NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Veasey, Doggett, Fletcher Lead Texas Democrats in Letter to CDC Condemning Mass Firings and Vaccine Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Veasey, Doggett, Fletcher Lead Texas Democrats in Letter to CDC Condemning Mass Firings and Vaccine Misinformation Amid Measles Outbreak

    Lawmakers demand answers following an unprecedented surge in measles cases across Texas and nationwide, including the death of a Texas child, as DOGE cuts and HHS Secretary vaccine misinformation hinder response efforts.

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Marc Veasey, Lloyd Doggett, and Lizzie Fletcher led Texas Democrats in sending  a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Acting Director Dr. Susan Monarez expressing deep concern over the surging measles outbreak in Texas and across the country. The lawmakers requested an urgent, detailed report on the CDC’s efforts to contain the outbreak, combat vaccine misinformation, and assess the impact of workforce reductions on outbreak response.

    The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has reported 259 confirmed cases of measles, including 34 hospitalizations and the tragic death of an unvaccinated school-aged child. The outbreak has disproportionately impacted school-aged children. 

    “We write to you with deep concern and grave urgency regarding the unprecedented spread of measles across the United States, with Texas at the epicenter of this alarming crisis.” The Representatives wrote. “We are troubled that anti-vaccine misinformation, cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) workforce, and reductions of public health funding will threaten the country’s ability to respond to the current measles outbreak, and future public health threats.” 

    The lawmakers raised alarm over the dangerous spread of anti-vaccine misinformation, including mixed messaging from Health and Human Services (HHS). Notably, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly downplayed the effectiveness of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, falsely suggesting that “natural immunity” from measles infection is preferable, while promoting alternative treatments such as Vitamin A supplements and cod liver oil.

    “Suggesting that children are better off contracting measles during an unprecedented outbreak is not only dangerous, but instills further distrust in the very safe and effective MMR vaccine amongst Americans,” the letter states.

    The lawmakers also condemned the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for mass firings at the CDC, including the layoff of at least 750 public health workers—many of whom were critical to outbreak response efforts. These cuts, along with a shift away from real-time public health data reporting, have significantly weakened the nation’s ability to contain infectious disease outbreaks.

    “With more than 70% of the CDC’s budget supporting state and local health departments, any cuts will have catastrophic consequences,” the lawmakers warned. “The CDC must have the necessary funding and personnel to protect American communities from infectious disease outbreaks.”

    The letter calls on the CDC to provide a detailed briefing on its plans to contain the outbreak, restore public confidence in vaccination, and describe how cuts have impacted the agency’s ability to fulfill its public health mission.

    “The people of Texas, and the entire country, rely on your agency’s leadership to address this outbreak and ensure that no more children suffer preventable harm,” the lawmakers concluded. “We look forward to your prompt response.”

     The complete text of the letter can be read here: 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Supreme Court Ruling, Hoyer Joins Raskin, Colleagues to Demand Trump White House Immediately Return Maryland Man Deported in ‘Error’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:

    “The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’ 

    “In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately. 

    “The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.

    “During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.

    “The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child. 

    “We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”

    “If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement Ahead of U.S. Talks with Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today ahead of the United States’ talks with Iran:

    “As the Trump Administration prepares to enter talks with Iran, it is crucial that we continue to pursue a permanent end to Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the complete dismantlement of its nuclear infrastructure. Whether through these negotiations or alternative means, achieving that objective is absolutely essential to preserving the security of America, our ally Israel, and the world.

    “Any agreement must also end Iran’s malign activities throughout the region, including funding and providing strategic support to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and its other terrorist proxies.  Additionally, the negotiations need to address Iran’s vast drone and ballistic missile arsenal. It is vital that we not allow Iran to use the negotiations to buy time and advance their nuclear program – especially with the window to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran closing imminently. 

    “For decades, Iran has posed a grave threat not only to the region but to the world. America ought to be prepared to do what it takes – diplomatically or otherwise – to achieve these goals and uphold our security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Touts Budget Resolution Passage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke to reporters after the passage of the Budget Resolution. Leader Scalise discussed how today’s vote unlocks the reconciliation process which will allow Republicans to fulfill the mandate voters gave us to cut spending through rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, prevent tax hikes, unleash American energy independence, and secure the border.On House Republicans unifying around the Budget Resolution:“Everybody has been in the room at different stages. Some members had more questions than others. Every member knows, and I’ve been very candid, there’s still a lot of work left to do, but we are including all of our members, from the most conservatives to those in the most swing districts in all of these conversations, because it’s going to take all of us to get it done.“None of these votes are easy, and then the next votes won’t be easy, but they’re all significantly important for the American people. I think if you just keep sight of what the goal is, our goal from the very beginning is to provide relief to families who have been struggling and to get our economy back on track, and deliver on the promises that President Trump and House and Senate Republicans ran on during the campaign, and we’re elected and given a mandate to deliver. We’re now working on those next steps, and we’re going to get this passed because failure is not an option.”On generating savings by rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse:“The beauty is that the committees get to go deal with that. You can find $1.5 trillion and more. Obviously, you saw the press conference this morning. Well, first of all, if you look at just waste, fraud, and abuse in all federal programs, that’s on the table. I think most Americans would tell you, please go root out waste, fraud, and abuse. If any program is stealing money from taxpayers in a way that’s not intended, not even talking about changing eligibility. All of those things are going to be looked at to make the programs work better. Some of these programs do not work well for the people on it. I’ll give you an example, because a lot of lies have been told about disabled people. Medicaid does not work well enough for disabled people. We can make it work better. And part of that is by taking away some of the siphoning off of the program by people that shouldn’t be on it. There are illegals in the hundreds of thousands, at a minimum on Medicaid, taking billions of dollars out of that program, hurting disabled people. So we need to strengthen those programs, and we’re going to be working on that, too.“If you look at some of the other things, Spectrum sales, nobody talks about that. Everybody talks about $880 billion in energy and commerce as if it’s all health care. There’s probably $200 billion in non-health care-related programs before you even start talking about more savings and reforms, things like Spectrum sales. How do you go from 5G networks to 6G? It’s not just some clouds in the sky that you’re dealing with. It’s Spectrum, which is a federal asset that we auction off every few years. Well, it’s been too long. Any of these companies that spend billions of dollars building out networks will tell you we need more Spectrum made available, which means the federal government owns all of that, and we offer it up for sale every few years. We generate tens of billions, if not close to $100 billion for the taxpayers.”On stabilizing the tax code to allow for private investment in the US:“That yields, by the way, billions more private investment. It’s why you get economic growth when you lock in tax rates and make a more sane, common-sense regulatory structure because then you see private investment. I’ve heard these numbers, and you can talk to people in any walk of life in the private sector, in any industry. They will tell you there’s trillions, four, five trillion dollars of money sitting on the sideline not being invested in America now until they see what the tax code looks like. Everybody’s talking about tariffs right now. Most businesses are waiting to see what the tax code will look like before they make major investments. And they will tell you, if we just prevent a tax hike, which, by the way, every Democrat voted today to raise taxes, and they’ve said they wanted the tax rates to go up, we do not. And if we flatline and say no tax increases on American families, that alone will spur trillions of dollars more investment in our economy. You could see 3% GDP growth with the economy, more money in your pockets when you go to the grocery store, when you go to the gas station. But it also gives us, the federal treasury, more money coming in to lower the deficit. “The timeline to get this done is as quick as we can get it done. We’ve said by the end of May.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: Passage of Budget Resolution Starts Implementation of Trump’s Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Yesterday, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke in support of the Budget Resolution before it passed. Leader Scalise outlined how this bill directly accelerates President Trump’s agenda by stopping tax hikes for American workers and small businesses, securing the border, and cutting wasteful spending.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 

    “This country, the American people, 77 million of them went to the polls and said, these are the things we want our President to do, and their President that they voted for is doing those things. But he needs help from this Congress to continue to follow through on that. That’s what passing this bill does. It starts that process.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Foster Votes Against Republicans’ Attempt to Disenfranchise Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued a statement following his vote against the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

    “Today, I voted against Republicans’ attempt to disenfranchise millions of Americans. Republicans claim that the SAVE Act makes it illegal for non-citizens to vote, but federal law already prohibits non-citizens from voting. Instead, this bill imposes unnecessary barriers to voter registration by requiring birth certificates or passports instead of driver’s licenses, state IDs, or military IDs. 

    “This would create a logistical nightmare for millions of voting-eligible citizens—including roughly 69 million women who changed their name after marriage. Under this bill, none of these women would be able to use their birth certificate to prove their citizenship, forcing them to either amend their birth certificate or pay $130 to obtain a passport. 

    “The SAVE Act would also eliminate mail and online voter registration services, instead requiring Americans to present their documentation in person to an election official. This places an unfair burden on the millions of Americans who rely on these services to vote, including members of the military stationed overseas, residents of rural communities, and seniors.

    “To maintain fair and secure elections, we need to protect voting rights—not create additional barriers for eligible U.S. citizens. I will continue to fight against these attacks on our democracy and work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure equal access to the ballot box.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Maxine Waters Slams Trump & Musk Mission to Dismantle Social Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) issued the following statement as Donald Trump and Elon Musk dismantles the Social Security Administration’s infrastructure: 

    “Donald Trump claimed he would not cut Social Security. He’s lying. The same gangster tactics Donald Trump and Elon Musk have used to disrupt other federal agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Education, are now being aimed at Social Security Administration (SSA). Musk has proposed slashing 7,000 employees and closing field offices across the country — jeopardizing access to critical services. As a result of DOGE infiltrating the agency, retirees are struggling to access their accounts, phone lines are jammed, and the Social Security website is frequently crashing. 

    “Let me be clear: this has absolutely nothing to do with improving efficiency. It’s sabotage. Trump and Musk have devised a plan they claim will eliminate “waste and fraud” within the agency. However, they have not provided any legitimate evidence of widespread fraud. In fact, this agency is one of the most efficiently run agencies in government. This is nothing more than an excuse to fully dismantle the agency. 

    “70 million retirees, widows, children, and disabled workers — including over 98,000 in my district — rely on Social Security as a lifeline to pay for food, medicine, and other essentials. Trump is putting them in a position where many will be waiting for Social Security checks that may be delayed or never arrive. Where many seniors will have to choose between putting food on the table and getting their medications.

    “I refuse to stand by while Trump and Co-President Musk destroy our country. We must protect Social Security at all costs.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Maxine Waters Sends Letter to Secretary Kennedy Demanding Answers on Reported Elimination of HIV Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) sent a letter to the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding answers regarding the reported complete elimination of $700 million in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funding for HIV prevention.

    In the letter, Congresswoman Waters slams the agency’s drastic and irresponsible actions that would have catastrophic consequences for public health, including critical prevention and screening services in our battle against HIV/AIDS. 

    “This decision is not just reckless — it is deadly. By eliminating HIV prevention funding, lives will be lost. People who rely on outreach programs for testing will go undiagnosed. Individuals who depend on prevention services will be left unprotected. Health systems that have worked tirelessly to combat this epidemic will be overwhelmed with preventable cases. This is an unconscionable abdication of responsibility by the federal government,” wrote Congresswoman Waters.

    “NMAC is deeply grateful to Congresswoman Waters for her unwavering commitment to protecting HIV funding. The proposed cuts to HIV prevention would be catastrophic, threatening decades of progress in the fight against HIV. The community is deeply concerned by these potential reductions, but we take solace in knowing that Congresswoman Waters is on the frontlines, fiercely advocating for these critical resources,” said Harold Phillips, Deputy Director of Programs for NMAC.

    Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Calvert Votes to Advance Process Protecting Americans from Huge Tax Increases

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42)

    Today, Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) voted along with a majority (216 to 214) of the House of Representatives to pass the Senate Amendment to H. Con. Res. 14 – the FY25 Budget Resolution. The passage of the resolution activates the budget reconciliation process, which will allow subsequent tax and spending legislation to be passed by a simple majority vote in the Senate.
     
    “Today’s vote moves us one step closer to preventing a massive tax increase on American families and job creators,” said Rep. Calvert. “The last thing Riverside County families can afford is a huge tax increase, which is exactly what will happen if Congress fails to extend the tax cuts that are expiring this year. In addition to increasing disposable income, Republicans intend to use the reconciliation process to enhance our national security by providing critical resources to equip our military and secure the southern border. Democrats who want to raise taxes on families and oppose our efforts to secure the border continue to lie and mislead Americans about this budget process. Let me be crystal clear – nothing approved by the House today changes any benefits for our safety net programs, including Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans’ benefits.”

     
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REPS. KHANNA, TLAIB, AND LEE INTRODUCE THE DRAIN THE SWAMP ACT TO REINSTATE KEY WHITE HOUSE ETHICS RULES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Summer Lee (PA-12), introduced the Drain the Swamp Act, that includes bans on lobbying activities for former government officials and reinstates cooling-off periods and merit-based hiring requirements. 

    When President Trump returned to office, he rescinded key ethics rules that had been established by President Biden through executive order. These included restrictions on gifts from lobbyists and rules designed to reduce conflicts of interest. Nearly 70% of Americans view corruption as a major issue in the federal government. The Drain the Swamp Act is a response to this rollback, aiming to rebuild public trust and enshrine these ethics provisions into law so they cannot be undone by future executive actions.  

    “President Trump promised to drain the swamp, yet one of the first things he did in office was reverse President Biden’s executive order that banned White House officials from accepting gifts from lobbyists. The American people should feel confident that administration officials are working for them, not for special interests. Today, I’m introducing the Drain the Swamp Act to reestablish key ethics rules, including a ban on White House officials accepting gifts from lobbyists, not just for this administration, but for all administrations going forward,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. 

    “The American people are sick and tired of watching corporate lobbyists and political insiders trade public service for private gain while our communities are still fighting for the basics like housing, health care, clean air, safe schools, fair wages, and clean drinking water,” said Rep. Lee. “This bill is about putting people first and making sure our government answers to the people — not to the highest bidder, and not to the biggest check. If we’re serious about justice, about democracy, about restoring trust in our institutions, then we have to start by cleaning up the corruption that’s been allowed to rot it from the inside. Our communities deserve leaders who serve them — not themselves. We’re not here to protect power. We’re here to shift it back where it belongs: with the people,” said Rep. Summer Lee. 

    “In the Trump Administration, self-dealing and pay-to-play are not a bug, they’re a feature. Since being sworn in, Donald Trump has signed more than 110 executive orders, but the only action he’s taken on anti-corruption and lobbyist restrictions is to repeal them.  Public Citizen strongly supports this bill to put back in place the ban on gifts from lobbyists to presidential appointees, limits on the revolving door between lobbying and government, and strong ethics enforcement to ensure that our government serves the needs of the American people rather than enriching lobbyists, cronies, and corrupt officials,” said Jon Golinger, Democracy Advocate with Public Citizen.

    “Every day, we see new examples of how Donald Trump and his cronies are dismantling safeguards meant to protect our democracy – dissolving ethics rules on the executive branch and handing power over to billionaire donors. The Drain the Swamp Act codifies White House ethics rules that used to be standard practice, preventing any president from erasing them with the stroke of a pen. Nearly 7 out of 10 Americans believe corruption in our government is a critical issue. Without these ethics protections, we open the door to backroom deals, conflicts of interest, and corruption. We are grateful to Representatives Khanna, Tlaib, and Lee for leading this important legislative effort to restore ethics in the Oval Office,” said Brett Edkins, Managing Director, Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America. 

    “We are witnessing an unprecedented and dangerous unraveling of ethics rules and norms in an effort to profit off the presidency. We need meaningful guardrails to ensure the White House is never for sale. The Drain the Swamp Act codifies key ethics standards followed by previous administrations, like banning gifts from lobbyists and establishing cooling-off periods to curb the revolving door between industry and government. These are common-sense reforms to prevent corruption and safeguard our democracy. CREW applauds Rep. Khanna for his leadership on this issue and urges Congress to pass this bill without delay,” said Debra Perlin, Vice President for Policy of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). 

    The Drain the Swamp Act codifies previous White House ethics rules, preventing any president from weakening them through executive action. Specifically, the bill will:

    • Lobbyist Gift Ban: Prohibits appointees from accepting gifts from registered lobbyists or lobbying organizations.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Entering Government: Appointees cannot participate in matters related to former employers or clients for two years.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Former Lobbyists & Foreign Agents: Prohibits former lobbyists or foreign agents from working on issues they previously lobbied on or within agencies they lobbied for two years before appointment.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Leaving Government: Former appointees must adhere to a two-year cooling-off period restricting agency communications.
    • Senior & Very Senior Officials Ban: Senior officials cannot assist lobbying efforts for one year after leaving government.
    • Lobbying Ban – Post-Government Service: Appointees cannot lobby executive branch officials or foreign entities for the remainder of the administration or two years post-service, whichever is longer.
    • Golden Parachute Ban: Prohibits appointees from accepting special payments or benefits from former employers as incentives for entering government service.
    • Merit-Based Hiring Commitment: Ensures hiring decisions are based on qualifications, competence, and experience—not political connections.

    For the full text of the bill, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi and Calvert Introduce the Bipartisan Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives John Garamendi (CA-08) and Ken Calvert (CA-41) introduced the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act,” which would help permanently conserve privately owned working forestlands. They are joined by U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Josh Harder (CA-09), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01).

    The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.2771) would give States the option to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal funding from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program.

    “As the former Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. Federal and state governments can, and must, do a better job of working with private landowners who want to conserve their land, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock millions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands, create good-paying jobs, and support sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi.

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will provide new tools to help achieve our conservation, forest management, and economic goals. This bipartisan bill is an important step in strengthening partnerships between private landowners and public stakeholders interested in conserving forestlands,” said Congressman Calvert. 

    “We applaud Congressmen Calvert and Garamendi for introducing this bill.  This commonsense, practical, no-cost enhancement to the Forest Legacy Program will make it easier for private landowners and states to fulfill their goals of voluntarily conserving working forestlands for all their public benefits while maintaining private ownership. The flexibility provided in this bill will help many states, like California, Oregon, and Washington, leverage private-public partnerships to get better outcomes while saving money and resources,” said Laurie Wayburn, Pacific Forest Trust President. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help permanently conserve more land by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” would save states money and time, increasing the impact and reach of the Forest Legacy Program.

    Endorsements: Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association, Pacific Forest Trust, California Rangeland Trust, North Coast Land Conservancy, American River Conservancy, Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, Georgia-Alabama Land Trust, Northeast Wilderness Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Oregon Agricultural Trust, Placer Land Trust, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Natural Lands, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Forest Society of Maine, Lookout Mountain Conservancy, Saratoga PLAN.

    Garamendi previously served on the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources (2011-2012) and the Committee on Agriculture (2012-2014), which oversee both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest System. Garamendi served as the first Deputy Secretary of the Interior from 1995 to 1998 during the Clinton Administration. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Davids Fights to Restore Manufacturing Support Slashed by Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    In case you missed it, the Kansas City Star reported on Representative Sharice Davids’ new legislation to reverse devastating cuts made by the Trump administration to Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS), a nonprofit that supports hundreds of Kansas manufacturers, including more than 500 in Kansas’ Third District alone.

    The decision to cut the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) contract — despite bipartisan support for bolstering domestic manufacturing — has already forced KMS to lay off over half its staff and threatens Kansas’ manufacturing ecosystem at a time of rising economic uncertainty and global supply chain challenges. 

    Davids’ bill, the Defend American Manufacturing Act, would ensure future MEP contracts are renewed and shield the program from politically motivated cuts, helping small and medium-sized manufacturers access the support they need to expand, improve operations, and create good-paying jobs.

    Read more in the Kansas City Star: Trump cut help for Kansas manufacturers. Sharice Davids wants to restore funds

    “KMS had been a part of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, a nationwide federal program run by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The institute, housed in the U.S. Department of Commerce, chose not to renew MEP contracts in Kansas and nine other states with program agreements that ended on March 31. 

    The non-renewals come even as Trump and his allies publicly emphasize the importance of American manufacturing and luring manufacturers into the country from overseas.

    […]

    ‘It was really a gut punch,’ Stovall said in an interview, adding later that tariffs don’t work without a strong manufacturing base to meet demand. ‘Cutting MEP now is like building a runway and then grounding the plane.’ 

    Rep. Sharice Davids, a Democrat who represents the Kansas 3rd Congressional District, will introduce legislation on Thursday to effectively reverse the cuts.

    […]

    Davids, who represents southern Wyandotte County, Johnson County and rural areas southwest of the Kansas City metro, said the measure, called the Defend American Manufacturing Act, would free the program’s funding from politically-motivated decision making. 

    ‘I’m very frustrated right now, actually, about this because we’re at this time where people are dealing with supply chain issues. By the hour, the economic uncertainty seems to grow,’ Davids told The Star in an interview on Tuesday. 

    ‘And I will say that having a president literally say he’s focused on bringing more manufacturing home to the United States, while nearly simultaneously imposing these tariffs, announcing these tariffs – this is an example of a politician saying one thing and doing another.’ 

    […]

    Roughly 4,400 manufacturers operate in Kansas, and 84% are owned by small and medium-sized enterprises, according to KMS’ 2024 annual report. Those small and medium-sized businesses represent the nonprofit’s target client – businesses who want assistance but aren’t large enough to afford high-end consulting. Kansas manufacturers employ some 173,000 people statewide, including over 30,000 in the 3rd District. 

    […]

    ‘Nationally, part of the point of the tariffs is to, in fact, drive more manufacturing back into the U.S.,’ Kindle said. ‘But if we tear down the structures that help make that happen, then it’s not helpful. We’re not going to have the result we anticipated if we aren’t ready when those companies come knocking.’ 

    […]

    The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, in a 2023 report, recommended privatizing the Manufacturing Extension Partnership. While Trump sought to distance himself from Project 2025 during his most recent campaign, his administration has taken steps to implement a number of its recommendations. 

    […]

    Davids said KMS acts as ‘boots on the ground’ patterns for small and medium-sized manufacturers. The businesses were already dealing with economic uncertainty. But the federal decision to cut the Manufacturing Extension Partnership was ‘absolutely the rug being pulled out from under them.’ 

    Davids’ legislation faces an uncertain future in the Republican-controlled U.S. House. Davids said she plans to seek Republican support, adding that many lawmakers may not yet be aware of the cuts to the MEP program. 

    At a time when cuts to Medicaid are on the table in Congress and significant job losses are possible at the Social Security Administration and other federal agencies, Davids said, “we shouldn’t have to worry about whether Donald Trump is going to continue to support our ability to have a strong economy.’” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Blasts Administration for Using Trade Policy to Enrich Inner Circle

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined her colleagues in expressing serious concerns that the Administration may be using trade policy to enrich the President’s inner circle.

    In a letter to President Trump and top cabinet officials, the Members of Congress noted that Cabinet Members and top officials connected with the Administration are in positions to directly benefit from stock market volatility, while everyday Americans stand to suffer financially. 

    “Our concern stems from the fact that Cabinet Members and top officials connected with the Administration—including members of the President’s family—are in positions to directly benefit from any manipulation of the stock market, while its volatility puts the financial security of everyday Americans at risk,” the Members wrote. “The volatility in the stock market has devastated the financial security of Americans… These are real losses from retirement accounts, 529 college savings plans, and Health Savings Accounts that families depend on for essential expenses.”

    They also raised questions about the President’s choice to post on social media encouraging his followers to buy stocks only hours before reversing his decision to impose sweeping tariffs on America’s trading partners.

    “This sequence of events raises serious concerns about the timing of public communications by the President and the use of executive authority in trade matters,” the Members continued. “The lack of transparency in decision-making—especially when so closely tied to significant market movements—undermines public trust and raises red flags about potential manipulation or self-dealing.”

    The Members also requested information to better understand the role of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in overseeing trade policy decisions. 

    “The appearance that trade announcements or reversals may be timed in coordination with statements that influence markets—even implicitly—warrants immediate and thorough scrutiny,” the Members wrote. “If individuals within the Administration had advanced knowledge of trade actions or reversals and used that information for personal or political gain, such conduct would be deeply troubling —and potentially unlawful.”

    Representative Craig has led the charge to clean up Washington and prohibit Members of Congress from profiting off their service. She recently re-introduced her Halt Unchecked Member Benefits with Lobbying Elimination (HUMBLE) Act, which would ban Members of Congress from owning or trading individual stocks, prohibit the use of taxpayer funds for first-class airline tickets, prevent Members from serving on corporate boards while they are in Congress and eliminate access to Members-only perks for former Members. The bill also includes a new provision to eliminate automatic pay raises for Members of Congress.  

    You can read the full letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Nadler Lead Colleagues in Opposing Attempted Firings of FTC Commissioners, Urging FTC to Address Nationwide Affordability Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) and House Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and 53 of their colleagues sent a letter to President Trump and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Andrew Ferguson strongly opposing Trump’s unlawful attempt to fire Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Slaughter and urging the agency to use its authorities to address the “cost-of-living crisis” and “deliver emergency price relief” to working families. 

    The Members underscore in the letter how the attempted firing of Mr. Bedoya and Ms. Slaughter undermines the Commission’s ability to protect workers and consumers, as they provided crucial votes for cases and investigations that held pharmacy benefit managers accountable for artificially inflating insulin prices and stopped agricultural equipment companies from denying farmers the right to repair their own agricultural equipment. The Commissioners were also instrumental in the FTC’s regulatory efforts to end junk fees, abusive subscription practices, and ban non-compete agreements that limited workers’ employment opportunities.

    “President Trump ran a campaign promising to lower costs of living for working families, but instead he is illegally terminating leaders at the FTC, an independent agency whose mandate could be used to hold predatory corporations accountable, while the prices of food, housing, and services continue to rise,” said Congressman García. “I am proud to have partnered with Ranking Member Nadler on this effort; Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter must be permitted to do their jobs, and the FTC should prioritize workers and consumers, not billionaires.”

    “The illegal attempted firing of Federal Trade Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter is an affront not only to our Constitution but also the economic power of individuals, families, and small businesses across the country. The FTC is the body that ensures we have a fair market and it should not be politicized as President Trump has done. I am proud to join my colleagues in urging the President to reinstate the Commissioners and ensure that the FTC is focused on driving down costs for the American people,” said Ranking Member Nadler.

    “Following the Trump administration’s erratic policymaking and whipsaw tariff announcements, it’s more important than ever that Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter get back to work to lower prices for working Americans that will bear the brunt of any economic fallout,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “In times of economic uncertainty, robust enforcement from the FTC is absolutely necessary to defend the interests of consumers, small businesses, and workers who are already struggling under a cost of living crisis. We’re pleased to join these Members of Congress in urging the administration to get the full Commission back to work as fast as possible.”

    “By illegally trying to fire Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter, President Trump and Andrew Ferguson deliberately hobbled the FTC, one of the government’s most effective defenses against Big Tech and Wall Street abuses,” said Emily Peterson-Cassin, Corporate Power Director at Demand Progress. “Especially now when Americans are worrying about their retirement accounts and the price of household goods, we need a fully functional FTC to look out for Main Street. Chair Ferguson has talked a big game about standing up to the big fish and now is the time to actually use his power to curb corporate abuse and lower costs for everyday Americans.”

    “The out-of-control cost of housing is the number one economic issue facing most Americans and the number one driver of homelessness,” said Jesse Rabinowitz, Communications and Campaign Director at the National Homelessness Law Center. “That’s why it’s crucial to have a functional FTC with Commissioners who are committed to addressing corporate consolidation and other issues in the housing market that are driving up costs for families. When we solve homelessness and make housing affordable for all, we will be a safer, healthier, and more prosperous country.”

    A copy of the letter can be found here.

    Congressmen García and Nadler were joined by 53 colleagues: Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-31), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jimmy Gomez (CA- 34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John B. Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05). 

    The letter is endorsed by: American Economic Liberties Project, Americans For Financial Reform, Center for Digital Democracy, Demand Progress, Groundwork Collaborative, Institute for Local Self-Reliance, National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), National Homelessness Law Center, P Street, and Revolving Door Project.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cleaver Votes Against Budget Resolution that Opens Door to Slashing Medicaid and SNAP, Exploding Deficit to Provide Another Handout to Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against the Republican Budget Resolution that would open the door to slashing essential programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) while exploding the federal deficit to finance another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans. 

    “As Missouri families continue to struggle with the cost of living, as well as the economic chaos created by the president’s reckless tariff policies, my Republican colleagues are laser-focused on passing another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans—paid for by slashing essential programs that working class Americans depend on like Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, and more,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This isn’t just fiscally irresponsible, it’s a dangerous proposal that will drive up the cost of everything from healthcare and housing to groceries and energy, all while exploding the federal deficit.”

    According to estimates, the resolution would increase inflation, with the average American household’s purchasing power over the next five years falling by $300-$1,250. That does not include the average loss of $3,800 for the average American due to the president’s previously announced costly tariff plans.

    The Treasury Department found that the extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would give an average annual tax cut of $32,118 for those in the top 1 percent and an average annual tax cut of $314,266 for those in the top 0.1 percent. Nearly half the net benefit of extending the law would go to the top 5 percent of households, or those making more than $450,000 per year.

    Meanwhile, working families will only receive a few hundred dollars in tax cuts a year while losing access to programs like Medicaid, SNAP, school meals, and more, as well as facing higher costs due to inflationary effects. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the Republican budget previously passed by House Republicans would result in the largest Medicaid cuts in American history—which would be particularly devastating to Missouri.

    In addition to the $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicaid and CHIP, other devastating cuts to federal programs from the Republican budget include at least:

    • $330 billion in cuts targeting student loan programs, income driven repayment, Pell grants, and school meals;
    • $230 billion in cuts threatening nutrition assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
    • $50 billion in cuts that endanger government employee retirement benefits and the federal workforce;
    • $10 billion in cuts to investments in local infrastructure made through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law;
    • $1 billion in cuts that jeopardize the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and federal financial regulators;
    • $1 billion in cuts to clean energy investments made under the Inflation Reduction Act.

    “Rather than pushing an extreme, partisan budget resolution that will take from the most vulnerable in our community and give to those in the top five percent, Congress should be focused on expanding tax cuts for working and middle class families, investing in healthcare and housing programs that will lower costs for Missourians, and ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As Republicans continue to pursue more reckless trickle-down economics, I will do everything in my power to put a stop to these reverse Robin Hood policies.”

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cleaver Votes Against GOP’s SAVE Act That Would Disenfranchise Voters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement ahead of vote on House Republican’s SAVE Act, troubling legislation that would impose harsh voter identification requirements, disenfranchising eligible voters.

    “I am compelled to express my strong opposition to the proposed SAVE Act, which seeks to impose stringent voter identification requirements under the guise of election security. This legislation is yet another example of Republican efforts to disenfranchise eligible voters, specifically women, military members, and minorities.

    “We have already fought these battles. As a nation, we stood up to the poll tax, literacy tests, and other discriminatory practices that sought to silence certain voices at the ballot box. The SAVE Act is a modern echo of those old tactics – dressed in new language, but rooted in the same intent: to make it harder for some Americans to vote. The claim that this legislation is necessary to combat noncitizen voting is not backed by any significant evidence. In fact, studies have shown that voter fraud, especially by noncitizens, is exceedingly rare. What is far more common – and far more dangerous – is the erosion of voting rights through laws like this one that chip away at access under the pretense of security.

    “We should be making it easier, not harder, for Americans to vote. Our democracy is strongest when every eligible citizen has a fair and equal opportunity to make their voice heard. I stand in firm opposition to the SAVE Act and any similar legislation that seeks to impose unnecessary barriers to voting.”

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    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks, Frankel, Shaheen, Schatz Send Letter Objecting to Trump Administration’s Proposed Reorganization of USAID

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Lois Frankel (D-FL), Ranking Member of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State and Related Programs, and U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs, sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio objecting to the Trump Administration’s proposed reorganization of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The lawmakers expressed a willingness to work with the Secretary on reforms but stated concern that the current plan violates federal law, further endangers lifesaving global health and humanitarian programs, overburdens the State Department, and damages U.S. credibility. They urged Secretary Rubio to testify before Congress and commit to a lawful and transparent reform process. 

    “It is critical that the Department of State and USAID undertake any reform or realignment in a transparent manner that adheres to applicable laws so that implementation is effective and sustainable. Unfortunately, that is not how you have pursued reforms and realignment to date, including through this CN. Not only has the process that produced the CN been unlawful, but its implementation would render it impossible for the Administration to lawfully comply with authorizing laws and spending directives enacted in recent appropriations bills and meet other statutory requirements,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    “In addition, we have serious concerns about the legal, financial, and national security risks the proposal will create.  The CN also does not address the proposed process for consolidating USAID operations into the State Department, including the requisite staffing, contracting, vetting, and oversight that would be required to maintain critical USAID programs, including lifesaving humanitarian and global health programs, without interruption.  The concurrent plan to fire all USAID staff — and therefore all expertise — raises further concern about disruptions to lifesaving programs and other critical harm to American workers, businesses, and implementing partners and increases the risk of waste, fraud, and abuse,” continued the lawmakers. 

    “The fundamental goal of any reform effort should be to strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy, including by enhancing our capabilities. As proposed, this plan will overburden the State Department, jeopardize the continuity of programs that save lives and keep Americans safe at home, and further undermine U.S. credibility and reliability. We remain open to working with you on reforms, including reorganization proposals, pending your testimony before our committees on the foreign assistance review and related reorganization, responses to the questions and requests we have sent in prior letters regarding these matters and a demonstrated commitment to a transparent process that protects and advances U.S. national security interests,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    Full text of the letter is provided below. 

    Dear Secretary Rubio:  

    We write to object to the Congressional Notification (CN) submitted to the Appropriations Committees, Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee on March 28, 2025, notifying your intent to undertake a reorganization that would realign or discontinue all functions of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).  

    We do not believe that the State Department, USAID or the broader foreign assistance enterprise should be immune from reform. In fact, we have supported many reform initiatives designed to maximize impact and ensure we have the best diplomatic and development agencies in the world. These efforts have included increasing burden sharing, expanding the implementing partner base, better leveraging the private sector and holding partners more accountable for delivering results and controlling costs, among others.  

    We also recognize that the Trump Administration will have different foreign policy priorities than prior Administrations.  

    However, it is critical that the Department of State and USAID undertake any reform or realignment in a transparent manner that adheres to applicable laws so that implementation is effective and sustainable. Unfortunately, that is not how you have pursued reforms and realignment to date, including through this CN. Not only has the process that produced the CN been unlawful, its implementation would render it impossible for the Administration to comply with authorizing laws and spending directives enacted in recent appropriations bills and meet other statutory requirements.  

    In addition, we have serious concerns about the legal, financial and national security risks the proposal will create. The CN also does not address the proposed process for consolidating USAID operations into the State Department, including the requisite staffing, contracting, vetting and oversight that would be required to maintain critical USAID programs, including lifesaving humanitarian and global health programs, without interruption. The concurrent plan to fire virtually all USAID staff — and therefore lose all expertise — raises further concern about disruptions to lifesaving programs and other critical harm to American workers, businesses and implementing partners and increases the risk of waste, fraud and abuse.  

    The fundamental goal of any reform effort should be to strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy, including by enhancing our capabilities. As proposed, this plan will overburden the State Department, jeopardize the continuity of programs that save lives and keep Americans safe at home and further undermine U.S. credibility and reliability.  

    That is why we object to any implementation of your proposal at this time. 

    We remain open to working with you on reforms, including reorganization proposals, pending your testimony before our committees on the foreign assistance review and related reorganization, responses to the questions and requests we have sent in prior letters regarding these matters and a demonstrated commitment to a transparent process that protects and advances U.S. national security interests.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gregory W. Meeks Statement After Planes Bump at Ronald Reagan Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) issued the following statement after being on a plane that was clipped by another aircraft on the runway at Ronald Reagan National Airport.

    “My colleagues and I are safe after the minor accident between two planes on the taxiway at Ronald Reagan Airport this afternoon.

    “This unsettling event is a clear reminder of the dangerous effects of the Trump Administration’s DOGE-era cuts to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Undermining the agency’s staffing and operational capacity jeopardizes the safety of the flying public and the integrity of our air traffic systems. These cuts have strained the remaining workforce, potentially compromising the safety of the flying public and the integrity of our air traffic systems.

    “I will be calling on my colleagues in the relevant House Committees to hold a hearing to thoroughly investigate this incident and restore confidence in our air traffic safety.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Republican Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (15th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) released a statement following his vote against the Senate Amendment to H.Con.Res. 14, which cuts crucial services for South Texans, including vital Medicaid for children and seniors, the Affordable Care Act, Head Start, Pell Grants, the National School Lunch program, SNAP benefits for low-income families, and vital infrastructure funding. 

    “As Americans are left reeling from the man-made economic crisis created by President Trump’s tariffs — which is raising prices and hurting the retirement security of all Americans — House Republicans decided to bring a partisan Budget Resolution that will harm the most vulnerable. This will require $880 billion in cuts to Medicaid. For thousands in South Texas, Medicaid is not a safety net, it is a lifeline that cannot be cut. We must work together to ensure we pass a budget that is fiscally responsible without harming the well-being of vulnerable South Texans and Americans.” 

    According to the House Budget Committee, 204,977 of people in the 34th Congressional District of Texas on Medicaid (also known in Texas as STAR+PLUS) are at risk of losing their health care under the Republican budget resolution. This includes 166,379 children and 32,000 seniors.  

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kustoff Introduces the Winter Canola Study Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN), Dale W. Strong (R-AL) and Tracey Mann (R-KS) introduced the Winter Canola Study Act in the House of Representatives. This legislation would request that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency (RMA) conduct a study investigating the gap in crop insurance coverage for double crop grown winter oilseeds, such as canola. Additionally, the bill recognizes the economic and environmental benefits of rotationally and double crop grown canola and emphasizes the importance of investing in lower carbon-intensity renewable fuels to enhance rural communities, create jobs, and bolster energy security.

    “America’s farmers keep our economy going by putting food on the shelves and fuel in our tanks,” said Congressman Kustoff. “By allowing our farmers to plant winter canola in the off season, the Winter Canola Study Act will expand opportunities for growers and producers across the nation.”

    “The Winter Canola Study Act would give North Alabama farmers crucial new information and broaden the opportunity to plant winter canola as an alternative double crop option,” said Congressman Strong. “I am proud to work on behalf of farmers by joining Representative Kustoff and my colleagues in introducing this legislation. This research would help create a more competitive market for farmers while supporting the hard work they do to provide our food, fiber, and fuel.”

    “Harnessing the potential of American-grown commodities like winter oilseed supports the entire agriculture and energy supply from grower to consumer,” said Congressman Mann. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to help facilitate the growth of energy-abundant and sustainable fuel feedstocks by supporting access to risk management tools, research into yield improvements, and the environmental benefits of new crop rotations.”
     

    Click here for the full text of the bill.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly Condemns Budget that Slashes Medicaid

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed budget reconciliation instructions by 216-214. The budget directs the Energy and Commerce Committee, on which Rep. Kelly sits, to cut Medicaid by $880 billion.

    “The Republican budget betrays the American people. Republicans voted to slash Medicaid by $880 billion — the largest cut in history — which jeopardizes over 300,000 of my constituents’ healthcare. That’s almost half of the people living in the Second District. As grocery prices skyrocket, Republicans voted to cut food assistance by $230 billion, which would leave almost 190,000 of my constituents without reliable meals.

    “Even more atrocious, Republicans passed this budget to make way for a $4.5 trillion tax cut for their billionaire friends. The top 0.1% would receive an average annual tax cut of $314,266 — compared to a few hundred dollars for working families. Even hardline conservatives who claim to care about the deficit bowed to President Trump and are paving the way for a $5 trillion debt limit increase. Republicans voted to enrich themselves, decimate our economy, and steal from hardworking Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Limit Foreign Interference in U.S. Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) has introduced new bipartisan legislation to crack down on corruption and limit the influence of foreign money in U.S. elections. 

    While campaign finance law limits foreign nations from contributing to campaigns or engaging in most political activity, there are currently few restrictions in place to prevent a foreign national or government from creating shell companies to covertly funnel money into American elections.

    Congressman Crow’s Shell Company Abuse Act would close this longstanding loophole by making it a felony to establish or use a corporation, company, or business entity to conceal illegal political activity by a foreign national. The legislation was also introduced by Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

    “American elections should be decided by American voters, not foreign citizens or governments,” said Congressman Crow. “I’ve long fought against corruption and special interests, and that’s why today I’m introducing bipartisan legislation to prevent foreign nationals and governments from covertly funneling money into our elections.”

    “Allowing foreign money to flow into our elections through anonymous shell companies is a threat to everything our democracy stands for,” said Congressman Bell. “Americans have the right to choose their leaders without interference from hidden foreign interests. This bill is about drawing a clear line — our elections belong to the people, and no one else.”

    “Foreign nationals are already prohibited from donating to federal elections, but some individuals have attempted to skirt this law by creating shell companies to conceal these illegal activities,” said Congressman Bacon. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Bell on this legislation to keep integrity in our political process.”

    Congressman Crow is a leading voice in the fight to end corruption. Recently, he introduced the End Dark Money Act, critical legislation to crack down on corruption and end dark money influencing U.S. elections. He previously served as the co-chair of the End Corruption Caucus, and has introduced several other pieces of legislation, including the SHINE Act, DISCLOSE Act, and TRUST in Congress, to end the influence of special interests in elections.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Votes No on SNAP & Medicaid Cuts, Slashing Lifesaving Services for Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams Ph.D. (ND-12) voted against the disastrous GOP budget blueprint that will grow the deficit by $7 trillion, decimate Medicaid and SNAP, and worsen the cost-of-living crisis in the United States.

    “At a time when people are struggling to make ends meet, Republicans in Congress chose billionaire tax breaks over the needs of everyday Americans,” said Congresswoman Adams. “This reckless bill will force people to go hungry. It will cause families to go into debt. It will cost lives by stripping healthcare away from our most vulnerable communities. This budget is reckless and harmful, and anyone who voted for it has abandoned our working- and middle-class families.”

    “As we look forward, it is essential that our Charlotte, Mecklenburg, and North Carolina communities come together to take care of our neighbors,” Adams continued. “My office will continue working with state and local governments, non-profits, community and civic groups, and local leaders to discuss the needs of our community and how we can continue to provide for them when Republicans in Congress won’t. I want my constituents to know that they always have an ally and an advocate in me.”

    The GOP budget bill will slash some of the most critical services to Americans:

    • $230 billion in SNAP cuts, the largest food security program in the country.
    • Up to $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, and CHIP.
    • $330 billion in cuts to education and workforce, cutting critical education services and programs like student loans, Pell grants, and school lunch.
    • At least $50 billion in cuts which will likely include government employee retirement benefits.

    In North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District, residents will feel the direct impact of these reckless cuts:

    • 160,000 Mecklenburg County residents receive aid from SNAP, with $500 million in economic impacts.
    • 400,000 Mecklenburg County residents rely on Medicaid for critical programs and services.
    • 17,000 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students with disabilities rely on Medicaid to fund special education programs.
    • Many NC-12 residents are part of the 638,000 North Carolinians covered under Medicaid expansion. Due to North Carolina’s Medicaid trigger law, these residents could all lose their healthcare.

    These cuts will only worsen the period of economic hardship that the United States is currently facing:

    • Around 30% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Slashing social safety nets will harm families struggling to get by.
    • The Trump Administration trade war has resulted in the worst stock market start to a presidential term in modern history, losing $9 trillion in wealth over the last several days.
    • Economists overwhelmingly agree that President Trump’s extreme tariffs will increase costs of living from groceries to housing to medical expenses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Blumenthal, Bonamici, Lee Urge DOE, OCR to Rescind Guidance on Inclusive Classrooms

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01) and Summer Lee (D-PA-12), led colleagues in writing a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor calling for the Department of Education (ED) to immediately rescind their guidance on inclusive classrooms. 

     

    “In February, OCR’s DCL threatened to rescind federal funding from any school, district, or state that seeks to create inclusive classrooms. Although ED published the March FAQ ostensibly to clarify this guidance, the FAQ document spreads misinformation by falsely suggesting, without evidence, that social and emotional learning (SEL) and culturally responsive teaching are discriminatory,” the lawmakers wrote. 

     

    SEL and culturally responsive teaching are both evidence-based educational practices that create supportive environments, help students build social and emotional skills, and promote student engagement and academic achievement in the classroom.

     

    “Although we have numerous significant concerns with the substance and content of OCR’s recent guidance, we write specifically to express our opposition to the guidance provided in Question 8 of the FAQ, which falsely claims that “schools have sought to veil discriminatory policies with terms like ‘social-emotional learning’ or ‘culturally responsive’ teaching,” and suggests such curricula are discriminatory under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. This erroneous guidance contradicts scientific evidence, prior OCR guidance, and long-standing state and local laws and practices,” the lawmakers continued. 

     

    The Department of Education’s guidance seeks to override state and district leadership over curriculum despite Congress and numerous federal laws specifically prohibiting federal involvement in curriculum decisions.

     

    “Because of the strong, established evidence that supports schools’ use of SEL and culturally responsive teaching, we strongly urge OCR to immediately rescind the February 14th Dear Colleague Letter and March 1st FAQ, both of which undermine OCR’s long-standing guidance and threaten critical funding that supports students nationwide,” the lawmakers concluded

     

    The letter is endorsed by the following organizations: CASEL, National Association for College Admission Counseling, National Science Teaching Association, Educators for Excellence, International Literacy Association, National Parents Union, National Association of School Psychologists, American Federation of School Administrators, and Social Emotional Learning Alliance for the United States.

     

    The letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and U.S. Representatives Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Nydia Velazquez (D-NY-07), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-03), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), and  Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03). 

     

    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dexter, Bonamici Lead Fight Against Republican Cuts to Medicaid

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

    Representatives offered an amendment to sweeping GOP budget blueprint to protect Medicaid from being used to finance tax cuts for the ultrawealthy

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today Congresswomen Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced an amendment to prevent cuts to Medicaid from financing tax cuts for the ultrawealthy. It was blocked by Republicans. Senator Wyden introduced an identical amendment in the Senate. 

    “Medicaid saves lives and improves the health of millions of Oregonians and Americans,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “It is cruel and dangerous to make massive cuts to Medicaid to pay for tax cuts for wealthy individuals and corporations. I’m grateful to join Rep. Dexter in standing against this effort to take health care away from the American people.” 

    “I offered a simple amendment to this budget plan to ensure cuts to Medicaid are not used to finance tax cuts for billionaires or big corporations. Republicans blocked it. Let me repeat that: at the same time Republicans are saying they won’t cut Medicaid, they blocked my amendment that would protect it,” said Congresswoman Dexter. “This fight isn’t over—far from it. At every juncture in this process, I will stand shoulder to shoulder with champions like Congresswoman Bonamici and Senator Wyden in firm opposition to any cuts to Medicaid and the critical programs Oregonians rely on.”

    Read a fact sheet of the GOP budget blueprint here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole released the following statement after voting in favor of the budget resolution:

    “Last November, the American people overwhelmingly voted for a secure border, American energy dominance, investment in the defense of America, a more efficient federal government, and an extension of the Trump Tax Cuts. Through the passage of this budget resolution, we will now be able to begin the drafting stage in order to deliver on these promises,” said Congressman Cole. “The American people are counting on us – and, today, we got one step closer to getting the job done!”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Votes to Restrict Non-Citizens from Voting in American Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require an individual to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, as well as remove non-citizens from its voter registration rolls:

    “As a result of the previous Administration’s radical open-border policies and lax voter registration laws, more illegal immigrants than ever have the opportunity to vote in federal elections across our nation. It is crucial to the future of America that we do not let this happen – and the SAVE Act does just that,” said Congressman Cole. “This legislation will not only secure our elections but will also stop illegal immigrants from influencing the outcome of our elections. I am proud to have voted in favor of the SAVE Act today, and I hope to see it become law.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OSINT Subcommittee Chair Wagner Holds Industry Roundtable on Open-Source Intelligence

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) Subcommittee Chair Ann Wagner (MO-02) hosted a roundtable of industry leaders to hear how private sector companies are working with the Intelligence Community (IC) to support the U.S. national security mission through the use of OSINT. The industry panel included representatives from WireScreen, Recorded Future, the Grist Mill Exchange, and Reality Defender. The goal of the event was for these private sector companies to showcase for the subcommittee members the capabilities they offer to the IC.

    This OSINT subcommittee roundtable served as another touchpoint in a series of events the newly established subcommittee is holding in its fact-finding mission to examine how the IC can more effectively and efficiently use Commercially Available Information (CAI) to create open-source intelligence products. 

    “OSINT is changing the way intelligence is being gathered and analyzed, unlocking new opportunities for the IC,” said Chair Wagner. “As a maturing discipline within the IC, we must be cognizant of how data is being purchased across the various agencies and ensure we are standardizing contract structures to meet necessary mission requirements. I appreciate the panel sharing their honest and valuable perspectives to help inform our subcommittee’s work. Open-source Intelligence is vitally important to the intelligence gathering process, and we must understand what is and is not working when doing business with the IC.”

    During the roundtable, WireScreen, a global intelligence platform with a focus on China and global supply chains, showcased how its platform enables the IC to proactively counter CCP influence efforts in a variety of ways.

    Recorded Future, a threat intelligence company explained how its platform provides complete coverage across adversaries, infrastructure, and targets. By combining its Intelligence GraphⓇ-powered AI with the world’s largest collection of specialized threat data, Recorded Future enables cyber teams to see the complete picture, and proactively act with confidence.

    Grist Mill Exchange, a commercial data marketplace that connects government agencies with thousands of commercial data sets from hundreds of data providers, underscored the opportunity for the IC to harness the rapid innovation happening in the private sector. By leveraging proven commercial data solutions, the IC can quickly advance its OSINT missions while strengthening its capacity to derive new insights for decision advantage. This approach positions the IC to stay ahead of future technological advancements by building on the momentum already underway in the private sector.

    Reality Defender, a deepfake detection startup that has developed a multi-model and multimodal AI detection platform, shared with the members how they support private companies and governments in detecting AI-generated content at scale.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Freedom Caucus Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Freedom Caucus released the following statement after their support of the Senate amendment to the House budget (H. Con. Res. 14). 

    “Today, the House Freedom Caucus (HFC) unanimously supported the Senate amendment to the House budget (H. Con. Res. 14), which passed 216-214, to begin the budget reconciliation process that will enact President Trump’s America First agenda. Thanks to the efforts of HFC Members and fellow fiscal conservatives, we are now on a path to pass a reconciliation bill that that is fiscally responsible. This is a major shift from just 48 hours ago when we were faced with a Senate commitment of as little as $4 billion in spending cuts over 10 years — as opposed to the $1.5 trillion spending reduction floor in the House-passed resolution.  After hearing concerns from our Members, the White House committed to historic spending reductions including, targeting the “Green New Scam” IRA tax credits as well as waste, fraud, and abuse in the expanding Medicaid program. In addition, the Speaker committed to ensuring the final bill will provide enough spending reduction so that tax cuts will be fully offset. As important, the Senate leadership has committed to follow the House’s lead on spending cuts. Today’s vote will allow us to proceed with that framework – and given these new commitments, anything that falls short will face serious problems in the House. Thank you to President Trump, Speaker Johnson, and Leader Thune for your leadership in making this commitment to ensuring a fiscally responsible reconciliation bill. This is a win for the American people and sets the stage to deliver massive tax relief, unleash domestic energy production, fully fund border security and our military, while also securing unprecedented spending reduction.”  

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Harris Statement on the Senate Amendment to the Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus and House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration released the following statement on the Senate’s amendment to the budget resolution.

    Statement From Chairman Harris:

    “If the Senate can deliver real deficit reduction in line with or greater than the House goals, I can support the Senate budget resolution. However, by the Senate setting committee instructions so low at $4 billion compared to the House’s $1.5-2 trillion, I am unconvinced that will happen. The Senate is free to put pen to paper to draft its reconciliation bill, but I can’t support House passage of the Senate changes to our budget resolution until I see the actual spending and deficit reduction plans to enact President Trump’s America First agenda.”

    For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –