NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Announces Members of Independent Scientific Panel on Effects of Nuclear War

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    NEW YORK, 18 July (United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs) — On 17 July, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of an independent scientific panel of experts tasked with examining the physical effects and societal consequences of a nuclear war on a local, regional and planetary scale in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war.

    The panel was established pursuant to General Assembly resolution 79/238, titled “Nuclear War Effects and Scientific Research”, and is mandated to examine “the physical effects and societal consequences” of a nuclear war “on a local, regional and planetary scale, including, inter alia, the climatic, environmental and radiological effects, and their impacts on public health, global socioeconomic systems, agriculture and ecosystems, in the days, weeks and decades following a nuclear war”.

    The panel is tasked with publishing a comprehensive report on these matters, making key conclusions, and identifying areas requiring future research.  The report will be considered by the UN General Assembly at its eighty-second session in 2027.

    The last cross-sectional United Nations study of this kind was undertaken almost four decades ago in 1988 (Study on the Climatic and Other Global Effects of Nuclear War, United Nations publication, Sales No. E.89.IX.1).

    The panel consists of 21 members drawn from a range of scientific fields, including:  nuclear and radiation studies; atmospheric sciences and climate; environment and environmental studies; agriculture, biology and life sciences; public health and medicine; and behavioural and social sciences and applied economics.

    As mandated by resolution 79/238, the Secretary-General selected members of the panel based on “their leading scientific expertise across relevant disciplines, while ensuring impartiality, and equitable geographical and gender balance”.  In selecting the panel, the Secretary-General drew on the expertise and recommendations of relevant agencies from the United Nations system.

    The panel will engage the widest possible range of stakeholders, including international and regional organizations, the International Committee of the Red Cross, civil society, affected communities, and peoples from around the world, in order to understand local, regional and global perspectives on the effects of nuclear war.  Member States, relevant international and regional organizations and others are encouraged to support the panel’s work.

    The independent Scientific Panel on the Effects of Nuclear War will consist of the following 21 members, each participating in their personal capacity:

    Arlene Alves dos Reis, Head, Division of Dosimetry at the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN);

    Ana María Cetto Kramis, former Deputy Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).  Full research professor at the Physics Institute of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).  Founder and current holder of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair on Science Diplomacy and Heritage at UNAM;

    Manvendra K. Dubey, Senior Scientist and Fellow, Earth Systems Observations, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL);

    Friederike Renate Friess, Senior Scientist, BOKU University, Department of Landscape, Water and Infrastructure, Institute of Safety and Risk Sciences;

    Abel Gonzalez, Senior Adviser to the Argentina Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Olenum member of the National Academy of Sciences of Buenos Aires, the Argentine Academy of Environmental Sciences, the Argentine Academy of the Seas, and the International Nuclear Energy Academy;

    Md Ahsan Habib, Professor at the Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Fellow, Chinese Academy of Sciences;

    Andrew Haines, Professor of Environmental Change and Public Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Co-Director World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre on Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Health;

    Gi Hoon Hong, former President and Research Professor, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology;

    Togzhan Kassenova, Senior Fellow, Center for Policy Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, former member of the Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters (ABDM);

    Ausrele Kesminiene-Suonio, Senior Visiting Scientist, Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), former head of the Lithuanian Chernobyl Medical Centre;

    Peter Klimek, Director of the Supply Chain Intelligence Institute, Austria, Associate Professor, Section for Science of Complex Systems, Medical University of Vienna;

    Karina Meredith, Director of Environment Research and Technology at Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Adjunct Professor in the Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences school at University of New South Wales;

    Thobela Nkukwana, Senior Lecturer, University of Pretoria, Sub-editor for the South African Journal of Animal Sciences, Editorial Board member and Sub-editor of Welwitschia International Journal of Agricultural Sciences;

    Sébastien Philippe, research scholar at the Princeton University Program on Science and Global Security, member of the Scientific Advisory Group of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons;

    Laura Revell, Associate Professor in Atmospheric Chemistry at the University of Canterbury, member of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) panel;

    Neil Rowan, Professor, Faculty of Science and Technological Health, University of the Shannon, Adjunct Professor to the School of Medicine, Nursing and Biomedical Science at the University of Galway;

    Rabia Sa’id, Professor of atmospheric and space-weather physics and a researcher at Bayero University Kano, Co-founder of Nigeria’s Association of Women Physicists;

    Georgiy L. Stenchikov, Professor Emeritus at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Professor of Earth Sciences, Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, Earth Sciences and Engineering Program, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology;

    Masao Tomonaga, Emeritus Director, Atomic Bomb Hospital, former Director of the Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Atomic Bomb (Genbaku) Hospital, President of Nagasaki Prefecture Hibakusha Association and current President of IPPNW Nagasaki Branch.  A hibakusha from Nagasaki;

    Hüseyin Yalçinkaya, Anakara University Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Animal Nutrition and Nutritional Diseases, Veterinary Officer at the Turkish Directorate General for Food and Control/Department of Border Control for Animal and Animal Products; and

    Zhao Wuwen, Professor at the Center for Strategic Studies, China Academy of Engineering Physics.

    Questions regarding the panel can be addressed to:  nweffectspanel@un.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture meet to help strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the sector

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 18, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario

    Yesterday, federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture met virtually to discuss ways to support a more resilient and competitive agriculture sector and food supply chains that make up Canada’s agri-food landscape. Ministers discussed possible measures to support the hard-working producers and processors across Canada to address the emerging challenges related to international trade and the potential opportunities that could be created by increased interprovincial trade.

    Ministers reiterated their commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of business risk management (BRM) programs. Due to the uncertain trade environment and unfavourable climate conditions in parts of the country, Ministers agreed to take the necessary steps to implement a package of enhancements to the AgriStability program. For the 2025 program year only, the compensation rate will be increased from 80% to 90% and the maximum payment limit will be increased from $3 million to $6 million. These changes are meant to help producers manage the risks they face. In addition, for AgriStability, starting in the 2026 program year, provinces and territories will have the option to use a new inventory valuation method for inventories destined to be used on-farm. Ministers agreed to seek the necessary approvals to include feed costs associated with rented pasture as an allowable expense in advance of the 2026 program year, report back on progress at the September annual meeting and to continue a review of AgriStability allowable expenses.

    FPT Ministers are working together to increase interprovincial trade of food. Ministers discussed a variety of options, including ways to remove barriers to internal food trade and identify new trade opportunities. Ministers also discussed enhanced client service support from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for small to medium-sized businesses wishing to market food products across Canada under a federal food licence, increasing slaughter capacity where possible in regions with restricted access to services, and allowing interprovincial trade of low-risk manufactured foods without a federal licence. These ideas will be informed by the 2 ongoing pilots on meat trade and slaughter that are being accelerated. These initiatives aim to support business growth and improve market access, while maintaining Canada’s robust food safety system.

    FPT Ministers highlighted the critical importance of joint efforts across governments to maintain, expand and diversify international market access. In support of this work, Ministers discussed the federal Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office and other resources in the region. Ministers also emphasized the importance of engaging with China at the highest level, to improve the overall trade relationship and to remove Chinese tariffs on Canadian agriculture and seafood products. Ministers also underscored the benefits of existing trade agreements and emphasized the importance of considering the impact of tariffs on businesses.

    The annual conference of FPT Ministers of Agriculture will take place in-person in Winnipeg, Manitoba September 7 to 9, 2025. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republicans Push Forward with Energy and Water Funding Bill that Weakens Our National Security and Increases Energy Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    **STATE-BY-STATE FACT SHEET** Republicans Slash Vital Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Funding for States

    Washington, DC — Today, House Democrats exposed how Republicans’ Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee 2026 funding bill increases costs for American households, undermines infrastructure investments, and weakens our national security.

    The bill:

    • Increases energy costs, jeopardizes energy independence, and hurts United States’ competitiveness by slashing the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs nearly in half, revoking more than $5 Billion from the Department of Energy’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law resources, and eliminating funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations.
    • Weakens national security and leaves Americans more vulnerable to nuclear threats by cutting the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation account by 17 percent.
    • Abandons commitments to communities to clean up radioactive waste by eliminating funding for the Corps of Engineers’ Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program and cutting the Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management by 9 percent.

    “Sadly, this Republican Energy and Water bill did not have bipartisan input, and does not meet the moment to set the course for our nation’s future in the new age frontiers of energy and water,” Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) said. “This bill cedes American leadership in the global energy race to adversaries including the Chinese Communist Party. It weakens vital nuclear nonproliferation programs that help keep our country and world safe. By turning their backs on communities suffering from the long lasting impact of our early atomic weapons programs, Republicans show the callous disregard they have for America’s forgotten communities. We must invest in energy independence in perpetuity — or we will live to regret it, as our children and grandchildren inherit a future devoid of opportunity. The passage of this ill considered, and careless bill will hurt our communities from coast to coast, and is a true disservice to all the generations to come.”

    Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur’s full remarks are here.

    “House Republicans are wrapping up a long, chaotic week by advancing yet another funding bill that increases costs. This time, they are raising energy costs for American families and businesses,” Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “Their cut of nearly half the budget for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is a direct attack on the programs that lower energy bills for working families, create good-paying jobs in our communities, and keep America competitive. Republicans’ funding bill undermines the very programs that help us stop the spread of nuclear weapons, detect nuclear activity, and uphold arms control efforts that make America and the world safer – and it underfunds efforts to clean up sites contaminated by our nation’s early atomic energy program. Instead of working with Democrats to lower prices and invest in technology that promotes our energy independence, House Republicans are pushing a bill that raises energy costs for families and businesses and eliminates good-paying jobs.”

    During today’s markup, Democrats fought to make changes to Republicans’ bill, including to:

    • Prohibit the implementation of tariffs that would raise consumer energy prices.
    • Prevent the Department of Energy and other agencies from terminating critical projects simply based on the alignment with administration policies.
    • Prohibit the Republican’s Bonanza for Billionaires efforts to modify or terminate clean energy tax credits.
    • Increase funds for the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E).

    These changes were rejected by House Republicans.

    A summary of the bill is here. A fact sheet is here.
    The text of the bill, before the adoption of amendments in full committee, is here. The bill report, before the adoption of amendments in full Committee, is here. Information on Community Project Funding in the bill is here.
    A state-by-state breakdown of the amount of funding House Republicans are trying to slash from the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) programs is here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: G20 signals support for fairer global tax rules but comes up short on taxing the super-rich

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Durban, South Africa – Commenting on the outcome of the G20 3rd Finance Ministers and Central Bank Ministerial Meeting, Greenpeace welcomed the G20 ministers’ support for international tax negotiations at the United Nations. However, Ministers did not reference the proposal introduced under Brazil’s G20 presidency last year to tax the ultra-rich.[1]

    Fred Njehu, Global Political Lead of the Fair Share campaign, Greenpeace Africa, said: “This show of support for the UN Tax Convention is a welcome step in the right direction for new global tax rules that work for everyone, not just the select few. The G20 must now put words into action and engage constructively in the process as a global multilateral platform that will shape and determine the future of taxation, one rooted in equity, transparency and justice.

    “However, the G20 Finance Ministers are squandering an incredible opportunity to end financial apartheid and achieve a breakthrough on wealth taxation that could redistribute much needed funds to tackle the social, economic, environmental and climate polycrisis. Equality is not the accumulation of wealth and power in the hands of a few billionaires. We need to stand up to the power of billionaires who are a threat to our democracies, security and wellbeing.[2]

    “Turbulent economic times like these demand global cooperation and a multilateral response. G20 ministers have an historic obligation to help steer the global economy and environment towards safer waters. They must listen to growing public calls and build the political momentum for taxing the super-rich and set new global tax rules that work for all to achieve social and climate justice.”

    END

    Notes:

    [1] New global tax rules in an UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation are being negotiated, from now until 2027. It is a historic opportunity to redistribute power and wealth, and foster tax transparency and accountability. It aims to take control of global tax rules from the rich OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries to place it in the hands of the 193 member states of the United Nations. 

    [2] Greenpeace: Ramaphosa, G20 must end financial apartheid with tax on super-rich

    Contacts:

    Ibrahima Ka Ndoye, International Communications Coordinator, Greenpeace Africa. +221778437172, [email protected].

    Greenpeace International Press Desk, +31 (0)20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Condemns Trump Administration for Letting a Credit Union off the Hook for Overcharging Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and six of their colleagues sent a letter to the Trump administration condemning its decision to release Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) from its obligation to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution, effectively excusing them from accountability for charging millions in illegal surprise overdraft fees to their members who are primarily military families and veterans.

    Since the Consumer Bureau opened in 2011, Nevadans have submitted 580 complaints against NFCU, including 433 in just the past three years.

    “In 2024, the CFPB found that between 2017 and 2022, NFCU charged overdraft fees on ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases – even when accounts showed sufficient funds,” the senators wrote in a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought. “In response, the Bureau issued a consent order requiring NFCU to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution: $80.6 million directly to harmed consumers and $15 million to the CFPB’s victims relief fund.”

    That order was rescinded on July 1, 2025.

    “As former CFPB officials have noted, this decision raises serious concerns about whether the Bureau is still capable – or even willing – to fulfill its legal mandate,” the senators continue. “At a minimum, the public and Congress deserve answers.”

    The letter is endorsed by the Consumer Federation of America. “The Trump-era CFPB cannot reverse this consent order and simultaneously claim that it is prioritizing the interests of servicemembers,” said Adam Rust, Director of Financial Services for the Consumer Federation of America. “This action has diverted millions of dollars owed to military families—an unacceptable breach of trust. Acting Director Vought owes the public a clear and immediate explanation.”

    Read the full letter, including the questions posed by the senators to Acting Director Vought, here.

    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for our service members, veterans, and their families. She worked across the aisle to get legislation helping veterans exposed to Agent Orange and expanding benefits for women veterans signed into law. The Senator sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins demanding he provide answers on the mass terminations of personnel across the VA, specifically those in Nevada, and how those terminations would impact services to Nevada veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Condemns Trump Administration for Letting a Credit Union off the Hook for Overcharging Military Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and six of their colleagues sent a letter to the Trump administration condemning its decision to release Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) from its obligation to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution, effectively excusing them from accountability for charging millions in illegal surprise overdraft fees to their members who are primarily military families and veterans.

    Since the Consumer Bureau opened in 2011, Nevadans have submitted 580 complaints against NFCU, including 433 in just the past three years.

    “In 2024, the CFPB found that between 2017 and 2022, NFCU charged overdraft fees on ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases – even when accounts showed sufficient funds,” the senators wrote in a letter to Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Acting Director Russell Vought. “In response, the Bureau issued a consent order requiring NFCU to pay $95 million in penalties and restitution: $80.6 million directly to harmed consumers and $15 million to the CFPB’s victims relief fund.”

    That order was rescinded on July 1, 2025.

    “As former CFPB officials have noted, this decision raises serious concerns about whether the Bureau is still capable – or even willing – to fulfill its legal mandate,” the senators continue. “At a minimum, the public and Congress deserve answers.”

    The letter is endorsed by the Consumer Federation of America. “The Trump-era CFPB cannot reverse this consent order and simultaneously claim that it is prioritizing the interests of servicemembers,” said Adam Rust, Director of Financial Services for the Consumer Federation of America. “This action has diverted millions of dollars owed to military families—an unacceptable breach of trust. Acting Director Vought owes the public a clear and immediate explanation.”

    Read the full letter, including the questions posed by the senators to Acting Director Vought, here.

    Senator Cortez Masto is a champion for our service members, veterans, and their families. She worked across the aisle to get legislation helping veterans exposed to Agent Orange and expanding benefits for women veterans signed into law. The Senator sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Collins demanding he provide answers on the mass terminations of personnel across the VA, specifically those in Nevada, and how those terminations would impact services to Nevada veterans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Blocks Fast-Track Consideration of Education Nominee as Trump Continues Blocking Nearly $7 Billion for Students & Schools Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray, Sanders, Baldwin Lead Colleagues in Demanding Vought, McMahon Stop Blocking Funding for Afterschool Programs, K-12 Schools Across America

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Calls on Trump Admin to Immediately Release Billions in Funds K-12 Schools Across America are Counting On

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, objected to fast-track consideration of Mary Christina Riley, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs at the Department of Education, as President Trump continues to block nearly $7 billion in funding for K-12 schools and adult education programs across America just weeks away from the new school year. Riley’s nomination is privileged and could otherwise have skipped committee consideration; now, Senator Murray is forcing her nomination to go through a full committee process before it can be considered on the Senate floor.

    “As schools nationwide scramble to figure out how many teachers they need to lay off and afterschool programs warn parents to make back up plans—all because President Trump is blocking over $6 billion in education funding he himself signed into law—there is no reason for any Department of Education nominee to skip committee consideration and get fast-tracked for confirmation.

    “Just weeks out from the new school year, families, teachers, and school districts are suffering the consequences of President Trump’s needless and illegal blockade of this funding—and this administration won’t so much as explain why the money is held up or when we can expect it to go out.

    “We need accountability, so I am forcing Mary Christina Riley’s nomination to serve as an assistant secretary at the Department of Education to go back to the HELP Committee, and I am once again calling on the Trump administration to immediately release this funding, as even ten of my Republican colleagues called for yesterday.”

    The Trump administration’s decision to withhold the funding has sent school districts nationwide scrambling to determine how they could fill the, in many cases, massive budget hole and whether they’ll have to lay off teachers or end after school programs in the coming weeks. School districts have made clear they will have to end afterschool programs, already told parents to prepare backup options, and adult literacy programs have already been forced to lay off staff.

    The Trump administration has confirmed it is blocking funding for the following programs—all of which are programs President Trump has requested to eliminate in his budget request, raising serious concerns about this administration’s intentions to simply impound the funding:

    • Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants (Title II-A), which support professional development and other activities to improve the effectiveness of teachers and school leaders, including reducing class size.
    • 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV-B), which support high-quality before and after-school programs focused on providing academic enrichment opportunities for students.
    • Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (Title IV-A), which provide flexible funding for school districts for a wide range of activities including supporting STEM education, accelerated learning courses, college and career counseling, school-based mental health services, and improving school technology, among many others.
    • English Language Acquisition (Title III-A), which supports language instruction to help English language learners become proficient in English.
    • Migrant Education (Title I-C), which supports the educational needs of migratory children, including children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers.
    • Adult Basic and Literacy Education State Grants (including Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education State Grants), which support adult education and literacy programs to provide the basic skills to help prepare adults and out-of-school youth for success in the workforce.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Blocks Fast-Track Consideration of Education Nominee as Trump Continues Blocking Nearly $7 Billion for Students & Schools Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Murray, Sanders, Baldwin Lead Colleagues in Demanding Vought, McMahon Stop Blocking Funding for Afterschool Programs, K-12 Schools Across America

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Calls on Trump Admin to Immediately Release Billions in Funds K-12 Schools Across America are Counting On

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, objected to fast-track consideration of Mary Christina Riley, President Trump’s nominee to serve as Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs at the Department of Education, as President Trump continues to block nearly $7 billion in funding for K-12 schools and adult education programs across America just weeks away from the new school year. Riley’s nomination is privileged and could otherwise have skipped committee consideration; now, Senator Murray is forcing her nomination to go through a full committee process before it can be considered on the Senate floor.

    “As schools nationwide scramble to figure out how many teachers they need to lay off and afterschool programs warn parents to make back up plans—all because President Trump is blocking over $6 billion in education funding he himself signed into law—there is no reason for any Department of Education nominee to skip committee consideration and get fast-tracked for confirmation.

    “Just weeks out from the new school year, families, teachers, and school districts are suffering the consequences of President Trump’s needless and illegal blockade of this funding—and this administration won’t so much as explain why the money is held up or when we can expect it to go out.

    “We need accountability, so I am forcing Mary Christina Riley’s nomination to serve as an assistant secretary at the Department of Education to go back to the HELP Committee, and I am once again calling on the Trump administration to immediately release this funding, as even ten of my Republican colleagues called for yesterday.”

    The Trump administration’s decision to withhold the funding has sent school districts nationwide scrambling to determine how they could fill the, in many cases, massive budget hole and whether they’ll have to lay off teachers or end after school programs in the coming weeks. School districts have made clear they will have to end afterschool programs, already told parents to prepare backup options, and adult literacy programs have already been forced to lay off staff.

    The Trump administration has confirmed it is blocking funding for the following programs—all of which are programs President Trump has requested to eliminate in his budget request, raising serious concerns about this administration’s intentions to simply impound the funding:

    • Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants (Title II-A), which support professional development and other activities to improve the effectiveness of teachers and school leaders, including reducing class size.
    • 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV-B), which support high-quality before and after-school programs focused on providing academic enrichment opportunities for students.
    • Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (Title IV-A), which provide flexible funding for school districts for a wide range of activities including supporting STEM education, accelerated learning courses, college and career counseling, school-based mental health services, and improving school technology, among many others.
    • English Language Acquisition (Title III-A), which supports language instruction to help English language learners become proficient in English.
    • Migrant Education (Title I-C), which supports the educational needs of migratory children, including children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers.
    • Adult Basic and Literacy Education State Grants (including Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education State Grants), which support adult education and literacy programs to provide the basic skills to help prepare adults and out-of-school youth for success in the workforce.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Demands All Remaining Education Funds Blocked By Trump Get Released Immediately

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Trump relents, finally releasing a fraction of withheld education funds while continuing to block $5.5 billion more

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Blocks Fast-Track Consideration of Education Nominee as Trump Continues Blocking Nearly $7 Billion for Students & Schools Nationwide

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, called on President Trump to release every penny of the $5.5 billion in federal funding for K-12 schools and adult education programs he continues to block after his administration announced it was releasing one stream of the funding that it has now blocked for three weeks—which has sent after, before, and summer programs scrambling.

    “Over the last few weeks, after school programs across the country have had to tell parents to make alternate plans as President Trump has blocked federal funding provided for them—and at this very moment, schools nationwide are crunching the numbers to figure out how many teachers they will need to lay off as Trump continues to hold up billions in funding. Adult literacy programs have had to lay off staff for no reason except the president felt like illegally blocking these funds.

    “After we spoke up—and after weeks of needless chaos—the Trump administration is now releasing funding for after school programs while continuing to block billions more in funding for our students, teachers, and schools. Every penny of this funding must flow immediately. Whether or not parents know the afterschool program they depend on will exist should not depend on whether Republicans will push back against Trump’s lawlessness—he should simply get the funding out, just as the law requires him to do. I am going to keep pushing until every dollar goes.”

    The Trump administration’s decision to withhold nearly $7 billion dollars in funding has sent school districts nationwide scrambling to determine how they could fill the, in many cases, massive budget hole and whether they’ll have to lay off teachers or end after school programs in the coming weeks. School districts have made clear they will have to end afterschool programs, already told parents to prepare backup options, and adult literacy programs have already been forced to lay off staff.

    Today, the Trump administration is letting states know it will move but one slice of the funding after weeks of creating panic and stress for schools and families alike.

    Here are the funding streams President Trump is still holding up—all of which are programs President Trump has requested to eliminate in his budget request, raising serious concerns about this administration’s intentions to simply impound the funding:

    • $2.19 billion: Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants (Title II-A), which support professional development and other activities to improve the effectiveness of teachers and school leaders, including reducing class size.
    • $1.33 billion: 21st Century Community Learning Centers (Title IV-B), which support high-quality before and after-school programs focused on providing academic enrichment opportunities for students. After holding up this stream of funding for three weeks, the Trump administration is expected to finally release it today. The rest remains blocked.
    • $1.38 billion: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (Title IV-A), which provide flexible funding for school districts for a wide range of activities including supporting STEM education, accelerated learning courses, college and career counseling, school-based mental health services, and improving school technology, among many others.
    • $890 million: English Language Acquisition (Title III-A), which supports language instruction to help English language learners become proficient in English.
    • $376 million: Migrant Education (Title I-C), which supports the educational needs of migratory children, including children of migrant and seasonal farmworkers.
    • $715 million: Adult Basic and Literacy Education State Grants (including Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education State Grants), which support adult education and literacy programs to provide the basic skills to help prepare adults and out-of-school youth for success in the workforce.

    These funds typically flow on July 1st of every year—but the Trump administration let states and stakeholders know on July 1st it would not be moving the funding. It failed to provide any rationale, with the Department of Education directing questions to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the administration still has not explained why the 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding was held up, why the rest of the funds still is, or when it will be released.

    Senator Murray immediately called on Trump to release the funding, led her colleagues in demanding the funds flow, and just yesterday, objected to fast-track consideration of President Trump’s nominee to serve as Assistant Secretary for Legislation and Congressional Affairs at the Department of Education while the funding blockage continues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, UW Medicine & Harborview CEOs Sound Alarm on How Republican Medicaid Cuts Will Devastate Hospitals, Threaten Specialty Care People in Washington, Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming Rely on

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Hospitals in WA provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West and Alaska

    WA hospitals will lose $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year, 400,000 people in Washington state alone expected to lose health coverage under Republicans’ newly-passed bill

    ***WATCH FULL VIDEO from press conference; DOWNLOAD HERE***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S.Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with Dr. Timothy Dellit, CEO of UW Medicine, and Sommer Kleweno-Walley, CEO of Harborview Medical Center, laying out how the massive health care cuts in Republicans’ reconciliation bill, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, will be devastating for hospitals and all Americans’ access to care. A focus of the press conference was how these cuts will affect people in red states including Alaska, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming—which, with Washington state, make up the WWAMI region—who rely on Washington state hospital networks for access to high-level specialty care they can’t get in their home states.

    Republicans’ reconciliation bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) over the next 10 years. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that Republicans’ health care cuts will terminate health insurance for at least 17 million Americans nationwide and will make health care more expensive and harder to access.

    “It is important for people to understand, Republicans are making health care more expensive and harder to access for everyone, no matter what kind of insurance you’re on, or where you go for care,” Senator Murray said on the press call today. “When people lose their health insurance, they don’t suddenly stop needing care. They’re still going to show up at hospitals and emergency rooms if they break a leg or suffer a heart attack. The difference is, hospitals will no longer be reimbursed by Medicaid for providing that care. Meaning they’ll be forced to raise costs elsewhere, for example, on patients who still have insurance, including private insurance through their employers or otherwise. And what happens at hospitals in Washington state also affects people in Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho—whose senators all voted for the Big Ugly bill, by the way. Because hospitals in Washington state provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West… I am going to keep doing everything I possibly can to protect Americans’ health care and make it less expensive, not more—and make sure people know exactly who to hold accountable for their neighbors losing health care, or their local hospital shutting down.”

    “Keeping patients enrolled in Medicaid along with direct Medicaid support to UW Medicine is critical to allow us to serve as the state’s safety net, helping to support the over $688 million in uncompensated care our hospitals provide to the public every year. It also allows us to continue to educate the next generation of healthcare professionals as UW Medicine provides over 68 percent of Washington’s medical education and training. With loss of Medicaid funding, we risk elimination of clinical services, closures of hospitals, and reduced access to care for everyone,” said Dr. Timothy Dellit, CEO of UW Medicine. “This bill has three major impacts for UW Medicine and the communities we serve. First, it removes patients from Medicaid coverage, leaving patients uninsured with limited access to care. Public hospitals like ours will need to provide increased levels of uncompensated care, stressing our ability to stay open and serve the community. Second, it eliminates UW Medicine’s supplemental direct Medicaid funding that was designed to help cover the cost of treating patients with Medicaid and allows us to serve as the safety net for the most vulnerable. And third, it makes pursuing a career in health care more difficult to afford, by reducing student loan and repayment options, essentially eliminating access to medical education for a subset of the population just as we face a shortage of physicians, particularly in our rural and underserved communities.”

    “Harborview Medical Center is the region’s leading safety net hospital, serving a large number of Medicaid and uninsured patients who need our care. Cutting Medicaid coverage and funding threatens our ability to deliver essential care to patients across Washington state and the broader region,” said Sommer Kleweno-Walley, CEO of Harborview Medical Center. “These cuts to federal Medicaid funding will impact hundreds of thousands of patients across not only Washington state, but the entire WWAMI region that Harborview and the rest of UW Medicine serve. Our hospitals play a crucial role in the region, offering highly specialized services that aren’t available in other states… Harborview is the only Level 1 Adult and Pediatric Trauma and Burn Center in Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. UW Medical Center, in partnership with  the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, provides the most highly specialized cancer care in the region. Because of this, UW Medicine takes care of patients from places like Northern Alaska and eastern Montana. Many of these patients are insured by the Medicaid program. People come from all over the region to receive specialized treatment from UW Medicine for conditions and injuries such as severe trauma with complex spine, pelvic, face, eye and hand injuries; heart, lung and multi-organ transplants; complex adult congenital heart repairs; and the most severe pediatric trauma injuries that occur in that WWAMI region, to name just a few. For these patients Harborview or UW Medical Center are the closest medical centers that can provide this level of complex clinical care that they desperately need. Harborview also provides the most acute emergency behavioral health care in the state and region, with services to patients in severe crisis due to mental health and substance use disorder. At Harborview, the region’s largest safety net care hospital, over 34 percent of our patients are reliant on Medicaid for health coverage and another 5 percent of our patients remain uninsured despite the Medicaid expansion. This means that these Medicaid cuts will have an outsized impact here.”

    Washington will be among the states hit hardest by Republicans’ legislation according to an analysis by KFF, which estimates the state will lose an estimated 26 percent of its Medicaid enrollment. Right now in Washington state, nearly 2 million people—roughly 1 in 5—are enrolled in Apple Health, including 800,000 children. Washington state’s 4th and 5th Congressional Districts, represented by Republicans who voted for the reconciliation bill, have the highest percentages of people who rely on Apple Health. About 400,000 Washingtonians are expected to lose health care coverage under the Republican bill, including at least 250,000 who will lose Apple Health coverage and as many as 150,000 who will be newly priced out of the state’s health care exchange, Washington Healthplanfinder. Hospitals in Washington state could lose at least $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year—forcing hospitals to lay off staff, cut services, or close their doors entirely. Overall, Washington state is expected to lose between $31 billion and $51 billion in federal Medicaid dollars over the next decade. Last year, Washington had an uninsured rate of 4.8 percent—the lowest in the country—but the Republican bill is expected to balloon that number into the double digits.

    Nationwide, the Republican health care cuts represent a more than $400 billion dollar hit to America’s hospitals—which are the sixth-largest employer in the country. Over 330 hospitals will likely be forced to close or scale back their services—including 14 hospitals in Washington state—which will force more Americans to travel further for maternity care and emergency rooms, and face longer wait times. An estimated 477,000 health workers will lose their jobs as a result of the Republican cuts to Medicaid.

    Senator Murray has held constant recent events—including multiple events in Washington state—to sound the alarm on Republicans’ devastating reconciliation bill and encourage constituents to raise their voices and call on their Members of Congress to oppose the legislation. Senator Murray and Democrats forced Republicans to take dozens of tough votes over a nonstop 30-hour “vote-a-rama,” which came after Democrats forced a full reading of every word of Republicans’ 940-page bill. During vote-a-rama, Senator Murray put forward an amendment to strike a provision of the legislation that achieves anti-abortion extremists’ long-sought goal of “defunding” Planned Parenthood; Republicans blocked the amendment. Senator Murray spoke repeatedly on the Senate floor during debate over the bill, laying out in detail the harm the legislation would cause. Senator Murray also spoke out repeatedly on the Senate floor against Republicans’ use of a depictive so-called “current policy baseline” to hide the true cost of their deficit-busting tax cuts for billionaires.

    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are below and video is HERE:

    “Thank you to everyone for joining us today.

    “You know, just weeks ago, Republicans jammed through Congress—on Trump’s command—a devastating, rushed, and partisan bill that will force 17 million Americans to lose their health care and force hundreds of hospitals and health care clinics across the country to close their doors.

    “President Trump calls it his ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ but the only Big Bill here is the one Americans are going to be stuck paying after they get sick and no longer have health coverage because Republicans ripped it away.

    “It is important for people to understand: Republicans are making health care more expensive and harder to access for everyone, no matter what kind of insurance you’re on, or where you go for care. It makes the largest-ever cuts to Medicaid—which we know in Washington state as Apple Health—and which nearly 2 million people, including the majority of kids in 26 of our state’s 39 counties rely on. Most of them are in districts represented by Republicans!

    “At least 250,000 people in Washington state will lose Apple Health coverage under this bill. And as many as 150,000 more are going to be priced out of our state’s health care exchange because Republicans outright refused to extend important tax credits that lower the cost of health care for middle-class families and small business owners. And it is very hard to overstate how much this bill attacks our hospitals and the care they provide to everyone.

    “So, I’m glad to be joined on this call by folks from Harborview and UW Medicine who will speak more to that.

    “Now, under this bill, Washington state is expected to lose between $31 and $51 billion dollars in federal Medicaid funding over the next 10 years. Hospitals in Washington state alone could lose $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year according to a recent analysis—forcing hospitals to lay off staff, cut their services, or even close their doors entirely.

    “That means that people will have to travel further for care and wait even longer to get it. In fact, over 330 rural hospitals are expected to be forced to close their doors or scale back services because of the cuts in Republicans’ bill—including 14 hospitals in Washington state.

    “And when people lose their health insurance, they don’t suddenly stop needing care. They’re still going to show up at hospitals and emergency rooms if they break a leg or suffer a heart attack. The difference is, hospitals will no longer be reimbursed by Medicaid for providing that care. Meaning they will be forced to raise costs elsewhere, for example, on patients who still have insurance—including private insurance through their employers or otherwise.

    “And what happens at hospitals in Washington state also affects people in Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho—whose senators all voted for this Big Ugly Bill, by the way. Because hospitals in Washington state actually provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West.

    “In fact, Harborview is the only Level 1 Adult and Pediatric Trauma and Burn Center for all of Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Alaska. So, any Western senator who thinks their constituents aren’t going to be affected by what happens in Washington state are sorely mistaken.

    “And there’s a reason Republicans refused to hold a single public hearing about this bill before forcing it through the Senate in the dead of night—they want Americans to know as little as possible about what’s actually in it. I mean for goodness sake, they were revising the bill as we were debating it—most Republican Senators didn’t even fully understand what was in it before they voted for it!

    “But here’s the thing: the more people know about what’s in it, the less they like it! Nearly two-in-three Americans view this bill unfavorably, and that goes up to nearly four-in-five when they learn it will cut off funding to local hospitals.

    “But Republicans forced it into law anyway, over the objections of Democrats and members of their own party, because Trump and Republicans really will stop at nothing to pass tax breaks for billionaires. The bottom line is this bill steals from people who need help the most and gives more to people who need help the least.

    “And make no mistake, the harm is already being felt—despite Republicans’ cynical efforts to delay some of the worst provisions from taking effect until after the midterms.

    “Hospitals across the country are already bracing for cuts—it’s law. They know these cuts are coming, they have to plan their budgets over years, not month by month. One clinic in Nebraska already announced it will have to shut its doors because of this bill. More will follow.

    “Now, before I hand it off to our speakers who can say a lot more about what this awful bill will mean for hospitals in Washington state and care for the entire region, I want to make clear: this bill may be law, but that does not mean we stop fighting. That does not mean that we give up.

    “For my part, I am going to keep doing everything I possibly can to protect Americans’ health care and make it less expensive, not more—and make sure people know exactly who to hold accountable for their neighbors losing health care, or their local hospital shutting down.

    “Because, at the end of the day, the American people will have their voices heard. And they will show Republicans exactly how they feel about this Big Ugly Betrayal Bill at the ballot box.

    “Thank you, and I will now turn it over to Dr. Dellit from UW Medicine.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, UW Medicine & Harborview CEOs Sound Alarm on How Republican Medicaid Cuts Will Devastate Hospitals, Threaten Specialty Care People in Washington, Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming Rely on

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Hospitals in WA provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West and Alaska

    WA hospitals will lose $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year, 400,000 people in Washington state alone expected to lose health coverage under Republicans’ newly-passed bill

    ***WATCH FULL VIDEO from press conference; DOWNLOAD HERE***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S.Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with Dr. Timothy Dellit, CEO of UW Medicine, and Sommer Kleweno-Walley, CEO of Harborview Medical Center, laying out how the massive health care cuts in Republicans’ reconciliation bill, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, will be devastating for hospitals and all Americans’ access to care. A focus of the press conference was how these cuts will affect people in red states including Alaska, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming—which, with Washington state, make up the WWAMI region—who rely on Washington state hospital networks for access to high-level specialty care they can’t get in their home states.

    Republicans’ reconciliation bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) over the next 10 years. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that Republicans’ health care cuts will terminate health insurance for at least 17 million Americans nationwide and will make health care more expensive and harder to access.

    “It is important for people to understand, Republicans are making health care more expensive and harder to access for everyone, no matter what kind of insurance you’re on, or where you go for care,” Senator Murray said on the press call today. “When people lose their health insurance, they don’t suddenly stop needing care. They’re still going to show up at hospitals and emergency rooms if they break a leg or suffer a heart attack. The difference is, hospitals will no longer be reimbursed by Medicaid for providing that care. Meaning they’ll be forced to raise costs elsewhere, for example, on patients who still have insurance, including private insurance through their employers or otherwise. And what happens at hospitals in Washington state also affects people in Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho—whose senators all voted for the Big Ugly bill, by the way. Because hospitals in Washington state provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West… I am going to keep doing everything I possibly can to protect Americans’ health care and make it less expensive, not more—and make sure people know exactly who to hold accountable for their neighbors losing health care, or their local hospital shutting down.”

    “Keeping patients enrolled in Medicaid along with direct Medicaid support to UW Medicine is critical to allow us to serve as the state’s safety net, helping to support the over $688 million in uncompensated care our hospitals provide to the public every year. It also allows us to continue to educate the next generation of healthcare professionals as UW Medicine provides over 68 percent of Washington’s medical education and training. With loss of Medicaid funding, we risk elimination of clinical services, closures of hospitals, and reduced access to care for everyone,” said Dr. Timothy Dellit, CEO of UW Medicine. “This bill has three major impacts for UW Medicine and the communities we serve. First, it removes patients from Medicaid coverage, leaving patients uninsured with limited access to care. Public hospitals like ours will need to provide increased levels of uncompensated care, stressing our ability to stay open and serve the community. Second, it eliminates UW Medicine’s supplemental direct Medicaid funding that was designed to help cover the cost of treating patients with Medicaid and allows us to serve as the safety net for the most vulnerable. And third, it makes pursuing a career in health care more difficult to afford, by reducing student loan and repayment options, essentially eliminating access to medical education for a subset of the population just as we face a shortage of physicians, particularly in our rural and underserved communities.”

    “Harborview Medical Center is the region’s leading safety net hospital, serving a large number of Medicaid and uninsured patients who need our care. Cutting Medicaid coverage and funding threatens our ability to deliver essential care to patients across Washington state and the broader region,” said Sommer Kleweno-Walley, CEO of Harborview Medical Center. “These cuts to federal Medicaid funding will impact hundreds of thousands of patients across not only Washington state, but the entire WWAMI region that Harborview and the rest of UW Medicine serve. Our hospitals play a crucial role in the region, offering highly specialized services that aren’t available in other states… Harborview is the only Level 1 Adult and Pediatric Trauma and Burn Center in Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. UW Medical Center, in partnership with  the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, provides the most highly specialized cancer care in the region. Because of this, UW Medicine takes care of patients from places like Northern Alaska and eastern Montana. Many of these patients are insured by the Medicaid program. People come from all over the region to receive specialized treatment from UW Medicine for conditions and injuries such as severe trauma with complex spine, pelvic, face, eye and hand injuries; heart, lung and multi-organ transplants; complex adult congenital heart repairs; and the most severe pediatric trauma injuries that occur in that WWAMI region, to name just a few. For these patients Harborview or UW Medical Center are the closest medical centers that can provide this level of complex clinical care that they desperately need. Harborview also provides the most acute emergency behavioral health care in the state and region, with services to patients in severe crisis due to mental health and substance use disorder. At Harborview, the region’s largest safety net care hospital, over 34 percent of our patients are reliant on Medicaid for health coverage and another 5 percent of our patients remain uninsured despite the Medicaid expansion. This means that these Medicaid cuts will have an outsized impact here.”

    Washington will be among the states hit hardest by Republicans’ legislation according to an analysis by KFF, which estimates the state will lose an estimated 26 percent of its Medicaid enrollment. Right now in Washington state, nearly 2 million people—roughly 1 in 5—are enrolled in Apple Health, including 800,000 children. Washington state’s 4th and 5th Congressional Districts, represented by Republicans who voted for the reconciliation bill, have the highest percentages of people who rely on Apple Health. About 400,000 Washingtonians are expected to lose health care coverage under the Republican bill, including at least 250,000 who will lose Apple Health coverage and as many as 150,000 who will be newly priced out of the state’s health care exchange, Washington Healthplanfinder. Hospitals in Washington state could lose at least $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year—forcing hospitals to lay off staff, cut services, or close their doors entirely. Overall, Washington state is expected to lose between $31 billion and $51 billion in federal Medicaid dollars over the next decade. Last year, Washington had an uninsured rate of 4.8 percent—the lowest in the country—but the Republican bill is expected to balloon that number into the double digits.

    Nationwide, the Republican health care cuts represent a more than $400 billion dollar hit to America’s hospitals—which are the sixth-largest employer in the country. Over 330 hospitals will likely be forced to close or scale back their services—including 14 hospitals in Washington state—which will force more Americans to travel further for maternity care and emergency rooms, and face longer wait times. An estimated 477,000 health workers will lose their jobs as a result of the Republican cuts to Medicaid.

    Senator Murray has held constant recent events—including multiple events in Washington state—to sound the alarm on Republicans’ devastating reconciliation bill and encourage constituents to raise their voices and call on their Members of Congress to oppose the legislation. Senator Murray and Democrats forced Republicans to take dozens of tough votes over a nonstop 30-hour “vote-a-rama,” which came after Democrats forced a full reading of every word of Republicans’ 940-page bill. During vote-a-rama, Senator Murray put forward an amendment to strike a provision of the legislation that achieves anti-abortion extremists’ long-sought goal of “defunding” Planned Parenthood; Republicans blocked the amendment. Senator Murray spoke repeatedly on the Senate floor during debate over the bill, laying out in detail the harm the legislation would cause. Senator Murray also spoke out repeatedly on the Senate floor against Republicans’ use of a depictive so-called “current policy baseline” to hide the true cost of their deficit-busting tax cuts for billionaires.

    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are below and video is HERE:

    “Thank you to everyone for joining us today.

    “You know, just weeks ago, Republicans jammed through Congress—on Trump’s command—a devastating, rushed, and partisan bill that will force 17 million Americans to lose their health care and force hundreds of hospitals and health care clinics across the country to close their doors.

    “President Trump calls it his ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ but the only Big Bill here is the one Americans are going to be stuck paying after they get sick and no longer have health coverage because Republicans ripped it away.

    “It is important for people to understand: Republicans are making health care more expensive and harder to access for everyone, no matter what kind of insurance you’re on, or where you go for care. It makes the largest-ever cuts to Medicaid—which we know in Washington state as Apple Health—and which nearly 2 million people, including the majority of kids in 26 of our state’s 39 counties rely on. Most of them are in districts represented by Republicans!

    “At least 250,000 people in Washington state will lose Apple Health coverage under this bill. And as many as 150,000 more are going to be priced out of our state’s health care exchange because Republicans outright refused to extend important tax credits that lower the cost of health care for middle-class families and small business owners. And it is very hard to overstate how much this bill attacks our hospitals and the care they provide to everyone.

    “So, I’m glad to be joined on this call by folks from Harborview and UW Medicine who will speak more to that.

    “Now, under this bill, Washington state is expected to lose between $31 and $51 billion dollars in federal Medicaid funding over the next 10 years. Hospitals in Washington state alone could lose $662 million in Medicaid revenue every year according to a recent analysis—forcing hospitals to lay off staff, cut their services, or even close their doors entirely.

    “That means that people will have to travel further for care and wait even longer to get it. In fact, over 330 rural hospitals are expected to be forced to close their doors or scale back services because of the cuts in Republicans’ bill—including 14 hospitals in Washington state.

    “And when people lose their health insurance, they don’t suddenly stop needing care. They’re still going to show up at hospitals and emergency rooms if they break a leg or suffer a heart attack. The difference is, hospitals will no longer be reimbursed by Medicaid for providing that care. Meaning they will be forced to raise costs elsewhere, for example, on patients who still have insurance—including private insurance through their employers or otherwise.

    “And what happens at hospitals in Washington state also affects people in Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho—whose senators all voted for this Big Ugly Bill, by the way. Because hospitals in Washington state actually provide essential, high-level specialty care to people across the entire Mountain West.

    “In fact, Harborview is the only Level 1 Adult and Pediatric Trauma and Burn Center for all of Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Alaska. So, any Western senator who thinks their constituents aren’t going to be affected by what happens in Washington state are sorely mistaken.

    “And there’s a reason Republicans refused to hold a single public hearing about this bill before forcing it through the Senate in the dead of night—they want Americans to know as little as possible about what’s actually in it. I mean for goodness sake, they were revising the bill as we were debating it—most Republican Senators didn’t even fully understand what was in it before they voted for it!

    “But here’s the thing: the more people know about what’s in it, the less they like it! Nearly two-in-three Americans view this bill unfavorably, and that goes up to nearly four-in-five when they learn it will cut off funding to local hospitals.

    “But Republicans forced it into law anyway, over the objections of Democrats and members of their own party, because Trump and Republicans really will stop at nothing to pass tax breaks for billionaires. The bottom line is this bill steals from people who need help the most and gives more to people who need help the least.

    “And make no mistake, the harm is already being felt—despite Republicans’ cynical efforts to delay some of the worst provisions from taking effect until after the midterms.

    “Hospitals across the country are already bracing for cuts—it’s law. They know these cuts are coming, they have to plan their budgets over years, not month by month. One clinic in Nebraska already announced it will have to shut its doors because of this bill. More will follow.

    “Now, before I hand it off to our speakers who can say a lot more about what this awful bill will mean for hospitals in Washington state and care for the entire region, I want to make clear: this bill may be law, but that does not mean we stop fighting. That does not mean that we give up.

    “For my part, I am going to keep doing everything I possibly can to protect Americans’ health care and make it less expensive, not more—and make sure people know exactly who to hold accountable for their neighbors losing health care, or their local hospital shutting down.

    “Because, at the end of the day, the American people will have their voices heard. And they will show Republicans exactly how they feel about this Big Ugly Betrayal Bill at the ballot box.

    “Thank you, and I will now turn it over to Dr. Dellit from UW Medicine.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on President Trump Signing the GENIUS Act into Law

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    President Trump’s signing the GENIUS Act is a monumental step forward for crypto assets, financial markets, and our country. As I have stated previously, blockchain and crypto asset technologies have the potential to revolutionize America’s financial infrastructure and deliver new efficiencies, cost reductions, transparency, and risk mitigation for the benefit of all Americans. Ensuring that the U.S. is the best and most secure place in the world to invest and do business requires clear rules of the road that allow market participants to adopt emerging technologies with confidence. President Trump and the entire Administration are sending a powerful message that America is ready to embrace crypto asset innovation.

    The GENIUS Act provides necessary guidance for a crucial element of the emerging crypto asset ecosystem. Clear payment stablecoin regulation allows companies and individuals to transact in ways that boost efficiency and lower costs. Payment stablecoins will play a significant role in the securities industry moving forward, which is why I have asked SEC staff to consider whether guidance, rulemaking, or other steps may be helpful to accommodate SEC registrants utilizing payment stablecoins, including for settlement and margining. I invite market participants to engage with the SEC staff on what is needed for our securities markets to take advantage of the GENIUS Act’s full potential.

    Today’s developments are a major milestone in achieving President Trump’s goal of making America the “crypto capital of the world.” The Trump Administration and Congress have thus far made terrific progress, and there is more work to do. The SEC will work diligently to consider any changes needed to achieve regulatory clarity. Together we will make America the center of crypto asset innovation and strengthen the financial markets for the benefit of all Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MTA Installs Platform Barriers at More than 50 Stations

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has installed protective platform edge barriers at 56 subway stations. Halfway through 2025, the MTA is on track to deliver on Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State direction to install barriers at more than 100 subway stations by the end of the year. This directive is part of a larger set of initiatives Governor Hochul announced in her State of the State address to protect subway riders and workers. The MTA continues to upgrade station lighting with brighter, safer LED bulbs. LEDs are now installed in 342 stations, on schedule for all 472 subway stations to be upgraded by the end of the year. Safety in the subway system continues to improve with overall major crimes dropping by 3 percent from the same period last year and by almost 10 percent when compared to pre-pandemic levels.

    “New Yorkers’ safety will always be my number one priority, and customers need to both feel and be secure every time they ride the subway,” Governor Hochul said. “At my direction, the MTA has ramped up the installation of protective platform barriers, building on their efforts to brighten stations with LED lighting and equip every subway car with security cameras. Transit crime is down in 2025, and these efforts will make the subway system safer for everyone.”

    MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re making investments to ensure that our system not only is safe but — equally important — feels safe to riders. With new platform barriers, MTA’s thousands of new security cameras, increased deployments from the NYPD, and 10 percent less crime before COVID, it’s no wonder customer satisfaction has risen dramatically this year.”

    MTA Construction and Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “This is the new MTA in action: working better, faster, and cheaper to improve the rider experience and keep customers safe. Using in-house labor has driven down costs and increased our pace on this project, and we’re ready to make even greater strides in the second half of 2025.”

    NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said, “Customers are telling us platform barriers make them feel safer and they want to see more of them. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s support, we’re getting barriers into stations quickly with more than 50 already installed and over 50 more on the way by the end of the year. I’m proud of the NYC Transit team for the incredible work they’re doing in-house to build and install barriers and look forward to keeping up the momentum.”

    Recent customer surveys have shown that 59 percent of riders wanted the installation of protective platform barriers throughout the system — including 88 percent of riders over the age of 65. A majority of respondents have also noted that they believe the presence of platform barriers in the station makes them feel safer and believe the barriers will protect against falls onto the tracks. Platform barriers are built and installed using in-house New York City Transit (NYCT) labor with in-house machinery in a NYCT facility resulting in lower costs and a faster installation timeline.

    The selection of stations for the installation process prioritizes feasibility, including stations with standard car-stopping positions in segments of the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, F, M and L trains. Among these train lines, stations with higher ridership levels and island platforms are prioritized.

    The following stations have platform barriers now installed:

    Brooklyn:

    • Clark St – 2, 3
    • Morgan Av – L
    • Grand St – L
    • Dekalb Av – L
    • Halsey St – L
    • Bushwick Av-Aberdeen St – L
    • Myrtle-Wyckoff Avs – L, M
    • Graham Av – L
    • Jefferson St – L
    • Bedford Av – L
    • Lorimer St – L
    • Wilson Av – L
    • Montrose Av – L
    • Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum – 2, 3
    • Grand Army Plaza – 2, 3
    • President St – 2, 3
    • Hoyt St – 2, 3
    • Beverly Rd – 2, 5
    • Sterling St – 2, 5
    • Winthrop St – 2, 5
    • Bergen St – 2, 3

    Manhattan:

    • 191 St – 1
    • 5 Av – 7
    • 1 Av – L
    • 6 Av – L
    • 125 St – 4, 5, 6
    • Bowery – J, Z
    • Fulton St – J, Z
    • Broad St – J, Z
    • Canal St – J, Z
    • Wall St – 2, 3
    • 23 St – 6
    • 125 St – 2, 3
    • Central Park North-110 St – 2, 3
    • 135 St – 2, 3
    • Astor Place – 6
    • 8 Av – L
    • Bleecker St – 6
    • Fulton St – 2, 3
    • Spring St – 6
    • 103 St – 6
    • Park Place – 2, 3
    • 28 St – 6
    • 68 St-Hunter College – 6
    • 33 St – 6
    • 96 St – 6
    • 77 St – 6
    • 145 St – 1
    • Grand Central-42 St – 7
    • Christopher St-Stonewall – 1

    Queens:

    • Flushing-Main St – 7
    • 46 St – M, R
    • 67 Av – M, R
    • 75 Av – E, F
    • Woodhaven Blvd – M, R
    • Jamaica Center-Parsons Blvd-Archer Av – E, J, Z

    Assemblymember Alex Bores said, “Protective platform edge barriers save lives. In addition to providing a safe place to stand, the barriers give riders peace of mind and encourage ridership; and a fully populated subway system is a safer system. Additionally, platform barriers are quick to install and extremely cost-effective, saving taxpayers money. I have advocated for these barriers from before my life in public office, and I am grateful to the Governor for incorporating these lifesaving tools into her comprehensive subway safety plan.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: Lane Shift, Closures Needed at I-95 North Service Road at Jefferson Boulevard in Warwick

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Tonight, Friday, July 18, starting at 9 p.m., the Rhode Island Department Transportation (RIDOT) will shift both travel lanes on the I-95 North service road at Jefferson Boulevard (Exit 31C) in Warwick. This will be followed by nightly closures of the service road at Exit 31C and two lanes on I-95 North early next week.

    Both travel lanes will be shifted to the right to allow for the beginning of phased reconstruction of the large bridge carrying I-95 over Jefferson Boulevard. No delays are anticipated from this change, but motorists should reduce their speed and drive carefully through the work zone.

    Next, on Sunday through Wednesday nights, July 20-23, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., the service road as it passes over Jefferson Boulevard will be closed. All traffic will be reduced to one lane and directed down the Exit 31C off-ramp, then back onto the highway at the adjacent on-ramp to continue onto I-95 North. Drivers traveling during the closure times should expect delays and may wish to seek alternate routes.

    Also, during the nightly closures Sunday through Wednesday nights, the right two lanes of I-95 North at Exit 31 will be closed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. At least two lanes of travel will remain open. Delays are possible.

    This work is part of the I-95 15 Bridges project, which will remove 15 bridges from the state’s backlog of poor and fair to poor condition bridges along I-95 and Route 10 between Providence and Warwick. Nine of the 15 bridges are structurally deficient. Three are rated among the top five most traveled structurally deficient bridges in Rhode Island. At the Huntington Viaduct, RIDOT will redesign the entire interchange of Route 10 with I-95. More details are available at www.ridot.net/The-I-95-15.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.

    The I-95 15 Bridges project is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Charged with Resisting, Assaulting, and Injuring ICE Officer During Traffic Stop

    Source: US FBI

    OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, JOSE MELGAR-RIVAS, 34, of Honduras, was charged by Complaint with assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer resulting in bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to the Complaint, on July 15, 2025, officers with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pulled over a vehicle on NW 23rd Street in Oklahoma City. The driver, Melgar-Rivas, was a Honduran national and an ICE fugitive. The Complaint alleges that Melgar-Rivas refused the officer’s demands to exit the vehicle, and, as officers attempted to remove Melgar-Rivas from the vehicle, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, Melgar-Rivas put the vehicle into drive and fled the scene. As the vehicle accelerated, an ICE officer became trapped in the door of the vehicle, which caused the officer to be dragged down the road. The officer ultimately freed himself from the vehicle but sustained several injuries. Melgar-Rivas, who fled the scene, was arrested several hours later.

    “Ensuring the safety of law enforcement personnel in executing their lawful duties is paramount, and it remains a top priority of the Justice Department,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Those who assault or interfere with members of law enforcement for simply doing their job enforcing the law must and will be held accountable.”

    “Those who assault federal officers will face swift and stern accountability for their actions,” said Travis Pickard, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Special Agent in Charge over North Texas and Oklahoma. “Violence and any threats of violence to a federal officer in the performance of their duties will result in an immediate and collaborative law enforcement response to track down the perpetrator.”

    “Assaults on federal agents will not be tolerated by the FBI,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “We will continue to aggressively support and defend our fellow public servants so they can safely carry out their sworn duties.”

    If found guilty, Melgar-Rivas faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.

    Melgar-Rivas appeared today in U.S. District Court in Oklahoma City and was ordered to be detained in federal custody pending further proceedings.

    The public is reminded this charge is merely an allegation, and that Melgar-Rivas is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting the case.

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

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Senator Mullin tells Indian Affairs Committee: “Leave the Politics Out of it and put Indian Country First.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)

    RELEASE: Senator Mullin tells Indian Affairs Committee: “Leave the Politics Out of it and put Indian Country First.”

    Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, emphasized the importance of seeing Native issues through a nonpartisan lens at the nomination hearing to consider Mr. William Kirkland to be President Trump’s Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs within the Department of the Interior.
    In his remarks, Senator Mullin discussed his experience as a member of Cherokee Nation, Mr. Kirkland’s background, and the crucial responsibility members of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs have to honor America’s federal obligation to Indian Country. Highlights below.

    Sen. Mullin’s full remarks can be found here.
    On being a member of Cherokee Nation and serving in the U.S. Senate:
    “I’m Cherokee, and I never knew I was special for being Cherokee until I came to D.C., because where I’m from, everybody’s Indian or wants to be. And when I came up here, Tom Cole was the first one that came up to me and said, ‘Congratulations, we just doubled the size of our Native American Caucus.’ That was back in 2013. I was like, ‘What do you mean?’ He’s like, ‘Well, I’m Chickasaw and you’re Cherokee.’ And I said, ‘Yeah, we taught you how to read and write.’ No, I’m kidding. And we joked about it, because sometimes there’s a misunderstanding.”
    On those not from Indian Country misunderstanding Tribal issues:
    “But what they don’t understand about Indian Country, and tell me if I’m wrong, is we don’t look at the world through an ‘R’ or ‘D’ lens. We look at it from our heritage perspective… And sometimes people that aren’t from Indian Country and they’re not Native, they don’t understand it. They don’t get it. Because politics is their world… Tribal issues, it’s a federal responsibility we have, and so you can separate the politics out of it, because we have an obligation.”
    On Mr. Kirkland’s background:
    “All our Tribes in Oklahoma are going to be different from the Tribes in the Midwest. And I think one of the coolest things that you have the ability to do is you get to learn all those different needs. And when you go in there with a with a background like yourself, and with Native people at the front of your mind and any decision you make, you have an opportunity to actually get to know them and get to know what their unique challenges are.”
    On the responsibility of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs:
    “I just hope in this committee, that we try to leave the politics out of it and just put Indian Country first. That’s what our responsibility is here. That’s why I think this committee is unique because if there’s ever a committee that works in a real bipartisan manner, it’s this committee, and we have to be careful that we don’t we don’t separate that because, as I repeat myself again, we have a federal obligation. And regardless if you’re a Native or you’re not, if we’re in this position of authority, if we’re in this position to actually affect that, we need to understand that and just all be in the same boat, working together.”
    On Mr. Kirkland’s willingness to serve:
    “So, thank you for standing up. Thank you for your family too, to going through this with you, because it’s a challenge and your ability to continue to stay in the fight for Indian Country is commendable. So, God bless you.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: The List of Gold IRA Companies for 2025 Released by Affiliate Credo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Disclosure: The owners of this website may be compensated for referrals or recommendations made in this content. The opinions expressed may not be neutral or independent.

    NEW YORK, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Affiliate Credo, a financial content publisher based in New York, has released its annual research summary analyzing key developments in the U.S. Gold IRA industry for 2025. This report offers insights into notable players in the physical asset retirement market and highlights general market characteristics observed in the self-directed retirement industry.

    The 2025 research emphasizes transparency, educational support, and service accessibility as primary factors influencing consumer engagement with Gold IRA companies.

    Key Highlights from the 2025 Research Report

    Each company mentioned below offers its own free Gold IRA Kit with educational materials. You can request it directly on their website to learn more about their services.

    This research aims to provide consumers with an overview of popular companies currently active in the Gold IRA space and to support broader financial literacy in retirement planning.

    About Affiliate Credo
    Affiliate Credo is a New York–based financial content publisher specializing in retirement research, educational materials, and comparative analysis across investment-related products. The platform is committed to improving access to clear and unbiased information that helps Americans make well-informed financial decisions.

    Media Contact:
    Affiliate Credo
    New York, USA
    Email: hennadii.kamentsov@affiliatecredo.com
    Website: https://affiliatecredo.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/97f705ce-3625-41bd-9be4-5e79386f9367

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Secures Funding to Strengthen Public Safety, Michigan Manufacturing, and Great Lakes Protections in Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped secure funding in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act to fund Michigan priorities, high-impact local projects, and federal programs that support manufacturing, our environment and Great Lakes, public safety, law enforcement, and cutting-edge research.

    “This bipartisan legislation advances critical projects in Michigan and across the country,” said Senator Peters. “The bill makes needed investments to strengthen public safety, support local law enforcement, and boost Michigan’s economic competitiveness. It will also help safeguard our state’s precious natural resources and the Great Lakes for future generations. I’m proud to have helped secure this funding and will keep working to get it across the finish line.”

    Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is considering their own funding bills. The Senate and House will then need to reach an agreement on a final funding bill and have it pass both chambers before being sent to the President to be signed into law.

    The bill includes numerous measures led and supported by Peters, including:

    Strengthening Michigan’s Manufacturing Sector

    Preventing Illegal Trump Administration Cuts to Manufacturing Programs: The bill included language Senator Peters authored to prevent the Department of Commerce from unilaterally defunding or withdrawing contracts from Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Programs – like the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center. The bill also includes $175 million for the MEP program despite the Trump Administration’s budget proposal to eliminate it. This program helps small and medium manufacturers grow their business, integrate advanced manufacturing techniques and technology, and works to strengthen our domestic manufacturing supply chain. For every dollar of federal investment, MEP generates $24.60 in new sales growth for manufacturers and $27.50 in new investment. This translates into $4.3 billion in new sales annually. In 2024, the Michigan Manufacturing Tech Center estimated they helped 584 businesses produce over $150 million in sales growth and over $100 million in investments. For every $1 of a company’s investment, the Center returns $18 in financial returns.

    Addressing Unfair Chinese Trade Practices: Peters secured language in the bill recognizing that non-allied nations like China are becoming large global exporters of electric vehicles and underscoring a concern that these electric vehicles will soon flood the U.S. market. Some Chinese motor vehicle producers are seeking to establish manufacturing plants in Mexico and other strategic locations to sidestep U.S. tariffs. Peters’ provision in the bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with other relevant departments and agencies, to examine non-allied nations’ non-market policies and practices related to electric vehicles, including policies that prevent U.S auto manufacturers from competing in their markets on a level playing field.

    USMCA: In the summer of 2026, the United States’ trade agreement with Mexico and Canada will undergo a mandatory review period. Peters secured language directing the Office of the United States Trade Representative to pursue changes to the agreement that will improve the agreement’s labor standards, prevent China from taking advantage of it, and onshore more manufacturing jobs throughout the United States, including Michigan.

    National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): The bill invests heavily in the National Institute of Standards and Technology. These resources will help NIST advance research in cutting-edge fields like carbon dioxide removal, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, and cybersecurity. NIST will also develop standards, tools, and tests to help ensure AI systems operate safely.

    Making Michigan Communities Safer

    PAWS Act: Peters secured $3 million in the Fiscal Year 2026?Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program, which was established by Peters’ Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act. The grant program, administered by the Department of Justice, provides emergency and transitional shelter options for domestic violence survivors with companion animals. Peters secured language in the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act encouraging the Department of Justice to continue providing robust funding for grants under the program.

    Project Safe Neighborhood: Peters secured funding in the bill for the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative – a nationwide law enforcement program that uses evidence-based and data-driven approaches to reduce violent crime. Last Congress, the Senate passed Peters’ bipartisan legislationto reauthorize the Project Safe Neighborhoods program.

    Promoting Community Policing in Oakland County: The bill includes $1 million to modernize Oakland County’s Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information Systems (CLEMIS), which will improve transparency of law enforcement activity and promote community policing.

    Improving Criminal Investigation in Van Buren County: Peters secured $576,000 in the bill for Van Buren County to support purchase of rapid-processing DNA technology, which will reduce a current backlog and enable crimes to be solved more efficiently.

    Purchasing New Patrol Vehicles in Kalamazoo: The bill includes $490,000 to help the City of Kalamazoo upgrade its public safety vehicles, which will allow personnel to respond to service calls safely and efficiently.

    Making Road Patrols Safer in Oakland County: The bill would provide $26,000 for the Oakland County Sherriff’s Office to purchase safety equipment for motorcycle patrol officers.

    Supporting Safe Traffic Stops in Warren: Peters secured $38,000 in the bill to help the City of Warren Police Department purchase new safety equipment to aid officers during traffic stops and investigations.

    Improving the Health of the Great Lakes: The bill includes $1,500,000 for the Great Lakes Commission to improve the health of the Great Lakes. Specifically, funding will help address water quality, nutrient pollution, harmful algal blooms, aquatic invasive species, and coastal management throughout the Great Lakes region.

    Upgrading Police Communications in Marquette: The bill would provide $264,000 for the City of Marquette to purchase new portable radios, which would improve emergency response for Marquette Police Department officers.

    Upgrading Aging Patrol Vehicle Fleet in Houghton: The bill includes $385,000 for the City of Houghton to purchase new police patrol vehicles, helping to improve emergency response throughout the region.

    Bolstering AI Research to Help Small and Medium Sized Manufacturers: Senator Peters secured $2,000,000 in this bill to support Michigan Tech’s research into and deployment of AI standards and practices that would help boost small and medium manufacturers in Michigan.

    Westland Police Technology Update: The bill also includes $100,000 to upgrade aging computer systems in police squad cars in Westland.

    Preventing Violence Against Women: The bill contains increased funding for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and its lifesaving programs. Grants from OVW programs support training for police officers, state domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions, rape prevention programs, homicide reduction initiatives, domestic violence hotlines, women’s shelters, transitional housing, and rural support services. In addition, Peters secured language in the bill directing the Department of Justice to develop best practices, in consultation with Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) community-based organizations, for the investigation and prosecution of violence against MENA women.

    Improving Police-Community Relations: The bill provides funding for State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance and Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office grant programs which aim to strengthen police-community relations.

    Addressing Substance Use Disorder in Our Communities: The bill provides significant funding to help our communities and first responders address substance use disorders, including opioids, and to address drug trafficking.

    Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program: Peters helped secure funding for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. This program is critical to thousands of abused or neglected children who have highly trained and extremely dedicated advocates appointed on their behalf, and to child victims who are still waiting for the presence of a consistent, caring adult to speak for their best interests in the courtroom and in the community. This funding will help improve outcomes for every abused and neglected child, as was the intention of Congress when it enacted the Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990.

    Investing in Sustainable Solutions to Protect Michigan’s Environment, Natural Resources

    Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory: The bill provides funding for the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab (GLERL), which studies the dynamic environments and ecosystems of the Great Lakes. The work produced and shared by GLERL informs local decisions for safe and sustainable resource management throughout the Great Lakes Basin. GLERL research also plays a crucial role in the work carried out by the Coast Guard’s Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response in Sault Ste Marie. Peters secured language in the bill recognizing the importance of continued support for the work of the Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response, which examines the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and develops effective responses. Peters-led efforts made the Great Lakes Center of Expertise a reality. Peters authored and passed legislation into law establishing the Great Lakes Center of Expertise in 2018, and then successfully secured $4.5 million in total to kick-start the initiative the following year. Peters then announced the Great Lakes Center of Expertise will be headquartered in two Michigan locations to maximize research and operational capabilities. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters has continued to secure funding to support the Center’s work.

    Great Lakes Monitoring: The U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) is the nation’s premier ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes observing program. The bill provides funding to fill critical gaps in our nation’s ocean and Great Lakes observation infrastructure. It will also ensure the availability of coastal data to inform management decisions on oil spill planning and response, navigation safety, fisheries management, and harmful algal blooms.

    Addressing Harmful Algal Blooms: The bill supports the National Ocean Service’s research on harmful algal blooms (HABs). This funding is vital to preserving the health of the Great Lakes, which provide drinking water to more than 40 million people; support a $16 billion recreational boating industry; and draw 37 million anglers, hunters, and bird watchers each year. HABs, which produce toxic or harmful effects on people and wildlife, have been reported in the Great Lakes and in every U.S. coastal state. According to NOAA, their occurrence may be on the rise.

    Coastal Zone Management Grants: This bill provides much-needed funding for NOAA’s Coastal Zone Management Program, which provides grants to states with approved coastal zone management plans for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of coastal zone areas, including those in the Great Lakes region. All eight Great Lakes states have active Coastal Zone Management programs committed to preserving the health of the Lakes and the $6 trillion regional economy they help sustain. This unique program is essential to the economic and ecological importance of our coastlines and Great Lakes shorelines while supporting state and local efforts to address critical management issues such as coastal hazards, habitat, and water quality.

    Marine Debris Program: The NOAA Marine Debris Program is a joint effort that supports national and international efforts to prevent, identify, and reduce the occurrence of marine debris. The program leverages resources from state and local agencies, tribes, non-governmental organizations, academia, and industry for innovative research, outreach, and education initiatives. This bill provides funding to allow this important work to continue.

    Improving the Census Process to Ensure Michigan Communities Are Accurately Represented

    Census Bureau: The bill provides funding for the U.S. Census Bureau, however, it provides less funding than is required to meet the needs of the upcoming 2030 decennial census. The census and other key federal surveys are tied to important outcomes for communities in Michigan and across the country, including federal resources for education, health care and infrastructure. The resources allocated by this bill will give the Census Bureau the tools it needs to prepare for the 2030 Census, produce critical economic data, and ensure the public can access high-quality data that keeps pace with the needs of our nation. This funding is essential to ensuring the Bureau does not fall behind on crucial preparations and can control long-term costs. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where Peters serves as Ranking Member, is responsible for conducting oversight of the Census Bureau. Peters previously convened a hearing in downtown Detroit to examine impacts of the 2020 Census on Michigan. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 with senior federal officials to examine how lawmakers can work to improve operations at the Census Bureau. Peters has also pressed the Census Bureau to ensure it addresses 2020 Census undercounts and improves annual population data.

    Investing in Science, Innovation, and the STEM Workforce

    Michigan Technological University AI Program: Peters secured $2.5 million in funding from the Safe and Secure AI Manufacturing Implementation Program for Michigan Technological University to support research into and deployment of AI standards and practices to support small and medium manufacturers.

    National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): The bill provides continued funding for key NASA science and STEM education programs that support cutting edge research and scholarships at Michigan’s Universities. The STEM education programs also strengthen our aerospace workforce pipeline. These programs were partially eliminated under the Trump Administration’s budget request.,

    Fully Fund the Artemis Space Mission: This bill includes full funding that Senator Peters’ championed for the Artemis Mission, which is set to take the United States back to the Moon as well as, eventually, to Mars. This mission was partially eliminated under the Trump budget proposal. The Artemis program is supported by Michigan Aerospace manufacturers and one of the astronauts participating in the upcoming Artemis III mission is a Michigander, Christina Koch.

    National Science Foundation: Senator Peters helped secure $9 billion in funding for the National Science Foundation. This level of funding avoids the catastrophic 55% cut proposed by the Trump Administration, which would have devastated U.S. scientific and STEM leadership, and harmed Michigan’s research institutions’ ability to continue to do cutting edge research.

    Implementation of Peters’ PROSWIFT Act: Peters secured funding for the pilot program Peters created through his Promoting Research and Observations of Space Weather to Improve the Forecasting of Tomorrow (PROSWIFT) Act. The program aims to strengthen our nation’s ability to predict severe space weather events and mitigate their harmful impacts on Earth – work being spearheaded at Michigan’s own Universities.

    Improving Access to Reentry: Peters secured language in the bill directing Residential Reentry Centers, where individuals often go between prison and full return to their communities, to better collect ID-related data. A 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that opportunities exist to better assist incarcerated people with obtaining ID documents prior to release. Peters’ language requires an assessment from BOP regarding the feasibility of contracting with additional state DMVs to provide identification document services to qualifying individuals prior to release.

    National Marine Fisheries Services – Studying PFAS in Fish: The bill recognizes the threat posed by the concentration of PFAS detected in fish tissue. The bill directs NOAA to conduct fish tissue sampling and monitoring of PFAS to evaluate the impacts on aquatic health.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Moore Amendment Restores Funding for Appalachian Regional Commission in Annual Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Last night, Congressman Riley M. Moore’s amendment to restore critical funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was adopted by the full House Appropriations Committee. This important regional commission, which provides vital resources for West Virginia, receives its funding from the annual Energy and Water Development appropriations bill.

    Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

    “I’m thrilled my amendment to restore critical funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission passed the House Appropriations Committee last night. ARC is an invaluable resource for West Virginia that creates jobs, combats addiction, trains our workforce, and improves our state’s infrastructure.

    “I will always fight for West Virginia and will always ensure Appalachia’s voice is heard in Congress.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Annual Defense Funding Bill, Rep. Moore Votes “Yes”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Early this morning, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Congressman Riley M. Moore, who is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted “Yes” on the bill.

    The legislation provides $831.5 billion for annual military expenses, including operations and maintenance; personnel; procurement; and research, development, test, and evaluation.

    Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

    “This defense funding bill makes critical investments to rebuild our military and prioritizes lethality after years of distraction with extreme left-wing ideology. I was proud to vote ‘Yes.’

    “The legislation ensures a 21st-century military by modernizing our nuclear triad, investing in hypersonics, propping up the Golden Dome, and developing the next generation of fighter aircraft. It also supports our troops by providing a 3.8% pay raise for all military personnel.

    “Our bill supports President Trump’s broader strategic vision of peace through strength. With it, we’re sending a clear message to our adversaries abroad: the days of prioritizing DEI trainings, drag queen shows on ships, transgender surgeries for troops, and funding abortion-related travel are over. From here on out, our sole focus is warfighting.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Carter Brings Jobs, Opportunities to GA-01 Through Key Defense Appropriations Wins

    Washington, July 18, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week secured wins for Georgia’s First Congressional District (GA-01) in the Department of Defense Appropriations Act of 2025, investing in key improvements for our nation’s defense readiness and strengthening the local economy. 

    “When GA-01’s military and economy are strong, the entire region benefits. I am proud to have brought critical funding home for our district, ensuring our bases remain among the best and most prepared in the nation while also supplying jobs and opportunities for servicemembers and civilians alike. With these funds, we will cement our district’s leadership in providing for our nation’s defense,” said Rep. Carter.                    

    Combined, these funds will benefit the GA-01 by providing jobs, stimulating the economy by supporting local businesses, and strengthening our military operations. 

    Specifically, this funding included: 

    • $474 million for the Compass Call Aircraft, procured through Gulfstream; 
    • Full funding for two Virginia-class submarines at Kings Bay Naval Base; 
    • Full funding for one Columbia-class submarine at Kings Bay Naval Base; and, 
    • $10 million for Infantry Support Weapons, procured through Daniel Defense.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stay Cool: NASA Tests Innovative Technique for Super Cold Fuel Storage

    Source: NASA

    In the vacuum of space, where temperatures can plunge to minus 455 degrees Fahrenheit, it might seem like keeping things cold would be easy. But the reality is more complex for preserving ultra-cold fluid propellants – or fuel – that can easily overheat from onboard systems, solar radiation, and spacecraft exhaust. The solution is a method called cryogenic fluid management, a suite of technologies that stores, transfers, and measures super cold fluids for the surface of the Moon, Mars, and future long-duration spaceflight missions.
    Super cold, or cryogenic, fluids like liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen are the most common propellants for space exploration. Despite its chilling environment, space has a “hot” effect on these propellants because of their low boiling points – about minus 424 degrees Fahrenheit for liquid hydrogen and about minus 298 for liquid oxygen – putting them at risk of boiloff.
    In a first-of-its-kind demonstration, teams at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, are testing an innovative approach to achieve zero boiloff storage of liquid hydrogen using two stages of active cooling which could prevent the loss of valuable propellant.
    “Technologies for reducing propellant loss must be implemented for successful long-duration missions to deep space like the Moon and Mars,” said Kathy Henkel, acting manager of NASA’s Cryogenic Fluid Management Portfolio Project, based at NASA Marshall. “Two-stage cooling prevents propellant loss and successfully allows for long-term storage of propellants whether in transit or on the surface of a planetary body.”
    The new technique, known as “tube on tank” cooling, integrates two cryocoolers, or cooling devices, to keep propellant cold and thwart multiple heat sources. Helium, chilled to about minus 424 degrees Fahrenheit, circulates through tubes attached to the outer wall of the propellant tank.

    Teams installed the propellant tank in a test stand at NASA Marshall in early June, and the 90-day test campaign is scheduled to conclude in September. The tank is wrapped in a multi-layer insulation blanket that includes a thin aluminum heat shield fitted between layers. A second set of tubes, carrying helium at about minus 298 Fahrenheit, is integrated into the shield. This intermediate cooling layer intercepts and rejects incoming heat before it reaches the tank, easing the heat load on the tube-on-tank system.
    To prevent dangerous pressure buildup in the propellant tank in current spaceflight systems, boiloff vapors must be vented, resulting in the loss of valuable fuel. Eliminating such propellant losses is crucial to the success of NASA’s most ambitious missions, including future crewed journeys to Mars, which will require storing large amounts of cryogenic propellant in space for months or even years. So far, cryogenic fuels have only been used for missions lasting less than a week.  
    “To go to Mars and have a sustainable presence, you need to preserve cryogens for use as rocket or lander return propellant,” Henkel said. “Rockets currently control their propellant through margin, where larger tanks are designed to hold more propellant than what is needed for a mission. Propellant loss isn’t an issue with short trips because the loss is factored into this margin. But, human exploration missions to Mars or longer stays at the Moon will require a different approach because of the very large tanks that would be needed.”
    The Cryogenic Fluid Management Portfolio Project is a cross-agency team based at NASA Marshall and the agency’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. The cryogenic portfolio’s work is under NASA’s Technology Demonstration Missions Program, part of NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, and is comprised of more than 20 individual technology development activities.
    Learn more about cryogenic fluid management:
    https://go.nasa.gov/cfm

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA-Derived Textiles are Touring France by Bike

    Source: NASA

    During the Tour de France, athletes have to maintain a constant speed while bike riding for dozens of miles through cold rains and summer heat. These cyclists need gear that adapts to the different environments they encounter. One company is using a material with NASA origins to ensure these athletes stay comfortable while taking their grand tours.
    Phase-change materials use basic properties of matter to maintain a steady temperature. When a substance melts from a solid to a liquid, the material absorbs heat, and when it becomes solid again, it releases that heat. In the 1980s, Triangle Research Corporation received a NASA Small Business Innovation Research award to explore how phase-change materials could be incorporated into textiles to control temperatures in spacesuit gloves. By placing phase-change materials in small capsules woven throughout a textile, these temperature-regulating properties can be tuned to the comfort of the human body. While these textiles weren’t incorporated into any gloves flown on NASA missions, they formed the basis for a new product, sold under the name Outlast.
    Outlast has since become one of the most widely distributed temperature-regulating fabrics, found in products such as bedding, loungewear, and office chairs. It has seen especially extensive use in activewear, ranging from jogging clothes to professional sports gear. 
    Founded in 2001 and based in Fréjus, France, the company Ekoï makes clothing and accessories for cyclists, particularly those who bike competitively. The company first encountered Outlast at the Performance Days fabric trade fair in Munich, Germany, and was impressed with its capabilities as well as its NASA heritage.
    “When you say NASA, it’s always impressive.” said Celine Milan, director of textiles at Ekoï. “At the beginning we were even saying in here in our offices, ‘Wow, this technology was developed by NASA.’ It’s on another level.”
    Ekoi’s Outlast line officially launched in July 2022, during that year’s Tour de France. Over the course of that race, the company found it improved cyclists’ performance in the event’s mountain stages, where elevation changes mean wide swings in temperature. It also improved athletes’ aerodynamics, as their jerseys could stay closed in warmer environments, rather than opening them to let in wind.
    Today, Ekoï sells several products that incorporate Outlast materials, including jerseys, gloves, and socks. These products are internationally known for their NASA heritage. Whether engineering for astronaut’s comfort in space or competitive athletes, NASA aims for excellence. 
    Learn more about NASA’s Spinoff Technologies: https://spinoff.nasa.gov/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: San Saba County Disaster Recovery Center Opens July 19

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: San Saba County Disaster Recovery Center Opens July 19

    San Saba County Disaster Recovery Center Opens July 19

    AUSTIN, Texas – A Disaster Recovery Center will open Saturday, July 19, in San Saba County to offer face-to-face help to survivors who had damage or losses from the severe storms and flooding in Central Texas

    Homeowners, renters and eligible non-residents may receive FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance

    Survivors with homeowner’s or renter’s insurance should first file a claim with their insurance company as soon as possible

    If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance

    The Disaster Recovery Center is located at:San Saba Civic Center1190 S Thomas Stewart Dr

    San Saba, TX 76877Hours: 8 am

    to 7 p

    m

    dailyFEMA and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration are supporting the Texas Division of Emergency Management, which is leading efforts to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance

    Center specialists can also identify potential needs and connect survivors with local, state and federal agencies as well as nonprofit organizations and community groups

     Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities and those with access and functional needs

    They are also equipped with assistive technology

    If you need a reasonable accommodation or an American Sign Language interpreter, call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish)

    Here are the ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance:Visit DisasterAssistance

    govUse the FEMA mobile appCall the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

     Lines are open from 6 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    CT daily

    If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service

    Helpline specialists speak many languages

    Press 2 for Spanish

    Visit any Disaster Recovery Center to receive in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find a center close to you, use your ZIP code to search FEMA

    gov/DRC

    For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

     For the latest information about the Texas recovery, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4879

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6
    toan

    nguyen
    Fri, 07/18/2025 – 16:43

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Tennessee April Severe Storms

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Tennessee April Severe Storms

    One Month Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Tennessee April Severe Storms

    Middle and Western Tennesseans who have been affected by April severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding have one month left to apply for FEMA assistance

    Homeowners, renters, students, self-employed, ranchers and farmers in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties who were displaced or have property damage from the April 2-24 storms have until Tuesday, Aug

    19 to submit an application for FEMA assistance

    Money is available for survivors who need help covering uninsured costs for things like rental expenses, home repairs, vehicle damage, medical expenses, moving and storage, and reimbursement for temporary housing

    How to Apply for FEMA AssistanceApply online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions

    Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema

    gov)

    Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | SpanishVideo: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance  | ASL | SpanishDisaster Recovery Center locations:Dyer County: Bogota Community Center, 78 Sandy Lane, Bogota, TN 38007Hours: 8 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Monday-SundayHardeman County: Safehaven Storm Shelter, 530 Madison Ave W

    , Grand Junction, TN 38039Hours: 8 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Monday-SundayMcNairy County: Latta Theatre, 205 W

    Court Ave

    , Selmer, TN 38375Hours: 8 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Monday-SundayMontgomery County: Montgomery County Library, 350 Pageant Lane, Clarksville, TN 37040Hours: 9 a

    m

    –8 p

    m

    CT Monday-Thursday; 9 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Friday-Saturday; 1 p

    m

    –5 p

    m

    CT SundayObion County: Obion County Library, 1221 E

    Reelfoot Ave

    , Union City, TN 38261Hours: 8 a

    m

    –6 p

    m

    CT Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday
    kwei

    nwaogu
    Fri, 07/18/2025 – 13:52

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What You Need to Know About NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 Mission

    Source: NASA

    Four crew members are preparing to launch to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to perform research, technology demonstrations, and maintenance activities aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    During the mission, Crew-11 also will contribute to NASA’s Artemis campaign by simulating Moon landing scenarios that astronauts may encounter near the lunar South Pole, showing how the space station helps prepare crews for deep space human exploration. The simulations will be performed before, during, and after their mission using handheld controllers and multiple screens to identify how changes in gravity affect spatial awareness and astronauts’ ability to pilot spacecraft, like a lunar lander.
    NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov will lift off no earlier than 12:09 p.m. EDT on Thursday, July 31, from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a long-duration mission. The cadre will fly aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, named Endeavour, which previously flew NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2, Crew-2, Crew-6, and Crew-8 missions, as well as private astronaut mission Axiom Mission 1.
    The flight is the 11th crew rotation mission with SpaceX to the space station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Overall, the Crew-11 mission is the 16th crewed Dragon flight to the space station, including Demo-2 in 2020 and 11 operational crew rotations for NASA, as well as four private astronaut missions.
    As support teams progress through Dragon preflight milestones for Crew-11, they also are preparing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster for its third flight. Once all rocket and spacecraft system checkouts are complete and all components are certified for flight, teams will mate Dragon to Falcon 9 in SpaceX’s hangar at the launch site. The integrated spacecraft and rocket will then be rolled to the pad and raised vertically for the crew’s dry dress rehearsal and an integrated static fire test before launch.

    Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2017, Cardman will conduct her first spaceflight. The Williamsburg, Virginia, native holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in marine sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At the time of selection, she was pursuing a doctorate in geosciences. Cardman’s geobiology and geochemical cycling research focused on subsurface environments, from caves to deep sea sediments. Since completing initial training, Cardman has supported real-time station operations and lunar surface exploration planning. Follow @zenanaut on X and @zenanaut on Instagram.
    This mission will be Fincke’s fourth trip to the space station, having logged 382 days in space and nine spacewalks during Expedition 9 in 2004, Expedition 18 in 2008, and STS-134 in 2011, the final flight of space shuttle Endeavour. Throughout the past decade, Fincke has applied his expertise to NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, advancing the development and testing of Dragon and Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft toward operational certification. The Emsworth, Pennsylvania, native is a graduate of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School and holds bachelors’ degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, in both aeronautics and astronautics, as well as Earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences. He also has a master’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University in California. Fincke is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel with more than 2,000 flight hours in over 30 different aircraft. Follow @AstroIronMike on X and Instagram.
    With 142 days in space, this mission will be Yui’s second trip to the space station. After his selection as a JAXA astronaut in 2009, Yui flew as a flight engineer for Expedition 44/45 and became the first Japanese astronaut to capture JAXA’s H-II Transfer Vehicle using the station’s robotic arm. In addition to constructing a new experimental environment aboard Kibo, he conducted a total of 21 experiments for JAXA. In November 2016, Yui was assigned as chief of the JAXA Astronaut Group. He graduated from the School of Science and Engineering at the National Defense Academy of Japan in 1992. He later joined the Air Self-Defense Force at the Japan Defense Agency (currently the Ministry of Defense). In 2008, Yui joined the Air Staff Office at the Ministry of Defense as a lieutenant colonel. Follow @astro_kimiya on X.
    The mission will be Platonov’s first spaceflight. Before his selection as a cosmonaut in 2018, Platonov earned a degree in engineering from Krasnodar Air Force Academy in aircraft operations and air traffic management. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in state and municipal management in 2016 from the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, Russia. Assigned as a test cosmonaut in 2021, he has experience in piloting aircraft, zero gravity training, scuba diving, and wilderness survival.

    Following liftoff, Falcon 9 will accelerate Dragon to approximately 17,500 mph. Once in orbit, the crew, NASA, and SpaceX mission control will monitor a series of maneuvers that will guide Dragon to the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. The spacecraft is designed to dock autonomously, but the crew can pilot it manually, if necessary.
    After docking, Crew-11 will be welcomed aboard the station by the seven-member Expedition 73 crew, before conducting a short handover period on research and maintenance activities with the departing Crew-10 crew members. Then, NASA astronauts Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov will undock from the space station and return to Earth. Ahead of Crew-10’s return, mission teams will review weather conditions at the splashdown sites off the coast of California before departure from the station.
    Cardman, Fincke, and Yui will conduct scientific research to prepare for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and benefit humanity on Earth. Participating crew members will simulate lunar landings, test strategies to safeguard vision, and advance other human spaceflight studies led by NASA’s Human Research Program. The crew also will study plant cell division and microgravity’s effects on bacteria-killing viruses, as well as perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
    While aboard the orbiting laboratory, Crew-11 will welcome a Soyuz spacecraft in November with three new crew members, including NASA astronaut Chris Williams.  They also will bid farewell to the Soyuz carrying NASA astronaut Jonny Kim. The crew also is expected to see the arrival of the Dragon, Roscosmos Progress spacecraft, and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus spacecraft to resupply the station.
    NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission will be aboard the International Space Station on Nov. 2, when the orbiting laboratory surpasses 25 years of a continuous human presence. Since the first crew expedition arrived, the space station has enabled more than 4,000 groundbreaking experiments in the unique microgravity environment, while becoming a springboard for building a low Earth orbit economy and preparing for NASA’s future exploration of the Moon and Mars.
    Learn more about the space station, its research, and crew, at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hubble Digs Up Galactic Time Capsule

    Source: NASA

    This NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image features the field of stars that is NGC 1786. This globular cluster is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), a small satellite galaxy of the Milky Way Galaxy that is approximately 160,000 light-years away from Earth. NGC 1786 itself is in the constellation Dorado. It was discovered in the year 1835 by Sir John Herschel.
    The data for this image comes from an observing program that compares old globular clusters in nearby dwarf galaxies — the LMC, the Small Magellanic Cloud, and the Fornax dwarf spheroidal galaxy — to globular clusters in the Milky Way galaxy. Our galaxy contains over 150 of these old, spherical collections of tightly-bound stars, which astronomers have studied in depth — especially with Hubble images like this one, which show them in previously unattainable detail. Being very stable and long-lived, globular clusters act as galactic time capsules, preserving stars from the earliest stages of a galaxy’s formation.
    Astronomers once thought that stars in a globular cluster all formed together at about the same time, but the study of old globular clusters in our galaxy uncovered multiple populations of stars with different ages. To use globular clusters as historical markers, we must understand how they form and where these stars of varying ages come from. This observing program examined old globular clusters like NGC 1786 in these external galaxies to see if they, too, contain multiple populations of stars. This research can tell us more about how the LMC originally formed, but also the Milky Way Galaxy, too.
    Text Credit: ESA/Hubble

    Media Contact:
    Claire Andreoli (claire.andreoli@nasa.gov)NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vision Changes on Space Station

    Source: NASA

    When astronauts began spending six months and more aboard the International Space Station, they started to notice changes in their vision. For example, many found that, as their mission progressed, they needed stronger reading glasses. Researchers studying this phenomenon identified swelling in the optic disc, which is where the optic nerve enters the retina, and flattening of the eye shape. These symptoms became known as Space-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS).

    Microgravity causes a person’s blood and cerebrospinal fluid to shift toward the head and studies have suggested that these fluid shifts may be an underlying cause of SANS. A current investigation, Thigh Cuff, examines whether tight leg cuffs change the way fluid moves around inside the body, especially around the eyes and in the heart and blood vessels. If so, the cuffs could serve as a countermeasure against the problems associated with fluid shifts, including SANS. A simple and easy-to-use tool to counter the headward shift of body fluids could help protect astronauts on future missions to the Moon and Mars. The cuffs also could treat conditions on Earth that cause fluid to build up in the head or upper body, such as long-term bed rest and certain diseases.

    The Fluid Shifts investigation, conducted from 2015 through 2020, was the first to reveal changes in how blood drains from the brain in microgravity. Vision Impairment and Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) began testing the role those fluid shifts and resulting increased brain fluid pressure might play in the development of SANS. This research used a variety of measures including clinical eye exams with and without dilatation, imaging of the retina and associated blood vessels and nerves, noninvasive imaging to measure the thickness of retinal structures, and magnetic resonance imaging of the eye and optic nerve. In addition, approximately 300 astronauts completed questionnaires to document vision changes during their missions.
    In one paper published from the research, scientists described how these imaging techniques have improved the understanding of SANS. The authors summarized emerging research on developing a head-mounted virtual reality display that can conduct multimodal, noninvasive assessment to help diagnose SANS.
    Other researchers determined that measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter shows promise as a way to identify and quantify eye and vision changes during spaceflight. The paper also makes recommendations for standardizing imaging tools, measurement techniques, and other aspects of study design.
    Another paper reported on an individual astronaut who had more severe than usual changes after a six-month spaceflight and certain factors that may have contributed. Researchers also observed improvement in the individual’s symptoms that may have been due to B vitamin supplementation and lower cabin carbon dioxide levels following departure of some crew members. While a single case does not allow researchers to determine cause and effect, the magnitude of the improvements suggest this individual may be more affected by environmental conditions such as carbon dioxide. This may have been the first attempt to mitigate SANS with inflight B vitamin supplementation.

    SANSORI, a CSA (Canadian Space Agency) investigation, used an imaging technique called Optical Coherence Tomography to examine whether reduced stiffness of eye tissue contributes to SANS. On Earth, changes in stiffness of the tissue around the eyeball have been associated with aging and conditions such as glaucoma and myopia. Researchers found that long-duration spaceflight affected the mechanical properties of eye tissues, which could contribute to the development of SANS. This finding could improve understanding of eye changes during spaceflight and in aging patients on Earth.

    The MHU-8 investigation from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), which examined changes in DNA and gene expression in mice after spaceflight, found changes in the optic nerve and retinal tissue. Researchers also found that artificial gravity may reduce these changes and could serve as a countermeasure on future missions.
    These and other studies ultimately could help researchers prevent, diagnose, and treat vision impairment in crew members and people on Earth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Leads States Backing Trump’s Decision to End Racial Discrimination in Federal Contracting

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Leads States Backing Trump’s Decision to End Racial Discrimination in Federal Contracting

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador led a 20-state coalition in filing an amicus brief urging a federal court to approve the Trump Administration’s decision to stop enforcing racial discrimination in federal transportation contracting. The brief, filed in Mid-America Milling Company v. United States Department of Transportation, supports a proposed consent order that would end the federal government’s enforcement of race-based preferences in the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program.
    “The DBE program requires states receiving federal funds to award a certain percent of federal transportation contract dollars to minority and women-owned businesses, regardless of whether those businesses submit the lowest bids,” said Attorney General Labrador. “This federal mandate forces states to sometimes reject the most qualified, cost-effective contractors based solely on the race and gender of business owners, resulting in higher costs for taxpayers. The Trump Administration is right to end this, and Idaho is proud to support them in doing so.”
    In Idaho, this discrimination has proven expensive. Over a recent 44-month period, the DBE program required Idaho’s Transportation Department to reject the lowest bid eight times, wasting $15.2 million in total project costs that could have been spent on other transportation projects. In one example, Idaho was forced to reject a $2.2 million bid and instead accept a $2.7 million bid to meet these federal demographic targets.
    The Mid-America Milling case was originally filed during the Biden Administration, challenging the DBE program as unconstitutional racial discrimination, and the Biden Administration vigorously defended the discriminatory program. After President Trump took office, his Administration reversed course, acknowledging that the program violates the Constitution and agreeing to a consent order that would stop enforcing it. The coalition’s brief urges the court to approve the proposed consent order, arguing that the DBE program violates the Equal Protection Clause.
    The $15.2 million figure represents only cases where the lowest bid was rejected outright. According to an MIT study cited in the brief, the total cost may be significantly higher because DBE requirements artificially inflate most contract prices. The study found that when California ended race-based contracting preferences, state contract costs fell 5.6% compared to federal contracts that still required such preferences.
    Joining Idaho are attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia, along with the Arizona Legislature.
    Read the brief here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine through the U.S. Mail

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for trafficking cocaine.

    Evidence presented in court revealed that in 2021, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating Calderon-Rosado for his involvement in a drug trafficking operation that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship parcels of drugs and drug proceeds. Investigators identified Calderon-Rosado as a significant supplier of cocaine in both the Columbia and Lexington County areas. 

    According to the investigation, Calderon-Rosado regularly shipped large sums of cash to Puerto Rico, and in return, received kilogram quantities of cocaine by mail. Investigators identified two locations associated with Calderon-Rosado that he used for storing and distributing illegal drugs. On July 13 and Oct. 4, 2021, investigators intercepted two suspicious parcels addressed to locations associated with Calderon-Rosado. The first package contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine; the second, more than three kilograms.

    Following the October package, authorities executed an undercover operation involving the second package, and arrested Calderon-Rosado after he took possession of the cocaine. Law enforcement searched both associated addresses and seized more than $30,000 in cash, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, including a kilogram press, multiple stolen firearms, and ammunition. A review of postal and financial records revealed that between April 2020 and November 2023, Calderon-Rosado received over 30 kilograms of cocaine through the mail as part of the trafficking operation.

    United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI Columbia field office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ariyana Gore and Lamar Fyall prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –