NewzIntel.com

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Launchpool to List Chainbase (C) with 2.75M in Token Rewards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, and Web3 company has announced the listing of Chainbase (C) in the Innovation and AI Zone, for spot trading. Besides being available for spot trading, Bitget will launch an exclusive Launchpool rewards campaign with up to 2,750,000 C up for grabs. Chainbase is an omnichain data network.

    Spot trading for Chainbase (C) will begin on 14 July 2025 at 12:00 (UTC) under the C/USDT trading pair. Withdrawals will be available starting 15 July 2025 at 13:00 (UTC).

    To celebrate the listing, Bitget will launch a Launchpool campaign offering 2,750,000 C in total rewards. Eligible users can participate by locking either BGB or C tokens during the event, which runs from 14 July 2025 at 12:00 to 16 July 2025 at 12:00 (UTC). In the BGB pool, users can lock between 5 and 50,000 BGB, with maximum limits determined by their VIP tier, for a chance to earn a share of 2,500,000 C. In the C pool, participants can lock between 30 and 2,778,000 C to receive a portion of 250,000 C in rewards.

    Chainbase is building a decentralized interoperability layer to streamline how blockchain data is accessed and used across multiple chains. At the heart of its vision is the development of the “Crypto World Model”, an AI-powered system designed to unify on-chain and off-chain data into a single, usable layer. This model acts as a bridge, allowing developers and applications to pull standardized, real-time data from across the crypto ecosystem without needing to manage fragmented sources or infrastructure complexity.

    By delivering a consistent and intelligent data experience, Chainbase enables a wide range of use cases—from DeFi analytics and smart contract automation to decentralized social platforms and advanced AI systems. Its omnichain network and Crypto World Model are designed to translate raw blockchain activity into structured insights, laying the foundation for a smarter, more connected Web3.

    Bitget continues to solidify its role as a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange, offering over 800 listed tokens across spot and derivatives markets. The addition of BOOM to Launchpool aligns with Bitget’s ongoing effort to support innovative projects whose value continues to evolve the ecosystem.

    Find more details on Chainbase, visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4536f5f-1e3d-4a0f-8931-e63653cf4649

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan resolution introduced honoring journeyman lineworkers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Representatives Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Donald Norcross (D-N.J.) and Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.) today led 143 members of the House of Representatives in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating July 10 as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day.

    “Every day, lineworkers rise to the challenge – often working long hours in hazardous conditions – to keep the lights on and our communities running,” said Congresswoman Sánchez, the first woman member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) elected to Congress. “From rebuilding the grid after major storms to maintaining the systems that power our daily lives, their steadfast dedication ensures that our communities stay connected.”

    “Our journeyman lineworkers are the frontline defenders of our infrastructure. They respond without hesitation – often at great personal risk – to restore the power that sustains our homes, hospitals, and economy. In Pennsylvania’s First District and across the nation, I’ve met with these dedicated men and women, listened to their concerns, and worked to ensure they have the respect, protection, and resources they deserve. This resolution is not merely symbolic – it is a formal recognition of their service and a promise to have their backs, just as they always have ours,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick.

    “As an electrician by trade, I’m proud to join Representatives Sánchez, Fitzpatrick and Bresnahan in introducing a resolution to designate July 10th as Lineworkers Appreciation Day, recognizing the 120,000 lineworkers across the country who work tirelessly to power our communities,” said Congressman Norcross, co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “These men and women often work throughout the night in hazardous conditions and after natural disasters to keep America on, and they deserve to be honored for their courageous efforts.”

    “I want to express my deep gratitude to the skilled men and women who work around the clock not only on Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day, but every day,” said Congressman Bresnahan. “As the former Chairman of an IBEW Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, I know firsthand the dedication lineworkers have to keeping our lights on and our communities running smoothly. I am glad to join Representatives Sánchez, Fitzpatrick, and Norcross to recognize their vital importance to our communities.”

    “America’s lineworkers are heroes in every sense of the word, putting their own safety on the line day in and day out to provide the electricity that powers every aspect of our modern lives,” said Kenneth W. Cooper, international president of the IBEW. “Honoring them on this day is fitting, but our gratitude for them and the work they do lasts year-round. The IBEW is proud to represent the best of the best of our nation’s lineworkers and to thank them for all they do for all of us.” 

    “On this 2025 Lineworker Appreciation Day, we proudly honor the hardworking men and women who keep our lights on and our communities safe – no matter the weather or the hour,” said David Long, CEO of the National Electrical Contractors Association. “Their skill, sacrifice, and service power America every day. On behalf of our contractors and their employees across our nation, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Representatives Linda Sánchez, Donald Norcross, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Rob Bresnahan for introducing this year’s bipartisan resolution, ensuring our nation never forgets the vital role lineworkers play in our everyday lives.”

    “EEI and our member electric companies proudly recognize America’s lineworkers today and every day. These brave men and women are essential to delivering the safe, reliable, and affordable electricity that drives our nation’s economy and powers our communities and our daily lives” said Drew Maloney, president and CEO of Edison Electric Institute. “Lineworkers are the face of our industry and work day and night—often in dangerous conditions—to keep the lights on. We thank Representatives Sanchez, Bresnahan, Fitzpatrick, and Norcross for their leadership in honoring their service.”

    The resolution designates July 10 as National Journeyman Lineworkers Day to honor Henry Miller, the founder and first president of the IBEW. Miller began his career at age 14 as a water boy on a government telegraph project in Texas. Years later, while working as a lineman, Miller became acutely aware of the dangerous conditions and subpar wages his fellow workers faced. He traveled across the country to organize linemen and was elected as the first president of the National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 1891. Sadly, Miller suffered a fatal fall on July 10, 1896, while working to solve a power outage in Washington, D.C. Today, the IBEW represents one of the largest and most diverse unions in the country.

    Congresswoman Sánchez, a former member of the IBEW Local 441 and labor lawyer, first introduced this resolution in 2014.

    The full text of the resolution is available HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They’re Saying: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens Introduces the ‘Unearth America’s Future Act’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

     

    “The ambitious bill is Stevens’ response to growing concern that the United States is overly dependent on China to power manufacturing in key strategic sectors.”

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  This week, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens announced her plan to introduce the Unearth America’s Future Act which would remake America’s mineral supply chain to lower prices, create jobs, and stop dependence on China.

    Congresswoman Stevens formally introduced the bill today.

    Here’s what Michiganders are hearing about this bill:

    Detroit News: With China dominating, Stevens bill seeks CHIPS-like federal effort on critical minerals
    By: Grant Schwab

    Democratic U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens will introduce a bill this week urging the federal government to play a more active role in reducing U.S. reliance on China for critical minerals.

    “This bill is about real results. It will lower costs and create jobs by bringing mineral production back home, supporting Michigan workers, and keeping our supply chains strong,” the Birmingham congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate said.

    The package — called the Unearth America’s Future Act — would direct tens of billions of dollars in federal loans, tax credits and other funds into the next decade for initiatives to boost mining and refining of essential materials for the automotive, defense, health care and telecommunications industries.

    The ambitious bill is Stevens’ response to growing concern that the United States is overly dependent on China to power manufacturing in key strategic sectors. Those concerns only grew stronger after the Far East nation created a potentially “dire” situation for Michigan’s auto sector with export controls issued in response to President Donald Trump’s trade policies.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk. They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China,” Stevens said in an emailed statement.

    The fourth-term lawmaker’s package is structured similarly to the CHIPS and Science Act, a signature legislative achievement of former President Joe Biden.

    Politico’s E&E News: Dems prepare bill to provide $10B for critical materials
    By: Hannah Northey

    House Democrats are planning to unveil legislation this week that would set aside more than $10 billion for critical material projects to counter China’s dominance.

    Reps. Haley Stevens of Michigan and Jim Clyburn of South Carolina say the proposal would rival any trade deal President Donald Trump reaches with Beijing because it would restore U.S. supply chains faster.

    The language, according to Stevens’ and Clyburn’s aides, is structured similarly to the CHIPS and Science Act, which former President Joe Biden signed into law in 2022.

    Michigan Advance: Stevens intros bill for critical materials to counter China
    By: Ben Solis

    U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) is working with her congressional colleagues to introduce legislation that will seek to counter China’s stranglehold on critical materials and set aside $10 billion to make it happen.

    Unveiled Tuesday, the Unearth America’s Future Act was described as a means to lower costs, create jobs and ensure Michigan workers and manufacturers are leading the way in critical mineral production.

    At present, the U.S. and many other nations are dependent on China for these materials, including cobalt, lithium and magnesium, which are needed in the manufacture of many high tech electronics. Stevens’ bill aims to fix that by putting money toward responsible domestic mineral production. The legislation would also support partnerships between government and private industry, with investments in innovation that would keep jobs in Michigan.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk,” Stevens said in a statement. “They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China. This bill is about real results.”

    WEMU: Rep. Stevens tries to boost American mineral production efforts
    By: Colin Jackson

    “The industry for materials key to American manufacturing could receive extra government support under proposed legislation from a Michigan congresswoman.”

    “The bill is named the “Unearth America’s Future Act.” It would create new federal loans, tax credits, and programs to spur the domestic production and refining of critical minerals like copper, magnesium, and aluminum.”

    “The policy proposal is a response to concerns about China’s dominance in the market for precious metals, especially those used in goods like smartphones or vehicle batteries.”

    “Stevens said that makes both the country’s and Michigan’s current situations untenable.”

    “Leaving Michigan’s entire manufacturing base on the hook for materials coming from minerals that are refined in China, that’s a risk. And that’s not working,” she said.

    WDET – Detroit, MI 

    “Democratic representative Haley Stevens says her bill takes a different approach. ‘What this bill is, is focused on public-private partnerships, supply chain opportunities, as well as recyclability, which is something that’s getting a lot of traction in the critical material space right now.’

    Michigan Public Radio – Detroit, MI 

    “Democratic Representative Haley Stevens calls her bill a comprehensive plan. ‘This will increase our resilience here in the United States of America, but it will also increase our domestic production capabilities, which means lowering costs, lowering costs, lowering costs. We need to lower costs, and that’s what this bill is going to be about as well and job creation.’

    WJR-Detroit, MI

    “It’s not acceptable to have this reliance on China, and so I put forward legislation.”

    “This bill will actually lower costs, get us jobs and end up paying for itself.”

    “We all know that this current administration is eager to cut deals with other countries. I’m eager to cut deals for Michigan. I am eager to put proof in the pudding and put forward real industrial policy that will deliver for our state.”

    Here’s what stakeholders are saying about the bill:

    David McCall, President of United Steelworkers International: 
    “Erasing the People’s Republic of China’s global lead in critical minerals will require a balance of domestic and international efforts. The USW applauds Rep. Stevens’ work to develop domestic mining and manufacturing jobs while ensuring export financing supports projects that respect strong labor rights and maintain strict air and water quality standards.”  

    John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation:
    “A healthy and competitive auto industry in America supports our economic and national security. Representative Stevens’ Unearth America’s Future Act makes good sense on multiple fronts: it’s a policy to secure critical material supply chains that bypass China and are essential for national defense; it will further modernize our domestic industrial base; and will support American manufacturing, innovation and auto industry jobs.”

    Will Brown, Vice President of Government Relations & International Programs of the Aluminum Association:
    “This legislation is a significant step toward producing, collecting and securing more critical materials like aluminum in the United States. As one of only 11 mineral commodities included on the Department of Defense and all other government critical materials lists, aluminum is essential to modern life – in everything from cars, cans and smartphones to tanks and fighter jets. Congresswoman Stevens’ bill is a downpayment on American jobs, innovation and supply chain resilience.”

    Sarah Venuto, Executive Director of the American Critical Minerals Association:
    “The Unearth America’s Future Act recognizes the need for comprehensive legislative solutions aimed at catalyzing the growth of the U.S. domestic critical materials sector. China continues to demonstrate its persistent willingness to take any and all steps to maintain its monopoly over the global supply of critical materials. The U.S. must play a leading role in the diversification of these markets in order to ensure our economy is insulated from increased costs to consumers, delayed timelines for essential goods and services, and national security risks associated with our dependence on other nations for materials key to our defense sector. We applaud Representative Stevens for her continued leadership on the imperative nature of addressing these risks comprehensively and aggressively, and for continuing this important policy conversation. ACMA looks forward to working with Representative Stevens and Congress as this legislation is debated and considered.”

    Orit Frankel, CEO of the American Leadership Initiative: 
    “Congresswoman Stevens’s bill is a critical step to strengthening America’s national and economic security, while reducing our dependence on China’s critical mineral supply which China has withheld as leverage in the bilateral relationship.”

    Dinah McLeod, Director General of the Cobalt Institute:
    “Ensuring critical mineral projects have access to affordable finance often becomes a missing piece of the policy puzzle. Rep. Stevens’ Bill takes important steps to close the gap and get America growing its critical minerals capacity.”

    Alice Wu, Critical Minerals and Energy Supply Chains Policy Manager at the Federation of American Scientists: 
    “Geographic concentration in critical minerals supply chains puts American national security and our economy at risk. That risk has been made clear with recent trade disruptions such as the PRC’s changes to rare earth export license requirements. The Loan Program established by the Unearth America’s Future Act would reinvigorate investment in diversifying and onshoring critical minerals supply chains, while the public-private partnership would provide a flexible set of tools for the federal government to work with industry in mitigating project risks and supporting market stability.”

    Patrick Donnelly, Chief Commercial Officer of Anovion Technologies: 
    “Anovion Technologies considers this bill a vital step in strengthening the domestic battery materials industry. Synthetic graphite, which can account for up to 30% of the weight of a typical lithium-ion battery, is currently sourced almost entirely from China. Reducing reliance on China for this critical material is essential to securing the nation’s energy infrastructure, supporting the Department of Defense, and advancing the automotive sector.”

    Scott Monteith, CEO of Avalon Advanced Materials: 
    “The proposed legislation is a needed blueprint for how the United States government, in partnership with allies can spur economic growth and an innovation economy for the future. Avalon welcomes the bold initiative and looks forward to helping accelerate North American energy security.” 

    Matt Bedingfield, President of Mint Innovation:
    “Mint Innovation is a pioneering clean technology company that has developed a biotechnology to recover critical minerals from electronic waste. The Unearth America’s Future Act is a significant move forward for U.S. national security, bolstering domestic critical mineral production. The Unearth America’s Future Act’s definition of ‘Critical Minerals Manufacturing’ expands to the secondary market including recycled metals, improving mineral supply where traditional mining production will not meet growing demand. Additionally, greater access to funding by way of grants, loans, and research & development will support the growth of domestic critical minerals production across the entire supply chain. This will create new jobs for U.S. citizens, and improve the national and economic strength of the United States.”

    Teague Egan, CEO of EnergyX: 
    “This legislation is a pivotal step toward securing America’s leadership in the global critical materials market.  By aligning federal incentives, innovation, and workforce development, it positions the U.S. to lead globally while driving sustainable growth and industrial resilience at home.”

    Adam Handley, Executive Chair of Northern Minerals:
    “Ensuring access to critical minerals through strategic collaboration with allied nations and partners is vital to reducing reliance on single-source supply chains. We commend Rep. Stevens and the introduction of the Unearth America’s Future Act for rightly emphasizing the need for deeper international cooperation to build secure, resilient supply chains, and look forward to supporting its progress through Congress.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens to Introduce the ‘Unearth America’s Future Act’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

     

    Bill will lower costs for Michiganders, create jobs, and end dependence on China by bringing the supply chain for critical minerals home to America

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (MI-11) announced she will introduce the Unearth America’s Future Act, a bold new bill that will lower costs, create jobs, and make sure Michigan workers and manufacturers are leading by bringing the critical mineral supply chain home to America.

    Critical minerals are essential to everything from smartphones and automotives to military systems and clean energy technologies. Currently, the United States remains dangerously dependent on foreign suppliers, especially China, for these vital materials.

    The Unearth America’s Future Act takes direct action to fix that by supporting responsible domestic mineral production, promotes partnerships between government and private industry, and invests in next-generation innovation, all while keeping jobs in Michigan and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China.

    “Donald Trump has pushed an agenda that puts our economy and national security at risk. They talk tough and make headlines but their policies have only caused prices to rise, weakened our manufacturing industries, and left America more dependent on China,” said Congresswoman Stevens. “This bill is about real results. It will lower costs and create jobs by bringing mineral production back home, supporting Michigan workers, and keeping our supply chains strong.”

    The bill follows a three-part strategy:

    • Targeted federal incentives to boost domestic mineral production.
    • Investment in innovation to drive clean, efficient, and competitive manufacturing.
    • Fair and strong labor policy to protect American jobs and workers.

    This bill stands in sharp contrast to recent efforts by President Trump and Vice President Vance to roll back domestic mineral policies, undermine long-term energy independence, and allow China to continue to control production and the supply chain.

    The Unearth America’s Future Act is supported by the United Steelworkers and is supported by and was developed through collaboration with a wide range of industry, labor, environmental, and trade organizations.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Leads Letter to AG Bondi Regarding Concerns with ICEBlock App

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), alongside Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-4), led a letter to United States Attorney General Pam Bondi expressing significant concern about the ICEBlock app, which was designed to alert users of impending U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The use of this app constitutes a large-scale obstruction of justice and poses a serious threat to public safety and the safety of the ICE officers carrying out these operations.

    “As President Trump works to secure our borders and restore law and order, assaults against ICE Agents have reached alarming and unprecedented levels as demonstrated by the recent attack on the McAllen Border Patrol Station on Monday, July 7th,” said Congressman Williams. “Bad actors are now using tools like the ICEBlock App to undermine the integrity of our justice system and encourage people to interfere with and evade lawful operations that are designed to remove dangerous criminals from our streets. These actions jeopardize public safety and put our federal officers at serious risk. I am proud to lead this effort alongside my colleagues to fight for the safety of our federal law enforcement officers and uphold our immigration laws.”

    “I am deeply concerned with the ICEBlock app, which deliberately undermines the heroic efforts of ICE agents working to deport dangerous criminal aliens flooding our nation due to the previous administration’s reckless open-border policies,” said Rep. Pat Fallon. “The 690 percent surge in assaults on federal and ICE agents in just the first half of 2025 is a direct consequence of emboldened criminals, and this app only escalates the threat by broadcasting agents’ locations, inviting violence. ICE agents, operating under clear legal authority, are risking their lives to remove murderers, sex offenders, human traffickers, and potential terrorists from our streets. We cannot allow a smartphone app to jeopardize their safety or hinder their mission to restore public safety. It is crucial that the DOJ launch an immediate investigation into ICEBlock to assess its role in endangering our officers and take swift action to protect those who protect us.”

    Background:

    • Read the full letter here.
    • First covered by Fox.
    • Co-lead: Pat Fallon (TX-4)
    • Co-Signers: Randy Weber (TX-14), Tom Tiffany (WI-7), Mark Alford (MO-4), Michael A. Rulli (OH-6), Ryan Mackenzie (PA-7), Brad Finstad (MI-1), Eli Crane (AZ-2), John Rose (TN-6), and Addison McDowell (NC-6)
    • Supporting Orgs: Immigration Accountability Project and NumbersUSA

    ###

    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Williams Announces Senior Staff Promotions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, announced the promotion of Lauren Holmes to Chief of Staff and Katie Crane to Deputy Chief of Staff in his Washington, D.C. office.

    Lauren Holmes currently serves as Staff Director for the House Committee on Small Business and will now take on a dual role, leading Congressman Williams’ personal office. She previously served as the Deputy Staff Director for the Task Force on the Attempted Assassination of Donald J. Trump, as General Counsel for the House Committee on Small Business, and as Counsel for the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

    Katie Crane has been a key member of Congressman Williams’ team since 2018, most recently serving as Legislative Director. She holds a Master’s degree in Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College, where she specialized in Irregular Warfare. With nearly a decade of experience on Capitol Hill, Crane brings expertise in legislative strategy, public policy, and team management.

    “Lauren and Katie are strong, proven leaders whose professionalism and experience make them uniquely qualified to lead our team,” said Congressman Williams. “Their steady judgment, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to the values of Texas’ 25th District will be instrumental as we take on the challenges ahead. I am confident in their ability to guide our office and continue our efforts to serve the American people and advance our shared mission to Make America Great Again.”

    ###

    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo and Bipartisan Senators Introduce Bill to Empower States and Communities to Reduce Homelessness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) and Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island) introduced the Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act, legislation to cut red tape and create local solutions for addressing homelessness.

    “With rising rates of homelessness sweeping across America, nonprofit organizations on the front lines deserve maximum support as they stretch limited donations and funding to provide shelter, food, skills training, addiction recovery and hope to our friends and neighbors who need it most,” said Crapo.  “This bipartisan legislation is urgently needed to strengthen the Housing Choice Voucher Program, remove burdensome regulations and better coordinate between diverse agencies serving unhoused individuals.”

    As of January 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported approximately 771,480 people experiencing homelessness during the annual point-in-time count.  The 2024 count represented an all-time high, which was an 18 percent increase from 2023.  The 2025 point-in-time count results have not been released by HUD. 

    Specifically, the Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act:

    Eases the bureaucratic burdens for Continuum of Care organizations by moving the time intensive annual application process for funding to every other year.

    • Empowers local communities by cutting federal red tape and allowing homeless service providers to respond more quickly and effectively to local needs.
    • Removes unnecessary federal barriers that prevent individuals from accessing housing and support services in a timely manner.
    • Makes commonsense reforms to the Housing Choice Voucher Program by streamlining unit inspections, income verification and allowable uses of funds–reducing waste and inefficiency.
    • Studies the hiring, retention and compensation of staff at all levels of homeless service organizations.
    • Authorizes specific and targeted funding to upgrade the outdated software used for applications and grant management of the CoC Program. 
    • Improves coordination between local healthcare systems, law enforcement, veterans’ programs and job training services to deliver integrated support and reduce repeat homelessness or justice system involvement.
    • Supports better use of data–including advanced tools like artificial intelligence–to making sure resources are going where they are needed most.
    • Establishes more feedback mechanisms for service providers and people with lived experience of homelessness to advise HUD on the effectiveness of federal homelessness policies and programs.
    • Continues the work of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness and increases congressional oversight of the council.

     
    “Despite record levels of federal funding, homelessness continues to rise.  It’s clear that a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t working,” said Rounds.  “The challenges we face in South Dakota are not the same as those in California or New York.  This legislation takes a conservative approach by shifting power back to the states and communities closest to the problem.  This commonsense bill cuts red tape and enables local leaders to deliver faster, more effective and more appropriate solutions for the people they serve.”

    “Without a safe, affordable place to live nothing else in your life works–not your job, health, family or education,” said Smith.  “This bipartisan bill makes commonsense reforms to federal homelessness programs: cutting red tape for homeless service providers, streamlining and improving federal housing vouchers, reducing administrative burden and modernizing out-of-date software systems.  It will reduce homelessness while using taxpayer dollars more efficiently.  We know that the best ideas come from those closest to the issues, and that’s why our legislation gives local leaders in Minnesota and across the country the tools and flexibility they need to address homelessness no matter the ZIP code.”

    “At a time when more Americans are facing homelessness and there are fewer federal resources available, we must do everything we can to make programs more effective and assist people by connecting them to housing, local health systems and behavioral health programs that can offer the ongoing, community-based support they need,” said Reed.

    This legislation is endorsed the Bipartisan Policy Center; National Low Income Housing Coalition; the Council of State Community Development Agencies, whose members include the Idaho Department of Commerce and the Idaho Housing and Finance Association; the National Alliance to End Homelessness; Catholic Charities USA and the Mayors and CEOs for U.S. Housing Investment.

    “Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action is proud to endorse the Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act and applauds Senators Mike Rounds, Tina Smith, Mike Crapo and Jack Reed for their bipartisan leadership.  The bill’s focus on cutting red tape, streamlining the Housing Choice Voucher program and improving data coordination aligns closely with the proposals put forth by BPC in its American Housing Act,” says Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.  “These practical reforms will help communities more effectively address homelessness and connect people with housing and services.”

    “Streamlining systems isn’t just good governance–it’s what’s needed to meet the urgent housing needs of people across the country,” said National Low Income Housing Coalition President and CEO Renee Willis.  “The bipartisan Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act enacts common-sense reforms to improve coordination between government agencies and the private sector, ensuring programs more effectively serve people with the most urgent housing needs.” 

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise: Republicans Address Biden’s Four Years of Failures

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

    JEFFERSON, La.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) appeared on Fox Business Network’s Mornings with Maria to discuss how Republicans are getting the country back on track after years of decline under Joe Biden with the One Big Beautiful Bill. Leader Scalise highlighted how hardworking Americans will now have access to no tax on overtime, no tax on tips, strengthened social safety net programs, lower energy costs, and a stronger border. Additionally, Leader Scalise highlighted the work the House Oversight Committee is doing to expose the Biden Administration’s coverup of President Biden’s cognitive decline.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
    On the once-in-a-generation impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill:“Quite historic, Maria. It’s going to be great for American families who have been struggling. I mean, look, for four years, people struggled under Joe Biden, high inflation, high interest rates, high costs at the grocery store. All that is going to be turning around. You’re going to see, number one, more jobs, millions of more jobs will be created, trillions of more investment, people investing in America again because of this bill, stabilizing the tax code. Nobody gets a tax increase. I’d love, Maria, for every Democrat who’s out bashing this bill, ask them this basic question: Will you pay the higher tax rate that you voted for for all Americans? Because every Democrat voted ‘no,’ which means they voted for a higher tax rate for everybody in America. Will they pay that higher tax rate? Or are they going to take the benefits of this bill? There’s a lot of hypocrisy out there because this bill delivers a lot of great things for a lot of people. No tax on tips. One of the great hallmarks President Trump said that he would do on the campaign trail. Everybody who’s a tip worker is going to get it.“I’ll tell you something, Maria, I’ve been talking about with constituents just in the last few days back home that they didn’t even know about this bill. So not only do we say no tax on overtime, but let’s say you’re a cop, let’s say you’re a nurse, and you work overtime hours. This bill is retroactive to January to when Donald Trump took office. So all the taxes you paid on your overtime this year, you’re going to get that money back when you file your return. That’s going to be more money in your pockets. These are blue-collar workers.These aren’t the millionaires and the billionaires that the Democrats have been lying about this bill. This is blue-collar workers that get the benefits of this bill, plus more energy production, more border security. We revamp and modernize America’s whole air traffic control system. We’ve seen all these horrible reports. Laguardia being shut down for days, every air flight in America being canceled because we’re running off of floppy disks, for goodness’ sake. We fixed that in this bill. Sean Duffy, the great job he’s been doing over at transportation, they will now have the resources to modernize America’s air traffic control system. Every Democrat voted against that, Maria.”On combating Democrat lies over strengthened Medicaid for deserving Americans:“Well, we’re going to tell the truth while they’re out lying. We’ve always said, ‘If you keep lying about us, we’re going to keep telling the truth about you.’ They’ve been saying, ‘Everybody’s going to die. Every hospital is going to close.’ Well, a year from now, Maria, we’re actually going to be able to see results. It’s all the hyperbole that you saw them saying on the House floor. They were all lies. Disabled people will get better Medicaid under this bill because all of the fully able-bodied, the 35-year-old guy sitting at home playing video games in his mom’s basement, he’s going to have to go work because we put work requirements in place. And so he will not be crowding out disabled people in Medicaid. It’s a crowded program. It’s not the best form of health care right now. And so we’re going to make that program work better for the people that are truly disabled and needy, not for somebody who’s turning down work. And by the way, when he gets a job, he’s going to get health care with his job that’s better than Medicaid. So these are all components of the bill that they’ve been lying about. The truth is going to be something that the American people like because these are all things that President Trump campaigned on, and so did we.”On the Biden Administration’s coverups:“First, this is not somebody who has been stumbling over words, Maria. Everybody in America has watched his cognitive decline for years. Some in the far-left media act like that this was some new revelation at the debate where President Trump destroyed Joe Biden in the debate. It had been going on before that, and everybody knew about it, but the left was covering up, including the media in the left. And so let’s not play that game. “However, we’re really concerned about things like the use of the autopen. The autopen wasn’t just used to sign some congratulatory note for somebody who turned 100. They were signing pardons with the autopen, other really important documents. And then now there are people testifying saying, ‘Joe Biden probably didn’t even know it was being used.’ Well, if so, who was? Why was somebody using President Biden’s signature without President Biden’s own knowledge? We’re digging into things like that. His doctor raises a lot of questions when you’re asked, ‘Were you ever pushed into lying about Joe Biden?’ And you plead the fifth. It raises a lot of serious questions, Maria, and we’re going to keep digging to get answers.”On the disarray in the Democrat Party:“Yeah, Maria, people want to know the truth. The American people deserve to know the truth. And we have some people who are talking. There were some people in the Biden White House who are talking to Chairman [James] Comer’s committee. You were spot on in 2021. I have a number of my colleagues, we were all talking about this back then because you could see it. It wasn’t just something that we were trying to throw at the wall. It was something everybody that saw Joe Biden could see. They scripted him. They limited his schedule severely. They kept a really close bubble around him so people couldn’t talk to him. He didn’t do press conferences. Donald Trump does press conferences, everyday free-wheeling. But look, I have Republicans that went on Jake Tapper’s show to say he had a cognitive decline, and Jake Tapper read them the riot act, called him all kinds of crazy names. Now he’s got a book saying, ‘gee-whiz, we just realized it.’ No, he didn’t. He knew it back then, and he was playing pitbull for the far-left to attack any Republican who said there was a decline. The American people have figured this out.“The Democrat Party is still in denial. So, as you saw the clip from [Rep. Jasmine] Crockett, they’re trying to still cover up for it. They’re still in denial about why they lost the election. Their party is being run by Socialists. Go look in New York City. That’s who they are. That’s who their party is. And that’s not where the American people are. We’re fighting for blue-collar, hard-working families, and they’re still yelling lies about millionaires and billionaires and people dying in the streets, and they wonder why they keep losing elections.”On ICE agents making America safe again:“Well, first of all, it’s criminal. You are seeing President Trump and the Justice Department going aggressively after anybody who’s attacking ICE agents, whether they’re slashing tires or whether they’re ambushing and trying to murder them in shootouts. They’re going to do hard jail time. It’s a federal crime to attack and assault a federal officer. And so it’s being fueled by the left, though. Make no doubt about it, Maria. When you see Democrat politicians at the highest levels still out there publicly bashing ICE agents, the Democrat Party, who tried to defund police, is now trying to defund ICE. They want chaos. They don’t want rule of law. We are fighting for rule of law, and ICE agents are doing a wonderful job. These are heroes. These are people getting the pedophiles off of our streets, hardened criminals, gang leaders from foreign countries that Joe Biden let in. They’re the ones that are getting them out of our country to keep our community safe. And the Democrat Party wants to go after them. Shame on them, Maria.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Foster, Casten Lead Roundtable at Northern Illinois Food Bank to Discuss GOP SNAP Cuts Threatening 360,000 Illinoisans

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

    **PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE**

    Photos and videos can be viewed here.

    Geneva, IL – Today, Reps. Bill Foster (D-IL-11) and Sean Casten (D-IL-06) led a discussion at Northern Illinois Food Bank in response to the GOP budget, signed into law last week, which includes nearly $200 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. 

    In Illinois, 1.8 million individuals rely on SNAP benefits annually. This bill changes eligibility requirements, putting an estimated 360,000 Illinoisans at risk of losing SNAP benefits.

    Reps. Foster and Casten, Northern Illinois Food Bank President and CEO Julie Yurko, DuPage County Board member Greg Schwarze, Kane County Board member Jarett Sanchez, local food pantry partners, and neighbors who rely on food assistance came together to discuss how this legislation will impact Illinoisans struggling to make ends meet and the hunger relief programs that provide essential food support.

    “I watched in disgust as Republicans celebrated passing a budget that puts 42 million Americans at risk of losing their food assistance or seeing it reduced,” said Rep. Foster. “With costs for everyday essentials surging under President Trump, these cuts threaten to push even more Illinoisans into food insecurity. In Congress, I will continue working to ensure the Northern Illinois Food Bank and local pantries have the resources and support they need to feed our neighbors.”

    “Hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans will go hungry because Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans cut food assistance programs in order to give their billionaire friends a tax cut,” said Rep. Casten. “Organizations like the Northern Illinois Food Bank and other local food pantries have played a vital role in our community. We owe it to the folks they serve to keep up the fight and ensure they have what they need to continue their work.”

    “While we are disappointed by the funding cuts to SNAP, we remain firmly committed to supporting our neighbors and network partners. Together, we will continue to advocate for lasting solutions that address the root causes of hunger and ensure every neighbor in Northern Illinois has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Joins House Democrats in Challenging Trump’s Unlawful, Chaotic Imposition of IEEPA Tariffs in Appeals Court

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — On Tuesday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined 161 Members of Congress and 29 Senators in filing an amicus brief before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit challenging President Donald Trump’s sweeping and chaotic tariffs that were unlawfully imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The lawmakers’ brief stands up for Congress’s Article I executive legislative powers and argues that the IEEPA is not a tariff statute and that Congress did not intend or provide for the IEEPA to be used as a tariff statute. 

    The amicus brief was led by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Task Force Chair Joe Neguse, House Judiciary Ranking Member and Task Force Co-Chair Jamie Raskin, House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, and Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal, as well as Senate Foreign Relations Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen and Senate Finance Ranking Member Ron Wyden. It was filed in the matter of Oregon, et al., v. Trump, et al., which was brought forth by 12 States’ Attorneys General. 

    In May, the Task Force successfully filed a brief in the same matter before the Court of International Trade (CIT). The CIT decision referenced our brief and struck down the President’s illegal tariffs under IEEPA. The Administration has now appealed the lower court’s ruling, and the matter is now before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. 

    The Constitution gives Congress, not the President, the authority to impose tariffs, and the President can only raise tariffs if Congress has clearly delegated its authority to him. Although IEEPA (enacted in 1977) grants the president authority to impose sanctions, block foreign assets, and regulate economic transactions in response to “unusual and extraordinary threats” originating abroad, it is not a tariff statute and has never been used that way. Congress knows how to delegate tariff authority and has clearly done so on a number of occasions. When Congress does delegate such authority, it imposes substantive, procedural, and temporal limits on the president’s power in order to avoid economic chaos and protect the American people. 

    The full brief is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Davids Unveils Comprehensive Tax Reform Framework to Lower Costs, Expand Economic Opportunity, Promote Fiscal Responsibility

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

    Rejecting the GOP Tax Scam, Rep. Davids is charting a new path forward

    Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined the New Democrat Coalition in unveiling a new Tax Framework aimed at advancing commonsense reforms that deliver better outcomes for Kansas’ hardworking families, support small businesses, and strengthen our long-term economy.

    The Framework stands in clear contrast to President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ extreme tax plan, which slashes health care and nutrition support for working families to pay for tax breaks for billionaires — adding $3.3 trillion to the national debt.

    “We should be focused on finding commonsense solutions that lower costs for hardworking families — not on extreme proposals that only benefit billionaires and the wealthiest corporations,” said Davids. “This new framework puts Kansas families and small businesses first by lowering costs, supporting job creation, and ensuring we grow the economy without adding to the national debt.”

    The Framework lays out a policy roadmap capable of amassing support on both sides of the aisle, including more than 20 pragmatic solutions that fall into one of three principles: lowering costs for middle class families and hardworking Americans; expanding economic opportunity and growing American jobs and businesses; and promoting fiscal responsibility and long-term economic security. 

    Framework Goals (read more here):

    1. Lower Costs for Working Families:
      • Support American Families and Children
        • Ex: Extend the expanded, refundable Child Tax Credit
      • Reward Work and Support Economic Mobility
        • Ex: Simplify and expand access to work-related tax benefits, including commuting and caregiving expenses
      • Make Higher Education and Training More Affordable
        • Ex: Update the tax code to recognize modern training and credentialing programs to support lifelong learning and upskilling
    2. Sustained Economic Growth and Grow American Jobs and Businesses:
      • Strengthen Innovation and Investment
        • Ex: Support tax incentives for domestic research and development and manufacturing
      • Support Small Business and Entrepreneurs
        • Ex: Modernize and simplify small business tax provisions to reduce compliance burdens and help startups and small businesses scale and compete
      • Promote Long-Term, Broad-Based Growth
        • Ex: Ensure international tax rules encourage U.S. investment and onshoring, keep IP in the U.S., and American companies are globally competitive
    3. Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Economic Security:
      • Lower annual deficits
        • Ex: Reject irresponsible tax policies that primarily benefit the wealthiest individuals at the expense of working families and the deficit
      • Stabilize and then reduce debt-to-GDP ratio
        • Ex: The more the U.S. spends on interest on the debt, the less it can spend on children, Social Security, Medicare, and defense

    This week, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are pushing a budget plan that gives tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy and large corporations while raising costs and cutting services for everyone else. Davids previously voted against a version of this bill because it would:

    • Gut Medicaid and force rural hospitals to close;
    • Increase grocery prices and put smaller grocery stores at risk of closing;
    • Cut clean energy tax credits that are saving Kansans money on energy bills and supporting domestic manufacturing;
    • Add $3-5 trillion to the national deficit through 2034;
    • Raise taxes on hardworking families to fund tax giveaways for billionaires.

    The New Democrat Coalition is a group of more than 100 forward-thinking, solutions-focused House Democrats committed to growing the economy, strengthening communities, and protecting our democracy. Representing more than half the Democratic Caucus, they work across the aisle to deliver real results on issues like health care, housing, and national security.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA:  Amo Led Discussion with Rhode Island Manufacturers Struggling because of Trump’s Erratic Trade Policy

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    85% of Rhode Island manufacturers say Trump’s tariffs are hurting their businesses in a new survey.

    PAWTUCKET, RI –  Monday, June 30th, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) led a roundtable discussion with six small, local manufacturers from across Rhode Island’s First Congressional District about the impacts of Trump’s chaotic tariff policy. Business leaders from LNA Laser Technology (Pawtucket, RI), Katrinkles (Providence, RI), Beehive Handmade (Warren, RI), Ward’s Manufacturing (Warren, RI), and S.K. Grimes (Woonsocket, RI) voiced fears that Trump’s sweeping, chaotic tariffs would irreparably harm their companies. The leaders shared they were less likely to hire Rhode Island workers or invest in research and development due to these policies.

    “Rhode Island manufacturers, workers and consumers are paying the price for Trump’s tariff chaos,” said Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI). “Thank you to the small businesses from across the First Congressional District who shared their stories at last week’s roundtable in Pawtucket. They made crystal clear Trump’s all-encompassing, volatile tariffs are having disastrous consequences on their companies – they can’t hire, invest, or plan for the future. Small businesses and their employees need clear, consistent policy to thrive. Republicans talk a big game about reshoring American manufacturing, but their extreme policies are undermining American job creators. I took these stories back to Washington to keep fighting for a commonsense trade policy that empowers Rhode Island workers and businesses.” 

    “It was an honor to meet with Congressman Amo at last week’s roundtable event, and to experience firsthand how hard he is working on behalf of Rhode Island’s manufacturers,” said Katy Westcott, owner of Katrinkles in Warren, RI. “At Katrinkles, we’re seeing customers now purchasing elsewhere to avoid extra fees, or avoiding ordering from the United States altogether. It was heartening to discuss the impact of tariffs on the industry at large, as well as effective strategies for response, with so many insightful fellow manufacturers.”

    “LNA Laser Technology supplies high quality lasers and systems for part identification and traceability to manufacturing industries across the country,” said Dan Gold, President and CEO of LNA Laser Technology in Pawtucket, RI. “Many components of our systems are sourced from abroad because they are not available domestically. The new tariff policies are driving the costs up significantly of critical components that ultimately gets passed on to the manufacturing end users. This not only impacts our ability to be competitive, it also punishes the US companies who are trying to invest in technology to improve and grow. My goal in talking with Congressman Amo was to share these real consequences and impacts so that he can hopefully work with his colleagues in Congress towards common sense exceptions in tariff policy that will promote investment in domestic manufacturing. If the goal is to help bring back manufacturing industries and jobs to the US, the current administration sweeping tariff policy is having the complete opposite effect.”

    “I’m grateful to Congressman Amo for taking the time to gather us, listen to our concerns, and genuinely engage on the challenges we face,” said Adam Dau, President of S.K. Grimes in Woonsocket, RI. “What struck me during the roundtable was that, despite the wide range of products, materials, and clientele we served, every business at the table was feeling the weight of a tariff system that is inconsistently applied—or in some cases, applied without clear rationale. That uncertainty makes it incredibly difficult to plan for the future or invest in growth. The current system stands in the way of continuing to strengthen Rhode Island’s already strong manufacturing base, and we’re encouraged by the Congressman’s efforts to change that.”

    “The tariffs are hurting American manufacturers at every level of the supply chain. Our material costs are increasing while our manufacturing customers are buying less,” said Kelly Ward, President of Ward’s Manufacturing in Warren, RI. “Businesses cannot make decisions when policies change every day and without warning. Many manufacturers are pausing projects until the federal government comes up with a definitive plan. The uncertainty is hurting the U.S. economy. My metal fabrication company, Ward’s Manufacturing LLC, has experienced a cost increase of up to 4x as a result of the tariffs. We have only two choices – either my company pays the tariff or the consumer pays the tariff. Either way, it’s Americans who pay.”

    “Rhode Island’s small manufacturing ecosystem is strong and vibrant,” said Matt Watson, Center Director of Polaris MEP, Rhode Island’s Manufacturing Extension Program. “We’re grateful to Congressman Amo for highlighting the real impacts these companies are facing and for exploring potential solutions to help ease future headwinds.”
     

    Background

    As Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Amo, worked to force a voteto end the ‘so-called’ national emergency Trump is using to justify tariffs. If passed it would end reciprocal tariffs.

    In May 2025, Amo led 30 colleagues, alongside Congressman Greg Casar (D-TX) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT), in calling on the Acting Inspector General of the State Department to review potential corruptionin trade negotiations with countries facing tariffs benefiting Elon Musk and Starlink.

    In April 2025, Amo signed an amicus brief in Oregon v. Trump supporting the argument that the Trump Administration abused emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to unlawfully impose reckless, across-the-board tariffs.

    He also joined Congressman Steve Horsford (D-NV) in April 2025 to express alarm that Trump may be using trade policy to enrich insiders with advanced knowledge of pending trade actions or inactions.

    Amo signed a letter led by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA), and Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-CA) in a April 2025 addressed to Secretary Lutnick, Secretary Bessent, and USTR Ambassador Greer expressing concern about the Trump Administration’s tariffs opening the door to corruption.

    In February 2025, Amo joined Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) in urging Trump to reconsider the proposed 25% tariffson imported building materials from Canada and Mexico. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo and Lofgren Demand Commerce Secretary Lutnick Appear Before Committee to Answer for NWS Staff Shortages

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    The demand for testimony comes as search and rescue efforts continue in Central Texas after horrifying flooding devastated the area. 

    Washington, DC –  Yesterday, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Ranking Member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee and Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) sent a letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Lutnick demanding he testify before the Committee to explain his plan to address staff shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS). The letter comes after the devastating flooding in Central Texas that has since called into question whether the Trump Administration’s mass firing and intimidation of federal employees may have impaired the ability of the NWS to carry out its mission.

    “We write to you to demand your testimony before the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology regarding staff shortages at the National Weather Service (NWS) and your plan to address them,” said the Members in the letter. “The NWS is a critical public safety agency. In addition to its role as the source of everyday weather data for the country, the NWS is charged with forecasting extreme weather events and communicating those forecasts promptly to the public in order to save lives and livelihoods. Americans rely on the NWS every single day to keep us safe. But the NWS is only as strong as its people. And under your leadership, the Department of Commerce (DOC) has overseen an indiscriminate wave of firings, deferred resignations, and early retirements that has thrown the NWS into crisis. The dangers arising from that crisis have been laid bare in the wake of the horrifying, tragic flooding that struck parts of Central Texas on July 4th. While it is too soon to draw definitive conclusions about what happened, it is already clear that this is precisely the type of situation in which the existence of a short-staffed, depleted NWS heightens the risk of tragedy. There will be more such extreme weather events – there always are. You must appear before the Committee immediately and explain to us how you intend to restore the NWS to full strength as quickly as possible so that the agency will be fully prepared to carry out its lifesaving mission when the next disaster strikes.”

    “It will take time to fully understand whether any part of this past weekend’s tragedy in Texas could have been avoided,” the Members continued. “We cannot rush to judgment based on the limited information available to us now. But it is apparent to us, Secretary Lutnick, that your actions to drastically slash staffing at the National Weather Service have increased the broader risks to Americans of extreme weather events by impairing the ability of the NWS to do its job. Simply put, you cut too deep. You refused to listen to the warnings from experts, from Congress, and from the NWS itself. And the flooding in Central Texas illustrates, in the most terrible fashion, the disastrous risks you invite by taking the lifesaving role of the NWS for granted.”

    Access the letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Amo and Stanton Slam Trump’s Staffing Cuts to FEMA and NWS After Tragic Texas Flooding

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    With 120+ dead and 150+ missing, tragic Texas flooding highlights extreme danger of Trump’s staffing cuts to FEMA and the National Weather Service

    Providence, RI –  Yesterday, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee Subcommittee on Environment and Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Ranking Member of the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure hosted a virtual press conference to highlight the potentially deadly consequences of President Trump’s staffing cuts to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS).

    “My thoughts are with the families and survivors of the flash floods in Texas. Despite a lack of support from the Trump administration, National Weather Service staff kept local officials and the public informed throughout the deadly flooding. ” said Ranking Member of the Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on the Environment, Gabe Amo (D-RI). “I’ve kept raising the alarm about the costs of cuts to our nation’s weather workforce and our ability to research and respond to climate-fueled weather disasters. Refusing to study extreme weather and purging our scientific workforce isn’t going to stop disasters and help families, it’s just going to undermine our ability to be prepared and save lives.”

    “My heart breaks for the families in Texas who have been devastated by these horrific floods,” said Congressman Greg Stanton (D-AZ). “Extreme weather is only becoming more frequent and more severe, from wildfires to extreme heat in Arizona to flash floods in Texas, the federal government must be fully staffed, fully funded and fully prepared to respond to these disasters. Texans and all Americans deserve a FEMA that is strong, capable and ready on day one, not one deliberately undermined by its own leadership. As we continue to pray for all of those affected, House Democrats will continue to relentlessly demand transparency and accountability for and on behalf of the American people, especially those experiencing unimaginable tragedy.”

    Watch the full press conference here. 

    Background

    On July 4, after heavy rain in the Texas Hill Country, the Guadalupe and other rivers breached their banks causing catastrophic flooding leaving more than 120 dead. 

    Ranking Member Amo and Ranking Member Stanton alongside Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) and Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) seeking answers on federal activity in preparation for and in response to the tragic floods. 

    Amo, Ranking Member Lofgren, and Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee Ranking Member Emilia Sykes (D-OH) also sent a letter calling on Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to testify before the Committee about the staffing shortages at the National Weather Service and their potential impact on the Texas flash floods. 

    Amo also joined Homeland Security Subcommittee onEmergency Management And Technology Ranking Member Timothy Kennedy (D-NY) in calling for answers from Acting FEMA Administrator David Richardson and Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for NOAA Laura Grimm about the status of FEMA and the National Weather Service’s preparedness for and response to the disastrous flooding in Texas. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, SEEC LANDS, WATERS, AND NATURE TASK FORCE BLASTS DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR MOVE TO UNDERMINE PUBLIC LAND MANAGEMENT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    Washington, D.C. – The Co-Chairs of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force Reps. Doris Matsui (CA), Don Beyer (VA), and Maxine Dexter (OR) sent a letter to the Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum in response to DOI’s Regulatory Reform Request for Information (RFI) published on May 20, which aims to undermine public land management on behalf of polluting industries.

    “In carrying out its duties, the Department is guided by multiple statutes and a well-developed suite of regulations promulgated over many decades. While we can appreciate the goal of establishing a more efficient regulatory program at DOI and agree wholeheartedly with the importance of effective stewardship of our public lands and resources, it appears the true intent of the RFI is the ‘deconstruction of the overbearing and burdensome administrative state.’ This goal is contrary to existing law, Congressional intent, and the continued exercise of the DOI’s many responsibilities,” the Task Force wrote.

    “Existing regulations protect human health and the environment from harmful practices and polluting from bad actors. Eliminating them means that companies could fail to clean up oil spills in waterways that are sources of drinking water, neglect to install equipment that prevents air pollution, and destroy the scenic landscapes where we hike, fish, and play. Our children deserve to inherit a safe and habitable planet where they can breathe clean air and drink clean water.”

    Read the full letter here.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI STATEMENT ON THE SUPREME COURT DECISION UPHOLDING THE UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in FCC v. Consumers’ Research. In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund. 

    “Reliable, high-speed broadband access is no longer a luxury—it’s a fundamental pillar of modern life. The Universal Service Fund has been a savior for millions of Americans, expanding broadband access for our schools, libraries, rural hospitals, and underserved communities across the nation,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Today, the Supreme Court rightfully upheld the constitutionality of this critical program.”

    “Universal service has been the bedrock of U.S. telecommunications policy for decades. It remains as relevant as ever, with artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies supercharging our reliance on connectivity to spur innovation and improve people’s lives,” Matsui continued. “I am committed to ensuring the Universal Service Fund remains resilient for years to come, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the bipartisan USF Working Group to ensure this program is sustainable and meeting Americans’ evolving connectivity needs.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: THOMPSON JOINS SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE TO AWARD GREG LEMOND CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

    In a ceremony Wednesday, Congress awarded the highest civilian honor to world-renowned American cyclist

    Washington, D.C. – Today Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) joined the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, former U.S. Representative Tom Graves, Stephen Whisnant, and esteemed guests to formally award cycling legend Greg LeMond with the Congressional Gold Medal. Watch Rep. Thompson’s remarks here. 

    “Greg LeMond represents the best of American sportsmanship. One of our greatest athletes, Greg is the only American man to win the Tour de France – a feat he accomplished three times. Throughout his career, Greg repeatedly exemplified the principles of healthy competition, honesty, and selflessness, putting team success ahead of his own. 

    “More than any other cyclist in our history, Greg was the epitome of the ‘Breaking Away’ culture – a young kid, on a bike, trying to do things no American had ever done.

    “In retirement, Greg has dedicated his life to serving and supporting children, veterans, medical research and other causes through his charitable work,” said Thompson. “I was honored to join the ceremony today to finally present Greg with this well-deserved recognition.” 

    “Cycling changed my life for the better and I’m a firm believer that this sport has the potential to help everyone be healthier and more active, too,” said LeMond. “I didn’t ever expect recognition when I started racing, I just really had a blast. That’s why I am truly humbled to be recognized by the U.S. Congress. I look at the list of previous medal winners and I can’t help but think that I’m in really, really good company.”

    BACKGROUND

    Greg LeMond is the only American to ever win the Tour de France. After his first win, he faced an uphill battle recovering from a near-fatal accident and later went on to win the Tour two more times. His 8-second victory over Laurent Fignon in the 1989 Tour is considered among the most thrilling moments in cycling history. Mr. LeMond was an early advocate against doping in the sport and he remains a giant in the cycling community to this day.

    In his retirement, Mr. LeMond has dedicated himself to giving back to his community. He and his wife, Kathy LeMond, support research into various childhood illnesses He is also a founding board member of 1in6, a nonprofit organization that helps men who were victims of childhood sexual abuse.

    Representative Mike Thompson, Co-Chair of the Congressional Bike Caucus, was inspired to pursue this award for Greg LeMond after reading about his incredible resiliency in Daniel De Visé’s biography, “The Comeback.” Thompson went on to lead the bipartisan effort in the U.S. House to pass the Greg LeMond Congressional Gold Medal Act.  
    The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian awards in our nation and seeks to honor those who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture that is likely to be recognized as a major achievement in the recipient’s field for generations to come. 

    These medals are only awarded through Acts of Congress. Legislation must be introduced in both the House and Senate and those bills must be co-sponsored by two thirds of the membership of their respective chamber before being considered for a vote. 

    Greg LeMond is the first cyclist and only the tenth individual athlete to receive this prestigious medal. Others include Jackie Robinson, Roberto Clemente, Jesse Owens, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer.

    You can click here to read Thompson’s bill honoring Mr. LeMond and outlining his long and celebrated career as a cyclist and activist. Click here to download photos from today’s ceremony and here to watch footage of the event. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI— Hagerty joins Varney & Co. on Fox Business to Discuss Iran Threat, Crypto Regulation Reform

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    NASHVILLE, TN—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the national security implications of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, as well as his legislative push to create a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and digital assets.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Partial Transcript

    Hagerty on the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program: “One thing to keep in mind is the intent of the Iranian regime. If you go back to the agreement President [Barack] Obama signed, they promised under the JCPOA not to continue their enrichment program. The Israelis uncovered the fact that they violated that agreement, and they’ve continued to do it. Why in the world would they build deep underground facilities if they weren’t trying to hide something? They’ve clearly had the intent to weaponize nuclear material. They’ve been enriching it. We’ve known that. This absolute obliteration, which has been widely documented, has taken out these facilities. Is it possible that some material could still remain? Yes, that is a possibility. That’s what the Israeli intelligence is reporting right now. But it’s obvious this regime has intent, and certainly if they have the intent, they’d like to have the ability to weaponize it. What’s happened is that the weaponization capability has been completely destroyed. It takes months, if not years, to rebuild even parts of these facilities. At minimum, what has happened is we’ve bought multi-year protection from what the Iranians could do.”

    Hagerty on concerns about Iran using nuclear material in a terrorist attack: “In a hypothetical sense, there is the potential to create something like a dirty bomb. That’s not close to the type of weaponization they were geared toward, but again, the Iranian regime has been put on notice. President [Donald] Trump was very deliberate and very clear: They violated his timeline, they violated his red line, and they suffered the consequences. The most important thing to keep Iran in check is the resolve of America and Israel. We demonstrated that clearly the time has come now for Iran to come to the table and for us to put this completely to an end.”

    Hagerty on his cryptocurrency legislation and the need for regulatory clarity: “The problem is longstanding. Over the last four years of the Biden administration, they utilized a tool called Regulation by Enforcement. Rather than creating a legal framework for cryptocurrencies, for the technology, for the stable coin bill, the Genius Act that I just got passed out of the Senate and should come out of the House of Representatives next week, the [Securities and Exchange Commission], the [Commodity Futures Trading Commission], and all the regulatory bodies kept this industry guessing. The bad outcome of that is that if you guess wrong, you will be incarcerated. You’ll wind up being persecuted, and you’ll wind up having enforcement action launched against you that could be very expensive. The net result of that is that we pushed innovation overseas, pushing it offshore because developers did not know what the liability might be here. No one knew how to register or properly adhere to the laws because the laws weren’t made clear. Our aim right now is to make a clear regulatory framework available here in the United States so developers can thrive here and so innovation can happen here. That’s exactly what I want to see with my stablecoin legislation, The Genius Act, that will take our payment system into the 21st century. It will have an enormous economic impact on America and create greater demand for U.S. Treasury securities, because every stablecoin has to be backed up 1-1, dollar for dollar, by the U.S. Security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Underwood Secures More Than $1.6 Million in Federal Funding for Affordable Housing, Environmental Cleanup, and Research

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

    WASHINGTON — This week, Representative Lauren Underwood announced a new round of federal funding she has secured for affordable housing, environmental cleanup, and research in the 14th District.

    As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Underwood has made securing federal resources for northern Illinois a top priority. The following funds will support programs in the 14th District with federal resources:

    The Neighbor Project, Aurora, Illinois – $57,000

    The Neighbor Project will receive $57,000 in federal funding from NeighborWorks America through the NeighborWorks Flexible Impact Grant program.

    This grant will support efforts to lower housing costs, expand housing supply, spark economic opportunity, revitalize neighborhoods, and strengthen communities across Illinois’s 14th Congressional District. NeighborWorks America, a public nonprofit established by Congress in 1978, provides financial and technical support to nearly 250 local and regional partner organizations nationwide.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    City of Ottawa, Ottawa, Illinois – $1,243,270

    The City of Ottawa will receive $1,243,270 in federal funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Cleanup Grant Program.

    The grant will fund the cleanup of the former Beer Depot site at 429 W. Lafayette Street, which was previously used for oil and coal distribution from 1891 until the 1970s. The site, vacant since the 1970s and contaminated with semi-volatile organic compounds, metals, and pesticides, will be remediated to support community revitalization and economic redevelopment.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    A Cubed Design LLC, Aurora, Illinois – $305,000

    A Cubed Design LLC has been awarded federal funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant to develop an affordable, durable, and user-repairable refreshable braille display.

    This project aims to address the high cost and limited accessibility of current refreshable braille technology, which hinders braille literacy and digital access for blind and low-vision individuals. The innovation has strong commercial potential in a rapidly growing market and is expected to benefit thousands of users within three years of launch, expanding access to education, employment, and digital tools for the blind and low-vision community.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Harder Demands Release of Frozen Education Funding for San Joaquin County Ahead of New School Year

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    $18 million for hiring teachers, STEM education, and after-school programs locked up

    Clock running out with first day of school just weeks away

    STOCKTON – Today, in response to unacceptable education funding freezes just weeks away from the first day of school, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) demanded the immediate release of these funds to ensure Valley students heading into the new school year aren’t affected. More than $18 million in federal funding promised to San Joaquin County is currently locked up.

    Here’s what’s on Washington’s chopping block:

    • Funding for homework assistance and after-school clubs.
    • Investments in STEM education and digital learning services.
    • Hiring and training more teachers — one local school district has a 100+ shortage.

    “Make no mistake — this is an attack on our kids and their futures, and I’m furious that Washington is trying to pull the rug out from under our schools just weeks away from the first day of school,” said Rep. Harder. “Working families deserve to know that their tax dollars are going to invest in our schools, not sit locked up in the hands of politicians. I’m calling on Washington to immediately reverse this mindless decision before it’s too late.”

    In his letter, Harder urged Washington to:

    • Immediately release the $18 million promised to San Joaquin County.
    • Restore funding for hiring teachers and providing education programs.
    • Prioritizekids’ education and career futures.

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEGABILL: Harder Condemns Largest Health Care Cut in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    Rips health care away from nearly 50,000 San Joaquin County residents, lays off 3,000 health care workers 

    Finances trillions in handouts for billionaires like Elon Musk

    WASHINGTON – Today, following the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the largest health care cut in American history, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09), who voted no, released the following statement condemning the bill:

    “I’m heartbroken for our community. This bill is cruel beyond words. It rips health care away from 50,000 people in San Joaquin County, shutters clinics, lays off thousands of health care workers, and sends premiums through the roof – all so billionaires like Elon Musk can get another handout. 

    “Thousands of working families will lose access to in-home care for aging parents. They’ll be forced to skip doctor’s appointments for their kids. They won’t be able to afford an emergency room visit if there’s an accident. This isn’t just politics, this is life and death.

    “Our families were already stretched thin – now they’re being kicked off their health care so the rich can get even richer. I’m heartbroken. I’m furious. I voted no, and I’ll do everything in my power to fight back against this heartless betrayal.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Leads Coalition of Lawmakers Opposing Proposed Cuts to NOAA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    In letters to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik and Subcommittee Chairman Hal Rogers, lawmakers urge the rejection of proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA. 

    Washington, DC— Following the release of the White House’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-02) led a coalition of 23 lawmakers urging both the Department of Commerce and their colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee to reject devastating proposed cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) by the Trump administration. The budget proposal would decimate funding for NOAA’s critical programs, including the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR), and terminate several Weather Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes, including several in Colorado’s Second Congressional District.   

    In their letter, the lawmakers condemned the proposed budget cuts to NOAA and underscored the importance of the agency and its Cooperative Institutes. Colorado is home to several of NOAA’s Climate Laboratories, including the Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL), the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL), and the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML), all located in Boulder, CO. 

    Colorado is also the only state in the nation home to two Cooperative Institutes, the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) at Colorado State University and the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder, which are academic and non-profit research centers that have provided invaluable support to NOAA’s mission and work in drought, wildfire, and space weather since 1967. The lawmakers denounced the proposed cuts in their letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Subcommittee Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng, as well as any plans to terminate funding for these institutions, making clear the damage to our nation would be irreversible, and emphasizing the important work that is ongoing at both CIRES and CIRA.  

    “CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation. These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work.” 

    They continued: “The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans.” 

     

    Read their full letter HERE and below: 

    July 8, 2025

    The Honorable Howard Lutnick 

    Secretary

    U.S. Department of Commerce 

    1401 Constitution Ave. NW 

    Washington, DC 20230

     

    The Honorable Laura Grimm

    Acting Administrator

    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    1401 Constitution Avenue NW Washington, DC 20230
     

    Dear Secretary Lutnick and Acting Administrator Grimm,

    We write to implore you to reject the proposed funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as laid out in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. NOAA’s programs provide essential services to all Americans, and gutting its programs and research would be gravely irresponsible.

    In NOAA’s FY26 Congressional Justification document, the agency lays out plans to effectively eliminate NOAA’s Operations, Research, and Facilities for FY26. This includes a decrease in 216 employees and complete termination of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes. 

    This document also proposes closing down several NOAA facilities across the United States that are in our respective districts. This includes the Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Miami, FL; the Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) in College Park, MD, Idaho Falls, ID, and Oak Ridge, TN, Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL) in Boulder, CO; the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) in Boulder, CO; the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) in Princeton, NJ; , as well as a nation-wide network of soil moisture sensors; the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML) in Boulder, CO, Utqiaġvik, AK; Mauna Loa, HI; Hilo, HI; Big Island, HI; American Samoa, and the South Pole; and the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) in Seattle. Shutting down these facilities would be devastating for our communities.

    These cuts would also affect Cooperative Institutes (CIs), which are academic and non-profit research institutions that support NOAA’s goals, containing 80 universities and institutions across 33 states. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation.

    These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work. You cannot simply shuffle a handful of programs across NOAA offices while terminating an entire line office responsible for providing the research base for the agency and expect continued success; to maintain American excellence in this work requires continuity of OAR’s core functions as well as its skilled workforce, including at the labs and CIs.

    The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans. As such, we urge you to reject these proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA.

    Sincerely,

     

    Read their full letter HERE and below: 

    July 8, 2025

     

    The Honorable Hal Rogers 

    Chairman

    Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies

    Committee on Appropriations

    H-310 The Capitol Washington, DC 20515

     

    The Honorable Grace Meng

    Ranking Member

    Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science,

    and Related Agencies

    Committee on Appropriations

    H-310 The Capitol, Washington, DC 20515

     

    Dear Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng,

    As you continue crafting the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, we write to implore you to reject the proposed funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as laid out in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. NOAA’s programs provide essential services to all Americans, and gutting its programs and research would be gravely irresponsible.

    In NOAA’s FY26 Congressional Justification document, the agency lays out plans to effectively eliminate NOAA’s Operations, Research, and Facilities for FY26. This includes a decrease in 216 employees and complete termination of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes. 

    This document also proposes closing down several NOAA facilities across the United States that are in our respective districts. This includes the Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL) in Boulder, CO; the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) in Boulder, CO; the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) in Princeton, NJ; Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Miami, FL; the Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) in College Park, MD, Idaho Falls, ID, and Oak Ridge, TN, as well as a nation-wide network of soil moisture sensors; the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML) in Boulder, CO, Utqiaġvik, AK; Mauna Loa, HI; Hilo, HI; Big Island, HI; American Samoa, and the South Pole; and the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) in Seattle. Shutting down these facilities would be devastating for our communities.

    These cuts would also affect Cooperative Institutes (CIs), which are academic and non-profit research institutions that support NOAA’s goals, containing 80 universities and institutions across 33 states. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation.

    These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work. You cannot simply shuffle a handful of programs across NOAA offices while terminating an entire line office responsible for providing the research base for the agency and expect continued success; to maintain American excellence in this work requires continuity of OAR’s core functions as well as its skilled workforce, including at the labs and CIs.

    The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans. As such, we urge you to reject these proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA, and to instead fully fund NOAA in the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Deliver Remarks and Congratulate New Citizens at U.S. Naturalization Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) attended and delivered remarks congratulating new citizens from over 40 different countries at a U.S. Naturalization ceremony at the Strawbery Banke Museum. Photos from today’s event can be found here.

    “At today’s naturalization ceremony we welcomed our newest American citizens and reflected on the profound impact that immigrants have on New Hampshire and in our country. Immigrants come to work hard and seek freedom, opportunity, and security, and immigration renews the spirit of our nation,” said Congressman Pappas. “I was honored to join these patriotic Americans and congratulate them on taking the oath of citizenship.”

    “At every point in our history, America has been shaped by immigrants from every corner of the world and every sector of society,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was honored to be a part of today’s naturalization ceremony in Portsmouth, and I congratulate each and every new citizen on this momentous event in their lives.”

    “It was a privilege to join today’s naturalization ceremony at Strawbery Banke and to welcome and celebrate America’s newest citizens,” said Senator Hassan. “Ceremonies like the one held today are an opportunity for American citizens, new and old, to recommit ourselves to supporting and defending the ideals of freedom, self-government, and the rule of law as embodied by our Constitution.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Panetta Secures New Federal Funding for Monterey Regional Airport Modernization

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced a new $5,353,204 federal grant for the Monterey Regional Airport to continue construction on its new state-of-the-art terminal.  The funding, made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will support Phase 5 of the terminal replacement project, including the relocation of utilities and the construction of a new public parking lot.

    This latest federal investment builds on Rep. Panetta’s long-term commitment to delivering modern, safe, and sustainable infrastructure to California’s 19th Congressional District, even as federal programs come under increasing threat of cuts or elimination from the Trump Administration.

    “Despite this Administration slashing federal funding for local infrastructure programs, I was able to work and obtain this federal investment for our community,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This new federal funding for Monterey Regional Airport will help it modernize with safer, more efficient, and more sustainable facilities.  I’ll continue my fight to deliver results that improve our economy and enhance the daily lives of those who call California’s 19th Congressional District home.”

    “This funding is a critical component for the circulation in and out of the replacement terminal to ensure the passenger journey remains easy and convenient for both residents and visitors,” said Monterey Regional Airport Interim Executive Director Chris Morello.  “We’d like to thank Representative Panetta for his assistance, means a great deal to the airport to have such strong support in the District and in Washington.”

    This announcement follows Rep. Panetta’s previous efforts to secure over $64 million in federal funding for the Monterey Regional Airport’s modernization, supporting terminal design, tarmac improvements, and other safety upgrades.  Earlier this month, the airport broke ground on the new 62,754 square-foot terminal, set to open in 2027, marking a major milestone in the project’s progression.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Urges Administration to Follow Through on Promise to Deliver High-Speed Internet to Rural Communities

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Adam Gray (D-CA) in urging the Administration to follow through on its promise to deliver high-speed internet to rural communities through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. 

    In a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, the lawmakers expressed concerns about the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent guidance that could set back broadband deployment in rural areas.

    “We remain committed to ensuring the BEAD Program delivers on its promise to strengthen the U.S. economy and connect rural Americans with the opportunities enabled by high-speed internet,” the Members wrote. “However, recent guidance from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) raises concerns that the program could be slowed just as states are gaining momentum.” 

    “This program was intended to strengthen underserved areas by providing the highest-performance and most scalable networks, so they can compete in the modern economy,” the Members continued. “In many of our districts, higher deployment costs are a reality. A one-size-fits all model puts rural communities at a disadvantage.

    The Members concluded, “We urge NTIA to preserve the program’s original intent while streamlining deployment efforts to avoid further disruptions.”

    As a co-chair of the Congressional Rural Broadband Caucus, Rep. Craig has led the effort to connect Minnesota’s rural communities to high-speed internet. 

    Last Congress, Rep. Craig led a group of Members in urging Speaker Johnson to take action to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided 23 million American households – and over 244,000 Minnesota households – with access to affordable high-speed internet. She later introduced the Secure and Affordable Broadband Extension Act to increase funding for federal broadband accessibility programs like the ACP, which expired in June of 2024.

    Last year, she secured a $1 million federal investment to improve internet access in Le Sueur County, Minnesota.

    You can read the full text of the letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Craig, Kean Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Transparency in Congress, Prevent Lawmakers from Profiting from Insider Information

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – As part of her continued efforts to fight corruption and reform Washington, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ) in introducing the No Shorting America Act to restore transparency to Congress and prevent lawmakers from using insider information to short-sell American companies. 

    Their bipartisan bill would prohibit Members of Congress and their families from profiting off the downfall of American companies, require Members of Congress to report stock investments to the supervising ethics office and prevent conflicts of interest by allowing the Attorney General to impose a fine of up to $50,000 if a Member is found short-selling American companies.

    “Too many Minnesotans don’t trust that their representatives are working for them, and that’s because for too long, Members of Congress have been able to use their positions for personal gain,” said Rep. Craig (MN-02). “Since I was elected to the House of Representatives, I’ve been working to clean up Washington and increase transparency in Congress. I’m proud to be introducing this bipartisan bill with Rep. Kean to hold Members of Congress accountable and ensure they aren’t using insider information to play the stock market.” 

    Since she came to Congress, Rep. Craig has led the charge to fight corruption and restore integrity to Washington, DC. 

    She recently reintroduced her NO STOCK Resolution, which would require Members of Congress to immediately sell their individual stocks and refrain from future stock ownership while in office.

    Earlier this month, Rep. Craig joined her colleagues in introducing the End Corruption Now legislative agenda, which aims to confront political corruption and clean up government by introducing six bills that will put power back in the hands of the American people. These bills will prevent the President, Executive Branch officials, and Members of Congress from personally benefiting from their offices.

    As part of the End Corruption Now agenda, Rep. Craig reintroduced her Restoring Integrity to Democracy Resolution to ban Members of the House from serving on corporate boards while serving in office.

    Earlier this Congress, she reintroduced her Halt Unchecked Member Benefits with Lobbying Elimination (HUMBLE) Act — a broader package of reforms that would ban Members of Congress from owning or trading individual stocks, prohibit the use of taxpayer funds for first-class airline tickets, prevent Members from serving on corporate boards while they are in Congress, eliminate access to Members-only perks for former Members and eliminate automatic pay raises for Members of Congress. Rep. Craig first introduced the HUMBLE Act during her first term in Congress in 2019.

    You can read Rep. Craig’s No Shorting America Act here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Votes to Send One Big Beautiful Bill Act to President Trump’s Desk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) voted to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that delivers President Trump and the American people’s full agenda. It will now go to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. 

    Stauber made the following statement after the vote: 

    “In November, the American people elected President Trump and gave him the majorities in both the House and Senate with a clear mandate: to restore safety and unleash prosperity across our nation. Today, the House took a significant step in enacting the American people’s agenda, and I am proud to have helped deliver this historic legislation to the President’s desk. President Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill will put America’s families and workers first by delivering the largest tax cuts in our nation’s history, unleashing American energy dominance, permanently securing our borders, modernizing air traffic control, and strengthening our military. I look forward to seeing the One Big, Beautiful Bill deliver a new Golden Age for the American people.”

    Specifically, this legislation will do the following: 

    • Makes the successful 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, delivering the largest tax cut for middle- and working-class Americans in history.
    • Doubles and makes permanent the Child Tax Credit, supporting over 40 million families.  
    • Implements no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and cuts taxes for Social Security recipients.  
    • Doubles small business expensing, helping local businesses hire more workers and expand their operations.
    • Incentivizes Made-in-America manufacturing by rewarding companies that build new factories in the U.S. and lowering taxes for businesses producing domestically.
    • Supports family farms by raising the death tax exemption, protecting two million family farms from punitive double taxation.
    • Improves national security by delivering funding to complete the border wall, hire new frontline personnel (10,000 new ICE personnel, 5,000 new Customs officers, and 3,000 new Border Patrol agents), and carry out at least one million annual removals.
    • Unleashes American energy, driving down the cost of living and restoring energy independence.
    • Provides $12.5 billion to overhaul air traffic control.
    • Funds the Golden Dome missile defense system to protect the homeland and modernizes our military.
    • Protects taxpayer dollars by removing waste, fraud, and abuse from federal programs, so they can better serve the American people. Specifically, it will remove 1.4 million illegal aliens from Medicaid and SNAP benefits and establish work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: More policy options in H2 to spur growth

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Staff members operate at an assembly line of the north China base of FAW-Volkswagen in Tianjin, July 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Despite persistent global headwinds, recent economic data from China have demonstrated resilience in the first half of this year, coupled with a potential de-escalation of tensions between Beijing and Washington, prompting major foreign financial institutions to revise upward their full-year growth projections.

    As the economy faces external uncertainties and a high base effect from the previous year, experts said additional fiscal and monetary policies will be needed in the second half of the year to achieve the annual growth target of around 5 percent.

    The consumer price index, according to the National Bureau of Statistics on Wednesday, rose 0.1 percent in June from a year earlier — a turnaround from the previous four months’ decline, as the country’s consumption-boosting initiatives are translating into greater consumer confidence and spending.

    The purchasing managers’ index for China’s manufacturing sector also rose for a second straight month in June to 49.7, with more industries returning to growth, and high-tech and consumer goods production remaining robust, the bureau said late last month.

    Given that China’s pro-growth policies are helping the domestic economy maintain its growth momentum in recent months, Goldman Sachs raised its forecast for China’s GDP growth in 2025 by 0.6 percentage points, from 4 percent to 4.6 percent.

    Similarly, JPMorgan has revised China’s GDP growth forecast to 4.8 percent year-on-year from 4.1 percent, while Morgan Stanley has raised its projection by 0.3 percentage points to 4.5 percent.

    “The complexity, severity, and uncertainty of the current external environment are on the rise, which will undoubtedly have an impact on the stable operation of our economy,” Li Chao, a spokesman for the National Development and Reform Commission, said at a news conference in late June.

    Achieving China’s 5 percent annual growth target will demand a more forceful policy push in the coming months, with fiscal measures poised to take center stage, economists said.

    “In the second half of the year, China should continue to expedite the issuance and use of the remaining quotas for ultra-long-term special treasury bonds and special-purpose local government bonds, in order to better leverage their effects in boosting investment and promoting consumption,” Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities, said.

    Earlier this month, the Ministry of Finance announced the issuance of 11 ultra-long-term special treasury bonds in the third quarter, with four of them seeing their timelines accelerated compared with the previous plan released in April. This will help maintain a continuous flow of funding to support policies meant to boost consumption, analysts said.

    It is possible for policymakers to expand the issuance of ultra-long-term special treasury bonds this year to provide sustained support to the consumer goods trade-in program, should the remaining funding run out ahead of schedule, said Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International.

    Meanwhile, ramping up the issuance of special-purpose local government bonds is also a viable option, as it can help accelerate infrastructure investment and stabilize economic recovery, Wang added.

    Analysts also expect the People’s Bank of China, the country’s central bank, to leverage its policy tool kit to maintain ample liquidity in the financial system and support domestic demand.

    Citing the improved near-term growth outlook, Japanese investment bank Nomura trimmed its rate-cut forecast for the fourth quarter this year to 10 basis points from 15 basis points, while retaining estimates for a 50-basis-point cut in the reserve requirement ratio.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: For the first time, blueberries from the Chinese city of Dandong will be served on the tables of residents of the capital of Belarus

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 12 (Xinhua) — Blueberries from the Chinese city of Dandong in Liaoning Province (Northeast China) will soon be served on the tables of residents of the capital of Belarus for the first time.

    According to the Liaoning Daily newspaper, 2 tons of blueberries from the city of Dandong recently passed customs inspection and will be delivered to Minsk via the Manzhouli road checkpoint on the Chinese-Russian border.

    Dandong City is located on the Liaodong Peninsula, where the climate is moderately warm. Due to the excellent natural conditions, the city’s blueberry industry has been rapidly expanding in recent years. Now the city has formed a production chain in this industry from blueberry cultivation to export.

    “Dandong blueberries are in great demand in the domestic market, which prompted us to actively develop the overseas market,” said Li Xian’ao, director of one of the local trading companies.

    Blueberries contain anthocyanin pigments, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, tannins, organic acids and vitamins. In folk medicine, blueberries are used as a fixative for children’s stomach upset, and for inflammation of the mouth and throat. Blueberries are considered one of the best sources of phytonutrients with antioxidant action, they are used to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Fruit extracts improve visual acuity and eye accommodation.

    According to statistics, in 2024, the total area of blueberry cultivation in China exceeded 73 thousand hectares. Thus, China has become one of the countries with the fastest growth rate of production of these nutritious berries. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cleaver Announces $3.5 Million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Grant Awarded to Kansas City

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

    (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced the City of Kansas City has been awarded a $3.5 million federal grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to clean up brownfield sites within the city. The federal funding, which Cleaver helped secure through his support for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will invest in Kansas City’s Brownfields Supplemental Revolving Loan Fund, which provides loans and subgrants to remediate and redevelop projects at brownfield sites throughout Kansas City.

    “From investments in new roads and bridges to funding that enables the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites like the Hardesty Federal Complex, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to fuel a remarkable economic comeback in Kansas City,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While we’ve come a long way since the dark days of the global pandemic, thanks in part to investments like this, there is still so much work that can be done to boost economic development in underserved communities across the metro area – and this funding will help support those efforts. I’m proud to have helped secure this $3.5 million for Kansas City, and I’ll continue fighting every day to bring more investments that support Missouri workers and small businesses back to the Fifth Congressional District.”

    Specifically, this funding will assist in re-capitalizing Kansas City’s Revolving Loan Fund from which the City can make loans and subgrants to clean up brownfield sites, ensuring more projects can be funded.

    Thanks to the historic $1.5 billion boost from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s Brownfields program is helping more communities than ever before begin to address the economic, social, and environmental challenges caused by brownfields and stimulate economic opportunity and environmental revitalization in historically overburdened communities.

    Since passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Kansas City has received more than $18.5 million in brownfields grants, supporting over a dozen remediation projects across the city. In 2022, Rep. Cleaver announced $5.5 million in federal brownfields grants awarded to Kansas City, supporting the cleanup of the Hardesty Federal Complex Buildings. Last September, Congressman Cleaver joined EPA Region 7 to announce $4.5 million in federal brownfields grants for Kansas City’s Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund. This May, Congressman Cleaver announced a $4 million brownfields grant to clean up 47 vacant parcels known as the Washington Wheatley Vacant Lots Site, as well as the former Benson Manufacturing Company Site.

      

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –