert. “Meeting Coloradans where they are is a critical part of the work our office does, and I know our Mobile Office Hours will be a huge help to constituents of all backgrounds and locations.” 

    Staff from Congresswoman Boebert’s office will be available to help constituents who aren’t getting answers from federal agencies, like veterans seeking to get the care they earned from the VA, travelers that need expedited assistance to receive a passport on short notice, taxpayers being harassed by the IRS, and senior citizens having issues with the Social Security Administration or Medicare. Additionally, constituents are invited to come to the office hours to express their viewpoints on legislative issues or request special Congressional Commendations from the Congresswoman recognizing outstanding public achievements.

    Since the beginning of her tenure as Representative for the 4th Congressional District on January 3rd, 2025, Congresswoman Boebert’s office has returned $1,352,970.62 to constituents. 

    Mobile Office Hours will be available at the following times and locations:

    WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025  

    Morgan County Mobile Office Hours  

    City Hall, Meeting Room  

    315 Emerson Street  

    Hillrose, CO  

    12:00-1:00pm  

    THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025 

    Washington County Mobile Office Hours 

    County Courthouse Annex Building  

    181 Birch Avenue 

    Akron, CO 

    10:00-11:00am 

    Yuma County Mobile Office Hours 

    Quintech, Conference Room 

    529 N. Albany St  

    Yuma, CO 

    2:00-3:00pm  

      

    TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2025 

    Weld County Mobile Office Hours 

    Town Hall, Boardroom 

    185 Lincoln Ave. 

    Nunn, CO  

    10:00-11:00am 

    Arapahoe County Mobile Office Hours 

    Anythink Library 

    495 7th Street 

    Bennett, CO  

    3:30-5:00pm  

    WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, 2025 

    Douglas County Mobile Office Hours 

    Town Hall, Conference Room 

    8720 Spruce Mountain Road 

    Larkspur, CO 

    10:00-11:30am 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cammack’s Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act Passes Energy & Commerce Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06)’s bill, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, passed through the Energy & Commerce Committee. 

    The bill prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the organ transplant system. It upholds, clarifies, and builds upon rights established in the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Sec. 504 of the Rehab Act, and Sec.1557 of the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, the bill prohibits covered entities from determining that an individual is ineligible to receive a transplant, deny an organ transplant or related service, refuse to refer the individual to an organ transplant center, refuse to place an individual on a waiting list, or decline insurance coverage for a transplant or related service based solely on the fact that the individual has a disability.

    Named for Charlotte Woodward, an adult with Down syndrome who received a lifesaving heart transplant over a decade ago, the bill also recognizes the importance of auxiliary aids and services, the ability of an individual’s support network to help with post-operative care, and the need for reasonable modifications to policies and procedures to make organ transplant systems and facilities more accessible to those with disabilities. Reps. Cammack and Dingell have been the bill’s sponsors for the last several years. 

    Rep. Cammack’s inspiration for introducing the bill is Baby Zion Sarmiento from Ocala, Florida. Zion was born with Down syndrome and a heart defect in June 2021. Following 40 days in the NICU and five open-heart surgeries, Zion passed away after being denied a heart transplant because of his disability.

    The bill has received the endorsement of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), Autism Speaks, Autism Society of America, the National Down Syndrome Congress, the National Fragile X Foundation, Family Voices National, the Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO), and LuMind IDSC Foundation.

    The next stop for the bill is consideration before the full House of Representatives.

    Read the text of the legislation here and watch Rep. Cammack’s remarks during today’s hearing here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume Joins Elfreth, Maryland House Colleagues to Press for Answers on Behalf of International Students Attending Maryland Universities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) led a letter with Representatives Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on behalf of Maryland university international students who have been arrested or had their student visas revoked by the Trump Administration. To date, over 1,700 visas have been revoked and 4,736 students have had their status terminated across the country by this Administration.

    “We write with profound concern that the Department of State revoked the status of student visas in the United States and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested a number of students without any transparency or explanation of why they are being targeted,” the lawmakers wrote. 

    “Students have been picked up in the street – in some cases by plain clothed immigration agents in unmarked cars – and being held in detention facilities with no warning and limited information as to why they are being deported. These students should be entitled to the fundamental rights of due process and freedom of speech – just as our Framers intended,” the lawmakers continued. “The Administration’s egregious policies have already had serious impacts at Maryland universities, including Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, and University of Maryland, Baltimore County. These students are from different countries, in different programs, and have been in the U.S. for different lengths of time, yet are suffering the consequences of the indiscriminate policies of this Administration without explanation.”

    In their letter, the lawmakers press for information on the following:

    • The number of student visas revoked from Maryland Universities
    • If the Department of State plans to reissue these visas
    • How many Maryland students have had their legal status terminated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) by ICE, including: the specific legal status terminated and the legal authority for termination
    • A timeline for SEVIS record termination framework
    • The criteria the Department of State and ICE use to identify students for visa revocation and termination of legal status in SEVIS

    Beyond the international students’ fundamental rights of due process and freedom of speech, international students enrolled in English language programs at U.S. colleges and universities contributed $371.3 million and supported 2,691 jobs to the U.S. economy during the 2023-2024 academic year.

    Congresswoman Elfreth, a former Maryland college professor, issued an original statement on the rights of international students at the beginning of April, which is available HERE.

    The full text of the letter is available HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 100 Days, 100 Stories

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Speaker Johnson released a list of 100 American citizens who have felt the benefits from President Trump’s historic first 100 days in office. Speaker Johnson highlighted citizens who were unjustly detained abroad, business owners who will benefit from new apprenticeship opportunities, and families devastated by previous open borders policies, among many others. 

    Click here to read the full list

    “President Donald J. Trump entered the White House with the most decisive mandate in modern history. In just 100 days, he’s done more for America than Joe Biden managed in four years,” Speaker Johnson said. “The American people can feel the tangible impact of President Trump’s swift and decisive action. From coast to coast, North to South, the American First agenda is helping Americans from across our great country.

    “Republicans in Congress are proud to stand with the President as he secures our border, restores accountability in government, fights for common sense, and defends the liberty and prosperity of generations of Americans to come,” Speaker Johnson continued. “Today, as we mark 100 historic days, we celebrate the many ways President Trump has delivered for the American people.”

    Since his inauguration on January 20th, President Trump has taken bold action to secure the border, drive down inflation, restore American strength on the world stage, clean up our communities, secure trillions of dollars in new investments and jobs, and return common sense to Washington. These 100 American stories illustrate that.  

    Read 20 stories below, and the full list here.

    Alexis Nungaray, Angel Mother – Alexis Nungaray is the mother of Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old girl who was tragically murdered by illegal aliens in June of 2024. Jocelyn’s life was tragically cut short because of the Biden Administration’s failure to close our borders and protect American citizens from dangerous illegal aliens. On March 5, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order honoring her life by renaming Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge to Jocelyn Nungaray Wildlife Refuge in Anahuac, Texas. Since Jocelyn’s murder, her mother Alexis has been advocating alongside the Trump Administration and Senator Ted Cruz for stronger immigration laws.

    Marianna Montoya, Florida Resident – During President Trump’s first 100 days, Marianna was able to open up her very first Roth IRA and begin contributing on a monthly basis. President Trump’s work to reverse the devastating consequences of Bidenomics has given her hope that she and her husband will be able to retire peacefully.

    Frank Windsor, Rinnai America President – In late 2024, the Biden Administration issued a rule that effectively banned an entire niche of American manufacturing: non-condensing tankless water heaters. The rule specifically targeted Rinnai America Corporation, the only U.S. facility producing these water heaters. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, the House passed a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the rule, keeping Rinnai’s doors open and protecting nearly 300 American jobs.

    Sarah Taylor, Iowa Parent – Sarah and her husband, Dan, both attended private Catholic elementary schools and knew they wanted the same faith-based education for their daughters, Hannah and Millie. Thanks to expanding educational freedom and school choice, the Taylors were empowered to choose the school that best fit their family’s values. For the Taylor family, school choice has meant more than access. It’s meant opportunity. Their story is one of many that show the power of giving parents the freedom to choose what’s best for their children.

    Kelly Wilson, Small Business Owner – Kelly Wilson’s family has owned and operated a small business in Colorado for 80 years, but after mass flows of illegal aliens began arriving in Denver under the Biden Administration, her family discussed moving to another state. In the face of budget cuts to Denver’s police force and sanctuary city policies that have failed Denver families, Kelly began speaking out for her community. Since day one, the Trump Administration has made cracking down on sanctuary cities and states a top priority. Today, communities like Kelly’s are safer, thanks to President Trump’s work to restore the rule of law.

    Jim Chilton, Rancher – The Chilton Ranch has been operated within the Chilton family for generations, a family legacy that Jim and Sue Chilton have preserved mere miles away from the Southern Border. However, under the Biden Administration, they were forced to shoulder the consequences of President Biden’s border crisis. During April of 2024 alone, the Chiltons experienced 5,640 immigrant encounters on their ranch. The last time they checked with the Border Patrol, in April of this year, there were zero crossers over the course of three weeks. Thanks to President Trump’s work to reverse the Biden administration’s radical open-border policies, the Chilton family’s beloved ranch and livelihood are no longer under threat.

    Ben Paulding, CPA – Ben hosts South Dakota’s first federally subsidized CPA Apprenticeship Program. After navigating months of red tape under the Biden Administration, he can finally onboard his first interns. Thankfully, President Trump has ended burdensome mandates on programs like Ben’s, enabling him to refocus his attention on merit-based, equal opportunity hiring without the DEI red tape.

    George Glezmann, Former Hostage – George Glezmann, a Georgia native and Delta Airlines mechanic, was arrested by the Taliban in 2022 during a planned tourist visit. Despite no formal charges being filed, Glezmann was held for over 2 years in an Afghanistan prison. On March 20, 2025, he was released as a gesture of “goodwill” by the Taliban following trilateral negotiations between Qatar, the U.S., and the Taliban. Upon returning to the U.S., he said, “I feel like I’m born again, I’m in debt to President Trump. Thank God he’s in the White House and thank God he got me out.”

    Michelle Root, Angel Mother – Michelle Root is the mother of Sarah Root, a 21-year-old Iowan who was killed by an illegal alien drunk driving in 2016. Instead of answering for his crimes, the illegal alien posted bail, was released from jail, and was never seen again. Fortunately, this criminal was found in Honduras and the Trump Administration worked with Honduran authorities to extradite him to the United States to face justice. President Trump also signed the Laken Riley Act, which included Sarah’s Law – introduced by Congressman Randy Feenstra from Iowa – to ensure that any illegal alien who harms or kills an American citizen is swiftly detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The Root Family is grateful to President Trump and Congressman Feenstra for honoring their precious daughter’s memory.

    Marc Fogel, Schoolteacher/Former Hostage – Marc Fogel, an American schoolteacher, was wrongfully detained by Russian authorities in 2021 after being arrested on drug charges related to medical marijuana. Despite having a valid prescription in the U.S., he was sentenced to 14 years in a Russian prison. However, on February 11, 2025, Fogel was released and returned to the United States through a diplomatic deal negotiated by President Trump. He was warmly greeted by the President upon his arrival back to the United States and expressed his gratitude, saying, “I feel like the luckiest man alive.”

    Tony Campbell, East KY Power Cooperative CEO – Tony Campbell serves as the CEO and President of East Kentucky Power Cooperative. He and his colleagues have faced significant challenges under burdensome regulations that targeted the coal industry—an industry that has powered American homes and cities for generations. Through executive action, President Trump strengthened the reliability and affordability of American energy, safeguarded American jobs, and preserved critical coal plants, delivering on his promise to create jobs and uphold America’s energy independence.

    Joseph Knowles, Detroit Autoworker – Joseph Knowles is a Detroit autoworker for Stellantis who was laid off during the Biden Administration and later reinstated after President Trump’s election victory. After attending President Trump’s Joint Address to Congress, Knowles declared he had left the Democratic Party for good. “I got very good hope for the Republican Party,” Knowles said, “More and more people are seeing the true colors of the Democrats.”

    Lawrence Rosen, Cra-Z-Art Founder – Lawrence Rosen is the owner of Cra-Z-Art, the largest toy maker in the United States. Since Liberation Day, Lawrence has seen the benefits of President Trump’s tariffs firsthand on domestic manufacturing. Because of President Trump’s decisive action in the first 100 days, Rosen is expanding their domestic production by 50% and investing millions of dollars into factories across the country.

    Elliston Berry, Texas High School Student – Elliston Berry was only 14-years-old when one of her classmates took an innocent selfie of her and ran it through AI to make a deep-fake pornographic image, which was later circulated throughout her school. Her painful experience motivated her to become an advocate against deepfake pornography, with her efforts leading to legislative action by Senator Ted Cruz. The “Take it Down Act”, which First Lady Melania Trump has championed, protects victims, enhances protections for users, and introduces accountability for AI platforms passed the House in April.

    Kirk Davis, Bob Davis Electric CEO – Kirk Davis, owner of Bob Davis Electric, is one of many business leaders benefiting from President Trump’s action to tackle America’s workforce challenges. Thanks to the President’s Executive Order on apprenticeships, Kirk has been able to recruit, train, and retrain the skilled electricians needed to meet rising power demands and grow his business.

    Dakota Meyer, U.S. Marine – President Trump’s Department of Defense has championed a warrior culture in America’s armed forces that has generated massive results for military recruiting. In April, Secretary Hegseth announced the U.S. Army had surpassed its 2025 reenlistment goal six months early. Dakota Meyer, a Marine Corps veteran and Medal of Honor recipient, is just one of the many brave Americans who have reenlisted, deciding to reenter the Army after a 15-year hiatus. “I’m damn proud of the men and women who are standing in uniform,” said Meyer, “and I’m so proud I get to be one of them again.”

    Steven McCain, Sheriff – In Grant Parish, illegal aliens are using drones to drop off drugs and other paraphernalia at a large federal prison. It’s been a significant problem for the prison, but now that President Trump has returned to the White House, the situation has changed. Sheriff McCain has noticed a sharp increase in cooperation from ICE, the United States Attorney’s Office, and other local officials. Working together, law enforcement from all levels will be able to crack down on these drones.

    Brian Riley, CEO of Guardian Bikes – Citing his support for President Trump’s tariffs, Brian announced a $19 million investment to move Guardian’s bike production out of China and into Seymour, Indiana.

    Dino Mavrookas, CEO of Saronic – President Trump has called for the restoration of America’s maritime dominance, and Dino Mavrookas, CEO of the defense startup Saronic, has been a leader in answering this call. To help build the next-generation of autonomous vessels, Saronic acquired Gulf Craft, a Louisiana-based shipbuilder. By preserving Gulf Craft’s skilled workforce, creating hundreds of new, good-paying jobs, and investing over $2.5 billion to develop Port Alpha, Saronic is strengthening our economy, rebuilding America’s maritime strength, and supporting our national defense.

    Gary Hamrick, Senior Pastor – Senior Pastor Gary Hamrick became the target of anti-Christian bias when he and his church were charged by the IRS for so-called Johnson Amendment violations. Under President Trump, the Department of Justice has established a task force to eradicate anti-Christian bias in the federal government and safeguard the religious liberty of all Americans.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huffman Announces Winner of 2024 Congressional App Challenge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

    April 29, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jared Huffman (CA-02) announced that Rehan Nazeem, a Junior at San Marin High School in Novato, is the winner of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for California’s Second Congressional District.Rehan’s winning submission, Terrain Fire Risk Analyzer, predicts the fire risk associated with a terrain and provides fire mitigation recommendations.

    “Every year, I’m impressed by the smart and talented high school students who participate in the Congressional App Challenge – and Rehan’s app has really raised the bar when it comes to pairing technological capabilities with the pressing needs of our time,” said Rep. Huffman. “Terrain Fire Risk Analyzer addresses one of the biggest problems facing our community right now – helping people stay safe and prepared for wildfires through this easy-to-use tech. Congratulations to Rehan and well done to the restof this year’s participants.”

    After witnessing devastating wildfires in 2016 and 2017 firsthand, Rehan was inspired to explore ways to prevent further disasters. He considers his fire-risk app as the beginning of his commitment to building tools that help communities stay safe and prepared in the face of wildfires.

    Watch Rehan’s demonstration of his app, Terrain Fire Risk Analyzer, here.

    Established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013, the Congressional App Challenge competition invites high school students from all participating congressional districts to compete by creating and exhibiting their software application for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. This year’s Congressional App Challenge set new records, with an unprecedented 382 Members of the House of Representatives hosting competitions. 

    Apps are judged based on the following criteria: quality of the idea, including creativity and originality; implementation of the idea, including user experience and design; and demonstrated excellence of coding and programming skills.

    Read more about the House Student App Challenge here.

    ###

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Welcomes Confirmation of Warren Stephens as US Ambassador to United Kingdom

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement after the Senate confirmed Little Rock businessman Warren Stephens to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom:
    “Warren Stephens is a respected businessman, philanthropist and leader who will capably serve our nation as our Ambassador to the U.K. This critical posting to represent America’s interests and ensure close cooperation with our key ally and friend is a testament to his reputation, character and skillset. I congratulate the Stephens family on this incredibly proud moment, and wish Warren and Harriet well on this undertaking in service to the country they deeply love.”
    Boozman introduced Stephens at his nomination hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee earlier this month and has backed his selection since it was announced by Pres. Trump.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: 100 Days – Promises Made, Promises Kept

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) released the following statement to mark President Trump’s first 100 days in office:
    “100 days ago, President Trump returned to Washington, D.C. to shake things up and get this country back on track. All 77 counties in Oklahoma, and Americans across the country, voted overwhelmingly for his bold America First agenda. And after four disastrous years of the Biden Administration, President Trump is delivering on the promises he made to the American people.”  
    “Under President Trump, we have seen win after win. Safety and security are being restored as violent, illegal, criminals are finally being deported. Companies and countries around the world recognize that America is the place to do business with over $5 trillion in new investments pouring in. President Trump is unleashing American energy by eliminating burdensome regulations, supporting energy independence, and strengthening energy security.”
    “Senate and House Republicans are in constant communication with the White House, working in lockstep to implement the President’s policies. The Senate has now confirmed 55 nominees at record pace for President Trump’s all-star team. And we’re just getting started.”
    100 Days of Wins:
    Secure border.
    Lower costs.
    Historic investments.
    Huge deportation operation.
    Energy dominance.
    DEI is OVER in the military.
    Protecting women’s sports.
    Historic government transparency.
    Bringing hostages home.
    Critical DOGE savings.
    Record-breaking recruitment for the military.
    Background:
    To watch Senator Mullin’s video on President Trump’s first 100 days, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Hampton Financial Corporation Announces 2nd Quarter Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    TORONTO, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hampton Financial Corporation (“Hampton” or the “Company”, TSXV: HFC) today announced its financial results for the 2nd quarter ended February 28th, 2025.

    Second Quarter ended February 28th, 2025.

    IFRS results highlights:

    –  Q2 Revenue of $2,854,000; an increase of 53% year-over-year
    –  Q2 Net Loss of $(1,312,000) or $(0.02) per share;

    Fiscal results (IFRS results adjusted for non-cash Items) highlights:

    –  Q2 Adjusted Net Loss of $(421,000) or $(0.01) per share;
    –  Q2 EBITDA of $(690,000) vs $(441,000) in the comparative quarter last year

    Summary of Corporate Developments:

    Our 2nd quarter results reflect some improvement which is being felt across across the Capital Markets industry. Corporate finance transactions have improved slightly over the first half of our fiscal year but are still well below 2023 levels. While 2025 is showing some signs of improvement, the year ahead for our core business remains unclear. That said we intend to move ahead with a number of initiatives to further expand our business portfolio, while growing our existing Wealth Management, Commercial Lending and Capital Markets businesses.

    “The second quarter results continue to demonstrate the industry-wide challenges faced during the fall of 2024, but we are beginning to see some selective improvements. Capital Markets activities have started to improve as interest rates have stabilized, so we are hopeful for a stronger second half of the year. We remain optimistic for the balance of the fiscal year,” said Hampton Executive Chairman & CEO Peter Deeb.

    Copies of Hampton’s unaudited interim financial statements and its Management’s Discussion & Analysis for the three and six months ended February 28, 2025, can be accessed on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com.

    Supplementary to the Company’s February 21, 2025 press release announcing the reinvestment of debenture redemption proceeds, the purchase by Peter Deeb of the 255,050 subordinate voting shares of the Company constitutes a ‘related party transaction’ as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders In Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”) but is exempt from the shareholder approval and formal valuation requirements under MI 61-101 as the fair market value of the securities issued was less than 25% of the Company’s market capitalization.

    About Hampton Financial Corporation

    Hampton is a unique private equity firm that seeks to build shareholder value through long-term strategic investments.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hampton Securities Limited (“HSL”), Hampton is actively engaged in family office, wealth management, institutional services and capital markets activities. HSL is a full-service investment dealer, regulated by CIRO and registered in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, and Quebec. In addition, the Company, through HSL, provides investment banking services, which include assisting companies with raising capital, advising on mergers and acquisitions, and aiding issuers in obtaining a listing on recognized securities exchanges in Canada and abroad and HSL’s Corporate Finance Group provides early stage, growing companies the capital, they need to create value for investors. HSL continues to develop its Wealth Management, Advisory Team and Principal-Agent programs which offers to the industry’s most experienced wealth managers a unique and flexible operating platform that provides additional freedom, financial support, and tax effectiveness as they build and manage their professional practice.

    Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Oxygen Working Capital (“OWC”) the company offers factoring and other commercial financing services to clients across Canada.

    The Company is exploring opportunities to diversify its sources of revenue by way of strategic investments in both complimentary business and non-core sectors that can leverage the expertise of its Board and the diverse experience of its management team.

    For more information, please contact:

    Olga Juravlev
    Chief Financial Officer
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8701

    Or

    Peter M. Deeb
    Executive Chairman & CEO
    Hampton Financial Corporation
    (416) 862-8651

    The TSXV has in no way approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction outside of Canada. The securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to a U.S. person absent registration or pursuant to an available exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “should”, “hopeful”, “recovery”, “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project” or similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes.

    Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results may vary, and vary materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements herein. Accordingly, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements herein and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CLIMATEROCK ANNOUNCES REVISED MONTHLY SPONSOR CONTRIBUTION OF $0.04 PER SHARE TO TRUST ACCOUNT FOR PROPOSED EXTENSION

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ClimateRock (“ClimateRock” or the “Company”) (OTC: “CLRCF”, “CLRCUF”, “CLRWF”) announced today that, in connection with the Company’s upcoming extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (the “Special Meeting”) to consider and approve an extension of time for the Company to consummate an initial business combination from May 2, 2025 to November 2, 2025 (the “Extension”), U.N. SDG Support LLC (the “Sponsor”) or its designees have agreed to revise their intended contribution to support the Extension, such that they will contribute to the Company as a loan an aggregate of $0.04 for each Class A ordinary share that was sold in the Company’s initial public offering (the “Public Share”) that is not redeemed, for each calendar month (commencing on May 2, 2025 and on the 1st day of each subsequent month) until November 2, 2025 (each, an “Extension Period”), or portion thereof, that is needed to complete an initial business combination (the “Contribution”). For example, if the Company takes until November 2, 2025 to complete its initial business combination, which would represent six calendar months, the Sponsor or its designees would make aggregate Contributions resulting in a redemption amount of approximately $12.34 per unredeemed share, in comparison to the current redemption amount of approximately $12.10 per share.

    Each Contribution will be deposited in the trust account within seven calendar days from the beginning of each Extension Period (or portion thereof), and any Contribution is conditioned upon the implementation of the Extension. No Contribution will occur if the Extension is not approved or is not completed. The amount of each Contribution will not bear interest and will be repayable by the Company to the Sponsor or its designees upon consummation of its initial business combination. The Company will have the sole discretion whether to continue extending for additional calendar months until November 2, 2025. If the Company opts not to utilize any remaining portion of the Extension Period, then the Company will liquidate and dissolve promptly in accordance with its charter, and its Sponsor’s obligation to make additional contributions will terminate.

    In connection with the above announcement of the Contribution to be made by the Sponsor or its designees if the Extension is approved, the deadline for holders of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares issued in the Company’s initial public offering to submit their shares for redemption in connection with the Extension, is being extended to 10:00 a.m., Eastern time, on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

    In addition, the Company agreed to waive its right to withdraw up to $50,000 of interest accrued on the Company’s trust account to pay dissolution expenses, should the Company ultimately liquidate prior to an initial business combination. As a result, the Company will not withdraw up to $50,000 of interest, as permitted by its charter, for such dissolution expenses upon liquidation. If the Extension is approved by shareholders and implemented by the Company, all interest then-accrued will be held in the trust account and will be released to public shareholders upon the earliest to occur of (i) the redemption of the Public Shares in connection with a vote seeking to amend the provisions of the Company’s charter, (ii) the completion of the Company’s initial business combination and (iii) the redemption of 100% of the Public Shares if the Company is unable to complete its initial business combination by November 2, 2025 or such earlier date as determined by the Company’s board of directors.

    About ClimateRock

    ClimateRock is a special purpose acquisition company led by Chairman, Charles Ratelband, and CEO, Per Regnarsson, and is incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses in any industry or geographic location, but it is focused on acquiring a target within the sustainable energy industry in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, including climate change, environment, renewable energy and emerging, clean technologies. For more information, please visit Driving The Energy Transition – ClimateRock (climate-rock.com).

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements and factors that may cause such differences include, without limitation, uncertainties relating to the Company’s shareholder approval of the Extension, its inability to complete an initial business combination within the required time period or, and other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 under the heading “Risk Factors” and in other reports the Company has filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    ClimateRock and its directors, executive officers, other members of management and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the securityholders of the Company in favor of the approval of the Extension Proposal. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of the Company’s directors and officers in the Company’s definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on April 17, 2025 (as may be amended, the “Proxy Statement”), which may be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This press release s shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Extension. This communication shall also not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    ClimateRock urges investors, shareholders and other interested persons to read the Proxy Statement as well as other documents filed by the Company with the SEC, because these documents will contain important information about the Company and the Extension. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, without charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Advantage Proxy, Inc., P.O. Box 10904, Yakima, WA 98909, Attn: Karen Smith.

    INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT

    ClimateRock
    Phone number: +44 208 050 7820
    Email: info@climate-rock.com 

    The MIL Network –