NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Paul, Hassan, Lee, and Hickenlooper Reintroduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices by Streamlining Generic Drug Approvals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    April 11th, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Mike Lee (R-UT), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to streamline the approval process for generic drugs, which will help expedite generic entrance in the market and lower prescription drug prices for patients. Last Congress, this legislation advanced from the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee with a bipartisan 19-2 vote.

    “No one should have to play a complicated guessing game with the FDA simply to bring a safe, effective, and affordable drug to market. The Increasing Transparency in Generic Drug Applications Act will help low-cost generics get to American consumers faster,” said Dr. Paul.

    “Skyrocketing prescription drug prices are forcing too many Granite Staters to choose between their health and their financial security. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will help address a critical obstacle in the generic drug approval process that keeps affordable alternatives off pharmacy shelves. By requiring more transparency from the FDA and streamlining the drug approval process, this bill will help deliver lower-cost medications to Americans faster,” said Senator Hassan.

    “Generic drugs have made the prescription drug market much more competitive, offering cheaper alternatives to their brand name counterparts. Streamlining the generic drug approval process by eliminating the pointless guessing game manufacturers are forced to play would eliminate red tape and bring down costs for American families,” said Senator Lee. 

    “More generic drugs means lower health care costs for Americans. Unnecessary and unclear FDA approval processes delay them from reaching the shelves. Our bill speeds up the process to help Americans save more,” said Senator Hickenlooper.

    Currently, the FDA requires certain generic drug manufacturers to demonstrate that they have the same active and inactive ingredients in the same concentration as the reference brand-name drug. However, when a generic drug contains the wrong amount of inactive ingredient, the FDA cannot disclose the exact error, forcing manufacturers to engage in an often lengthy guessing game to reach the right balance.

    This legislation would require the FDA to identify the specific differences more clearly between the generic and brand-name drug, thereby streamlining the approval process, helping more generics reach the market more quickly, and lowering prescription drug prices overall. 

    You can read it HERE.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth Lead Illinois Democratic Delegation In Message To Secretary Kennedy: The Dismantling Of HHS Does Nothing To ‘Make America Healthy Again’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    April 11, 2025

    In a letter to the HHS Secretary, the lawmakers pushed back against the destruction of HHS and its impact on the state

    SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today led the Illinois Democratic Delegation in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing frustration and concern that HHS has slashed critical federal funding for the state’s public health programs and infrastructure.

    “We write to express our real concern about the Department and Health and Human Services’ (HHS) actions to terminate federal funds for state and local health departments, fire critical public health staff, dismantle health agencies, and close regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago, Illinois.  Your decision puts the health and well-being of our people at risk, and will do nothing to ‘Make America Healthy Again,’” the lawmakers wrote.

    Last month, it was reported that HHS would terminate $11.4 billion in federal funding for state and local health departments, including more than $125 million in funding for the Illinois Department of Public Health.  Lawmakers were also told that Illinois would lose access to an additional $324 million in anticipated federal funding that was already allocated to protect Illinois residents from infectious diseases.  Further, Illinois could lose up to $28 million in Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants for mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

    In an effort to combat the Trump Administration’s destructive funding rescissions, a 24-state coalition, which included Illinois, filed a lawsuit against HHS for the rollback of public health funding.  Earlier this month, a federal court barred HHS from terminating these funds for a 14-day period.

    “The state’s [Illinois’] efforts to prepare for future public health emergencies—which could include the worsening avian flu situation, measles outbreaks, and other respiratory illness challenges—will be severely hampered if HHS rescinds this essential federal funding.  Now that a federal court has blocked HHS from terminating these funds, we urge you to abandon these ill-conceived and dangerous plans,” the lawmakers continued their letter.

    In addition to ripping away billions in promised federal funding, Secretary Kennedy has overseen the destruction of HHS’ workforce and infrastructure, putting thousands of dedicated career civil servants out of a job while gutting critical federal agencies.  Since President Trump’s inauguration, 10,000 HHS employees have left the agency or been fired.  A couple weeks ago, HHS announced that an additional 10,000 public health workers will be fired, including 3,500 from the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 workers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,200 workers from the National Institutes of Health, and 300 workers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. 

    “A reduction in force of this magnitude threatens the ability of HHS to ensure the safety of our nation’s foods, drugs, and medical devices; to inspect and regulate nursing homes; to develop breakthrough cures and treatments for patients with cancer, ALS, and heart disease; and to respond quickly when a public health crisis emerges,” the lawmakers wrote.

    The lawmakers continued their letter, emphasizing that closing regional health offices and shutting out states from federal resources does nothing to support the health and safety of Americans.

    “Finally, it was reported that HHS would dismantle and consolidate several health agencies under an ‘Administration for a Healthier America,’ and close several regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago.  HHS Region 5 has been an essential partner in implementing and coordinating federal resources and initiatives.  It has worked with state, local, and tribal governments in Illinois to address a range of public health concerns, including infectious disease outbreaks, mental and behavioral health needs, food recalls, and more,” the lawmakers wrote.  “Eliminating this office or consolidating it into another regional office risks reducing access to agency personnel and HHS resources for Illinois.”

    The lawmakers concluded their letter by reminding Secretary Kennedy of his responsibility to improve public health, not destruct the institution that ensures Americans have the resources to stay healthy.

    “It is one thing to undertake efforts to address waste, fraud, and abuse in government.  It is quite another to cite these reasonable goals as an excuse to instead decimate our nation’s public health infrastructure.  HHS has provided no details on its plans or any explanation of how these steps will improve HHS’ ability to carry out its mission to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans.  The complete lack of transparency on these critical decisions supports the logical conclusion that these decisions were made for political purposes without considering their real-world impact,” the lawmakers wrote.

    “As HHS Secretary, you are tasked with the serious responsibility of protecting our nation’s health and you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of Americans.   Do not neglect this responsibility, and do not waste this opportunity,” the lawmaker concluded their letter.

    A copy of the letter is available here and below:

    April 11, 2025

    Dear Secretary Kennedy,

                We write to express our real concern about the Department and Health and Human Services’ (HHS) actions to terminate federal funds for state and local health departments, fire critical public health staff, dismantle health agencies, and close regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago, Illinois.  Your decision puts the health and well-being of people at risk, and will do nothing to “Make America Healthy Again.”

    In March, it was reported that HHS would be terminating $11.4 billion in federal funding for state and local health departments, including more than $125 million for Illinois.  We also have been informed that Illinois will not be able to access an additional $324 million in anticipated federal funding for future work to prevent and address infectious disease.  The Illinois Department of Public Health has leveraged these federal funds to improve its technologies and laboratories, support the public health workforce, and strengthen local health departments.  However, the state’s efforts to prepare for future public health emergencies—which could include the worsening avian flu situation, measles outbreaks, and other respiratory illness challenges—will be severely hampered if HHS rescinds this essential federal funding.  Now that a federal court has blocked HHS from terminating these funds, we urge you to abandon these ill-conceived and dangerous plans. 

    It also was announced that an additional 10,000 public health workers will be fired from HHS, including 3,500 from the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 workers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,200 workers from the National Institutes of Health, and 300 workers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.  This is on top of the reported 10,000 HHS employees who have already left the agency since January 20, including probationary employees who were fired earlier this year, many of whom were not rehired, despite two court rulings ordering their reinstatement.  A reduction in force of this magnitude threatens the ability of HHS to ensure the safety of our nation’s foods, drugs, and medical devices; to inspect and regulate nursing homes; to develop breakthrough cures and treatments for patients with cancer, ALS, and heart disease; and to respond quickly when a public health crisis emerges.

    Finally, it was reported that HHS would dismantle and consolidate several health agencies under an “Administration for a Healthier America,” and close several regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago.  HHS Region 5 has been an essential partner in implementing and coordinating federal resources and initiatives.  It has worked with state, local, and tribal governments in Illinois to address a range of public health concerns, including infectious disease outbreaks, mental and behavioral health needs, food recalls, and more.  Eliminating this office or consolidating it into another regional office risks reducing access to agency personnel and HHS resources for Illinois.

    It is one thing to undertake efforts to address waste, fraud, and abuse in government.  It is quite another to cite these reasonable goals as an excuse to instead decimate our nation’s public health infrastructure.  HHS has provided no details on its plans or any explanation of how these steps will improve HHS’ ability to carry out its mission to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans.  The complete lack of transparency on these critical decisions supports the logical conclusion that these decisions were made for political purposes without considering their real-world impact.  

    As HHS Secretary, you are tasked with the serious responsibility of protecting our nation’s health and you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of Americans.   Do not neglect this responsibility, and do not waste this opportunity. 

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.  We look forward to your timely response.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Hirono, Warren, Lead Colleagues In Urging DOJ To Reverse Decisions Greenlighting Cryptocurrency-Based Crime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    April 11, 2025

    Senators: “These are grave mistakes that will support sanctions evasion, drug trafficking, scams, and child sexual exploitation.”

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee led six Senators in urging Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to reverse the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) recent decisions to effectively terminate the Department’s cryptocurrency investigations and prosecutions. The memo, sent to staff earlier this week, also stated that DOJ will disband its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), which was established to investigate and prosecute criminal misuse of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. In their letter, the Senators also raise concerns about the potential connections between DOJ’s actions and the cryptocurrency ventures of President Trump and his family.

    “We write in response to your April 7, 2025 memo announcing your decision to give a free pass to cryptocurrency money launderers and to disband the DOJ’s National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (“NCET”),” the Senators wrote. “These are grave mistakes that will support sanctions evasion, drug trafficking, scams, and child sexual exploitation.”

    Specifically, the DOJ memo announced that the Department would no longer be enforcing a number of federal laws against entities that handle digital assets, including mixing and tumbling services. Mixers are often used to launder stolen cryptocurrency and used by drug traffickers, those who trade child sexual abuse material, and even North Korea, which uses mixers to evade sanctions and fund weapons of mass destruction.

    “It makes no sense for DOJ to announce a hands-off approach to tools that are being used to support such terrible crimes,” wrote the lawmakers.

    “Drug traffickers, terrorists, fraudsters, and adversaries will exploit this vulnerability on a large scale,” the Senators continued. “Further increasing the risks posed by bad actors is your decision to disband NCET, which has coordinated a Department-wide effort to prosecute illicit activity involving cryptocurrency.”

    Since its creation in 2021, NCET has worked with U.S. Attorneys’ offices to prosecute illicit activity involving cryptocurrency, including prosecuting cases involving hundreds of millions worth of digital assets.Despite this proven record of success, Blanche’s memo stated that the disbandment of NCET will allow the DOJ to “focus on other priorities, such as immigration and procurement frauds.”

    The Senators also warned about the proliferation of cryptocurrency scams and fraud. In 2023 alone, the Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated that $5.6 billion were lost to cryptocurrency fraud—an increase of 45 percent from 2022.

    “You claim in your memo that DOJ will continue to prosecute those who use cryptocurrencies to perpetrate crimes. But allowing the entities that enable these crimes—such as cryptocurrency kiosk operators—to operate outside the federal regulatory framework without fear of prosecution will only result in more Americans being exploited,” wrote the Senators.

    “Your decisions give rise to concerns that President Trump’s interest in selling his cryptocurrency may be the reason for easing law enforcement scrutiny,” the Senators concluded. “We urge you to reconsider these decisions.”

    In addition to Senators Hirono, Warren, and Durbin, this letter was also signed by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Dear Deputy Attorney General Blanche:

    We write in response to your April 7, 2025 memo announcing your decision to give a free pass to cryptocurrency money launderers and to disband the Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (“NCET”). These are grave mistakes that will support sanctions evasion, drug trafficking, scams, and child sexual exploitation.

    Your memo announces that pursuant to Executive Order 14178, DOJ will generally “no longer target . . . virtual currency exchanges [and] mixing and tumbling services . . . for the acts of their end users or unwitting violations of regulations.” As you know, a cryptocurrency mixer (or tumbler) is a service that blends the cryptocurrencies of many users together to obfuscate the origins and owners of the funds. “[M]ixers are . . . ‘go-to tools for cybercriminals’ seeking to launder stolen cryptocurrency.” Nearly a quarter of the funds sent to mixers in 2022 were tied to money laundering efforts.” Mixers are a favorite tool of North Korea—which uses them to launder the illicit proceeds of its state-sponsored cybercrime and then uses the proceeds to fund its weapons programs—and of sanctioned Russian oligarchs, who already benefit from DOJ disbanding TaskForce KleptoCapture. Mixers are also a favorite tool of drug traffickers and those who trade child sexual abuse material. It makes no sense for DOJ to announce a hands-off approach to tools that are being used to support such terrible crimes.

    Similarly nonsensical is your announcement that DOJ will no longer prosecute a host of crimes involving digital assets, including violations of the Bank Secrecy Act. Congress imposed anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) obligations on a wide range of domestic and foreign entities to combat fraud, drug trafficking, and terrorism, among other crimes. By abdicating DOJ’s responsibility to enforce federal criminal law when violations involve digital assets, you are suggesting that virtual currency exchanges, mixers, and other entities dealing in digital assets need not fulfill their AML/CFT obligations, creating a systemic vulnerability in the digital assets sector. Drug traffickers, terrorists, fraudsters, and adversaries will exploit this vulnerability on a large scale.

    Cryptocurrency-related fraud has exploded in recent years. The Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated losses associated with cryptocurrency fraud at $5.6 billion in 2023 alone—an increase of 45 percent from 2022. You claim in your memo that DOJ will continue to prosecute those who use cryptocurrencies to perpetrate crimes. But allowing the entities that enable these crimes—such as cryptocurrency kiosk operators—to operate outside the federal regulatory framework without fear of prosecution will only result in more Americans being exploited.

    Further increasing the risks posed by bad actors is your decision to disband NCET, which has coordinated a Department-wide effort to prosecute illicit activity involving cryptocurrency. DOJ formed NCET in 2021 “to tackle complex investigations and prosecutions of criminal misuses of cryptocurrency, particularly crimes committed by virtual currency exchanges, mixing and tumbling services, and money laundering infrastructure actors.” NCET combined the expertise and resources of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery and Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Sections with Assistant U.S. Attorneys from around the country. Since its formation, NCET has worked with U.S. Attorneys’ offices to:

    • secure the conviction of the operator of a cryptocurrency exchange that laundered over $9 billion in proceeds from hacking, ransomware attacks, identity theft schemes, and narcotics distribution rings;
    • obtain a guilty plea from a man who processed more than $700 million worth of illicit funds in support of online drug trafficking;
    • secure the conviction of a man who operated a $110 million manipulative trading scheme on a cryptocurrency exchange;
    • seize over $112 million in funds linked to cryptocurrency investment schemes; and
    • seize nearly $9 million in cryptocurrency that resulted from the exploitation of over 70 victims through romance scams and cryptocurrency confidence schemes, among many other cases.

    Further, NCET operates as a critical resource for state and local law enforcement who often lack the technical knowledge and skill to investigate cryptocurrency related crimes.  Disbanding NCET will make the work of these state and local law enforcement agents that much harder.

    Why would you dismantle a team that is such an important player in fighting cryptocurrency-based crime? Your decisions give rise to concerns that President Trump’s interest in selling his cryptocurrency may be the reason for easing law enforcement scrutiny.

    We urge you to reconsider these decisions. In addition, we request a staff-level briefing no later than May 1, 2025, providing detailed information on the rationale behind these decisions and their anticipated impacts on the Department’s ability to enforce the law and protect Americans from cryptocurrency-based crimes.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fiscal Year 2026 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Update Proposed Rule CMS-1835-P Fact Sheet

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    On April 11, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that proposes updates to Medicare payment policies and rates for hospices under the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Hospice Wage Index and Payment Rate Updated Proposed Rule (CMS-1835-P). CMS is publishing this proposed rule consistent with the legal requirements to update Medicare payment policies for hospices annually. This fact sheet discusses the major provisions of the proposed rule.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fiscal Year 2026 Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System Proposed Rule CMS-1829-P Fact Sheet

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    On April 11, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that proposes updates to Medicare payment policies and rates for inpatient rehabilitation facilities under the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) Prospective Payment System (PPS) and the IRF Quality Reporting Program (QRP) for fiscal year (FY) 2026. CMS is publishing this proposed rule consistent with the legal requirements to update Medicare payment policies for IRFs annually. This fact sheet discusses the major provisions of the proposed rule.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Seeks Public Input on Inpatient Hospital Whole-Person Care, Proposes Updates to Medicare Payments

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that would update Medicare payments and policies for inpatient and long-term care hospitals. The agency is also seeking public input on ways to improve the quality of care provided by inpatient hospitals. The feedback received will help advance CMS’ commitment to Making America Healthy Again by reprioritizing patients’ activity, nutrition, and overall wellness.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FY 2026 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System (LTCH PPS) Proposed Rule — CMS-1833-P Fact Sheet

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    On April 11, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule that would update Medicare payment policies and rates for inpatient and long-term care hospitals under the Medicare hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) and Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System (LTCH PPS) proposed rule for fiscal year (FY) 2026. CMS is publishing this proposed rule consistent with the legal requirements to update Medicare payment policies for inpatient and long-term care hospitals annually. This fact sheet discusses the major provisions of the proposed rule.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CMS Statement on Local Coverage Determination for Certain Skin Substitute Grafts

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    As part of the transition to a new Administration, CMS is reviewing its coverage policies for skin substitute products. CMS believes it is important to maintain patient access to skin substitute products with high quality evidence of effectiveness. Because of this review, the Skin Substitute Grafts/Cellular and Tissue-Based Products for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Venous Leg Ulcers Final Local Coverage Determinations effective date will be delayed until January 1, 2026. The Agency requests that any peer-reviewed publications and high-quality findings from other public sources of skin substitute study results be submitted to CMS at CAGInquiries@cms.hhs.gov by November 1, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Do Not Drink Notice Issued for North Smithfield Elementary School Drinking Water Consumers

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The North Smithfield Elementary School public water system (2214 Providence Pike North Smithfield, RI) was required to issue a do not drink notice on April 10, 2025, for consumers because manganese was found in the distribution system over the Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA) health advisory. Manganese is an unregulated contaminant. Unregulated contaminants are those that don’t yet have a drinking water standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The results of manganese collected from a drinking water sample on March 25, 2025 from North Smithfield Elementary School’s distribution system was 1.28 mg/L. This level exceeds EPAs Health Advisory (HA). EPA’s 10-day HA for bottle fed infants younger than 6 months old is 0.3 mg/L. EPAs one day and 10-day value for adults and children older than 6 months old is 1 mg/L, and EPAs Lifetime HA is 0.3mg/L.

    Manganese is a naturally occurring element found in rocks, soil, water, and air. It is commonly found in the food such as nuts, legumes, seeds, grains, and green leafy vegetables. It is also found in drinking water. Manganese is an essential nutrient. Consuming drinking water with manganese above the lifetime HA are not necessarily harmful to a majority of the population. An individual’s nutritional requirements for manganese and potential for harmful health effects may be highly variable.

    Bottle-fed infants who drink water containing more than 0.3 mg/L of manganese over a period of 10 days may have negative neurological effects.

    The following guidance listed below provides actions consumers should take to reduce their exposure to manganese in drinking water over the EPAs Health Advisory: –Do not use the tap water to prepare bottles or food for infants. –Do not boil tap water that you intend to drink. Boiling, freezing, or letting water stand does not reduce manganese levels. Boiling can increase levels of manganese because manganese remains behind (i.e., is concentrated) when the water evaporates. –Infants, the elderly, and those with liver disease should avoid food made with tap water such as soup. The tap water may be used to prepare foods, such as pasta, where the water is discarded prior to consumption. –Consumers, especially infants and the elderly, and those with liver disease should avoid consuming the water which includes using the water to make drinks or ice.

    Contact your doctor if you have specific health concerns. You may wish to consult with a medical professional. The do not drink notice will remain in effect until RIDOH determines that the drinking water in the distribution system has returned to consistent and safe manganese levels under EPAs Health Advisory and RIDOH approves the do not drink notice to be lifted. Customers with questions should contact Alan Sepe at 401-765-6410.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Brief Challenging Trump Administration’s Unjustified and Unconstitutional Revocation of Student Visas

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a coalition of 19 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief challenging the Trump Administration’s executive orders allowing for the ideologically-motivated revocation of visas for students and faculty who exercise their free speech and association rights. In the past month, the Trump Administration has revoked the visas, and in some cases arrested, detained, and sought to remove, hundreds of visa-holding and legal permanent resident students at higher education institutions for expressing opinions that the Trump Administration disagrees with. In other cases, students have been provided little to no justification for the termination grounds, much less the meaningful opportunity to challenge the sudden denial. In just California, nearly 100 students across the California State University system, University of California campuses, and Stanford University have had their visas revoked. 

    “Students across the country are being aggressively targeted without notice and for no clear reason beyond the President’s political agenda, creating a culture of fear and disrupting our institutions of higher education,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The unjustified and unconstitutional revocation of student visas for expressing their opinions sends a stunning message to campuses across the nation: fall in line or face deportation. I urge the court to put a swift stop to this policy before it can do any further damage.”

    The Trump Administration’s “Ideological Deportation Policy” is based on two Executive Orders (14161 and 14188).These orders direct federal agencies to vet foreign nationals seeking to enter the U.S. based on ideological grounds rather than on direct safety threats. These orders further direct federal agencies to investigate, detain, and deport noncitizen students and faculty who engage in political speech with which the Administration disagrees. Last month, the Trump Administration began using these orders as the basis to begin revoking hundreds of student visas. 

    During the 2023-2024 school year, states represented in the amicus brief hosted over 640,000 international students who supported more than 235,000 jobs and contributed approximately $27.5 billion annually to our economies through tuition, living expenses, and related spending. These noncitizen students not only make substantial economic contributions to the states; they also enrich academic discourse, strengthen our research capabilities, and enhance our global competitiveness. 

    In the brief, Attorney General Bonta and the multistate coalition argues that the Trump Administration’s Ideological Deportation Policy inflicts irreparable harms to the states, is contrary to the public interest, and violates the First Amendment’s protection of free speech, which the Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed extends to noncitizen residents within the United States. The coalition respectfully urges the court to grant a preliminary injunction to stop deportations based on this policy while litigation continues. 

    Attorney General Bonta is committed to upholding the rights and protections of all of California’s residents, including the nearly 11 million immigrants who call California home. He has defended pathways for legal immigration for those fleeing dangerous conditions in their home counties, supported challenges to the early termination of the TPS designation for Venezuela and Haitians, and secured a preliminary injunction in his lawsuit challenging the President’s unlawful executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship.

    Attorney General Bonta has also vigorously defended President Trump’s assault on the rule of law. Last month, Attorney General Bonta, along with 20 other state attorneys general issued an open letter urging the legal community to stand together in defense of the rule of law in response to President Trump’s recent attacks. Attorney General Bonta also issued a separate statement on the need to speak up and push back when our democratic norms are violated, our legal system undermined, and our laws broken. 

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Massachusetts, Washington, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont in filing the amicus brief. 

    A copy of the brief is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Moran Welcomes Pastor Michael Gossett to Capitol as Guest Chaplain

    Source: Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01)

    Washington, D.C. ­– Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) released the following statement recognizing Dr. Michael Gossett, Senior Pastor of Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, for his dedicated service and recent role as Guest Chaplain for the U.S. House of Representatives:

    “It’s my honor to introduce Dr. Michael Gossett, Pastor of Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, to serve as the Guest Chaplain this week and offer a prayer.

    “Dr. Gossett and his wife lead the largest congregation of believers in East Texas. They also proudly shepherd a flock of four wonderful children at home. Pastor Michael, as he’s known, and Katie are passionate about their call to serve—to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ—and they are personable and approachable in their style, showing the same love and grace as our risen Lord and Savior.

    “Having been a firefighter for five years before entering full-time ministry, this Liberty University alum is tough-minded, disciplined, and steady in his leadership. He is authentic and genuine, and always faithful to preach the truth of the Word of God.

    “Because of that, he has been a strong and effective leader for Green Acres since he arrived in 2019. I’m proud to call him my friend and proud he’s dedicated his life to be salt and light in this lost and dark world.

    “To God be the glory for the great things He’s doing through the Gossetts and Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas. Welcome, Pastor Gossett.”

    Watch Congressman Moran’s Full Remarks HERE

    Dr. Michael Gossett is the Senior Pastor of Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, where he has served since 2019. A graduate of Liberty University and former firefighter, he and his wife, Katie, have four children and are passionate about sharing the Gospel and serving the East Texas community.

    Watch Pastor Gossett’s Opening Prayer HERE

    Pastor Gossett’s Full Prayer as Delivered:

    ”Heavenly Father, we come to You today and acknowledge that You alone are the King of kings and Lord of lords. You alone are sovereign over the nations and the peoples of the Earth. Just as Psalm 24:1 says, “The Earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the Lord.” You alone, Lord, have ordained each government official to serve, and we ask that You raise up leaders and call each representative to lead with justice, and wisdom, and humility.

    “We ask Your blessings on each member here and the families and people they represent. I pray that You would grant each Representative clarity of mind, integrity of heart, and a deep concern for truth and righteousness according to Your Word. I pray there would be no fear among them except a fear of the Lord. May they seek the good of the people and the flourishing of all, especially the most vulnerable. Please remind us today that our hope alone is in Your Son, Jesus Christ. We pray all this in the name of Jesus, our risen Lord and coming King. Amen.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Leads Letter Praising President Trump’s Commitment to Countering Iran’s Nuclear Proliferation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today led eight of her colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump, commending his efforts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear weapons program. The letter also expresses support for the President’s National Security Presidential Memorandum 2 and the renewed Maximum Pressure Campaign against Iran.

    Additional signers of the letter include Representatives Derek Schmidt (KS-2), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Rudy Yakym (IN-2), Abraham Hamadeh (AZ-08), Burgess Owens (UT-4), Michael Baumgartner (WA-5), Mike Bost (IL-12), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1).

    This letter comes as the Trump administration prepares to engage in nuclear talks with Iran over the weekend of April 12, 2025. It reaffirms Congressional support for the President’s position that Iran can never be allowed to acquire or continue developing nuclear weapons.

    “In his first term, President Trump’s Maximum Pressure Campaign delivered successful results, crippling the Iranian regime and limiting its ability to spread terrorism and malign influence across the globe. By reinstating this strategy, the Trump administration is sending a strong message to Iran and the international community, reversing years of damage caused by the Biden administration’s weak policies that have emboldened the IRGC. Today, I am leading a letter to President Trump, applauding his administration’s strong efforts to disarm Iran and prevent it from developing nuclear-capable missiles or engaging in nuclear weapons-related research. President Trump is proving his administration is committed to striking back against Iran, sending a clear signal that the United States will not allow Iran’s proxies to operate with impunity,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    “Congresswoman Tenney’s leadership on this issue could not come at a more decisive moment. As a result of President Trump’s wildly successful maximum pressure campaign, the United States has tremendous leverage over the regime in Iran. It is important that we deploy it strategically to ensure Iran’s complete and immediate denuclearization. No deal is far better than a bad deal that empowers this terrorist regime or leaves it with the means to ever reconstitute its nuclear program,” said Nick Stewart, Senior Director of Government Relations at FDD Action.

    Read the full text of the letter here.   

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Bill Aimed at Expanding VA Care for Vietnam Veterans Passes House

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    Legislation Builds on Northport VA Study Linking Parasite Exposure and Bile Duct Cancer

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County),  an 11-year Navy Veteran and Member of the Military Construction and VA Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement after his bipartisan Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act passed the House. The legislation, which is co-led by Rep. Pat Ryan (D-NY), an Army Veteran and Member of the House Armed Services Committee, instructs the VA to conduct a comprehensive study to determine the prevalence of bile duct cancer among those who served in the Vietnam War and whether it may be connected to exposure to a parasite known as liver fluke during their service. 

    “This week, the House took bipartisan action to do what the VA has refused to for more than six years—acknowledge the suffering of Vietnam Veterans exposed to liver fluke in Southeast Asia. My bill, the Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, passed with broad support because both sides agree: these heroes deserve answers, not more delay,” said LaLota. “Too many have already died waiting. It’s past time we matched our words with action and gave these Veterans the care and recognition they’ve earned.”

    To read the full text of the bipartisan Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, click HERE.  

     

    Background:

    LaLota initially introduced the bill during the 118th Congress and it passed the House in September 2024. The Senate failed to act. 

    To watch LaLota’s remarks ahead of the bill’s passage in the House, click HERE.

    In 2018, the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center in New York conducted a groundbreaking study on liver fluke infection among Vietnam Veterans, using a 50-Veteran sample size. Although the study was smaller than most, its findings highlighted an urgent need for a larger-scale investigation, the development of standardized treatment protocols, and expanded access to care for affected Veterans at VA facilities nationwide.

    Following this, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) initiated the Vietnam Era Veterans Mortality Study, comparing mortality rates from cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) between Veterans deployed to the Vietnam War theater and those who served elsewhere. The study suggests a potential link between exposure to parasitic infections, contracted through contaminated freshwater fish, and a heightened risk of cholangiocarcinoma among Vietnam Veterans.

    Despite this evidence, during a Legislative Hearing before the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) indicated that the VA does not support further research on the topic. Additionally, the VA has yet to designate cholangiocarcinoma as a service-connected condition, despite the findings of the Vietnam-era study.

    The Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act seeks to address this gap by requiring the VA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to conduct a comprehensive study on the prevalence of liver fluke infections among Vietnam Veterans. This legislation aims to ensure that Vietnam Veterans receive the care and recognition they deserve for this debilitating condition.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick LaLota Votes to Protect Consumers and Businesses from Burdensome Banking Regulations

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County), released the following statement after voting in favor of S.J.Res.18 and S.J.Res. 28, two Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions which would overturn harmful regulations that threaten the financial well-being of American consumers and financial technology businesses.

    “S.J.Res.18 and S.J.Res.28 are needed to stop CFPB overreach that would raise costs on working families and restrict access to basic financial tools. I voted for both because overdraft protection should remain available for hardworking Americans who rely on it, and financial technology companies deserve the flexibility to innovate,” said LaLota. “These common sense measures help businesses grow, expand consumer banking choice, and prevent unnecessary financial burdens—especially for Long Islanders, who already face the highest effective tax burden in the country. They restore balance, protect consumers, and support economic growth without unnecessary red tape.”

    To read the full text of  S.J.Res.18 click HERE. 

    To read the full text of  S.J.Res.28 click HERE. 

    Background:

    S.J.Res.18 is a joint resolution disapproving of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (CFPB) relating to “Overdraft Lending: Very Large Financial Institutions.” Introduced by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) on February 13, 2025, the resolution seeks to nullify CFPB’s rule that seeks to regulate overdraft fees more like credit products, potentially capping fees well below the actual costs of providing the service. 

    Overdraft protection is a voluntary service that helps consumers cover short-term cash shortfalls—especially important for working families trying to avoid bounced checks, late fees, or denied transactions. This resolution would restore flexibility for consumers and financial institutions and prevent regulatory overreach that threatens to eliminate a valued and widely used financial tool. 

    On March 27, 2025, the Senate passed the resolution without amendment by a vote of 52 – 48. ​

    S.J.Res.28 is a joint resolution disapproving of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to “Defining Larger Participants of a Market for General-Use Digital Consumer Payment Applications.” Introduced by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) on February 27, 2025, the resolution seeks to nullify CFPB’s rule that defines larger participants in the general-use digital consumer payment application market—such as payment apps—as nonbanks with an annual volume of at least 50 million transactions and that are not small business concerns. 

    On March 5, 2025, the Senate passed the resolution without amendment by a vote of 51 – 47. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaLota Co-sponsors Legislation to Eliminate Tax Penalties for American Hostages, Including Suffolk County’s Kai Li

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep Nick LaLota (Suffolk County, NY) released the following statement after signing on as co-sponsor of the Stop Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, bipartisan legislation that eliminates tax penalties for U.S. citizens wrongfully detained or held hostage abroad. The bill also extends this relief to their spouses during the period of detention and provides retroactive reimbursement to those who have already paid such penalties after their release. 

    This legislation directly benefits Americans such as Suffolk County resident and U.S. citizen Kai Lia, who was wrongfully detained by the Chinese Communist Party for eight years before his release in 2024, a cause for which LaLota consistently advocated after taking office in 2023. 

    “Our duty to fight for Americans unjustly detained abroad does not end when they return home. This bill takes a critical step in addressing an ongoing injustice they may face, specifically the unfair tax burdens imposed by our own nation. No American should be financially penalized for their inability to pay taxes while wrongfully imprisoned, nor should their family,” said LaLota. “A powerful example of why this legislation is needed is Kai Li, a Huntington resident who was unjustly detained by the Chinese Communist Party for over seven years and subjected to severe human rights abuses. After enduring unimaginable hardship, the last thing Kai and his family should face is unfairly imposed back taxes and fees. I was proud to advocate for Kai’s release, and this legislation demonstrates that I will continue fighting for him—and for every American who has suffered similar injustice—to ensure they receive our continued support.”

    To read a full text of the legislation, click HERE.

    Background:

    Kai Li of Huntington, New York, was unjustly imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party from 2016 to 2024. In 2016, Kai Li visited Shanghai to mark the first anniversary of his mother’s death. When he arrived at the airport in Shanghai, CCP authorities immediately arrested him on “state security charges.” For months, Kai was held in secret detention without access to legal counsel. Then, almost two years later in July 2018, in a one-hour secret trial, Kai was convicted of espionage.

    In November 2024, the State Department announced Kai Li of Huntington would be coming home after being wrongfully detained by the Chinese government since 2016.

    Since coming into office, LaLota consistently advocated for the Li family, demanding his release from China and calling on the State Department to put pressure on China. In 2023, LaLota sent a letter to President Biden calling on him to meet with the Li family. Earlier in 2024, LaLota joined several other members in a letter to Secretary Blinken highlighting the human rights abuses committed by the Chinese government, including the treatment of Kai Li.

    In February 2024,  LaLota spoke on the House floor calling on the Biden Administration to bring Kai home. In March, LaLota invited Kai’s son, Harrison Li, to attend the State of the Union to bring more attention to Kai’s imprisonment. Shortly after, LaLota introduced a bill demanding the Chinese Communist Party immediately release Kai.

    In June 2024, LaLota successfully included an amendment to the FY25 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill that supported the Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs to strengthen efforts to bring American citizens wrongfully detained in China home. In August of 2024, LaLota sent a letter to National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan urging him to prioritize Kai Li’s release in Sullivan’s discussions with Chinese officials.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Backs SAVE Act to Strengthen Election Integrity and Prevent Voter Fraud

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    Washington, D.C. — Rep. Nick LaLota (Suffolk County, NY) released the following statement after voting to pass the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act to strengthen voter ID requirements in federal elections. LaLota is a co-sponsor of the bill. 

    “As a former Commissioner of the Suffolk County Board of Elections, I deeply respect the dual importance of ballot access and election integrity,” said LaLota. “I remain committed to making it easier to vote and harder to cheat. The SAVE Act, which passed the House today with my support, includes a commonsense voter ID requirement backed by over 80% of Americans—including strong majorities of Republicans, independents, and even Democrats. This measure helps prevent fraud and strengthens public confidence in our elections.”

    To read the full text of  the click HERE. 

    Background:

    The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act reinforces existing federal law by requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration in federal elections, addressing gaps in enforcement. The legislation also assists states in maintaining accurate voter rolls by granting free access to federal databases to identify and remove non-citizens who may have been mistakenly registered. The SAVE Act was carefully crafted to ensure that all eligible Americans—including military personnel stationed overseas and individuals with name changes—can also vote without unnecessary obstacles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaLota Votes to Curb Judicial Overreach on National Security

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    Washington, D.C. — Rep. Nick LaLota (Suffolk County, NY) released the following statement after voting to pass the No Rogue Rulings Act, legislation introduced by Rep. Darrell Issa (CA-48) to limit the ability of individual District Court judges to issue nationwide injunctions. LaLota is a cosponsor of the bill.

    “District Court judges should not have the unilateral authority to override a President’s national security decisions with nationwide implications. Today, I joined my colleagues in passing Representative Darrell Issa’s ‘No Rogue Rulings Act,’ which aims to properly limit their jurisdiction,” said LaLota. “This legislation is crucial for ensuring that our national security is guided by elected officials accountable to the people, not by any one of the 700 unelected District Court judges. I voted to pass this act because it reinforces the balance of power essential to our democracy.”

    To read the full text of No Rogue Rulings Act click HERE.

    Background:

    The No Rogue Rulings Act would amend current law to prohibit U.S. District Court judges from issuing injunctive relief that applies beyond the specific parties involved in a case. Injunctions would only apply to (1) the party seeking the relief and (2) non-parties represented in a representative capacity under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.

    In March 2025, Federal Judge James Boasberg reaffirmed an order preventing the Trump administration from using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to summarily deport individuals suspected of gang affiliations without due process. The judge emphasized that affected individuals must be allowed to challenge their designations before deportation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Markey and Wicker Announce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Long-Term Weather Forecasting

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Bill Text (PDF) | One Pager
    Washington (April 11, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), today announced legislation to improve subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) weather forecasting efforts at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through investments in advanced approaches to S2S weather forecasting. S2S forecasting refers to timescales of two weeks to three months and three months to two years, respectively. The Forecasting Optimization for Robust Earth Climate Analysis and Subseasonal-to-Seasonal Tracking (FORECAST) Act of 2025 would authorize federal funding to support research, demonstration, and application of cutting-edge data management and weather modeling technologies to improve the reliability of S2S forecasts. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).
    “The recent devastating tornadoes, torrential rains, and flooding in the central United States demonstrate the urgent need for improved forecasts to support our farmers, mariners, utility workers, city planners, and communities,” said Senator Markey. “In pursuit of a 21st-century weather enterprise that brings predictability to disaster planning, NOAA requires robust subseasonal-to-seasonal forecasting capabilities. The FORECAST Act will provide NOAA with the direction and resources needed to fully realize an S2S forecasting architecture that is cutting-edge, reliable, and maintainable, ensuring the short- and long-term safety of communities in the face of severe weather.”
    “As Mississippians live through this year’s tornado season, it is hard to think of a timelier bill,” said Senator Wicker. “We must keep improving weather forecasting, and I will continue supporting congressional efforts to make predictions as early and accurate as possible.”
    “Long-term forecasts on storms like atmospheric rivers are critical for preparing communities for growing water challenges and flooding in the West,” said Senator Padilla. “This investment in the next generation of our weather workforce will strengthen our long-term forecasting capabilities and keep the public informed beyond traditional two-week weather forecasts in the face of the climate crisis.”
    “As communities experience more extreme weather, we need to invest in forecasting technology and workforce development to make sure we’re prepared for these events,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’m helping to introduce this bipartisan bill to build the next generation of researchers and engineers who will improve and operate forecasting and weather modeling technology. I’ll keep pushing for commonsense solutions that allow us to better adapt to climate change and become more resilient.”
    The FORECAST Act also directs NOAA to continue its record of successful cross-sectoral collaboration with leading universities and scientific organizations to make the most of the latest advances in S2S forecasting efforts. The bill also directs NOAA to leverage emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and unmanned systems, and creates a new workforce development program to develop the next generation of professionals in the weather enterprise.
    This legislation is endorsed by Woodwell Climate Center and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR).
    Senators Markey and Padilla previously introduced the FORECAST Act in July 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Deluzio Visits Sheet Metal Workers Training Center in Harmarville

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Tour Highlights State-of-the-Art Training Facility & Apprenticeship Program that’s Building Tomorrow’s Workforce

    CARNEGIE, PA — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) toured the Sheet Metal Workers Local 12 Training Center in Harmarville. The visit builds on his ironclad commitment to being a voice for hardworking people and an unflinching advocate for the union way of life and growing good-paying jobs in Western Pennsylvania.

    “We’ve got to build an economy that works for everyone, and a big part of that means building—construction jobs that require serious training that programs like the Sheet Metal Workers Local 12 Training Center can provide,” said Congressman Deluzio. “The apprentices who are paid to learn the building trades here will do work that has dignity and supports their families, all while strengthening our regional workforce and economy. It’s a win-win, and I appreciate Sheet Metal Workers Local 12 for welcoming me and for all they do for our region’s growth.”

    During the tour, Congressman Deluzio talked with the apprentice class about the skills they’re learning. He also sat down with union leadership to discuss a variety of policy issues and how they can continue working together to make sure workers have a voice in the federal government.  

    Congressman Deluzio has long been a champion of strengthening our union workforce—a key pillar of his Make Stuff Here agenda. He will continue to support the union way of life, including defending laws like the Davis-Bacon Act and pushing for legislation like the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sheet Metal Workers Local 12 Training Center

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Copyright 2018. Sheet Metal Workers Local 12. All rights reserved.

    1200 Gulf Lab Road

    Pittsburgh, PA 15238

    (412) 828-5300

    Find the Training Center on Facebook

    APPRENTICESHIP TEST​

    Saturday, March 25, 2023

    Sign up by March 20, 2023

    Call (412)828-1386 for more information

    **an application packet must also be submitted by March 25, 2023**

    [embedded content]

    Instructors:

    ​​We proudly train our Journey Mechanics and Apprentices to be the most highly skilled and motivated workers in the industry. Click on the “Training Programs” link above for more information about our extensive training and continuing education programs.

    ​Jobs being completed on time and on schedule is our goal.

    We provide continuing education for our members to keep up with an ever evolving industry, and we welcome all who are interested in an exciting and creative career to apply. Click on the “Applications” link above for more information and to download an application packet. 

    Only the best applicants are accepted!

    ​For more information about Sheet Metal careers, click here.

    John Naples

    ​Dan Lyons

    Click here for

    Local 12 Training Center

    1200 Gulf Lab Road
    Pittsburgh, PA 15238
    Phone: (412) 828-1386
    Fax:  (412) 828-2124

    Email: 

    JATF@smlocal12.org

    Find the Training Center on Twitter

    [embedded content]

    Mike Shields​

    Training Center Email:  JATF@smlocal12.org

    Training Coordinator

    Charles O. DeMore

    ​

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Fairness for Stay-at-Home Parents Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    Legislation championed by Vice President Vance saves money for new moms and dads
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Fairness for Stay-at-Home Parents Act, which exempts new parents from paying back health insurance premiums to their employers, should they choose not to return to work after maternity or paternity leave. Under current law, employers can “claw back” premiums from new moms and dads if they stay at home following parental leave.
    The Fairness for Stay-at-Home Parents Act was previously introduced by JD Vance as Senator from Ohio, and is being lead in the House of Representatives by Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV)
    “Our legislation rectifies a problem with the Family and Medical Leave Act that unfairly impacts mothers who decide to stay home with their newborns after maternity leave,” said Senator Lee. “Each additional financial burden we can remove from growing American families is a victory, and this bill will make it easier for hundreds of thousands of new parents to care for their kids.” 
    “Being pro-life means being pro-family,” said Rep. Moore. “That means ensuring families aren’t penalized for deciding to have a parent stay home with their new baby. Our bill ensures families won’t face a huge bill for insurance premiums simply for choosing what’s best for their family.”
    “Family policy should give parents the choice to care for their young children. The Fairness for Stay-at-Home Parents Act does this, which is why I think it is a smart idea.”– Brad Wilcox, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Family Studies
    “This is a much needed update to the FMLA to protect women who decide to stay home with their newborns. Young moms should feel empowered to make the choices that work for them when caring for their babies, not get socked with surprise bills from their employers.”  -Ivana Greco, homeschooling mom of four and Senior Fellow at Capita.     
     
    You can read the bill text HERE.  
    You can read the one-pager HERE.
    You can read the Daily Wire’s exclusive coverage HERE.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salinas, Pingree, Tokuda, Wyden Lead Colleagues in Slamming Trump Administration for Censoring Agricultural Research Crucial to Rural Communities

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Leaked Agricultural Research Service memo contains a sweeping list of banned words, including “climate,” “affordable housing,” and “safe drinking water.”

    Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Jill Tokuda (HI-02), along with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), warned the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that Donald Trump’s politically motivated list of banned words — including “climate,” “affordable housing,” and “safe drinking water” — in research agreements being considered for federal funding would harm rural communities facing wildfires, drought, food insecurity, among other environmental agricultural challenges.

    In the letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, the lawmakers emphasized, “The exclusion of these terms from consideration for funding opportunities demonstrates an intentional effort to hinder, distort, and improperly steer federal scientific work in the name of political expediency, and the American people deserve far better than that.”

    The USDA has operated more than 600 research projects with a $1.7 billion budget. Banning terms like “runoff” or “soil pollution” from playing a role in funding these agricultural and environmental projects would stall opportunities to advance the agency’s core mission to carry out scientific work that bolsters lives, careers, and the overall wellbeing of communities across rural America. As Oregon’s climate changes, farmers are being exposed to emerging pest and disease threats, which could wipe out entire crops or even threaten human health. Climate change is a scientifically established threat to agricultural productivity, food security, and rural economies.

    The lawmakers continued: “The American people deserve transparency and integrity from federal research agencies, not political interference and outright censorship. The farmers and ranchers who rely on sound science to navigate environmental and economic challenges should not have their livelihoods undercut by unscientific, bureaucratic gatekeeping. Critical research proposals to reduce pollution, increase irrigation efficiency, or address emerging pest and disease threats should not be denied solely because they used a word that Donald Trump does not like.”

    In addition to Salinas, Wyden, Pingree, and Tokuda, the letter is cosigned in the House by Reps. Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Ed Case (HI-01), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jim Costa (CA-21), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02) Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Maxine Waters (CA-43) and in the Senate by Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Tina Smith (D-MN).

    The members demand immediate answers clarifying the implications of this politically motivated censorship to the following questions no later than April 18, 2025:

    1. Has the USDA conducted any review to determine whether this policy violates federal transparency laws, scientific integrity policies, or anti-discrimination statutes? If so, please share the documentation. If not, please explain why a review has not been done.
    2. The USDA has confirmed the existence of the ARS memo that has been publicly reported. Please provide any other lists of key words that the USDA is using to evaluate federal agreements, contracts, grants, loans, and other programs.
    3. For each list provided under question 2, please explain the purpose of each list, including any relevant laws, regulations, Executive Orders, or memoranda that the USDA is seeking to comply with.
    4. What safeguards have you put in place to ensure that these restrictions do not lead to biased or politically motivated decision-making at the expense of merit, scientific integrity, and public welfare?
    5. Have these restrictions resulted in the rejection of agreements that would have directly benefited farmers, food supply security, or rural economies? If so, what processes does the USDA have in place to allow for the appeal of decisions and evaluations made based off key word lists for federal agreements, contracts, grants, loans, or other programs? Provide an itemized list of all agreements under all impacted programs that were rejected because they included one or more of these banned terms, as outlined in the directive, as well as a full justification for each rejection.
    6. In the case of the ARS banned word list, if an ongoing research agreement is focused on biofuels, for example, the ARS website lists 29 research projects containing the word biofuel. Will funding for these projects be revoked? Will ongoing research be halted? Will USDA require projects to rephrase their contracts? If a project cannot be rephrased without using a banned word, will the contract be terminated?
    7. What are the consequences for researchers or other agency employees who identify serious risks related to any of these banned terms, such as, for example, the expanded range of certain pests and diseases due to changing climate conditions, or nitrate contamination in the drinking water supply from fertilizer runoff?
      1. Will research proposals and agreements to address these critical issues – and others that include banned terms – be considered under this policy?
      2. If so, through what process are they getting around the banned terms list, and how is that decided? If not, how do you justify such negligence?
      3. Are career scientists, policy experts, and agency staff being pressured to remove or avoid these terms in their work? If not, explain how USDA plans to enforce these restrictions. If so, how does that not constitute political coercion?
    8. Does the USDA deny that climate change, pollution, and the accessibility of federal funding impact the safety and security of the American food supply? If so, provide your justification. If not, then why are these issues being censored?
    9. Will you release all internal communications regarding the creation, justification, and enforcement of this policy to ensure full transparency? If so, when? If not, why?

    To read the full letter, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Lee and Representative Davidson Introduce Aid Accountability Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) introduced the Aid Accountability Act of 2025 which would create a “funding death penalty” for any federal employee or non-governmental organization violating the Helms Amendment which prohibits the use of any US foreign aid to perform or encourage abortion as a method of family planning. 
    Recently, the State Department has admitted that during the Biden administration, partners and grantees using funds from U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) misused funds intended for HIV/AIDS prevention to perform abortions in Mozambique. Although the State Department suspended the funding and secured reimbursements, there is, as of yet, no real penalties or consequences for co-opting foreign aid programs to push the progressive abortion agenda with taxpayer
    Unfortunately, this is just one of many instances of Helms Amendment violations by PEPFAR partners and grantees who misused over $1 million of congressionally appropriated funds to promote abortion instead of controlling the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.
    “For years, American tax dollars have gone to foreign aid efforts that promote abortion, in direct violation of the Helms amendment,” said Sen. Lee. “This is largely because there have been no real penalties for this grievous abuse—until now. Our legislation permanently cuts aid off from any organizations which violate the abortion prohibition, and permanently fires any federal employee who knowingly facilitates it.”
    “It is illegal and immoral for the U.S. government to fund abortion abroad. Federal funding for groups that promote abortion damages our credibility and hurts our ability to work with nations that share pro-life values,” said Rep. Davidson. “The Aid Accountability Act ensures real consequences for those who ignore the Helms Amendment by permanently banning non-profits caught using federal funds for abortion. Further, it would ban federal workers from civil service who knowingly violate the law. Only by restoring accountability to foreign aid can we hope to restore trust in the State Department.”
    This bill is cosponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ashley Moody (R-FL) and endorsed by the Family Research Council and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.
    The Aid Accountability Act would:
    Ensure a grantee, sub-grantee, or contractor who violates abortion-related prohibitions become permanently ineligible for future US Funding
    Bar any civil servant who knowingly facilitates a violation of abortion-related prohibitions from civil service for life and make them financially liable for the violations
    Direct the Secretary of State to make the final determinations of violations and penalties
    The Secretary’s determination may only be overturned by a federal court and is subject to the Congressional Review Act

    Aid Accountability Act: One-pager | Bill Text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    BLOUNTVILLE, TN — Today, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger joined students, teachers, and community members in Blountville to announce the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition, celebrating the exceptional talent of young artists across Tennessee’s First District. 

    Taking home first place was William McNeill of Providence Academy, whose stunning piece, “Great Dhalia,” captured the top honor and will be proudly displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

    Additional award recipients include:

    • Second Place: Laurel Pearson, Providence Academy
    • Third Place: Frances Stewart, University School
    • Honorable Mention: Annalise Burns, Providence Academy
    • Honorable Mention: Aleecia Rema Davis, Morristown East High
    • Art Teacher of the Year: Sharon Squibb, University School

    Congresswoman Harshbarger shared her admiration and appreciation for the students and educators who participated:

    “It always amazes me to see how much talent the young people of Tennessee’s First District have. It’s one of the reasons this is one of my favorite events of the year, and I’m thankful for the nearly one hundred students who submitted their art. I’m also extremely thankful to the teachers who helped make this competition possible through their guidance and leadership.”

    The Congressional Art Competition is held annually to showcase the artistic achievements of high school students from across the nation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Closing remarks by UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem at the 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    Madam Chair,
    Excellencies,
    Distinguished delegates, 
    Leaders of civil society,
    Dear colleagues, dear young people,

    Muy buenos días! Greetings of peace – always on our minds as we deliberate in this multilateral space – peace in the home, peace in our hearts, peace in the wider world.

    Last year’s 57th session of this Commission celebrated ICDP30. It drew record participation. This year again, this Commission garnered considerable engagement from Member States, civil society, from advocates for issues that affect older people and young advocates, too – all mobilized by the relevance of the theme: “Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages”.

    In adopting the ICPD Programme of Action 31 years ago in Cairo, Member States set out a vision for the achievement of people-centred sustainable development, through investing in health, including sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights, promoting gender equality, and empowering adolescents and youth. 

    Deliberations of this Commission revealed that deeper investments in health, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, have driven progress in economic and social development, advanced social justice and supported individual well-being.

    As the Commission opened on World Health Day, there was good news on maternal mortality. Your efforts over the years to improve maternal health outcomes have contributed to a remarkable drop in deaths worldwide.

    The news, however, was less positive for Indigenous women, African women and women of African descent, and for women in humanitarian settings – far too many of whom continue to be left behind. Now, there is urgent need to go further to ensure that no woman dies needlessly from entirely preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth.

    As you highlighted, we as a global community need to do better to reduce inequalities in access to healthcare, including through financing and strengthened international cooperation and partnerships.

    We heard your hopes and priorities for furthering these investments to achieve universal health coverage and truly leave no one behind.

    You voiced commitment to improve health and well-being for populations at all ages; to end violence against women, including online; to ensure that child marriage and harmful practices no longer diminish the lives and experiences of women and girls and young people, in all their diversity.

    How unfortunate, then, that the Commission’s best efforts could not translate into an action-oriented outcome this year. Because let us be clear, millions of lives are on the line. Because this year like no other, women and girls expect UNFPA and the entire United Nations to rush to their rescue.

    And once again, it will be poor people who are cast aside, and as always sadly, it is women and girls with the most vulnerability and the least access to health services who will bear the greatest burden of ill health and preventable deaths.

    In recent months, the world appears to be in retreat, turning a face of indifference to human suffering at a time when humanitarian crises are pushing more and more people to the brink. As the principle of international solidarity comes under attack, more and more people are dying. They are being denied fundamental rights and choices, food, life-saving medicines and the basic necessities of life, caught up in catastrophes not of their own making, and for women and girls, there is a battle over their own bodies.

    Who is listening to the women and girls? Who will defend their fundamental rights? I can assure you that UNFPA is listening. We are responding based on the evidence, based on what women and girls tell us they need. We are committed to defending their fundamental freedoms, wherever they may be – in an urban centre or a rural area, in a refugee camp, fleeing violence or disaster, trapped by hunger and war. We will continue to do the necessary research, data analysis, the surveys and census advising to support countries who strongly desire to improve statistical data collection and usage to identify and address the needs of their people.

    As language is debated in these august halls, let us unfailingly uphold the fundamental values that must never be compromised.

    Principle 1 of the ICPD Programme of Action and Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirm that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”

    And what better way to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter than for “we the people” to “reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women”.

    Madam Chair,
    Distinguished delegates,

    This Commission is the guardian of the ICPD Programme of Action. Your work, historically, has bettered millions upon millions of lives around the world. Even as there are opposing positions, I hope that we can agree that much more unites us than divides us.

    Let us send a signal to those whom we serve that what is done here still matters.

    For UNFPA, we will do our utmost to assist Member States to move forward. Because this is no time to turn back. Human lives, human rights and human dignity are at stake. 

    Let us hold fast to Principle 3 of the ICPD Programme of Action:

    “The right to development is a universal and inalienable right and an integral part of fundamental human rights, and the human person is the central subject of development.”

    In this regard, UNFPA notes with great appreciation your adoption of the decision on the special theme for the 60th  session of the CPD on “Population, poverty eradication and sustainable development”, and we look forward to supporting Member States, in collaboration with our partners at DESA.

    On behalf of all of us at UNFPA, I join in thanking our distinguished Chairperson, H.E. Ms. Catharina Jannigje Lasseur of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, for her vision, her astute leadership, and her proactive engagement over months of preparation, and we commend her colleague Ms. Iris De Leede.

    We appreciate the dedication and commitment of the CPD58 Bureau members from Burundi, Lebanon, Moldova, and Uruguay. 

    Special thanks to the co-facilitators, Norma Abi Karam of Lebanon and Jessica Orduz of Colombia, for their tireless efforts to promote evidence-based discussions on the draft resolution.

    May I recognize the UN DESA Population Division for their stewardship of the Commission, and the close partnership with UNFPA to support these efforts. 

    To my own UNFPA expert colleagues, thank you for your long hours and skilled contributions to this year’s session. 

    A final note of thanks to the distinguished representatives, delegates and observers of this 58th Commission for your hard work and active participation in the deliberations.

    I happily observed that this 58th session has been distinguished by meaningful participation by young people and by intergenerational dialogue to good effect. As commissioners, you have carried the aspirations for health of young people and older people, and you have carried our common aspiration for the healing of an increasingly ravaged planet.

    It is my hope that this Commission’s discussions will continue to shape national policies, influence international agreements, and galvanize partnerships that make a real difference in people’s lives. These deliberations provide an important substantial contribution to the upcoming 2025 High Level Political Forum and its review of SDG 3 on good health and SDG 5 on gender equality and towards the preparations for the Fourth Financing for Development Conference and the Second World Summit on Social Development.

    Excellencies, distinguished delegates,

    Quoting the gifted African poet Warsan Shire:

    i held an atlas in my lap
    ran my fingers across the whole world
    and whispered
    where does it hurt?

    it answered
    everywhere
    everywhere
    everywhere.

    In looking forward to constructive substantive reflections next year under the theme “population, technology and research in the context of sustainable development”, on behalf of UNFPA, allow me to reaffirm our commitment to partnering with the 59th CPD Chair and all of you to support the full implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action and support the continued success of the 2030 Agenda and the Pact of the Future.

    Remember that good health and healthy longevity begin with safe motherhood in the antenatal period. Let us continue to take forward our collective responsibility for a future in which everyone enjoys good health and well-being and everyone – at all ages – benefits from the fruits of sustainable development and lives in dignity and peace.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 11 April 2025 Departmental update Malaria progress in jeopardy amid foreign aid cuts

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Since 2000, investments in the global malaria response have prevented more than 2 billion cases and nearly 13 million deaths. Yet efforts to control and eliminate malaria are in jeopardy as communities and programmes face the fallout of recent funding cuts.

    Malaria is preventable and curable – but without prompt diagnosis and treatment, it can rapidly escalate to severe illness and death, particularly among young children and pregnant women. In 2023 alone, malaria claimed nearly 600 000 lives, with an estimated 95% of these deaths occurring in the WHO African Region.[1]

    The 2025 funding cuts to malaria programmes put millions of additional lives at risk and could reverse decades of progress earned, in part, through longstanding investments from the United States of America and other global partners. ​ Between 2010 and 2023, the USA contributed an average of 37% of global malaria financing through both bilateral and multilateral channels.[2]  

    The recent experience of the COVID-19 pandemic showed that sudden interruptions to malaria service delivery can be deadly. In 2020, COVID-related disruptions to the provision of malaria prevention, diagnosis and treatment led to an estimated 14 million more malaria cases and an additional 47 000 deaths.[3]  

    “History has shown us what happens if we let down our guard against malaria,” cautions Dr Daniel Ngamije, Director of the WHO Global Malaria Programme. “In 1969, the global eradication effort was abandoned, triggering a resurgence in cases and deaths. It took nearly 30 years for world leaders to come together and restore momentum.”

    Although funding for some USA-supported malaria programmes has been reinstated, the disruptions have left critical gaps. Without the rapid delivery of prevention and treatment services to at-risk populations, the consequences could be fatal.  

    Findings of rapid WHO survey

    The impact is being felt across the health sector. Of the 108 WHO country offices that took part in a recent WHO survey, nearly three quarters reported severe disruptions to health services following the pause in overseas development assistance (ODA).

    Responses from country offices suggest that budget cuts are already translating into increased out-of-pocket payments for patients, with the poor and vulnerable likely to carry the heaviest financial burden. The survey highlighted job losses for health and care workers as well as disruptions to information systems and to the supply of medicines and health products.

    Reponses to malaria have been particularly affected. Of the 64 malaria-endemic countries surveyed, more than half reported moderate or severe disruptions to malaria services.

    Impact of funding shortfall highlighted at WHO advisory committee meeting

    Further information was shared in this week’s WHO Malaria Policy Advisory Group (MPAG) meeting, held from 8–10 April. MPAG members heard updates on current challenges and priority actions taken by countries and their global partners to respond to immediate funding shortfalls.

    Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) have been a cornerstone of malaria prevention efforts in Africa over the past 2 decades. By early April 2025, more than 40% of planned ITN distribution campaigns designed to reach 425 million people were either delayed or at risk of being derailed, according to data provided by national malaria programmes.

    Nearly 30% of seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) campaigns to protect 58 million children were also off track. In many African countries, stocks of rapid diagnostic tests and medicines have reached critically low levels.

    Reductions in funding also threaten to undermine critical investments in scientific innovation, including in new and improved preventive, diagnostic and treatment interventions as well as in new tools to address drug and insecticide resistance.

    “We must not allow funding setbacks to derail the global malaria agenda,” noted Dr Jérôme Salomon, WHO Assistant Director-General, in his opening remarks at MPAG. “We urge all stakeholders to sustain their commitments, safeguard national plans, and coordinate adaptation strategies in response to the shifting funding landscape.”

    Country leadership and partner support critical to response

    In Nigeria, lawmakers have approved an additional US$ 200 million for the health sector as part of a 2025 spending plan – an effort to mitigate the impact of the recent suspension of USA foreign aid.[4]  Across Africa, other countries are strengthening coordination mechanisms and taking steps to close critical gaps through the use of domestic resources.

    WHO and partners remain committed to supporting national governments and civil society in securing sustained funding and delivering integrated solutions to protect those most at risk. Achieving resilient and self-financed health systems will require increased domestic investment in health and a strategic use of available resources to maximize impact.

    “This is the moment for data-driven decision making – for ensuring every dollar is used wisely,” said Dr Dyann Wirth, MPAG Chair. “People and communities already facing poverty and vulnerability will bear the brunt of these funding cuts.  We must embrace equity-focused action and stand up for sustainable solutions that leave no one behind.”

    In March 2025, WHO and the RBM Partnership to End Malaria launched a cross-partner working group of technical experts and donor agencies to ensure rapid, aligned support for countries where it is most needed.

    “It is critical, now more than ever, to ensure that our malaria interventions are fully integrated within broader health systems,” noted Dr Michael Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria. “Our collective efforts must continue to focus on streamlining, on coordination and on sustainable financing. And, at the end of the day, we must ensure that we are putting countries first.”

    Sustained investment in primary health care and delivering integrated, life-saving services – particularly for vulnerable populations – must remain a priority.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Concluding Session, Commission on Population and Development Fails to Adopt Text on Ensuring Healthy Lives, Promoting Well-being for All

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Several Delegates Take Issue with Language Concerning Sexual, Reproductive Health Services, Reproductive Rights

    The Commission on Population and Development failed to adopt an outcome document today as it concluded its fifty-eighth session, with delegates sharply divided about support for sexual and reproductive rights, and some questioning commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    At the outset of the meeting, Catharina Jannigje Lasseur (Netherlands), Chair of the Commission at its fifty-eighth session, withdrew the draft resolution she had circulated earlier, citing a lack of agreement among delegations.  While noting “strong efforts towards consensus”, she acknowledged: “I see no other possibility at this late hour than to withdraw my proposal.”

    If adopted, that wide-ranging text, titled “Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages” (document E/CN.9/2025/L.4), would have urged Member States to ensure everyone’s right to the enjoyment of the highest-attainable standard of physical and mental health and called on them to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services.  It would have also called on Governments to take concrete measures towards the full implementation of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development.

    The Programme, adopted by 179 countries at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development held in Cairo, set out an ambitious vision about the relationships between population, development and individual well-being.  It recognized that reproductive health and rights, as well as women’s empowerment and gender equality, are cornerstones of development.

    In the contentious discussion that followed the Chair’s withdrawal of her resolution, many speakers expressed regret that the Commission could not adopt a consensus text this year but diverged as to why agreement was not possible.

    Several speakers took issue with language concerning “sexual and reproductive health services”, as well as “reproductive rights”.  The representative of Djibouti said that there is an “ever-growing number of delegations who have come to realize that [these terms] have become — and remain — highly controversial”. Similarly, the observer for the Holy See said:  “This language has always been controversial.”  Nigeria’s delegate said that, despite various calls for the removal of certain language, the facilitators ignored these requests, which concern “cultural and ethical values and core national priorities”.

    Burundi’s delegate underscored that the phrase “sexual and reproductive rights” must not be interpreted to mean the right to abortion.  The term “gender” must be understood as exclusively meaning the biological sexes of male and female.  Further, “a strong family policy” must be at the heart of sustainable development, he said. The representatives of Iran, Cameroon, Belarus and the Russian Federation also said they could not agree with a text that did not incorporate references to the role of the family.

    However, South Africa’s delegate, delivering a statement on behalf of a number of countries, said:  “We are deeply concerned by what we have witnessed in this forum around fundamental rights and issues that have enjoyed long-standing consensus in the United Nations.”  Noting the ongoing challenge to human rights — including the right to development and universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights — she reaffirmed commitment to the International Conference on Population and Development’s Programme of Action.

    Poland’s delegate, speaking for the European Union, also reiterated support to that Programme and the role of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in advancing sexual and reproductive health and gender equality. She stressed the need to ensure that “we live in a world without sexual and gender-based violence and harmful practices, where all women and girls can make choices about their life, health and well-being, where the potential of every individual is fulfilled and no mother or infant dies simply because the health system has failed them”.

    Inclusive and resilient health systems, universal healthcare and inclusive sexual health and reproductive services are essential to sustainable development, stressed Sweden’s representative, while France’s delegate stressed that reproductive rights “are what determines access to development for women and girls”.

    The representative of the United States, meanwhile, said that his delegation “rejects and denounces the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and will no longer affirm the SDGs [Sustainable Development Goals] as a matter of course”.

    Many delegations, however, took the floor to reaffirm their support for the 2030 Agenda, including the representatives of Chile, Lebanon, Colombia, the Republic of Moldova, the Philippines and Japan.  The representatives of Portugal, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Australia (also speaking for Canada and New Zealand), Norway, Belgium and Luxembourg expressed concern that foundational references to the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs were consistently challenged during negotiations.

    “We cannot become accustomed to delegations picking and choosing from international commitments,” Brazil’s delegate said.  China’s delegate described the rejection of references to the 2030 Agenda as “a regression in the course of history”.

    In the face of such attacks, Germany’s delegate said, it is all the more vital to work together to realize the aspirations collectively agreed upon in the International Conference on Population and Development’s Programme of Action, the 2030 Agenda and the Pact for the Future.  The United Kingdom’s representative warned that “ignoring links between health, climate change and inequality do not make them disappear”, while Uruguay’s delegate observed:  “Sadly, we are living in a time when reason is insufficient.”

    Algeria’s representative sounded a more-hopeful note:  “Thanks to the work of this Commission, it was possible to have an exchange of views and achieve agreements that will undoubtedly facilitate negotiations in the future.”  For his part, the representative of Bangladesh urged:  “Let us not allow short-term differences to undermine our long-term destiny; consensus is not the surrender of national interests, it is the recognition that our fates are intertwined.”

    In her closing remarks, Ms. Lasseur encouraged delegates to reflect upon the larger role of the Commission.  With 116 Member States speaking in the general debate and more than 30 side events, this year’s session featured many examples of positive steps that have been made to implement the International Conference on Population and Development’s Programme of Action, she said.  “This shows that the [Programme and the Commission on Population and Development] are very much alive and kicking,” she said.  Participating in this forum, she added, “really made it clear to me who we are fighting for:  women and girls, often living in rural areas, sometimes in dangerous conflict settings, lacking access to basic healthcare services, not having the basic necessities to live a life of dignity”.

    “How unfortunate then that the Commission’s best efforts could not translate into an action-oriented outcome this year,” said Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA, in her closing remarks.  People are dying because they are denied fundamental rights and choices, food, life-saving medicines and the basic necessities of life, caught up in catastrophes not of their own making, and for women and girls, in battles over their own bodies.

    “In this year, like no other, women and girls expect UNFPA and the United Nations to rush to their rescue,” she said, adding that once again, it will be poor people and the most vulnerable women and girls who will bear the greatest burden of ill health and preventable deaths.  “Who is listening to them?  Who will defend their fundamental rights?” she asked.  Reaffirming the Fund’s commitment to listening to them, she said it will continue to respond “based on what women and girls tell us they need”.

    Also regretting the lack of an outcome document, Bjørg Sandkjær, Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, expressed appreciation for the “frank, thoughtful and interactive” discussions held throughout the week.  The Commission heard about important progress in improving people’s health and well-being over the past decades even as it learned about the many health-related SDG targets that are off track.  She noted that these insights will feed into the Economic and Social Council’s activities.

    In other business, the Commission adopted the report of its fifty-eighth session (document E/CN.9/2025/L.3) and the provisional agenda of the fifty-ninth session (document E/CN.9/2025/L.2).  The Russian Federation’s delegate said his delegation was short-handed because one member arrived late due to visa delays and stressed that the United States has a legal obligation to issue visas in a timely manner.

    The Chair said that in the absence of an outcome document, she would prepare a summary of the proceedings.  Iran’s delegate said such a summary should not be considered a representation of the positions of delegations.

    The Commission also adopted a decision (document E/CN.9/2025/L.5), which decided that the special theme for its sixtieth session, to be held in 2027, will be “Population, poverty eradication and sustainable development”.  The Russian Federation’s delegate, noting that eliminating poverty is an important global goal, hailed the consensus by which the Commission chose the theme.

    The Commission then concluded its fifty-eighth session and opened its fifty-ninth session, electing Zéphyrin Maniratanga (Burundi) as Chair and Arb Kapisyzi (Albania), Sasha-Kay Kayann Watson (Jamaica) and Stéphanie Toschi (Luxembourg) as Vice-Chairs.  The nomination of the remaining Vice-Chair, to represent Asia-Pacific States, was deferred to a later date.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Escape and return of an inmate from Grierson Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News

    April 11, 2025 – Edmonton, Alberta – Correctional Service Canada

    On April 11, 2025 inmate Jason Draude failed to report to his work location while on an approved work release from Grierson Institution in Edmonton, Alberta.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) immediately contacted the Edmonton Police Service, and a warrant for the inmate’s arrest has been issued.

    At 12:56 p.m., inmate Jason Draude was back in custody. CSC will investigate the circumstances of this incident.

    Ensuring the safety and security of institutions, staff, and public remains the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system.

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding Alberta’s reach with Abu Dhabi office

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army to sunset milSuite platform

    Source: United States Army

    The milSuite platform – a secure, cloud-based collection of tools for Department of Defense personnel to share information and connect with peers – will be decommissioned on April 30, 2025. On this date, all milSuite products will sunset, including milBook, milUniversity, milSurvey, milTube and milWiki.

    After April 30, all milSuite data will be permanently deleted and unrecoverable. Users must personally export or migrate any data they want to preserve to other collaboration capabilities like Army 365 (Teams, SharePoint online). The data on milSuite will not be automatically transferred to another platform. Although no single platform fully replicates milSuite’s capabilities, existing resources provide similar collaboration, communication and knowledge-sharing functions.

    “Innovations in collaboration, knowledge management and communications offer the DoD approved enterprise tools that better support the Army’s digital modernization efforts in line with our goal of a globally connected Army by 2030,” said Lt. Gen. Jeth Rey, the Army’s Deputy Chief of Staff, G-6.

    For additional information, guidance and helpful resources about milSuite sunsetting, go to the milSuite Support Forum. There you will find milSuite alternatives, including instructions on transferring content out of milSuite. On this site, you can also access the milSuite Data Collection Points of Contact list. If you are part of any of the organizations or chains of commands listed in that document and want to ensure your organization is aware of your usage, please contact the appropriate individual(s).

    The milSuite team will be available on this site to assist with the process.

    “We are focused on helping milSuite users understand how to download and export their data over the next few weeks,” said Tom Curran, milSuite program manager. “We’ve established weekly workshops every Thursday at 1 p.m. EDT that provide a forum to share information and connect our technical experts with our user community to address any questions they have. We’ve also established a community page containing details, FAQs and resources across each milSuite platform to assist our users.”

    Due to the short timeline, it is strongly recommended that milSuite users take action as soon as possible to avoid losing important information.

    Refer to our FAQ page at https://www.milSuite.mil/.

    MIL OSI USA News –